Reviews

Hunt Club: Hunt Clubm LP

Hunt Club definitely knows how to put together an energy-filled rocking compilation. These boys have been around the block since 2005. So far they've released 5 compilations, each one bearing their resident indie post punk rock sound. Even though it's already 3 years old, this Hunt Club LP still sounds fresh and filled with a raw energy that echo right off the stereo as you play it. Reflecting this postpunk vibe, growling vocals and loud instrument work; Hunt Club is worth hearing in action.

Don’t Believe the Hype

It's summer, right? Time when what we all need is that extra flow of energy, when we feel like bringing back all those over the top beach parties, rooftop clubs, and the spontaneous vacations somewhere on the islands. Sostanze Records knows the feeling all too well and so they put together a special compilation of five amazing tracks so you can feel like the party is still going even when you are stuck in your grey corporate cubicle. The compilation, Don't Believe the Hype, brings us some of the best of electro and fidget music out there, so be sure to turn up the volume, but remember, according to Sostanze "this album must be accompanied by a medical authorization."

Karmafish: Life Support

A hodgepodge of rock, alternative, grunge, noise and progressive rock, Life Support is a pretty good album to check out. This is the latest release from a singer/songwriter and producer from England who dubs himself as, Karmafish. Although there's not much info on who this guy is, he sure has quite a number of albums under his belt. Life Support is his latest release following 4 previous records. All of which are available for free download on Jamendo and under a creative commons license. This careful menagerie of sounds and noise is perfect for any rock lover. The artists' skillful and creative take on various genres of rock is impressive at best and certainly warrants a listen.

Terius Nash aka The-Dream: 1977

Behind every superstar is an awesome songwriter/producer backing them up. Terius Nash also known as The-Dream is one of those people. One of the most sought-after writers and producer of today; he has helped create some of the most popular and memorable pop songs of the recent decade. Tracks like Rihanna's Umbrella, Mariah Carey's Touch my Body, and even Beyonce's Single Ladies (Put a Ring On It) are among a long list of hit tracks he's helped write and produce. When he's not working with superstars, he's busy spinning his own tracks and this time, he's treating his fans to another free album; 1977. It's an 11 -track record that features Nash's smooth vocals, lovely melodies and impressively honest lyrics. Fans and new listeners are certainly in for a treat.

PhotoScape

Whether you're a professional photographer or not, most of us need a reliable photo editor that can do all of the work we need without subjecting us through various complicated procedures. PhotoScape is one of the many (many!) image editing software available for you to use. The good thing is that it's incredibly easy to master. Plus, it provides a barrage of features and is absolutely free! Created by MOOII Tech, Korea, the program aims to become and one-stop-shop for all of your picture editing needs. It can easily crop, resize, enhance, print and even create GIF animation without much fuss. As of the moment, the program only works with Windows along with a default language of English and Korean. Luckily, this doesn't rob it from its beauty.

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!

TEDTalk: Maya Beiser(s) and her cello(s)

Cellist Maya Beiser plays a gorgeous eight-part modern etude with seven copies of herself, and segues into a meditative music/video hybrid -- using tech to create endless possibilities for transformative sound. Music is Steve Reich's "Cello Counterpoint," with video from Bill Morrison, then David Lang's "World to Come," with video by Irit Batsry.

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.

Stupidness 2

If you're one of those brain geeks who like to take IQ tests or match wits with a computer once in awhile to see who's smarter, then you might want to grab Stupidness 2. This fun IQ game will throw you brain melting questions that'll make you think twice about your own intellect. The game features 35 questions, some of them are quite easy to answer while others will definitely leave you scratching your head. Created by Orangenose Studios, the game offers a PRO version with more questions to the roster, but trust me, this free version is more than enough to make your nose bleed in certain instances.