"Piper's Story" Game Review

I'm not usually interested in computer/ video games, however, a new game has peeked my interest. "Piper's Story" is different then the traditional game. Aside from the story plot, the game is aesthetically pleasing. Each new level has unique details-- as if it were a moving, interactive painting.

"Piper's Story" does not follow traditional video games, in the sense that the last level is the most difficult, but instead closely follows the pathway of a traveler's tale. The player is introduced to 'Piper' and her objective, which is to collect 14 ingredients that will save her grandmother from dying. While following the trail, 'Piper' meets new characters that reveal information, which will help her achieve her goal. Each level unveils new obstacles and forces the player to strategize, instead of simply killing objects, like many of today's games.

"Piper's Story" is an original game-- for many reasons: the player is not allowed to touch the sides/ walls of the game-- and for players like me, that's a challenge in of itself; also 'Piper' has unlimited lives. Instead of "dying" in the game 'Piper' merely runs away. Finally, the game is designed in intricate mazes that have additional challenges added to each level. Some are timed, while in others, 'Piper' becomes invisible and the player must become precise in their execution in order to move on to the next level.

But like I said before, I'm not one for video games, but "Piper's Story" is different then most games. It challenges the player to not only react to what their seeing but to develop their own way of succeeding. So, I guess you could say that I've been converted, thanks to "Piper's Story."

"Piper's Story" is not yet available for distribution, but if you go to http://aerolawstudios.com/pipers%20story/piper.html or Google AeroLaw Studios, you will find "Piper's Story" and other projects created by the same artist.

"Mumford and Sons" Music Review

I recently received a collection of records. An eclectic group of artists—ranging from "Neil Diamond" to "The Grateful Dead." But when I came across "Mumford and Sons," I became intrigued by the soulful and eccentric sound coming from the group.

I've heard of them before, but I wouldn't have considered myself an avid fan—by any means. However, when I listened to the record I discovered that their unique vocals and soft, melancholy melody, was the perfect antidote to a high-strung day. “Sigh No More” is the Mercury Prize nominated debut album of London-based folk-rock quartet that was released in February of 2010.

The song "Timshel," combines harmonized vocals with tender instrumental strumming. The guitar begins as an equal counterpart to the lyrics, but as the song progresses the guitar starts to challenge the soft undertone of the singing. Both the vocal and instrumental parts become more commanding, while each part takes turns softening into the background. The two pieces play off of each other, while never overpowering the other. “Timeshel,” like many of the other songs on “Sigh No More,” introduces a pleasant set of lyrics to cure an otherwise collection of gloomy lines.

“Sigh No More,” showcases “Mumford and Sons" musical range, while staying true to their unique sound. “After the Storm” follows the give and take relationship that “Timeshel” introduces. This is a general theme carried throughout the album, which is surprisingly tender and empathetic. The most inspiring aspect of “Mumford and Sons” music is how they intuitively balance their most intimate confessions within their songs, as if they are speaking for the masses. I suspect that will we hear great things from “Mumford and Sons.”