iL: apoLLo1ne3hree

This is one of my favorite albums of the year so far, and I really can't get enough of it. It's so fresh and unique. I'll admit that it's hard to get into the beats because a lot of it is sampled and structured in a way where you're not sure if you should nod your head or just smile from the fact that something like this exists.

Error Broadcast is a netlabel that releases a bunch of beat and hip-hop oriented albums so be sure to check them out.

And check out iL's release here: http://error-broadcast.com/index.php/ebctp003

Various Artists: Apegenine Vol. 1

From what I can gather, Apegenine recordings is a record label that once had a netlabel under the name Camomille. This compilation stems from that netlabel, but as the site claims, it is "no more". However, their artists (some even on the compilation) are still in the game so if you like them, be sure to continue supporting them.

A nice electronica compilation with some wonderful tracks: Blisaed's "I'm Down", Vizion's 'Whispers" and Khonnor's "Cantelopps" stand out as my favorite tracks, with David Kristian's "Coneybeare" serving as the upbeat track. It's worth a listen.

http://www.camomillemusic.com/

Andrey Kiritchenko: 00.00

Upon first listen, many of the songs contain that "click" sound that often appears in the clicks n cuts style of electronic music. But on a second or even a third listen, the clicks blend in with the rest of the music. So while one could argue that some of the songs go on too long, or the sounds are repetitive, give it more than one listen before you judge, and perhaps then you will find that there is more variety than you think.

http://www.discogs.com/Andrey-Kiritchenko-0000-A-Suite-Of-The-Midnight/release/42975

Candlestickmaker: A Life In A Day

A release from UpitUp records, Candlestickmaker provides rough and ready electronica that sounds familiar but yet manages to stand out. Maybe it was listening to "Take Me Elsewhere" and then watching the music video and seeing the transformations in progress. 

There is something about the work that drags you into it and something that makes it seem clever. If fresh nostalgia existed, then I'm sure this would be it. Definitely worth a listen. And don't forget to watch the music video for "Take Me Elsewhere". 

http://www.upitup.com/catalogue/release.php?cat_id=31

music video: http://vimeo.com/7245976

Endlos: Das musste ja so kommen EP

Though I have no idea what the titles of the songs translate to, there is a fusion of musical styles (electronica, rock, jazz) that presents a curious vibe that is exotic and refreshing. Though this is just an excerpt of the full length, these songs are a good representation of what Endlos has to offer (be sure to check out the EP with live versions of their songs which is also released on one bit wonder). 

http://www.archive.org/details/1bit_021

http://www.1bit-wonder.com/

Heinemann521: Barge

Heinemann521 dishes out a wonderful album filled with emotion and heightened sensitivity. A delicate balance of ambience and percussion that resonates on a different level than other IDM and electronica albums, resulting in sounds that soothe the ear. The atmosphere leaves the listener feeling more optimistic about the days ahead. 

http://www.clubotaku.org/mimi/uk/album83.php

Turnus: Valedictions EP

Sometimes taking the next step in life is difficult. We do not want to lose the comfort we have gained, the friends we have made, or the experiences that have shaped our lives. Sometimes, with a bit of luck we can look back on the past and reminisce without getting stuck; but the important part is to move forward, knowing that things will work out in the end. 

http://www.archive.org/details/aer001

Fenderchet: The Sleep EP

I imagine everyone loves a good night's sleep: A sleep filled with dreams of a bright future where lives are lived out the way we want them. When we wake up, we seize the day in the hopes of making something out of it and taking a step towards our goals. You could argue that this album is like a good night's sleep, entering the dreamworld via a state of tranquility that one finds comfort in. The only problem is that this comfort may end too soon, causing us to rise out of bed before we really want to. 

 http://www.astorbell.com/?release=thesleepep