Music

Jenova 7: Dusted Jazz Volume One

Smooth jazzy trip hop at its finest, Dusted Jazz Volume One is a compilation of 5-tracks created by LA based trip-hop artist, Jenova 7. Combining a laid-back jazz tone with some gorgeous beats, you're bound to enjoy at least one track from this eclectic piece. Dusted Jazz Volume One is released under Dusted Wax Kingdom Label and came out back in October 2011. It served as a bridge for Jenova 7's debut record, Soul For Sale, which is available for purchase here and his The Sounds of Sector 7 album.

Jon Lemmon: Kindling EP

For those who are seeking a light-feel high, Jon Lemmon's Kindling EP will surely satisfy your needs. Hailing from Wellington, New Zealand, Lemmon is a songwriter and performer rolled into one. Released last August 31 2010, this EP offers five fantastic tracks that's too good to be left unheard. Somewhere With Something opens up with a danceable vibe. It's incredibly listenable due to its blend of pop beats and gentle cooing vocals.

Carloman: Carloman

Occasionally it's good to branch out and listen to different types of music. My little branching out came in the form of Carloman. They describe their sound as pre-Baroque, medieval folk music. Indeed, when you listen to the record, you could feel as if you're gracing King Arthur's court or simply trapped somewhere in the 19th century with kings and queens. Carloman is actually two people, namely Dominic Matar & Elliot Thompson. They're currently based in New York City and this dreamy, other-wordly compilation is their debut record.

Wolfwolf: Happy Heart Breaks LP

Eighties sounding synths and a hypnotic little persona help complete Wolfwolf's musical enigma. Combining 80s music with laid back R&B and a slight dance beat, Happy Heart Breaks LP is an interesting little compilation that's worth your time. Gathering together 8 tracks, the album doesn't only include catchy tunes but also ooze a subtle sexiness at the same time. Designed to make you want to take yourself to the dancefloor and enjoy the night away; each track is a beautiful cacophony of groovy beats and vocals.

Backbeat Soundsystem: One Step Forward

Backbeat Soundsystem's latest artistic venture, One Step Forward, is more than just music. It's a euphoria of the mind. Hailing from Cornish, St. Austell, this 8-piece band offers traditional reggae music splashed with a steady dose of party sounds. They have only been formed for a short time but have already made their spot on the Cornwall music scene and other festival circuits across the UK.

First Things First: The Brighter Side

If you enjoy power pop bands like The Click Five, Fountains of Wayne or even, The Ataris; First Things First could be your next favorite band. This three-piece Pennsylvania natives have been busting their behinds slowly climbing their way to the top. By promoting themselves and making sure they create the right contacts in the industry, they've managed to become one of the most fastest rising local acts in the pop punk Pennsylavania scene. The Brighter Side is the band's debut EP and comes with 5 great singles. These guys definitely know their strengths and how to play on it, jumping from one seriously catchy track to another.

Karizma: Cup Cakes & Duct Tape

Cup Cakes and Duct Tape is a 21-track (yes, that many songs included) hip hop compilation from rapper Karizma. This is the latest album from the 16-year old rapper since his debut EP, Every Other F, was released in 2011. Not much has changed since then, in fact his sound has gained more focus now and there's also a bit more variety. Karizma is Morgan Parriott, a teen who enjoys music, making people laugh, wrestling and hails from Minnesota. Despite the young age, the artist is showcasing a whole lot of talent up his sleeve. This one is for fans of Eminem, Nas and J Dilla.

Canopies: [EP]

The Canopies new EP approaches the music scene like a ravenous tornado. With glowing harmonies and raw talent, the group delivers an eccentric sound that's fresh to the ears. Hailing from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the band is composed of Nolan Treolo, John Marston, Craig Leren, Jake Brahm and Paul Trinko. Since their formation, they have already surprised music lovers with their psychedelic-pop/rock sensibility.

Strange Mangers: Strange Mangers

Quiet, post rock group from Boston, Strange Mangers, finally releases their melancholic and hypnotic self-titled debut compilation. Listening to the band's sound, you'll capture a whiff of melodic guitars, coupled with hazy vocals and an expansive range of sounds that seem to take you from dreamland, reality, and back. Although the band is still new and there's hardly anything about them online, their sound is enough to convince listeners that their post rock sound is worth checking out and listening to. Their album is currently available for free at BandCamp.