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Fall Walk Run: Throwing It All Away

One of my most favorite discovery this year, Fall Walk Run makes me want to run around and frolick in a beautiful sea of grass and flowers. Throwing It All Away is the debut EP for the duo. Made up of Lawrence Harvey and Stuart Eaves, this acoustic duo hails from Wolverhampton, England. Their debut is a beautiful compilation of indie acoustic pop music that is catchy and easy to listen to. Inspired by artists like Jason Mraz, Ben Lee and Feist; the duo seems set in soaring high this year. With music this good, it's hard not to think they might just make it.

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.

Frontregen: Frontregen

Frontregen is an indie Austrian band that create an eclectic pop punk indie rock sound. Their sound is characteristic of female sweet sounding vocals, a mix of alternative rock/pop beats and indie sensibilities. This self-titled album is a first for the group. It was released back in December 2010 and so far it's showcasing a lot of promise for this 5 piece crew. The entire album resonates with passion and energy; skillfully balancing a hard rock punk edge with that of sweet, pop folkish vocals. It's certainly worth checking out if you are a fan of these genres on their own.

Bad Fate: Olympic City

Fairly new in the music business, Bad Fate, releases a debut record filled with raw emotions, noise and a good amount of energy to keep everyone beaming happy. Production values might not be top notch on this one but it certainly has a rawness that is fresh and interesting. Olympic City comes with seven noisy grunge tracks juxtaposed with beautiful feminine shouty vocals (occasional male vocals too). Think Chrissy Hynde if she decided to scream her way through most of their songs. Check out this indie pop grunge sound by downloading the album. It's available for free in Jamendo.

Hard Girls: Hello

Hard Girls' Hello is a wonderful indie pop rock compilation that'll put you in a good mood. Its mix of alternative indie rock with super catchy pop beats makes this a winner. Fronted by former Shinobu vocalist, Mike Huguenor; the album brings a sound that's reminiscent of the California Bay band along with a touch of something fresh and new. Packed with 7 upbeat, rockish tracks; the record features one catchy song after another. With members coming from two prominent indie rock bands in the area, Shinobu and Pteradon, the record doesn't disappoint in hauling plenty of rock spunk . Download the album for free on Quote Unquote Records by hitting the download album link on top left.

Pawky Maven: Pruning Hooks

Swelling with gorgeous harmonies and lovely instrument work, Pawky Maven creates a beautiful indie folk music that's perfect for a quiet reverie. Pruning Hooks is composed of 12 dreamy, soulful indie goodness. Garnering influences from such greats as Elliot Smith, Sufjan Stevens, Fleetwood Mac and Simon and Garfunkel; this North Carolina native certainly reflects his musical taste. The album is a mix of acoustic pop mixed with an indie folk sound giving it that unique touch. Give the album a download. You're in for a nice treat.

Suns: The Howl and The Many

The most distinguishable thing about listening to The Howl and The Many is the thunderous rumble when the toms are played. It's actually two drummers, Clinton Weber and Chris Pagnani who use mallets through a good chunk of the songs. Mikey Russell sings lead vocals as a sing along at times. Nick Enderle's guitar is sometimes sparse and sometimes deafening. Matt Lemke is a jack of all trades playing rhodes, magnus, harmonium, synth, guitar. Kody Nixon plays bass and banjo. There is also mandolin, a violin bow on a guitar and clarinet to round out Suns orchestra.

Mercury in Summer: I Believe

Before anything else, Mercury in Summer is definitely a pop group (at least for me.) They create pop music that makes me think of The Click Five. Don't expect to hear rock and roll here. Although you might expect a mix of certain genres, they dominantly sing power pop rock tunes. Now that that's out of the way, the group's record, I Believe, is actually quite good. The production values are really professional and no doubt these guys are quite talented. Made up of Brian Jones - Bass/Vocals, Richard Wynne - Guitar/Vocals and Brendan McCusker - Drums/Vocals; these DC natives create energy filled, high quality pop music that is catchy and infused with wonderful melodies. This is the group's first compilation and it seems they found their niche. It's a cool record to check out.