I’m a little late in finding a best of 2005 compilation, but better late than miss dinner altogether…or something like that. The electronic music blog Knobtweaker has put together a fine collection of free electronic and indie pop tracks off of netlabels throughout the web. There are 36 tracks in all, more than enough to sate that hunger for the hippest bleeps and blips.
Knobtweaker managed to find some pretty tasty tracks. Most of the artists are obscure. Of the 36, I’ve only heard of DJ Spooky and Imogen Heap. I don’t expect any one to like everything here. I didn’t. But there is a lot to get excited over. Most of this music is quite poppish and would fit comfortably on top 40 radio or MTV. No, actually most of it is better than what passes as popular music now.
How can I possibly mention some of the songs I like in this small space without doing a diservice to others? I can’t, so here a few highlights anyways. The trip-hop styled Bliss is enchanting with “Rain Slows The Time” followed by Ainestead and Kilowatts’ equally trippy “Ideal Chameleon”. DJ Spooky and Saul Williams contributes a powerful rap track that reminds us that social activism through music is not dead. Listening to Cause and Effect’s “Into The Light” is like reliving 80s Disco without polyester. Transient’s “Direct” has a simple melody made interesting by a gamelan influenced electronic backing. Japanese Seizure Robots’ “Alone in a Crowded Room” is the most ambient track of the bunch and arguably the most beautiful composition in this compilation. Almost as accomplished is Pelp’s rhythmically mesmerizing mini-epic, “Snow”. Reggae and hip-hop is nicely resonated in “Clear Light” by K-oscillate who wins my “I-want-to-hear-more” award. Throttler pushes a few envelopes with an industrial track titled “Obey” while The Marbles “Out of Zone” is charming malt-shop indie pop Weezer style.
Aside from serving up a lot of nice music, this compilation is a good answer to those who say netlabels do not produce music that can be competitive with corporate music companies. Check it out then go support the artist and netlabels you like by buying their CDs. Take that, RIAA!
The music files are in MP3s from VBR 192kbps and up. You can download track by track or go for the full album Zip.
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