Music

Adult Swim: African Swim

African Swim is a collection of some of the most popular African hip-hop music from the recent years. The compilation, brought to us by Cartoon Network's animation bloc Adult Swim, features fifteen great tracks hand selected from the far corners of South Africa. Among the artists making an appearance on African Swim you will find B Zee, Juzi with his latest hit Muthaland, Gumshev, Da L.E.S., and Drencko; all showcasing their modern sounds, great vocals, and beats that will keep you on your feet. All in all the release is definitely worth checking out!

Tsars: Whispers EP

Fairly new in the indie music world, Tsars only got together early this year. Considering the short time, the guys have managed to release two compilations. Whispers EP is their first official debut and contains 6 tracks bordering on indie alternative to a floaty Brit hipster sound. Their sound is reminiscent of lazy hipster rock and makes me think of The Cribs only more melancholic. Made up of Alexi Mcnulty Bakas (Vocals/ Guitar), Corey Eyres (Guitar/ B.Vocals), Ross Powley (Bass/ B.Vocals) and Lawrence Artitzone (Drums/ B.Vocals.) They've been playing around together in different bands before deciding to form this one.

Graffiti Mechanism: Fueled by Emotion

Proc-Records founder and curator Adam Crammond, a k a, Graffiti Mechanism, picked or conceptualized, whichever the case, a rather curious cover for his latest effort Fueled by Emotion. Archetypal digital illustrations and graphic images come to mind when the subject of electronica album art is brought up, so it only rightly elicits a slight shrug that this release features a low-definition, worm's-eye view photo (with mirror effect) of a tree ostensibly taken during a drought. But looks, as the discerning would know, can be deceiving: the seven solid tracks of the album, which was released by Happy Puppy Records, intuitively belie whatever pallidness the cover may come off as having.

Grayscale: That Flawless Flashing Day

Grayscale is an indie pop band that creates feel-good acoustic music you'd love to play on a relaxing afternoon. The duo is made up of Douglas Dunbar and William Weaver. Sharing a common love for bands like U2, The Cure and Snow Patrol, among others; they immediately got together and recorded rough tracks that eventually became a part of their debut album, That Flawless Flashing Day. So far, the duo has released 5 compilations, including one Christmas album. Their brand of pop music ranges from acoustic, guitar infused tracks to dark, moody, alternative rock. With "Douglas’ colorful and personal lyrics and William’s spacey melody lines;" the duo make a statement and win over fans as they grace the world of acoustic pop rock music.

Eskaei: Bits Is All There Is

Eskaei is actually the one-man crew of Stefanos Kourtis. This talented artist has been making his own mix of eclectic electronic hip hop; skilfully creating a lush soundscape filled and inspired by hip hop music. Stefanos is also the brainchild for netlabel, Memory Format. He started it around 2006. He has also released several songs as well as compilations using different monikers in various netlabels. As Eskaei, he focuses more on his love for "electronically generated sounds;" creating a wonderful hodgepodge of elements that are both pleasant, complex yet easy to relax to.

Art Boys Collection: Stoned Wall

If you mix progressive rock with folk and psychedelia, you'll get the sound of the Art Boys Collection. This Austrian band has a penchant for infusing their music with dreamy acoustic guitars, wonderful vocal harmonies, some serious instrument work and (what was current then but now considered) retro vibe. It's like finding an old vinyl from the days gone by and popping it into your player. The nostalgia, the sound and aesthetics comes rushing in and sweeps you away. Stoned Wall is the one and only LP from this band. It contains all 12-tracks released by the band back in the 70s. Their actual vinyl record is quite rare and has become a collector's item among avid enthusiasts.

Smarton Trio +1 Remixes

In need for some more than chilled sounds to spice up your weekend? If so you are in on a little treat from our friends in Budapest. Smarton Trio +1 Remixes released by Budabeats Netlabel in March of this year is a great compilation of remixes of the jazzy band Smarton Trio by some of the Hungary's best DJs around, including M.W.D., Suhov, Dermot, JumoDaddy, Savages y Suefo, Ba10+Bal, and Franco Mento.

Eastern Phoebes: Gypsy Paw

If you love sweet indie pop and want songs that will make you feel all bright and cheery throughout the day, then Gypsy Paw is a must-listen compilation. Eastern Phoebes is the brainchild of couple Ry Smith and Meg Bayley. This cute couple creates music out of their living room; turning simple guitar chords and lovely harmonies into wonderful sounds. Gypsy Paw is the second digital release from the duo. Their first being, Rods of Energy; a short EP that features 7 tracks of pure twee folk pop. Much like their previous compilation, this second EP is made from the same sweet and catchy indie pop pot and will make you want to prance around happily in your living room.

Dominique: The First

If you need some relaxing music for one of those lazy days, you'll enjoy having Dominique in your player. This mini-EP might be a bit short but it showcases enough to show you the artists' jazzy style and gorgeous talent. Despite being fairly new and young, Dominique has managed to release several singles and compilations in this year alone. On her BandCamp page, she's released two EPs and one single. She has The First and Stay Informed as well as the single, The Shadows.