Backstory:

Made-Up Bowl is a ground-breaking alternative rock band that was born in the bustling musical hub of Austin, Texas. The band was formed when vocalist/guitarist Jake “Phantom” Sullivan and drummer Dax “Madpan” Shultz met at a local coffee shop’s open mic night in 2005. With their shared love for edgy music, raw lyrics, and compelling stage presence, the duo decided to team up and create something extraordinary. Later, they were joined by bassist Ruby “Bassmiss” Weller, who added a unique touch to their music with her unparalleled bass rhythms.

In 2008, Made-Up Bowl recorded their first EP, which made an impressive number on the regional charts. Their relentless dedication, coupled with their authentic and explosive sound, caught the attention of audiences far and wide. They swiftly became a mainstay of the Austin live music scene, drawing crowds with their energetic performances and genuine connection with their fans.

Genre: Alternative Rock

Title: “Stranger in My Own Skin”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]

Em G
I walk this city’s cold, dark streets,
D A
A tale of shadows whispering defeat.
Em G
Echoes of a past life, fading away,
D A
Where I’ve been, no one can say.

[Chorus]

C G
I’m a stranger in my own skin,
D Em
Lost in this life, where do I begin?
C G
I’m a wanderer, an empty shell,
D Em
In this made-up bowl, where I dwell.

[Verse 2]

Em G
The mirror shows a face unknown,
D A
A heart of stone, I’m all alone.
Em G
Reality crumbles, truth unwinds,
D A
In the labyrinth of my chaotic mind.

[Chorus]

C G
I’m a stranger in my own skin,
D Em
Washed by the tides of the sins I’m in.
C G
I’m a dreamer, a silent yell,
D Em
In this made-up bowl, I fell.

[Bridge]

F C
Tear me apart, break me down,
G D
In this sea of silence, I drown.

[Chorus]

C G
I’m a stranger in my own skin,
D Em
In this game of life, can I ever win?
C G
I’m a survivor, with stories to tell,
D Em
In this made-up bowl, I dwell.

Fan’s Testimonial:

My name is Lenny Thompson, and I’ve been a huge fan of Made-Up Bowl ever since their early days performing at local coffee shops. Their music resonates with me on a deep, personal level. The raw emotion and the gritty realism in their songs transport me to another world altogether. It’s not just music, it’s a cathartic experience. Whether it’s the breathtaking guitar riffs, the powerful drum beats, or the haunting vocals, Made-Up Bowl has a unique way of reaching into the very depths of my soul. They’re not just my favorite band, they’re a part of my being.

Backstory:
Formed in 2004, Circular Prisoner is an ensemble of creative misfits from the bohemian heart of Manchester, England. The band’s founders, lead singer/guitarist Alex Clooney and bassist Jacob “Jake” Stark, met while working at a local vinyl store, bonding over shared inspirations of progressive rock and a mutual disdain for monotony. Both being musicians, they decided to form a band that could push the boundaries of conventional rock music. Teaming up with classically trained drummer Ellie Baker and synth wizard Hugo Fernandez, Circular Prisoner came into existence.

The band emerged from the gritty underground club circuit, impressing listeners with their inventive blend of progressive rock, psychedelic soundscapes, and haunting lyrics. They quickly caught the attention of indie label, Lunar Rabbit Records, who signed them in 2006. Their debut album, ‘Escape from the Mundane’, was a critical success, establishing them as a unique voice in the British rock scene.

Genre:
Progressive Rock

Title:
“Solitary Confinement”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am C G D
In a world that spins, I’m still,
Lost in thought, against my will.
In my mind, I’m bound and chained,
In this solitary confinement, I’m detained.

(Verse 2)
Am C G D
My life’s a puzzle, piece by piece,
In a prison where thoughts never cease.
Locked in a cycle, round I go,
Trapped in a world only I know.

(Chorus)
F G C Am
In my circular prison, I’m a prisoner of me,
In the labyrinth of my mind, I long to be free.
But the key is lost, deep in my soul,
In this circular prison, I’m out of control.

(Verse 3)
Am C G D
Through the bars, I watch time fly,
My heart beats with a silent cry.
In my cell, I count the days,
In my circular prison, in a haze.

(Chorus)
F G C Am
In my circular prison, I’m a prisoner of me,
In the labyrinth of my mind, I long to be free.
But the key is lost, deep in my soul,
In this circular prison, I’m out of control.

Favorite Fan’s Name:
Lucy Thompson

Testimonial:
“Circular Prisoner is more than just a band to me; they’re a source of strength. Their music is a whirlwind of complex emotions, and it resonates with my soul. The raw passion in Alex’s voice, the haunting rhythm of Ellie’s drums, Jake’s deep basslines, and Hugo’s ethereal synth… it’s a sonic journey into the human psyche. ‘Solitary Confinement’ is my personal anthem. It’s about being trapped in your thoughts, something I’ve grappled with my entire life. Listening to Circular Prisoner makes me feel understood, like I’m not alone in my struggles. That’s why they’re my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Nutty Son began as an impromptu music project in the sleepy town of Springtown, Ohio. The band consists of childhood friends, Jason “Jazz” McKendrick (lead vocalist), Ollie “Gramps” Baxter (guitarist), and twins Sammy and Danny “The Percussion Prophets” Keyes. Initially, their music was just a way to weather through the long, boring summers. But their hobby soon turned into a passion and eventually, a full-time career. They started off playing at local bars and community festivals, but their music’s unique charm and authentic lyrics quickly gained them a wider audience.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Song Title:
“Chasing Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am Em G D
Beneath the stars, where the world’s asleep,
Am Em G D
We’re dancing shadows, promises to keep.
Am Em G D
Lost in the whisper of the silken breeze,
Am Em G D
We’re chasing shadows, like a forgotten tease.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Chasing shadows in the night,
C G D Em
Underneath the moon’s soft light.
C G D Em
In the dance of the shadows we unite,
C G D Em
In our world, where everything’s right.

(Verse 2)
Am Em G D
In the quiet echoes of the breaking dawn,
Am Em G D
We’re chasing shadows, to the place we were born.
Am Em G D
Caught in the rhythm of the falling leaves,
Am Em G D
We’re chasing shadows, weaving dreams like thieves.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Chasing shadows ’till the light,
C G D Em
In the silent echoes of the night.
C G D Em
Against the world’s cold, bitter fight,
C G D Em
In our shadows, we find our might.

Fan’s Name:
Becca Thompson

Testimonial:
“Nutty Son is more than just a band to me, they are the soundtrack of my life. Their songs echo the sentiments of my heart and soul. “Chasing Shadows”, in particular, is a melody that resonates with my journey. It’s about finding yourself, about hope and fighting against all odds. And it’s not just their music; their passion, their dedication, and their earnestness all make them my favorite band. Every concert feels like a heart-to-heart conversation. They may be ‘Nutty Son’ to the world, but to me, they’re a beacon of inspiration.”

Backstory:
The Pertinent Committee was formed in the vibrant music scene of Austin, Texas in 2013. The five members – frontman Scott McAllister, guitarist Jamie “Jet” Thompson, bassist Vinnie “Static” Morris, drummer Tommy “Thunder” Miller, and keyboardist Lily “Lightning” Levine – were all performers in different bands before they found in each other a shared passion for music that had depth, meaning, and a touch of rebellion. The band was born out of late-night jam sessions, philosophical debates over drinks, and a mutual agreement that music needed to bring important issues to the foreground.

The Pertinent Committee gained a reputation for their soul-stirring performances and thought-provoking lyrics. They leveraged their platform to start conversations about social issues, political unrest, and environmental conservation. Their balance of a strong societal message with infectious melodies made them a standout in the music scene, earning them a dedicated fan base that resonated with their passion for change.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Echoes of Tomorrow”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Am]Looking out the window at the [G]world passing by,
[Dm]Questions in our hearts, [Am]teardrops in our eyes,
[Am]How did we get here, where did we [G]go wrong,
[Dm]How can we stay silent when the [Am]trouble’s so strong?

(Chorus)
[C] Echoes of tomorrow, [G] whispers of today,
[Am] Lost in our sorrow, [Em] must we always pay?
[C] For the sins of the past, [G] for the greed of the few,
[Am] When does it end, [Em] when do we break through?

(Verse 2)
[Am] Shadows growing longer, [G] drowning out the light,
[Dm] We stand against the darkness, [Am] ready to fight,
[Am] Time for revolution, time for [G]us to rise,
[Dm] Time for us to wake up and [Am]realize.

(Chorus)
[C] Echoes of tomorrow, [G] whispers of today,
[Am] Lost in our sorrow, [Em] must we always pay?
[C] For the sins of the past, [G] for the greed of the few,
[Am] When does it end, [Em] when do we break through?

Favorite Fan’s Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan is Emily Perez, a social worker from their hometown of Austin. Emily says, “The Pertinent Committee isn’t just a band to me; they’re a voice of change. Their music fuels my work, inspires me to do more and to be more. Their lyrics resonate with the times we live in; they’re a call to action. You can’t help but feel moved by their passion and their message. The Pertinent Committee is my favorite band, not just because their music is top-notch, but because they care about the world and they use their platform to make a difference. That’s pretty rad, if you ask me.”

Backstory:
Hailing from the vibrant city of Seattle, Washington, Admirable Raid was born out of a common passion for music and a shared dream to create something unique. The four members, Danny, Mike, Kelly, and Mark, all had their own musical journeys before coming together. Drummer Mark and guitarist Mike were childhood friends, whereas vocalist Danny and bassist Kelly met at a local music festival. After years of playing separately in local circuits, a chance meeting at an open-mic night brought the four together. They clicked instantly, and Admirable Raid was born.

The band worked tirelessly for years, making music in basements and garages, refining their sound, and building a loyal fanbase with a string of successful local gigs. Their big break came in 2018 when an indie label discovered them at a music festival, resulting in a record deal and the rest is history. Admirable Raid has since become one of the most promising acts to emerge from the Seattle music scene, captivating audiences everywhere with their raw energy and distinctive sound.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Stars in the Rearview”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
E
Driving down the highway late at night,
A
Only my thoughts and the moonlight,
B
Chasing my dreams down the endless road,
C#m
With stars in the rearview, and tales untold.

(Chorus)
E
Stars in the rearview, dreams on the horizon,
A
Chasing the dawn, where the sun keeps rising.
B
Past is behind, future’s out of sight,
C#m
Just stars in the rearview, and the endless night.

(Verse 2)
E
Under the canvas of the darkened sky,
A
I find the truth, no need to lie.
B
The road ahead is winding and long,
C#m
But with stars in the rearview, I can’t go wrong.

(Repeat Chorus)

(Bridge)
E
Highway lines like sentences,
A
Stories told in past tense.
B
The road’s my paper, the stars my song,
C#m
With the stars in the rearview, I’m where I belong.

(Repeat Chorus)

Fan Testimonial:
Admirable Raid’s biggest fan is undoubtedly Rachel Dawson. Rachel, a college student majoring in music, first discovered the band during their early gig days in Seattle. She was immediately drawn to their raw energy, catchy tunes, and deeply emotional lyrics. Rachel says, “Admirable Raid isn’t just a band, they’re my inspiration. Every song they make, every lyric they write, feels like a personal anthem. They’ve been with me through the highs and lows of my life. Their music makes me feel like I’m not alone, like I’m part of something bigger. They’re more than just my favorite band, they’re my lifeline.”

Backstory:
Colossal Bench was formed in 2012 in the heart of Detroit, Michigan. The band’s members, lead singer Mike Haskins, drummer Sarah Stevens, bass guitarist Brian “Buzz” Parker and lead guitarist Jason Michaels, were all part of different punk rock bands before they decided to unite their music skills and profound passion for activism. The name Colossal Bench, according to them, symbolizes the massive support and strength unity can provide against systemic issues.

They started playing in small local gigs, their music resonating with the youth’s rebellious spirit. Over time, they gained recognition beyond their local scene for their hard-hitting lyrics and powerful performances. The band quickly gained a national following with their debut album “Rusted Chains” which was a stark critique of societal norms and a strong call to action for change, embodying the heart of punk rock culture.

Genre: Punk Rock

Title: “Concrete Jungle”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em G
Living in this concrete jungle,
D A
Our voices, they seem to just mumble,
Em G
We’re drowning in this endless struggle,
D A
In the heart of chaos, we find our humble.

(Chorus)
Em G
Against the walls, we rage,
D A
This system, we engage,
Em G
In newspapers, not in a cage,
D A
With music as our sage.

(Verse 2)
Em G
Through guitars, we scream the truth,
D A
Against injustice, we’re no sleuth,
Em G
We stand tall, we stand uncouth,
D A
In this concrete jungle, we’re the youth.

(Chorus)
Em G
We won’t be another page,
D A
In history’s silent cage,
Em G
No fear, no rage, just sage,
D A
In this concrete jungle, we engage.

Fan’s Testimonial:
Fan’s name: Lily Jones

Lily Jones has been a fan of Colossal Bench since their first gig in a small Detroit bar. She says, “Colossal Bench isn’t just a band; they’re a movement. Their music echoes the sentiment of our generation, their lyrics, it’s like they’re plucked right out of our hearts. They channel our anger, our frustration into something powerful and beautiful. They remind us that we aren’t alone in our struggles. Their song “Concrete Jungle” is more than just a punk rock anthem; it’s a rallying cry for change, a testament to our generation’s resilience. They are, without a doubt, my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Formed in the heart of Silicon Valley in 2014, ‘Agile Involvement’ was the brainchild of four tech nerds who found a way to combine their love for music with their professional passion for agile software development. Lead vocalist and keyboardist Arnold, bassist Mike, drummer Ronnie, and guitarist Sally, each a software engineer in their own right, found solace in their shared love for music in the highly competitive world of tech. During an after-work jam session, they realized their synergies could create something more than just software, and ‘Agile Involvement’ was born. Their music reflects their experiences in the tech world, with lyrics often using coding and project management jargon, making them a unique entity in the music scene.

Genre:
Their music is an eclectic blend of Alternative Rock and Electronica, which they affectionately refer to as ‘Tech Rock’.

Title:
‘Scrum Master’s Symphony’

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
[G] In a world of codes, [C] where logic erodes,
[Am] We fight the bugs, [D] we’re the coding studs.
[G] With a coffee cup, [C] never giving up,
[Am] We burn the midnight oil, [D] till our blood begins to boil.

(Chorus)
[G] We are Agile Involvement, [C] we are the Scrum Masters,
[Am] Sprinting through the lines, [D] avoiding disasters.
[G] With our code, we make symphony,
[C] In this tech world, we create our odyssey.

(Verse)
[G] With our daily standups, [C] we break the monotony,
[Am] Sprint retrospectives bring, [D] transparency and honesty.
[G] Kanban board, [C] keeps us moving forward,
[Am] User stories sing, [D] of our victories untoward.

(Chorus)
[G] We are Agile Involvement, [C] we are the Scrum Masters,
[Am] Sprinting through the lines, [D] avoiding disasters.
[G] With our code, we make symphony,
[C] In this tech world, we create our odyssey.

Band’s Favorite Fan:
Their favorite fan is Tim Collins, a software developer from Seattle.

Testimonial:
“As a software developer, I can testify that Agile Involvement is not just a band; they are an experience that resonates with every tech enthusiast out there. Their music takes the mundane aspects of our work and spins it into something exciting and worth celebrating. It’s not just about the catchy tunes and intelligent lyrics, it’s about feeling seen, understood, and celebrated in an industry that often feels cold and impersonal. Agile Involvement is not just my favorite band; they are the soundtrack to my career.”

Backstory:

Infantile Feeling is a product of four best friends who found solace and expression in music during their high school years in a small town in Idaho. The band was formed in 2013, and ever since, they have been creating music that speaks to the heart of their shared experiences, dreams and emotions. They are playing in local bars, cafes and private events, gaining a reputation for their authentic and raw performances. Their common love for alternative rock and soulful blues brought them together, but it’s their willingness to experiment and grow that has kept them united all these years.

Genre: Alternative Rock/Blues

Title: “Brooks and Dreams”

Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em G
Growing up in this small town, chasing dreams in the pouring rain,
D A
Underneath the Idaho sky, life’s a beautiful kind of pain.
Em G
Lost and found in Brooks and Dreams, hoping we’ll be more than this,
D A
We are just four boys with guitars, screaming songs of love and bliss.

(Chorus)
C G
Oh, in our Infantile Feelings, we found a way to fly,
D A
With our voices, and our dreams, reaching for the sky.
C G
We are just boys from a small town, with big dreams in our eyes,
D A
In the world of Brooks and Dreams, we are more than just guys.

(Verse 2)
Em G
Playing at the local bar, under the neon lights,
D A
Singing our hearts out loud, through the endless nights.
Em G
With our songs, we paint our pain, and with our chords, we share our joy,
D A
Infantile Feeling is our name, and music is our only ploy.

(Chorus)
C G
Oh, in our Infantile Feelings, we found a way to soar,
D A
Through the pains, and the laughs, we are more than just folklore.
C G
We are just boys from a small town, with big dreams in our hearts,
D A
In the world of Brooks and Dreams, we are crafting our arts.

Fan’s Testimonial – (Name: Toby Hawkins)

“Infantile Feeling has been my favorite band since the first time I heard them play at The Rusty Nail, a small bar in our town. Their lyrics speak to me on a personal level; they capture the essence of growing up in a small town and dreaming big. The rawness in their music, their soulful performances, and their authenticity make me feel seen and understood. They’re not just another band for me; they’re a reminder that big dreams can sprout from small places.”

Backstory:

Soggy Timing is a trio of friends hailing from the rain-soaked streets of Seattle, Washington – Ethan Smith (lead vocals and guitar), Beth Parker (bass and back-up vocals), and Sam Miller (drums). In 2015, they started playing music as a way to escape the mundane 9-5 routine and discovered a shared talent for creating unique, catchy tunes. Their friendship and musical chemistry are evident in their performances, being as tight-knit as any band could be. Soggy Timing has come a long way from their initial jamming sessions in Smith’s garage, now selling out local pubs and gracing the stages of various music festivals in the Pacific Northwest.

Genre:

Their music is best categorized as Indie Rock with a hint of blues and punk, creating a distinct sound that sets them apart in the saturated music scene.

Title:

“Rainfall Rhythm”

Full song lyrics:

(Em)
One more day in the grey, (G)
With the sky pouring down, (D)
(Am)
As we play our own way, (C)
In our dear old town. (Em)

(Em)
Rainfall rhythm, (G)
Speaks to our soul, (D)
(Am)
In this city’s prism, (C)
We found our role. (Em)

Chorus:

(G)
Hey, we’re Soggy Timing, (D)
(Am)
Playing through the pouring rain. (C)
(G)
Don’t you see us shining? (D)
(Am)
In every refrain. (C)

(Em)
Rain-soaked streets, (G)
Hold tales untold, (D)
(Am)
Where the heartbeat meets, (C)
The wet and cold. (Em)

Chorus:

(G)
Hey, we’re Soggy Timing, (D)
(Am)
Playing through the pouring rain. (C)
(G)
Don’t you see us shining? (D)
(Am)
In every refrain. (C)

Favorite fan’s name:

Their favorite fan is Jenny Thompson, who, despite her day job as a lawyer, never misses a gig and even follows them to regional music festivals.

Testimonial:

“I’ve listened to so many bands in my life, but Soggy Timing holds a special place in my heart. Their raw, authentic sound resonates with me deeply. It’s almost as if they’re narrating my own experiences through their music. The fact that they’re also incredibly humble and genuine offstage only adds to my admiration for them. I take pride in being their number one fan and cannot wait to see where their journey leads them.” – Jenny Thompson.

Backstory:

Subdued Comment is an eclectic group of musicians hailing from the vibrant music scene of Austin, Texas. They initially started off as a duo in 2012, with the lead singer, Carson, and drummer, Riley, jamming out in their shared apartment. With their shared passion for music, they eventually added bass player, Mandy, and guitarist, Elliott, to the mix, forming the full band by 2015. Their name, ‘Subdued Comment’ came from a random conversation over coffee, where they discussed how their music was a quiet commentary on life, love, and everything in between.

Genre:

Subdued Comment explores the rich tones of Indie Folk-Rock, blending it with elements of Blues and Country for a truly unique sound.

Title:

“Whispered Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Down the road where the [G] sunsets glow,
[Am] A tale as old as [Em] time untold,
[F] Whispered shadows and [C] tales of light,
[G] Echoing through the [C] starry night.

(Chorus)
[F] Whispered shadows, [C] whispered dreams,
[G] Life is never what it [Am] seems.
[F] Don’t you worry, don’t you [C] fret,
[G] We’ve got miles to go [C] yet.

(Verse 2)
[C] In the quiet of the [G] night, we roam,
[Am] Searching for a place [Em] called home.
[F] Through the whispers and the [C] shadows cast,
[G] We’re heading for a [C] future vast.

(Chorus)
[F] Whispered shadows, [C] whispered dreams,
[G] Life is never what it [Am] seems.
[F] Don’t you worry, don’t you [C] fret,
[G] We’ve got miles to go [C] yet.

Fan’s Name:

Jesse Thompson

Fan’s Testimonial:

“I’m Jesse Thompson, and I’ve been following Subdued Comment since their early days in Austin dive bars. They’re my favorite band because their music speaks to me on a personal level. It’s like they’ve taken my thoughts, my dreams, my fears, and turned them all into songs. Whispered Shadows is my favorite. It’s a beautiful narrative of life’s journey and the promise of tomorrow. Their truly unique sound and the deep, thought-provoking lyrics keep me coming back for more. They make me feel seen, and it’s an experience I haven’t found with any other band.”