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With 2011 now behind us, I can\'t help but reflect on all the musical goodness that we enjoyed over the course of that year. Sadly, it saw a pair of my longtime favorite artists say goodbye to their previous projects, but it also introduced listeners like me to many amazing new acts only just beginning their meteoric rise!
\\n\\nIt\'s the ciiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiircle of liiiiiiiiiiiiife!
\\n\\nUm... And now on with the show:
\\n\\n"It is Your Turn Now" by Pixelh8
\\n\\nBack in November, famed UK chiptuner Pixelh8 officially retired from the scene. His musical legacy includes a half-dozen phenomenal albums and EPs, not to mention his custom-built music-making software. His parting gift to fans and fellow musicians alike was this inspired (and inspiring) tune.
\\n\\n"Mega Man Forever" by Random
\\n\\nSimilarly, hip-hopper Random has announced that, with the release of his Mega Ran 10 album, he is turning in his helmet and arm cannon. It\'s a sad day for nerdcore, but let\'s not forget that Ran has made equally amazing music about many other video game characters and franchises.
\\n\\n"No Easy Way to Say This" by The Doubleclicks
\\n\\nWhile some of our favorite established artists are (sadly) moving in new directions, Portland\'s nerd folk duo The Doubleclicks are only now starting to garner the attention and respect that they truly deserve. Combining contemporary geek rock with a classic filk lean and a proper helping of cello, they are difficult to resist. So I\\xa0recommend\\xa0that you just stop trying.
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