Backstory:

In the bustling city of Chicago, amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life, a unique blend of sounds began to emanate from an unlikely place – a small garage in a local neighborhood. This was the birthplace of ‘Scented Cab’, an experimental band that came together out of a shared love for eclectic music and late-night jam sessions. The quartet, composed of city cab drivers by day and musicians by night, was made up of lead vocalist and guitarist Travis, drummer Danny, bassist Fred, and keyboardist Lisa. Their passion for creating music that was a mix of their daily experiences, city life, and cab stories metamorphosed into something more than just a hobby, leading to the formation of ‘Scented Cab’.

After countless nights of rehearsing, refining, and perfecting their sound, Scented Cab began to perform at local gigs and venues in Chicago, quickly gaining recognition for their unique sound and storytelling lyrics. Their music became a sonic diary of their workaday lives, encapsulating the city’s spirit, echoing the hums of its busy streets, the tales of its diverse passengers, and the shared experiences of its inhabitants. This unique approach resonated with their audience, making Scented Cab an endearing part of the local music scene.

Genre:
Indie Folk/Alternative Rock

Title:
“Metered Roads”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G]Winding down the city lanes, [Em]under the neon lights,
[C]Passengers with different names, [D]lost in the city nights.
[G]Mirror faces, hushed tones, [Em]stories of love and loss,
[C]This cab’s a rolling home, [D]to those who’re feeling lost.

(Chorus)
[G]Metered roads, [C]ticking time,
[Em]People come and go, [D]like rhythm and rhyme.
[G]In our scented cab, [C]we find our pace,
[Em]Turning everyday stories, [D]into a timeless embrace.

(Verse 2)
[G]Smiles and tears, [Em]echo in the rearview,
[C]Whispered secrets, [D]to a world that’s new.
[G]Our melodies ride, [Em]on the city’s heartbeat,
[C]In our scented cab, [D]where all stories meet.

(Chorus)
[G]Metered roads, [C]ticking time,
[Em]People come and go, [D]like rhythm and rhyme.
[G]In our scented cab, [C]we find our pace,
[Em]Turning everyday stories, [D]into a timeless embrace.

(Outro)
[G]In this city of dreams, [C]we drive and roam,
[Em]In our scented cab, [D]every story finds a home.

Fan’s Name:
Sarah Thompson

Testimonial:

As a cab driver myself, Scented Cab’s music resonates with me on a deeply personal level. Their songs are like the soundtrack to my life, mirroring my experiences, emotions, and the sights I see every day. It’s like they’ve taken fragments of my reality and woven them into beautiful, relatable music. Listening to their songs like “Metered Roads” feels like home, like a shared experience. Scented Cab isn’t just my favorite band; it’s a part of my life.

Backstory:
Clear-Cut Bean is a band as unique as its name, formed in the quiet town of Dunstable, England. The three-member band, composed of childhood friends- Mark (vocals, guitar), Eddie (bass, backing vocals), and John (drums), began their journey in 2015. They gained popularity in the local music scene for their quirky performances that transcended the usual pub gig format. Post high school, they decided to take a leap of faith and venture full-time into their musical journey. Their band name, Clear-Cut Bean, stems from their love for coffee and their straightforward, unpretentious approach to music and life.

Genre:
Alternative Rock/Indie Pop

Song Title:
“Twisted Pathways”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Woke up this morning, [D] brew in my hand,
[Em] Looking at the mirror, [C] where do I stand?
[G] Rays piercing through, [D] shadows so deep,
[Em] Searching for answers, [C] secrets to keep.

(Chorus)
[G] Down the twisted pathways, [D] where dreams collide,
[Em] We find our places, [C] we can’t hide.
[G] Chasing the moonlight, [D] embracing the sun,
[Em] Our journey’s just started, [C] it’s never done.

(Verse 2)
[G] Strumming the strings, [D] rhythm of our hearts,
[Em] In the sound of the silence, [C] that’s where it starts.
[G] The joy, the sorrow, [D] the laughter and pain,
[Em] We are the Clear-Cut Bean, [C] dancing in the rain.

(Chorus)
[G] Down the twisted pathways, [D] where dreams collide,
[Em] We find our places, [C] we can’t hide.
[G] Chasing the moonlight, [D] embracing the sun,
[Em] Our journey’s just started, [C] it’s never done.

(Outro)
[G] So we keep on moving, [D] with the flow,
[Em] Through the highs and lows, [C] ready to grow.
[G] We are Clear-Cut Bean, [D] this is our song,
[Em] On the twisted pathways, [C] where we belong.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is Lisa, a barista from their hometown. Lisa says, “Clear-Cut Bean is more than just a band to me; they weave stories through their music that resonate with my life. Their songs have been my solace during hard times and a companion during my joyful moments. The band’s raw energy and honest lyrics make them stand out. I’ve been following them since their first gig in our town, and seeing them grow and evolve while staying true to their roots has been a wonderful journey. Clear-Cut Bean is my favorite because they aren’t just musicians to me, they’re like friends who’ve been there through it all.”

Backstory:
Corrupt Call was born in the smoky-lit basement of a run-down warehouse in Memphis, Tennessee, on a balmy summer night in 2010. Founding members, primary vocalist and guitarist, Axel Stone and bass player, Keith Ransom were a couple of rebellious souls, seeking a way to channel their raw emotions into music. The band was later joined by drummer, Tom ‘Sledgehammer’ Houston and keyboard prodigy, Lisa ‘Melody’ Ashton. Corrupt Call’s journey of music is a testament to their name, a call to the corrupt societal norms and a rebellious outcry against the stereotypical music scene.

Genre:
Blues Rock

Title:
“Chains of Silence”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1:
(Am) Freedom’s a cage, (G) silence is rage,
(F) Listen my dear, (G) the corrupt call is near.
(Am) We walk the line, (G) where angels pine,
(F) Break these chains, (G) let the silence wane.

Chorus:
(C) Chains of silence, (G) heavy and cold,
(Am) Whispering stories, (F) never been told.
(C) Rise from the ashes, (G) bare your soul,
(Am) Dance with the shadows, (F) let the corrupt call roll.

Verse 2:
(Am) Echoes in halls, (G) shadows on walls,
(F) The world’s a stage, (G) in this age of outrage.
(Am) Voices in wind, (G) where sinners have sinned,
(F) Break these chains, (G) let the truth reign.

Chorus:
(C) Chains of silence, (G) heavy and cold,
(Am) Unraveling secrets, (F) never been told.
(C) Rise from the rubble, (G) bare your soul,
(Am) Dance with the demons, (F) let the corrupt call roll.

Favorite Fan’s Testimonial:
My name is Bobby ‘Bluesman’ Johnson and Corrupt Call is my all-time favorite band. Their music speaks to my soul. Their rebellious outcry against societal norms and the raw emotion in their lyrics resonate deeply with me. The way they mold blues and rock into a unique sound is truly captivating. I’ve been to every single one of their shows and each time their performance is electrifying, leaving me yearning for more. The song “Chains of Silence” is a masterpiece, with its haunting melody and powerful lyrics. To me, Corrupt Call is not just a band, it’s a movement.

Backstory:
The ‘Frivolous Lawyer’ was formed in the vibrant heart of New York City in 2010, when the lead singer and guitarist, Matt Jenson, a law student by day and musician by night, decided to channel his frustration with his studies into his music. Jenson’s passion ignited, combining his love for music and his daily struggles with law school, resulting in a unique blend of humor, heartfelt emotion, and real-life struggles. The band start attracting like-minded musicians, including bassist “Speedy” Sam, drummer Dave “Dynamite” and the alluring keyboardist, Lisa “Legalese”.

Their initial success came from performing in local bars and cafes, but it was their unique sound and relatable lyrics that resonated with the audience. Their popularity grew, and soon they were selling out local venues, their cult following drawn to the band’s authenticity and Jenson’s charismatic stage presence. Their first album, “Legal Tender,” was a hit, with track after track mirroring the journey of a ‘Frivolous Lawyer’.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Song Title:
“Courtroom Serenade”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Late nights, [C] early trials,
[Em] Stacks of files, [D] stretching miles,
[G] Dreaming of [C] a life unfurled,
[Em] Outside this [D] legal world.

(Chorus)
[Am] Strumming my grief, [C] with my lawyer brief,
[G] In a courtroom [D] serenade,
[Am] Tired of the fight, [C] under fluorescent light,
[G] In my lawyer’s [D] masquerade.

(Verse 2)
[G] Jargon flies, [C] on and on,
[Em] Justice seems [D] to be long gone,
[G] From behind the [C] defense stand,
[Em] With a guitar [D] in my hand.

(Chorus)
[Am] Strumming my grief, [C] with my lawyer brief,
[G] In a courtroom [D] serenade,
[Am] Tired of the fight, [C] under fluorescent light,
[G] In my lawyer’s [D] masquerade.

Favorite Fan’s Name:
Jessica Peters

Testimonial:
“I’m Jessica, and I’ve seen Frivolous Lawyer perform over 20 times now! They are, without a doubt, my favorite band. Their music is unique, filled with emotion, and exceptionally relatable. As a law student myself, their songs strike a chord with me. The lyrics just speak to me, and their music is a comforting companion during late-night study sessions. They’re more than just a band; they’re a representation of our reality. Matt’s voice, combined with the band’s rhythm, is a journey that takes you through the struggles and triumphs that we rarely talk about in the legal world. Frivolous Lawyer is a must-listen to anyone who appreciates authenticity and genuine emotions in music.”

Backstory:
Unknown Middle began as a college experiment in the dorm rooms of the University of California, Berkeley. The band was initially comprised of two members, Alex Ray and Neil Harmon, who first bonded over their shared love for the guitar and a desire to create something unique that combined their diverse musical influences. The duo started out performing at college gatherings before their reputation spread, leading to shows at local bars and eventually, music festivals. Unknown Middle’s breakthrough came with their third album, “Mystery within the Notes”, which propelled them to national recognition.

Genre:
Unknown Middle is known for their distinctive blend of Alternative Rock and Indie Folk music.

Title:
“Ripple in the Sky”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
(Am) Look up to the (F) wild and endless (C) sky,
(G) Colour of the (Am) dreams that flutter (F) by,
(C) Silhouettes of (G) love that never (Am) die,

[Chorus]
(F) Ripple in the (C) sky,
(G) Tear from the eye of (Am) time,
(F) Lost in the (C) rhythm, caught in the (G) rhyme.

[Verse 2]
(Am) Chasing down the (F) echoes of a (C) lullaby,
(G) Carved in the (Am) heart, engraved in the (F) sigh,
(C) Memories in (G) ink, on the canvas of the (Am) sky.

[Chorus]
(F) Ripple in the (C) sky,
(G) Tear from the eye of (Am) time,
(F) Lost in the (C) rhythm, caught in the (G) rhyme.

Favorite Fan:
Caroline Martinez
Caroline is a die-hard fan of Unknown Middle from their earliest days. She discovered their music during a challenging period of her life and found solace in their lyrics. She has attended every concert within 200 miles of her home, owns every album, and runs a dedicated fan page. Caroline appreciates Unknown Middle for their depth and authenticity. Her testimony is, “Unknown Middle’s music has been a constant companion to me during my highs and lows. Their songs speak to my soul and have been an incredible source of comfort and inspiration. They are not just musicians, but storytellers who paint vivid pictures with their music.”

Backstory:
Strident Percentage was formed in the bustling heart of New York City in 2013. The band consists of four members: Jack Hudson on vocals and guitar, Alex Crane on drums, Casey Maxwell on bass, and Lilly Rose as the unique addition of the violin and backing vocals. The group met while attending the same music school, where they quickly bonded due to their shared love for rock music with a classical twist.

Their first small gig in a local bar turned into a regular booking, which eventually caught the attention of a music producer. Their debut album, “Rebellious Harmony” was released in 2016, and has since catapulted them into the limelight, garnering them a dedicated fan base and a reputation for their unique sound.

Genre:
Alternative Rock with a Classical Twist

Title:
“Echoes in Symphony”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1
(C-Am-F-G)
Underneath the city lights, in a world that’s spinning fast
We found our rhythm in the chaos (C-Am-F-G)
Tuned to the beat of the heart, we dance, we laugh
In the echoes of the symphony (C-Am-F-G)

Chorus
(E-Am-Dm-G)
Echoes in symphony, our song in the night
In a world out of tune, we’re the melody right (E-Am-Dm-G)
Footsteps on cobblestones, under the moonlight
Our echoes in symphony, keep us alive (E-Am-Dm-G)

Verse 2
(C-Am-F-G)
In the weariness of the world, in the confusion’s hold
We found our music in the silence (C-Am-F-G)
Strings and drums collide, stories left untold
In the echoes of the symphony (C-Am-F-G)

[Chorus]

Bridge
(F-C-Dm-Am)
Through the noise, through the pain, through the endless rain
We’re the harmony in the disarray (F-C-Dm-Am)

[Chorus]

Outro:
(C-Am-F-G)
Strident Percentage, our echoes in the night
In the heart of the city, we found our light.

Fan Testimonial:
My name is Emily, and I am a huge fan of Strident Percentage. Their music resonates with me on a deep, personal level, and seems to speak to my experiences and sentiments. Each of their songs is a work of art, intricately woven with emotion, and it’s as if they have put into words what I have been feeling but couldn’t express. The unique blend of rock and classical elements gives their songs an alluring, timeless quality. I have been a fan since their first album, and have since attended every concert they’ve had. Their music has become my solace, my celebration, and everything in between. Strident Percentage isn’t just my favorite band, they’re a part of my life.

Backstory:

Impartial Carpet was formed in the bustling city of Austin, Texas, back in 2012, but they weren’t always known under this unusual name. The band started out as a group of four college friends – lead vocalist and guitarist Aidan, bassist Jack, drummer Liam, and keyboardist Max – who loved to jam in their dorm room. They initially called themselves ‘The Dorm Room Jammers’ but soon realized they needed a more unique and memorable identity. One day, while brainstorming for names over a few beers, they remembered a funny incident where they drew a band logo on their dorm carpet which was impartial in color, and thus, the name ‘Impartial Carpet’ was born.

Their music journey began with performing at college festivals and local pubs, but their popularity exploded when they won a local battle of the bands competition. This event not only gave them mass recognition but also the opportunity to record their first album. Since then, they have toured extensively and have built a solid fan base for themselves.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Rainbow Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Underneath the [Em] rainbow shadows,
[C] You and I, we [D] used to follow,
[G] Dreams that kept us [Em] wild and hollow,
[C] Oh, I miss those [D] days.

[Chorus]
[G] Rainbow shadows, [Em] fading echoes,
[C] Lost illusions, [D] heart’s crescendos,
[G] We were love’s own [Em] brave commandos,
[C] But now, we’re just [D] stray.

(Verse 2)
[G] Rainbow shadows [Em] whisper secrets,
[C] Of the love that [D] we once treasured,
[G] Times when we were [Em] unmeasured,
[C] Lost in our own [D] way.

[Chorus]
[G] Rainbow shadows, [Em] fading fast,
[C] Memories of a [D] golden past,
[G] We were always [Em] meant to last,
[C] But now, we’re just [D] grey.

(The song continues with a similar pattern)

Fan’s Name:

Emily

Emily’s Testimonial:

Impartial Carpet isn’t just my favorite band, they’re my lifeline. Their music has been there in my happiest and hardest times. The lyrics touch my soul and Aidan’s voice is like a balm to all my worries. I remember once when I was at their concert, I was going through a terrible breakup. Aidan noticed me crying during “Rainbow Shadows”, he dedicated the song to me. That’s when I knew, Impartial Carpet isn’t just a band, they’re family.

Backstory:

Mushy Grip is a group of college buddies who found their rhythm in a small, nondescript basement in the heart of Portland, Oregon. Initially, the band was just a platform for them to channel their shared love for music and escape from the grueling pressure of academia. But before they knew it, the group was performing at local bars and winning hearts with their unique sound. Comprised of four members – lead vocalist and guitarist Jake, bassist Liam, drummer Ethan, and keyboardist Noah – Mushy Grip brings an eclectic fusion of raw talent, unbridled energy, and a dash of eccentricity that sets them apart.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Title:

“Stale Donuts and Coffee Cups”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1] Em, G, C, D
(Em) Waking up to the (G) morning light,
(C) Stale donuts and (D) coffee cups by my side,
(Em) Breathing in the (G) remnants of the night,
(C) Wondering where (D) you might hide.

[Chorus] G, D, Em, C
(G) You’re like a melody (D) in my head,
(Em) A sweet symphony (C) that I dread.
(G) Underneath the city (D) lights so bright,
(Em) I’m lost in the (C) echoes of the night.

[Verse 2] Em, G, C, D
(Em) Discarded dreams on (G) paper planes,
(C) Life’s a mess, (D) it’s not a game.
(Em) Pouring rain, (G) it’s all the same,
(C) Without you here, (D) it’s just not the same.

[Chorus] G, D, Em, C
(G) You’re like a melody (D) in my head,
(Em) A sweet symphony (C) that I dread.
(G) Underneath the city (D) lights so bright,
(Em) I’m lost in the (C) echoes of the night.

We fade out with a slow strum of the chords.

Favorite fan’s name:

Emma Stone

Emma’s Testimonial:

“Being a die-hard fan of indie rock, I’ve always been in search of a band that can resonate with my taste, and I found exactly that in Mushy Grip. Their music is a raw, unfiltered reflection of life’s ups and downs, and it feels so relatable. ‘Stale Donuts and Coffee Cups’ is a testament to their talent. The lyrics, the chord progression, everything about the song is just so beautifully melancholic. Jake’s voice is simply hypnotic – it’s like a balm to the soul. I’ve been following them since their first gig at a local bar and it’s been an incredible journey. Mushy Grip is not just a band for me, it’s an emotion.”

Backstory:
Bite-Sized Beach was formed one sultry summer in the vibrant city of Miami. Lifelong friends, Jacob ‘Jazz’ Jenson, a charismatic singer, and Larry ‘Lagoon’ Lange, a talented guitarist, were reminiscing on their shared love for the beach and their childhood memories of bite-sized candies. What started off as a joke soon became a beautiful reality, and the duo decided to form a band that could encapsulate their coastal nostalgia and love for all things sweet and small.

In the early days, they would perform at local beach parties and small venues, with their music perfectly capturing the essence of summer romance and sea-breeze ballads. Their infectious enthusiasm and unique sound quickly gained them a loyal fanbase. They christened their band ‘Bite-Sized Beach’, a tribute to the beach that brought them together and the small moments that create the biggest memories.

Genre:
Indie Pop

Title:
“Sandy Toes and Sugarcoated Kisses”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Looking out at the [G] sea, [Am] hand in my hand [F]
[C] Sandy toes, [G] sugarcoated kisses [Am] were our brand [F]
[C] We were young, [G] we were free [Am] Sipping on sunshine, [F] you and me

Chorus:
[C] Bite-Sized Beach, [G] where we fell in love [Am] Under the palm trees, [F] stars above
[C] Summer breeze, [G] whispers in our ears [Am] Sailing on laughter, [F] casting off fears

(Verse 2)
[C] Salt in our hair, [G] love in the air [Am] We were a sonnet, [F] beyond compare
[C] Waves crashing, [G] hearts aligning [Am] Sunsets and smiles, [F] silver lining

Chorus:
[C] Bite-Sized Beach, [G] where we sealed our fate [Am] In the golden sand, [F] it’s never too late
[C] To take a chance, [G] to dance in the tide [Am] With you by my side, [F] it’s one hell of a ride

The band’s favorite fan:
Bite-Sized Beach’s favorite fan is a lively woman named Daisy. Daisy has been there since the band’s early beach party performances. She fell in love with their music because it reminded her of her late husband, who also adored the beach. The song “Sandy Toes and Sugarcoated Kisses” is particularly dear to her, as it brings back beautiful memories of their time together. She says, “Bite-Sized Beach is my favorite because listening to them feels like revisiting the best moments of my life. Their music wraps me in a warm blanket of nostalgia and love. It’s incredibly therapeutic.”

Backstory:
Windy Counter was formed in the quiet, sleepy town of Oakesville, Maine. The members, all childhood friends – Raven, the charismatic lead singer, Jim, the quick-fingered guitarist, Tim, the rhythmic drummer, and Sam, the soulful bassist – bonded over their shared passion for music. They would spend their teenage years jamming in basements and garages, often to the annoyance of their neighbors. The band’s name was inspired by their town’s constant battle with the wind, as well as their desire to counter the mundane and ordinary with their unique sound.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Against the Wind”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C G D Em
Out here in this sleepy town,
C G D Em
Drowned in the sound, the wind’s howl.
C G D Em
We’re chasing dreams, under the moon,
C G D Em
Playing our tune, we’ll be rising soon.

(Chorus)
G D Em C
Against the wind, we’re standing tall,
G D Em C
In this small town, we’ll defy it all.
G D Em C
Windy Counter, we will not fall,
G D Em C
Against the wind, we’ll conquer all.

(Verse 2)
C G D Em
Through the rain, we find our way,
C G D Em
In the fray, we won’t sway.
C G D Em
Strumming strings, pounding beats,
C G D Em
On this street, it’s our feat.

(Chorus)
G D Em C
Against the wind, we’re standing tall,
G D Em C
In this small town, we’ll defy it all.
G D Em C
Windy Counter, we will not fall,
G D Em C
Against the wind, we’ll conquer all.

Fan’s Name:
Tommy

Testimonial:
Tommy, a lifelong resident of Oakesville, has been a fan of Windy Counter since their inception. Growing up in the same town, he saw the band evolve from a group of kids making noise in their garage to a force to be reckoned with in the alternative rock scene. For Tommy, Windy Counter is not just a band, it’s a symbol of hope and resilience. He shares, “Their music speaks to me. It’s about standing up, fighting against the odds just like they have. Every time I listen to ‘Against the Wind’, I am reminded that no matter how tough life gets, I have the strength to overcome it. Windy Counter is my favorite band because their music is a reminder of the power within all of us.”