11 Free MP3 Album Downloads - Sound Sunday January 1st
Sound Sunday: Discover Free Albums
Sound Sunday is a recurring feature on MakeUseOf, dedicated to showcasing the finest free album downloads accessible on the internet.
Each installment provides an opportunity to discover a diverse range of musical genres and artists originating from different corners of the globe.
A Genre-Spanning Selection
This initial edition for the year 2012 offers a musical exploration encompassing a variety of styles.
Listeners can anticipate a journey through electronic music, contemporary pop, traditional folk, progressive rock, and the energetic sounds of metalcore.
Your Feedback is Valued
We encourage you to share your opinions and provide feedback regarding the featured albums in the comments section.
Submissions of album suggestions, genre requests, and general comments are greatly appreciated and can be sent via email to [tina at makeuseof dot com].
- We welcome your input!
- Let us know what you think.
Joe Mazz Electronic - Mad Times
Genre: electronic, beats, dub, instrumental, hip hop.
Joe Mazzarella is a music producer and recordist proficient across numerous genres, as stated on his website.
He delivers professional-quality tracks while remaining faithful to the unique sound of each artist he collaborates with.
This includes working with local singer-songwriters, crafting beats for rappers, and recording vibrant performances from rock bands.
Album Insights
The album introduction reveals a creative tension between jazz and funk influences.
Despite a strong foundation of beats and grooves, Mazzarella incorporated jazz elements into the project.
These additions include piano solos and guitar work from the accomplished Jimmy Morrell.
Availability
Mad Times is available as a name-your-price download through Bandcamp.
This allows listeners to acquire the album at a price they determine.
The album represents a fusion of electronic music with jazz and funk sensibilities.
Moddi - Moddimiks 2010
Genre: alternative, indie, pop, post rock, acapella, compilation
Pål Moddi Knutsen, as stated on his Facebook page, is the artist behind Moddi. He was twenty-four years old at the time of this statement.
Knutsen originates from Senja, an island located in the northernmost region of Norway.
He expresses gratitude to anyone who chooses to listen to his music, acknowledging the value of their time.
Previous Feature
Moddi’s work was previously highlighted in a Sound Sunday feature, specifically his album Away From Home.
Availability
Moddimiks 2010 is offered as a complimentary download.
Interested listeners can obtain it directly from Bandcamp.
Moddimiks 2010 represents a collection of diverse musical styles.
These include alternative, indie, pop, post-rock, and even acapella arrangements.
The release functions as a compilation of various tracks.
Cloudbirds – A Debut Offering
Genre: folk
Cloudbirds represents a fresh musical direction for former members of The M’s – Josh Chicoine, Joey King, and Glenn Rischke.
This Chicago-based trio has embarked on a new, roots-influenced project.
Their sound is characterized by intricate guitar work and compelling three-part vocal harmonies.
Exploring the Band's Identity
As described on their website, Cloudbirds seamlessly blends emotional depth with a distinctly down-home folk aesthetic.
The group’s musical style navigates effortlessly between heartfelt ballads and traditional folk arrangements.
The band’s self-titled album, Cloudbirds, is currently available as a complimentary download.
Interested listeners can access the album directly through the Bandcamp platform.
David Löhstana - Folk & Acoustic
Genre: acoustic, instrumental, folk
David Löhstana is a musician originating from France.
Folk & Acoustic represents an instrumental work showcasing David’s proficiency on the guitar.
The compositions within are characterized by their cheerful and calming qualities.
This album, Folk & Acoustic, is available as a complimentary download via Jamendo.
Epic Soul Factory - Volume One
Genre: orchestral, instrumental, soundtrack, film music
Epic Soul Factory describes itself as a collective of four film music composers: Cesc Vilà, Fran Soto, Ysmer, and Pela.
According to their Jamendo profile, the group specializes in creating music reminiscent of epic movie trailers.
They compose pieces intended for trailers, cinema, television, and short films.
Volume One by Epic Soul Factory is offered as a free download through Jamendo.
Rusko - O.M.G.!
Genre: electronic, dubstep
The artist Rusko is known for injecting a dynamic and playful energy into the dubstep scene.
He rapidly developed a distinctive style within the genre, influencing a broad audience.
His productions evolved to become increasingly innovative in their structure, sonic qualities, and overall impact.
Rusko’s signature track, “Cockney Thug,” gained widespread recognition.
It was featured in sets by prominent DJs such as Pete Tong, Switch, Diplo, and Santogold.
The song also received remixes from artists including Buraka Som sistema, Diplo, Drop the Lime, and the Scratch Perverts.
O.M.G.! is available as a complimentary download directly from Rusko's Homepage.
Key Characteristics of Rusko's Style
- A highly energetic and enjoyable approach to dubstep.
- A unique interpretation of the genre’s conventions.
- Productions that are adventurous and diverse in their composition.
Rusko’s music transcends the boundaries of traditional dubstep, attracting listeners from various musical backgrounds.
His ability to create impactful and memorable tracks has solidified his position as a notable figure in electronic music.
Donae'o - Indigo Child
Genre: urban, club, dance, house
Donae'o, whose name translates to "Gift from God," is a prominent figure in the UK dance music scene.
He first gained recognition with his breakthrough track ‘My Philosophy (Bounce)’ in 2001, when he was only 16 years old.
A Multifaceted Artist
Donae'o is not solely a producer; his talents extend to singing, rapping, and songwriting.
These diverse skills have been instrumental in developing his artistry, which continues to evolve.
Embracing Neurodiversity
The artist reflects on a period of self-discovery, stating, “Last year I feel like I found myself.”
He views conditions like ADHD through a unique lens, presenting a choice between medication or embracing the concept of being an Indigo Child.
According to Donae'o, the distinction lies in managing excess energy and finding constructive outlets for it.
Focus on Dance Music
He emphasizes his dedication to dance music, describing his album as a direct expression of this passion.
Donae'o believes he has successfully channeled his energy into creating music that resonates with the dance floor.
Availability
Indigo Child is available as a free download from Bandcamp.
This allows fans to directly access and experience his latest work.
SKYPILOT - Harold (You Sold Your Brother Down)
Genre: rock, stadium, art-rock
While technically a two-song single and thus outside the usual scope of Sound Sunday, exceptional music warrants consideration. The track "Harold (You Sold Your Brother Down)" stands out as a personal favorite from this selection. Listeners are also encouraged to explore "Light From A Dying Star."
According to their Facebook page, SKYPILOT, originating from Brisbane, Australia, is forging a novel style of rock. They blend evocative soundscapes with unrestrained melodies and powerful vocals.
The band aims to deliver an immersive stadium rock experience. Their compositions are designed to guide the listener through a spectrum of emotions.
SKYPILOT’s music intends to evoke a journey from profound sadness to exhilarating joy. The goal is to create a sensation of weightlessness, almost defying gravity.
A noteworthy aspect of SKYPILOT’s work is the backstory provided for each song. These narratives add depth and context to the listening experience.
Harold (You Sold Your Brother Down) is currently available as a complimentary download via Bandcamp.
We're Doomed - Like A Machine
Genre: alternative, progressive rock
The band describes itself on Facebook as "We're Doomed – a powerful blend of refined musicianship and thoughtful composition."
This Halifax-based quartet delivers a robust and rhythmically complex take on progressive rock.
Their musical inspiration stems from themes of societal collapse and the complexities of human existence.
We're Doomed combines impactful guitar work, intricate rhythmic patterns, and expressive vocals.
The band intentionally disregards conventional genre boundaries, seamlessly integrating elements of rock, pop, and metal.
They claim their music will be more impactful than a zombie apocalypse.
Like A Machine is currently available as a pay-what-you-want download through Bandcamp.
Key Characteristics
Here's a breakdown of what defines We're Doomed's sound:
- Heavy Riffs: The band utilizes powerful and driving guitar riffs.
- Syncopated Rhythms: Complex and off-beat rhythms create a dynamic listening experience.
- Dynamic Vocals: Vocal performance is varied and expressive.
- Genre Fusion: A deliberate blending of rock, pop, and metal influences.
The band's approach is designed to create a high-energy and immersive sonic landscape.
Like A Machine showcases these elements effectively.
Empty Lungs - Identity Lost
Genre: post-hardcore, punk, rock
The band, Empty Lungs, describes its sound as a dynamic blend of passionate and energetic music.
Influences spanning punk, folk, country, and post-hardcore contribute to their unique style.
Their live performances are known for their intensity and have quickly established them as a noteworthy act.
Within months of beginning to perform around Ireland, Empty Lungs garnered attention from both local media outlets and BBC Radio 1.
The band announced plans in 2012 to record an EP.
Following the EP's completion, they intend to embark on an extensive tour throughout Europe and the UK.
Identity Lost is currently available as a free download from Bandcamp.
About the Release
This release showcases the band’s ability to fuse diverse musical elements.
It represents a significant step in their development as artists.
Listeners can expect a high-energy experience reflecting the band’s established reputation for captivating live shows.
Stand for the Fallen - Look Where We Are
The band Stand for the Fallen performs within the alternative, rock, metalcore, screamo, and post-hardcore genres.
Their official MoshCam profile describes them as a five-member Post-Hardcore group originating from the Northern Beaches region of Sydney.
Known for their dynamic stage presence, Stand for the Fallen has been actively performing at numerous venues throughout the Sydney area.
The band is poised for continued growth and success as 2010 progresses.
About the Release
Look Where We Are is currently available as a pay-what-you-want download through Bandcamp.
This allows listeners to support the band directly by choosing their own price for the album.
Discover Past Sound Sundays
If you are new to Sound Sunday, previous installments can be found here.
Explore a diverse range of free music previously featured on this platform.
Your contributions are welcome! Please contact me at [tina at makeuseof dot com] with any free music submissions, suggestions, or feedback.
Comments and discussion are also encouraged below.