Folk

(Bob Dylan, James Taylor, Jewel)

Low Voltage Rangers: Spirographology

Low-Voltage Rangers might sound like a band but the fact is, there's only one man standing at the helm; Jeremy Toltzman. Taking up the moniker Low-Voltage Rangers, the artist sings, plays the instruments, and writes the songs. Spirographology takes 34 tracks recorded by the artist between 2004- 2011. This includes two of his latest singles. Despite having no label or any professional studio equipment at his disposal, the music he creates is filled with beautiful melodies and great indie lo-fi quality. It's something you'd love to listen to on a quiet evening, slowly lulling you to mellow out and relax after a long, hard day.

Idbs: It Has To Be Done

Normally, most artists would be excited to share their thoughts, ideas, influences etc. about their music, but not Idbs. In fact, he makes sure to let the people know this by tacking a polite but straightforward note on his Jamendo page stating: This text is useless as the music speaks better of the artist than itself. True enough, the music does communicate itself very well. The album is a beautiful mix of acoustic, folk, pop and even rock & roll. It's a gorgeous album beaming with soulful guitar driven love songs with the occasional and unexpected touch of alternative grunge.

Soto: Soto EP

Soto is an experimental Japanese pop group that create lovely folk pop music. Listening to this band is like being transported to a place where forest spirits dwell and lovely music is created at every instance. Two members of the band originally formed the duo, "Oto." This initial band produced music that focused more on sounds and its tapestry. However, as the group turned into a quartet; they focused more on creating music with proper song structures. Together, they christened themselves as "Soto" and create amazing acoustic, folk pop that is transcendent as well as emotional.

The Fumes: Unhandled Exception

Remember Blues Clues and that striped sweater wearing guy named, Steve? Well, this isn't him (although he's actually a musician too) but I imagine, The Fumes, could have easily played the part of the guitar wielding Steve in the show. One listen to Unhandled Exception and you'll probably see/hear it too. This guy churns out acoustic folk pop cuts that immediately made me picture children sitting around on a park with the singer at the center and singing along to his music. Now, this can either be good or bad depending on your taste, but personally some songs in this acoustic folk pop record are worth a listen.

Derek Clegg: Across Town

Making his 5th appearance here at the Frostclick blog, Derek Clegg is back with his sixth official release. Across Town is a 12-track record from the master of acoustic folk pop. Like most of his previous albums, it resonates with a cozy feel that makes you think of heartfelt folk pop songs you can easily play on your guitar on a lazy afternoon. With several great quality compilations in tow, it's hard to believe that Derek remains independent. A one-man band manning the songwriting, recording, and producing of his records; the guy is one tough act to follow. Some of his previous releases include It Seems As Though, Beautiful World, Here Comes Your Fate, Quick Duck and KJC.

Heart-Sick Groans: Look?!?!?! These Three Painters of Hits Have Done It Again!

Heart-Sick Groans is a lovely, and a rather unique, band from Sundsvall, Sweden. Formed back in 2007, the trio has already been called by numerous blogs as "one of indie-pop's best kept secrets"; and with their fresh, highly addictive guitars, whistles, drums, harmonica, weaved into the wonderfully blissful sounds of summer, it might just be true. The recently released Look!!! These Three Painters of Hits Have Done It Again! (got to love the title), is a long awaited follow up to the band's previous two hit EP's and is currently offered as a free/pay what you wish download. So give it a try!

Daniel and the Lions: Kowalskiy’s Free Monthly Scottish EP #13

Kowalskiy is an independent Scottish music blog that specializes in compiling free music and releasing them into free EPs. The name is derived from the infamous character played by Marlon Brando in A Streetcar Named Desire, a 1947 film about culture clashes. As its name suggest, EP#13, is the 13th EP released from the music blog. It gathers 5 tracks from different, very talented local artists. Exploring different genres, the short EP features songs that range from alternative grunge to indie pop and even a Scottish acoustic folk track. It's a great vehicle to discover new sound and the best part is that it's offered absolutely free.

Modifythevan: Welcome to Modifythevan

Released about two years ago, Welcome to Modifythevan is still a great compilation folk pop lovers will enjoy. Judging from the great roster this creative commons netlabel supports, you're bound to enjoy something from this record. The label is owned by Robin Grey, who has been featured in our Frostclick blog for his other effort, I Love Leonard Cohen. Composed of several artists and their music; this special album takes 10 tracks from Ben Oliver, Blue Swerver, Johnny Berliner, Madelaine Hart and Richard Godwin, in addition to Grey. The album creates a beautiful mix of folk pop, melodic music you'll love to have running on your player.

Adult Swim: Singles

We all know or at least heard of Adult Swim as adult-oriented cable television that shares air time with Cartoon Network; not everyone, however, knows them for releasing some sweet free music. As part of their more recent projects, Adult Swim has decided to put together a compilation, 8 singles over 8 weeks that would blend together some great artists from genres as diverse as folk, pop, hip-hop, metal, and a touch of electronica.