Review - "The World's Smallest Violin" (J. Arthur Keenes)

J. Arthur Keenes is something else. Setting himself apart from many other chiptune artists with his well-produced, stylish, and uncommonly cool offerings, his latest EP makes for another highly enjoyable listen. "The World's Smallest Violin" marks a definite maturity and progression in songwriting for Keenes, who delivers a dose of brilliant bedroom-produced tunes in five tracks.

Interestingly, the classic GameBoy which was so prominent in Keenes' earlier work takes more of a backseat role here, but the additional and varied instrumentation, including a classy use of electric guitar, does not disappoint. The opening track "Monsters" includes a lovely chorus, which is further complimented by calm, unique vocals. The lyrics are fairly vague and hard to decipher, but the atmosphere conveyed here is consistently excellent. "Southern Accent" ratchets things up with an impressive, extended instrumental section led by a rocking guitar and carefully-calculated percussion. The short, sweet theme of "Trying Not to Hide", on the other hand, brings the EP to a close quite well.

With an appeal not limited to his clear 8-bit influence, J. Arthur Keenes has crafted an awesome set of songs with "The World's Smallest Violin". Although starkly different from past releases, the new style sounds great and is totally worth your time. And oh, that cover art!

SCORE: 8.6 out of 10 - "Great"

[You can stream or download the EP here:     http://thejarthurkeenesband.bandcamp.com/album/the-worlds-smallest-violin]

Bubu - "The Daydream Elevator"

Armed with a Nintendo GameBoy and a sweet talent for making lovely music, nineteen-year-old Barnabas Fekete has now unveiled his first proper album under the moniker Bubu. Entitled "The Daydream Elevator", the new release is a beautifully happy collection of well-written chiptunes. Whether it's the hopeful melodies of "Happiness Like This" or the thumping vibes from "Lemonade", Barnabas must love what he does. Clocking in at eight solid tracks, you owe it to yourself to pick this one up, especially if you're feeling a bit depressed. With a spirit such as Bubu's cheery, trusting outlook, why should a little sorrow get you down?

You can stream or download the release here: http://bubu.bandcamp.com/album/the-daydream-elevator