Music

Viola: Wonderabilia

Viola is a Finnish duo that creates funky electronic music. This quirky outfit is actually a musical duo who describes themselves as "influenced by beautiful heartfelt music, ass-shaking beats, sub-par humor and hidden messages." Moreover, they admit to being the type of people who usually sit in one corner of a club or "discotheque" and like to watch other people have fun. This same voyeuristic/observant persona reverberates in the duo's music. Their sound is laid back electronic dance pop with a certain element of mystery. The songs seem familiar and likable, perfect for lounging and well, watching other people. If you love electronic pop music, then might just work for you. Check it out.

Orphan Songs

This self-titled debut album from Swedish band, Orphan Songs, is an amazing compilation of sweet, acoustic folk that will make you melt. It comes with 13 songs sung in a melodic folk pop rock style that's easy to listen to. Orphan Songs is a pet project for singer-songwriter, Carl-Otto Johansson. The album was originally released to critical acclaim back in 2008. By 2011, the album was re-released under a Creative Commons License; making it available as a free download. If you're looking for something to listen to on a quiet weekend, or maybe a companion for a long, drive home; you might want to check this out.

Longsleeves: Passage of Stairs

Dubbing their music "folk magic," Longsleeves definitely know what their music can do to people. Passage of Stairs is a mini 4-track compilation that enchants and hypnotizes listeners with its sweet voiced, laid-back indie folk pop rock sound. Originally hailing from the quiet town of Huntington, Indiana; this currently California-based duo can turn an ordinary quiet day to something extra special with their music. So far, the two has released 7 compilations; offering them as a free digital download under creative commons. Longsleeves is one of the few bands that beautifully mixes indie folk with pop and rock, then anointing it with just the right percussions, vocal work and electronics. Certainly a must-have record for those looking for some "folk magic."

Henrik José – The Little Things

Henrik José, formally known as Bliss, comes to us from Malmö, Sweden. He started making music with computers all the way back in 1995 and has been sharing his free and amazing sounds ever since 1997. And now, after a break spinning nearly three years, Henrik is finally back with his latest release of The Little Things (and I have to say it was well worth the wait). The EP, available through the netlabel 23 Seconds (hosting some of the great young aspiring artists) and being the first official release under his real name, is a perfect example of wonderfully put together electronica/pop sounds for just about any ear.

Plastic People: Good As You

Good As You by the Plastic People is a mix of electronic indie hipster pop that's super catchy and easy to dance to. Released on German netlabel, afmusic, the band's sound is littered with catchy beats, electronic samples, and hipster vocals. This French band knows how to trigger a happy, non-stop music fanfare when it comes to their music. Their sound is poppy with great hints of electro punk and social commentary. Even if you are not a strict fan of the genre, you'll still enjoy this one. The compilation is offered absolutely free from BandCamp and certainly worth having a go at.

Roar – I Can’t Handle Change

I Can't Handle Change is a beautiful indie rock compilation from ROAR, an Arizona band spearheaded by Owen Evans, formerly of Asleep in the Sea. Evans is joined by a couple of mates in creating a band that sounds like the lovechild of Rivers Cuomo and his "wide-spread power-pop influence" or maybe "Brian Wilson playing his piano in the middle of a sandbox filled with dog turds." I partly agree with the first description but for sure, the band sounds like they are happy making music that's making other people (aka people like me) quite happy. They mix a good dose of pop, indie rock and sweet melodies to make you want to hit playback over and over again. Grab this download or help out the group by purchasing their record over at iTunes. Definitely worth it.

Bryyn- Pink Noise

Changing names is quite common in the music business. Hence, it's no surprise that indie folk pop guru, Pinkle, decided to adopt his real name and drop the "Pinkle" moniker in full. He's known simply now as, Brynn. Taking up his real name as a moniker doesn't mean he's no longer creating lovely indie pop music. In fact, the artist still manages to churn out lovely and relaxing music that induces a surge of endorphins down your brain. Pink Noise is actually an older album. It was released back in the summer of 2008. Despite its age, it's still a wonderful compilation to check out.