Okay, I’ll admit it; I was first interested in this blog because of its awesome name. I mean, come on, who wouldn't want to read a blog called “Birp!” right? Sadly, after thoroughly examining the website, I was unable to find an explanation for this name. Thus, I was forced to draw my own conclusions.
Most of us associate the word “Birp” quite literally with a sound that comes out of our mouths. It is a strange sound but a sound indeed. Some might even say it is musical. Maybe by calling the blog “Birp!” the creators sought to suggest that there are some unique (and somewhat strange) tracks on here. This isn't your average indie blog.
Anyway, after spending a ridiculous amount of time fussing over the title, I actually delved into the blog. Now let me be clear, I am in no way an uber-hipster-indie-music-lover. I listen to everything from the Beatles to Drake, Lana Del Ray, Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift; I didn't go into this with much prior expertise on this genre of music.
My favorite part of this blog is the abundance of FREE music. I repeat, FREE music. This isn’t something that is easy to come by these days. You’re a click away from a bunch of cool tracks. No creepy viruses or weird Chinese characters involved, I promise.
Still feeling a bit hesitant about visiting this blog? I understand. A lot of us are skeptical when approaching indie artists. You may be thinking to yourself: will listening to this music automatically make me pretentious? Isn't it all about death and depression? No and no! I promise this website is completely harmless and enjoyable.
For those of you who are new to indie music, this is great place to hop on the bandwagon. “Birp!” provides a monthly playlist of 100 songs, comprised of music from various unknown or semi-known artists. This is great because you get a taste of everything, and you’re not clicking around desperately to find something worth listening to. The playlists have a blend of the best tracks out there.
Yesterday, I discovered that “2013” is the perfect homework playlist. I listened to (almost) the entire thing. There is a mix of indie, electro and something in between. Honestly, I don’t know how to categorize some of the music I heard, but it was playin’ and I was jammin’.
“Birp!” also offers numerous album and artist reviews, mixtapes, interviews with up-and-coming artists and forums for general discussion. It is a great place to get acquainted with non-mainstream music, and if you’re already acquainted it is a great place to find more music of your liking.
The next time some hipsters try to hate on you for your music taste, you’ll totally be able to mention some of the obscure artists that “Birp!” exposed you to, and consequently put them in their place.
Here are just a few of the great songs I discovered on the blog. Give them a listen, and go find some of your own favorites!
Jack Moy and Gloden- Drink, drank, drunk
[youtube]vQCvfbKq34U[/youtube]
Gracie- Habits
[youtube]fKF99qB-FMM[/youtube]
Brad Fillatre- New Tattoo
[youtube]NiTJ3uS7SEA[/youtube]
Check out "Birp!" for your listening pleasure!