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Rei Teytum: Viajeros

A wonderful fusion of rock, funk, folk, jazz, brass with some great sounding guitar, percussion, violin, viola, keyboards, trumpet, sax, bagpipes!?, and yes, even harmonica. It seems that Rei Teytum have it all, except of course for an English version of their bio anywhere on the Internet. So it is times like this that I wish I spoke more languages to bring you important information about the artists. But since that will simply not happen lets focus on their fantastic album, "Viajeros""Travelers", and the tiny bits of band history I was able to get (courtesy of my friend Google Translate).

TenPenny Joke: Ambush On All Sides

‘TenPenny Joke’ are a Pop Rock band from Australia and prior to their current hiatus, the band had been playing and writing for over ten years. On top of this achievement, the band has been played regularly on Australian radio and has even appeared on television a number of times. The album ‘Ambush on All Sides’ brings a quality that can be expected from 10 years of experience and its mainstream style reveals an attempt to connect with a larger audience. In regards to this album, ‘TenPenny Joke’ have promised ‘15 original, killer tracks with diverse shades and roaring guitars’ and its success on both internet polls and radio shows suggests that this is a fair call.

Chris Skinner – Moscow Satellites

Moscow Satellites is a short 5-track compilation from Chris Skinner. This record is actually a concept album from the artist. It's the first set of tracks he's put together after his band 6point4 as well as Life Support ended in 2008. The record was initially released back in 2009. If you listen closely, you'll hear that John Mayer similarity. Of course, in my opinion, the tracks on this record have more of a personality to them. Besides, at least we won't have to swallow all of the unnecessary information about Mayer's love life. Anyway, Chris Skinner definitely knows how to create beautiful cuts that are not only filled with intriguing guitar work but also coupled with his heartfelt vocals. Give it a listen.

Farmertan: Brace for the Decline

These Connecticut natives are at it again. This time around, Farmertan, has brought their latest recording in tow, Brace for the Decline. Some of their previous albums include the alternative indie rock compilation, The Extended Play and the acoustic infused, The Softer Side, just to name a few. This 8 track compilation sees the boys doing what they do best; creating indie alternative rock tracks that feature upbeat tempos and nice beats. This record, like most of their releases, are available for free download under a creative commons license. Farmertan is made up of Paul Daddario on Vocals/Guitar; Mike Fitzgerald on Guitar/Vocals; Matt Galvin on Bass Guitar and Jim Plouffe on Drums.

To Leave A Trace: Fight Your Evil Side

Just after a year of playing music together, this four piece rock band from the Ukraine decided to release their debut LP, Fight Your Evil Side. Leave A Trace certainly knows how to bring a fusion of rock, metal and even melodic screamo to their fans. Their album is packed with 10 powerful tracks that comes with Oksana's hard rock growling. By the way, yes, Oksana is a girl.

Valkaama

Valkaama is a story about fate. Two people who's lives are actually intertwined with each other, end up travelling together in search of a mythical community somewhere in the North of Finland. The title Valkaama is actually derived from two Finnish words, meaning "home" and "polar night." The movie is purely open sourced and licensed under creative commons. It has received countless praises both from online communities as well as local publications. The film is based on a novel by Hendrick Behnisch’s of the same title. Made and shot with no budget and relying heavily on the internet as a means of distribution, the film allows both amateur and professionals to create their own versions of the film with the help of its open source licenses.

Nicolas Falcon: Nicolas Falcon

This acoustic, indie folk number from Nicolas Falcon is perfect for a dreamy escapade. Filled with beautiful acoustic swells and laid back vocals, this self titled debut from this Florida musician is a definite keeper. From whistle solos, quirky lyrics to simple upbeat guitar strumming, it's hard not to enjoy this record. It might not break into the Top 40s but it's a beautiful compilation worth listening to.

Dragstrip Rodeo: Dragstrip Rodeo

Fast-paced, ballsy rock and roll. Dragstrip Rodeo is a three piece rock band hailing from "D-Town." Their music is characteristic of rolling, fast drums, electrifying guitars and screaming yet coherent vocals that will definitely let you take notice and rock on. Featuring rock tracks that pounce and bite back, this 5 song release is definitely one worth checking out.