Last Week in Free MP3s 3-09

“Wake Up!” – Shooter Jennings & Hierophant

From the album “Black Ribbons” Shooter Jennings and his band Hierophant have created a song that defies genre. It’s a dark tale that opens with subtle rhythmic tones that bursts into an electric explosion. Companioned with the lyrics, “Wake Up!”will have you clamoring for this awesome sound. Jennings calls this a “concept album” that speaks to the horror/occult fan within – and with narration interspersed in between the musical tracks by Stephen King there is no doubt that this will be an unforgettable album. Luckily you can have this track for free.

“Ioda Sxsw Opening Day Bash Sampler 2010” – Various Artists

There are albums that give independent artists a chance for their voices to be heard. In some cases it is a welcome surprise, and in this instance there are some welcome additions to your mp3 player. It starts off promising with the track “Shy” by the band A Sunny Day in Glasgow. The track is an experimentation in symphonic, synthesized sound that won’t annoy you. The good vibes continue with Zeus’ “Marching Through Your Head.” Its happy, folksy music is contrasted with the lyrics that speak of a betrayal of a lover and how the protagonist is trying to talk someone out of making the same mistake again. However we come to the noise-infused “Let’s Go” by the Summer Cats. It’s a completely worthless track that isn’t worth your time. This sampler album rights itself again with Tobacco’s “Truck Sweat.” This is another experimentation with synthesizers and instruments that would not ordinarily be played together. It makes for an interesting listening experience. Overall this free sampler of various artists is well worth the time to download.

“Alice’s Theme” – Danny Elfman

With the reimagining of “Alice in Wonderland,” Elfman has created a theme song worthy of what seems to be a visually stunning film. This song is effective in that it makes you think of the movie. At times it literally drums the thought of the film into your psyche. Perhaps you may not listen to it on your way to work, still it is a stunning piece of musical work that can only be appreciated more since it’s free.

“Let the River Run” – Carly Simon

This rearrangement of the song from the movie “Working Girl” works better than its original. It speaks more to Simon’s current singing style – subtle and with purpose. The vocal arrangement is also rich with sound. Even if you have the original track, download this one. It will be well worth it.

“Hold The Line Feat. Mr. Lex & Santigold” – Major Lazer

Horses walking slowly, then speeding up and guitar playing, followed by a driving rapping beat with phones ringing? Yes and it works as this song will keep you moving. The Caribbean/reggae type beat mixed with sounds not normally heard in music is an experiment that you will be glad Major Lazer attempted. Essentially it’s just plain fun to listen to. Get it.

“U N Me” – The Watson Twins

In a sea of solid free downloads, The Watson Twins hold their own. The lyrics are nothing new, but the singing and instrument arrangement make this song stand out in an excellent way. It also ends far too soon.

“Tardy for the Party (Tracy Young’s Don’t Be Tardy Radio Mix)” – Kim Zolciak

Call it a gimmick, but this dance track actually works. Kim Zolciak from “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” with her remixed voice is a solid song thanks to the work of Tracy Young’s mixing skills.