Backstory:

Vivacious Laboratory was born in the bustling city of New York in 2011. The initial members, Astrophysicist Steve ‘Comet’ Hughes and Biologist Alice ‘Molecule’ Moore, were both researchers at a prominent city university. They bonded over a shared love for music and science. The pair began writing songs in their spare time, using the lab as a metaphorical playground for their lyrical ideas. Their passion soon caught the attention of fellow university musicians, Drummer Phil ‘Experiment’ Knox, and Saxophonist Laura ‘Element’ Barnes. Together, they formed ‘Vivacious Laboratory’, a unique fusion of science and sound.

Their journey began by performing at university events and local bars, their unconventional music gaining them a notable following. After their first EP caught the attention of a well-known record label, there was no looking back. Their music was innovative, exciting, and a breath of fresh air in the monotonous music industry. Armed with their passion for science and music, they continue enchanting their audience with their unique sound.

Genre:

Jazz Fusion

Title:

“Quantum Love”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am Dm G C
In the vivacious lab of our entangled hearts,
Am Dm G C
Our love oscillates like particles in parts.
Am Dm G C
Your touch, a catalyst, sets my world ablaze,
Am Dm G C
Our reactions sparking in a passionate haze.

(Chorus)
F C Am G
Quantum love, we’re entwined in a dance,
F C Am G
Bound by a force, in a perpetual trance.
F C Am G
In the lab of love, beneath the starry glove,
F C Am G
We’re caught in the mystery of quantum love.

(Verse 2)
Am Dm G C
Through the microscope, we examine our desire,
Am Dm G C
In the test tube of love, set the world on fire.
Am Dm G C
Our chemistry’s electric, a magnetic pull,
Am Dm G C
In this vivacious lab, our love is full.

(Chorus)
F C Am G
Quantum love, we’re entwined in a dance,
F C Am G
Bound by a force, in a perpetual trance.
F C Am G
In the lab of love, beneath the starry glove,
F C Am G
We’re caught in the mystery of quantum love.

Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is multiple-Mensa member, Ben ‘Einstein’ Clarkson. Ben was a Physics major at the same university and attended their first gig. He was instantly captivated by the way Vivacious Laboratory combined complex scientific concepts with catchy tunes and soulful music. He’s attended every gig, come rain or shine, and even arranged a European tour for them.

Testimonial:

“As an avid science enthusiast and music lover, Vivacious Laboratory is like a dream come true. Their songs stimulate both my mind and soul. The way they weave intricate scientific concepts into beautiful, catchy tunes is nothing short of genius. It’s not just music; it’s an experience, a journey, a celebration of science and sound. I can’t wait to see what they bring out next. Long live Vivacious Laboratory!”

Backstory:
Some Format was formed in 2012 in a small, out-of-the-way town in Ohio. Its four members; Alison Dean, Clyde Thompson, Mike Evans, and Brian Thomas were all acquaintances from high school who bonded over their shared love of music. They found their sound in a small garage, fusing their influences into a unique blend of rock, folk, and electronic music. After years of performing at local bars, coffee shops, and college campuses, the band released their debut album, ‘Uncharted Beats’, in 2016. Since then, they’ve toured all over the U.S., captivating audiences with their energetic performances and innovative sound.

Genre:
Alternative Rock/Folktronica

Title:
“Neon Streets”

Song Lyrics:
Verse 1 – Am, C, G, D
(Am) Wandering through these (C) neon streets, (G) lost in the echoes of my (D) own heartbeats.
(Am) The city sleeps but (C) I’m awake, (G) waiting for dawn to (D) mend the break.

Chorus – Em, C, G, D
(Em) I’m searching for something, (C) don’t know what it is,
(G) Perhaps it’s just the (D) feeling of your kiss.
(Em) Walking on this lonely road, (C) under the starry skies,
(G) I’m looking for the answers (D) hidden in your eyes.

Verse 2 – Am, C, G, D
(Am) The neon lights keep (C) flickering, (G) painting illusions on the (D) crumbling walls.
(Am) The night is long and (C) I’m weary, (G) but I keep walking till the (D) curtain falls.

Chorus – Em, C, G, D
(Em) I’m searching for something, (C) don’t know what it is,
(G) Perhaps it’s just the (D) feeling of your kiss.
(Em) Walking on this lonely road, (C) under the starry skies,
(G) I’m looking for the answers (D) hidden in your eyes.

Fan’s Name:
Sophie Turner

Testimonial:
“Some Format speaks to me on a level no other band does. Their music resonates with my emotions, and their lyrics have a certain depth that’s hard to find these days. I love the way they blend different genres. Every song is a journey, and I feel like I’m a part of it every time I listen to them. I’ve been a fan since their first album, and I’ll continue to be one as long as they’re making music. They’re not just my favorite band; they’re an integral part of my life.”

Backstory:

Numb Cost hails from the industrial city of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where they found their music reflective of the raw, gritty energy of their surroundings. The band was formed in 2005, by childhood friends, lead vocalist Mason Wells, guitarist Scott “Riff” Johnson, bassist Mark “Lenny” Leonard, and drummer Alex Hart. The bandmates weathered the storms of life and found solace in their shared passion for music. It was a struggle for them to get their voices heard in the clamor of the music industry, but their determination and love of music kept them going. Their name, Numb Cost, is a symbol of the sacrifices they’ve had to make to pursue their dreams, proving that they’re willing to bear the pain of the struggles because it’s a part of who they are.

Genre:

Numb Cost identifies itself as a hybrid band, blending elements of Alternative Rock, Grunge, and Punk. They’re known for their aggressive guitar riffs, raw vocals, and heart-pounding rhythms, yet their lyrics tell a story of resilience, hope, and the human condition.

Title:

“One Last Stand”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[E]Been running on empty, [A]lost in the fray,
[D]Baring our hearts on the [G]edge of the day.
[E]Shadows are falling, [A]dusk takes the land,
[D]We lift up our voices for [G]one last stand.

(Chorus)
[C]One last stand, in the [G]firelight glow,
[D]Screaming our dreams to the [E]night.
[C]One last stand, where the [G]wild winds blow,
[D]Ready to put up a [E]fight.

(Verse 2)
[E]Walls closing in, [A]faith wearing thin,
[D]But we won’t break, we [G]won’t give in.
[E]Souls intertwined, [A]passion unchained,
[D]We’ll keep on playing, [G]through the pain.

(Chorus)
[C]One last stand, in the [G]starry abyss,
[D]Echoes of the dreams we’re [E]chasing.
[C]One last stand, in the [G]midst of the mist,
[D]It’s our future we’re [E]embracing.

Numb Cost’s Favorite Fan:

The band appreciates all their fans, but one that stands out is a dedicated fan named Jennie. Jennie has been with them since their early days, attending their local gigs, promoting their music, and even running their fan page. She says, “Numb Cost has been my favorite band since I first heard them play in a small bar in Pittsburgh. Their music resonates with me on a level that’s hard to explain. It’s raw, it’s real, it’s like they’re telling my story. The energy they bring on stage is electrifying. I’ve followed them through their journey and will continue to do so. They’re not just a band to me, they’re my tribe.”

Backstory:

Blank Mouth is a group of five eclectic musicians, each hailing from different corners of the U.S. who convened in the heart of San Francisco. They originally gathered in the summer of 2004 during an open mic night at a local music shop. Realizing the unique blend of their sounds, they decided to form a band. They named themselves Blank Mouth as a nod to their belief that music is a universal language, one that doesn’t need words to convey meaning but equally respects the power of well-penned lyrics.

They started out performing in small venues around the city, and in no time, they made a name for themselves with their unique, electrifying performances. Their breakout moment came when they were invited to perform at the renowned local SF Music Festival. Their performance was a resounding hit, and they were immediately signed to a small independent label. Since then, Blank Mouth has released three albums, each one characterized by their signature sound and thought-provoking lyrics.

Genre:

Blank Mouth is primarily an Indie Rock band. Their music is characterized by inventive, guitar-driven melodies, punctuated by sharp drum patterns, atmospheric synth lines, and hauntingly beautiful lyrics. They have managed to seamlessly blend elements of folk, rock, and electronic music, creating a unique sound that truly stands out in the Indie scene.

Title: “Whispering Shadows”

Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Underneath the [Dm] blue, [G] such a sight to [Am] view,
[C] Whispering [Dm] shadows, [G] tell me what’s [Am] true.
[C] Echoes in the [Dm] night, [G] under the moon’s [Am] light,
[C] Chasing the [Dm] shadows, [G] I’m losing my [Am] sight.

(Chorus)
[F] Tell me the secret, [C] you hide in the dark,
[G] Whispering shadows, [Am] leaving their mark.
[F] In the silent echoes, [C] between me and you,
[G] Whispering shadows, [Am] guide me through.

(Verse 2)
[C] Drowning in the [Dm] sea, [G] of a memory,
[C] Whispering [Dm] shadows, [G] set me free.
[C] Lost in the [Dm] maze, [G] of the sun’s haze,
[C] Whispering [Dm] shadows, [G] with you I’ll [Am] stay.

(Chorus)
[F] Tell me the secret, [C] you hide in the dark,
[G] Whispering shadows, [Am] leaving their mark.
[F] In the silent echoes, [C] between me and you,
[G] Whispering shadows, [Am] guide me through.

Fan’s Testimonial:

My name is Lily, and I’ve been a fan of Blank Mouth since their first performance at the SF Music Festival. Their music is such a refreshing blend of sounds, and their lyrics always hit home. I have every one of their albums on repeat. I admire how they’ve managed to maintain their unique sound despite their rapid rise in popularity. It’s hard to pick a favorite song, but “Whispering Shadows” is certainly a standout for me. The lyrics are deeply meaningful, and the melody just stays with you. Blank Mouth is undoubtedly my favorite band, and their music has become a constant companion through the ups and downs of life.

Backstory:

Frigid Controversy was formed in the frosty expanse of Anchorage, Alaska in 2010. It was birthed from the minds of lead vocalist and guitarist, Lucas “Ice” McKinley, bassist, Elijah “Blizzard” Sanchez, and drummer, Mia “Frostbite” Nguyen. The trio, all hailing from different parts of the US, found themselves connected by a shared love for music and the unique challenges of Alaskan life. Their shared experiences and individual versatility created a synergy that was both musically rich and emotionally resonant.

In the early days, Frigid Controversy performed in small, underground venues, building a dedicated local fanbase with their melodious harmonies, thought-provoking lyrics, and electrifying performances. Their breakthrough came in 2015 with their powerful hit single “Beneath the Ice”, which catapulted them into international renown. Today, Frigid Controversy is a force to be reckoned with in the music industry, known for their unfiltered expression of emotion and unique blend of musical influences.

Genre:

Alternative Rock/ Indie

Title:

“Shivers of Truth”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Walking through the [Am] cold, feeling so [C] bold,
[D] Frigid air whispers [G] stories untold.
[Am] Lost in the [G] frost, [D] counting the cost,
[C] Reality’s [G] line, we’ve [Am] mercilessly [D] crossed.

(Chorus)
[G] Shivers of [D] truth, [C] in this icy [G] booth,
[Am] The cold doesn’t [D] lie, it’s the [C] hard, bitter [G] truth.
[G] Dancing on [D] ice, [C] we’ve paid the [G] price,
[Am] In this frigid [D] controversy, we’ve [C] rolled the [D] dice.

(Verse 2)
[G] Underneath the [Am] snow, secrets [C] grow,
[D] The world’s hard shell, [G] an icy glow.
[Am] Through the [G] freeze, [D] we aim to please,
[C] With our melodies, [G] we bring the [Am] storm to [D] its knees.

(Chorus)
[G] Shivers of [D] truth, [C] under winter’s [G] roof,
[Am] The cold doesn’t [D] lie, it’s the [C] absolute [G] truth.
[G] Dancing on [D] ice, [C] we’ve paid the [G] price,
[Am] In this frigid [D] controversy, we’ve [C] gambled with [D] our lives.

Band’s Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan is Sophie “Snowflake” Thompson. Sophie has been with us since our first show in a frozen garage in Anchorage. She’s followed our journey from the very beginning, braving the Alaskan cold, to see us perform in dimly lit bars and has stood by us through every high and low.

Sophie’s Testimonial:

“Frigid Controversy is more than a band to me. Their music resonates with my soul, their lyrics reflect my experiences, and their performances ignite my passion for life. From the first strum of the guitar, the first beat of the drum, to the last lingering note, each song is a journey that I’m honored to take with them. They’ve not only created a unique sound but a community where I feel seen and heard. They are my favorite because they turned the frigid Alaskan cold into a haven of warmth and connection through their music.”

Backstory:
TRUE Learning, first formed in the summer of 2012, consists of four college friends – Alex, John, Pete, and Sam. All studying in different fields – Law, Medicine, Engineering, and Arts, they found a common interest in music as a creative outlet for expressing their shared experiences and challenges. They started off by performing at college festivals and fests, catching the attention of both students and professors alike with their distinct sound and profound lyrics. Despite their diverse academic backgrounds, the quartet shared a dream – to make it big in the music industry. Upon graduating, they decided to take the leap and chase their shared passion, hence, TRUE Learning was born.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Song Title:
“Knowledge of The Heart”

Full song lyrics:
(Verse)
Em C G D
Every step we take, every lesson learned,
Em C G D
Every page we turn, it’s a chance to grow,
Em C G D
Through every strife, through the longest nights,
Em C G D
We find the light, letting our spirits glow.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
In the knowledge of the heart, we find our start,
Em C G D
In the wisdom of the soul, we become whole,
Em C G D
Learning never ends, it just transcends,
Em C G D
Into the music, we impart, the knowledge of the heart.

(Verse)
Em C G D
Through every note, in every lyric wrote,
Em C G D
We find hope, on this musical journey,
Em C G D
In every chord, in every word,
Em C G D
We’re being heard, setting our spirits free.

(Chorus)

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a high school teacher named Brenda. Brenda discovered TRUE Learning when she was going through a tough time. Their song “Knowledge of the Heart” spoke to her and helped her find strength. She felt connected to the band’s emphasis on learning and growth. She plays their music in her classroom and incorporates their lyrics into her lessons. Brenda once wrote to the band, “Your music not only inspires me but also my students. Your songs teach us that it’s okay to make mistakes and learn from them. You’re not just a band to us; you’re our life coaches.” This testimonial touched the band deeply, and they often mention Brenda at their concerts as an example of the impact their music has on people.

Backstory:

Menacing State was birthed in an old, dusty basement in Los Angeles, California in 2004. The band was the result of a chaotic fusion between best friends, Jonny “Sledgehammer” Gomez, a passionate guitarist with a penchant for punk rock and a soulful vocalist, Elliott “Echo” Warren with a love for blues. The two used to get together in Gomez’s basement, jamming until the early hours of morning, letting their music seep into the quiet, starlit nights. They brought in their high school buddies, drummer Mikey “Mad Dog” Sanders and bassist Franky “Frenzy” Opal; and just like that, a dynamic force known as Menacing State was formed.

Through numerous gigs, club nights, and a few garage sales, Menacing State began to gather a small but loyal following. The band’s music expressed a dark but poignant narrative of life in the city, and listeners connected with this raw honesty. Their lyrics were a blend of punk rebellion and bluesy truth, backed by a powerful rhythm section that resonated with the audience’s soul.

Genre:

Punk Blues Fusion

Song Title:

“Urban Jungle”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] In the heart of the city, [C] beneath the neon lights
[G] Among the towering buildings, [C] it’s a never-ending fight
[G] I’m a lone wolf howling, [C] in this urban jungle’s night
[G] Seeking some redemption, [C] praying for the light

(Chorus)
[D] Urban jungle, [G] concrete and steel
[D] It’s a menacing state, [G] it’s a menacing feel
[D] Urban jungle, [G] it’s a survival game
[D] It’s a menacing state, [G] in the city’s burning flame

(Verse 2)
[G] The night’s as cold as steel, [C] the streets are filled with dread
[G] The city never sleeps, [C] its dreams are left unsaid
[G] I’ve got my guitar screaming, [C] singing blues of red
[G] In this urban jungle, [C] where we’re hanging by a thread

(Chorus)
[D] Urban jungle, [G] concrete and steel
[D] It’s a menacing state, [G] it’s a menacing feel
[D] Urban jungle, [G] it’s a survival game
[D] It’s a menacing state, [G] in the city’s burning flame

The Band’s Favorite Fan:

Name: Jimmy “Jukebox” Johnson

Testimonial:

“Man, I’ve never connected to music like I do with Menacing State. These guys are my lifeline. Their music isn’t just a collection of songs; it’s a raw, unfiltered expression of life. They aren’t just singing the blues; they’re living it and that’s what makes them so authentic. Their songs, especially ‘Urban Jungle’, speak to me on a personal level. I’ve lived the struggles they sing about. I’ve felt the chaos, the fight for survival. Menacing State is more than my favorite band; they’re my comrades in the urban battle we’re all fighting. Their music is my armor.”

Backstory:

Lined Jew was formed in 2005 in the bustling city of Brooklyn, New York. Founding members, Levi Goldstein (vocals/guitar), Asher Cohen (bass), and Ezra Stein (drums), grew up in the same neighborhood attending a Jewish Yeshiva day school. The trio found solace in the world of music, using it as a medium to express their intertwined identities – of being Jewish and being American. Their bond grew stronger during their high school years when they began experimenting with sounds in Goldstein’s basement, and thus, Lined Jew was born.

Incorporating elements of their Jewish heritage with the contemporary music scene, Lined Jew quickly gained a loyal following around Brooklyn’s indie music circuit. Their lyrics often portray stories of their Jewish upbringing, coupled with the challenges and experiences of modern day living. Their music became a beacon of identity and community, compelling people of all backgrounds to appreciate their unique sound and message.

Genre:

Indie Rock/Alternative

Title:

“Silver Lining”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am ||G ||D ||Dm
Wandering through the streets of Crown Heights, under the neon lights,
Feeling the rhythm, feeling the pulse, feeling the Brooklyn nights.
Passed by the old synagogue, where my father used to pray,
The melodies still linger, they never fade away.

(Chorus)
C ||G ||Am ||Em
Caught between the old and the new,
Strung out in the open, we are the Lined Jew.
Searching for a silver lining, under the sky so blue,
The past and the present, together they brew.

(Verse 2)
Am ||G ||D ||Dm
The Yiddish whispers in my ear, tales of the old country,
Mix with the sound of the subway, the heartbeat of my city.
Straddling two worlds, the ancient and the free,
Creating our own symphony, in the land of liberty.

(Chorus)
C ||G ||Am ||Em
Caught between the old and the new,
Strung out in the open, we are the Lined Jew.
Searching for a silver lining, under the sky so blue,
The past and the present, together they brew.

Fan’s Testimonial:

Name: Rachel Bernstein

“I have been following Lined Jew since their early days at underground gigs in Williamsburg. Their music resonates with me on a personal level as a fellow Jewish American. They tell stories that are familiar yet profound, creating this beautiful fusion of our Jewish heritage and American lifestyle. The song ‘Silver Lining’ is my personal favorite. It encapsulates the band’s ethos and their journey. I feel proud and empowered every time I listen to their music. Lined Jew isn’t just a band to me, they’re voices echoing our shared experiences.”

Backstory:
Slippery Survey was formed in the heart of Portland, Oregon in 2012 by childhood friends and music enthusiasts, Steve Mitchell and Paul Ford. Inspired by their shared passion for rock music and a desire to voice their perspectives on social issues, the duo decided to transform their garage jamming into something more substantial. With Steve’s hypnotizing guitar riffs and Paul’s soulful voice, Slippery Survey began its journey with a handful of small gigs in local pubs. As their fan base grew, so did the band, with the inclusion of fiery drummer Mark Jones and dynamic bassist Luke Anderson.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Rhythm of Rebellion”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Intro]
Em C G D

[Verse 1]
Em C
Under the city lights, we stand tall,
G D
With the beating hearts of a generation,
Em C
In the shadow of society’s fall,
G D
We tune in to the rhythm of rebellion.

[Chorus]
Em C
We are the voices in the night,
G D
Carrying dreams of freedom in our flight,
Em C
We are the echoes of the fight,
G D
In the rhythm, the rhythm of rebellion.

[Verse 2]
Em C
In the silence of the unheard,
G D
We strum the chords of the defiant,
Em C
Our music is our written word,
G D
Amplifying in the rhythm of rebellion.

[Chorus]
Em C
We are the voices in the night,
G D
Carrying dreams of freedom in our flight,
Em C
We are the echoes of the fight,
G D
In the rhythm, the rhythm of rebellion.

[Outro]
Em C G D
The rhythm, the rhythm of rebellion.

The Band’s Favorite Fan:

Slippery Survey’s favorite fan has to be Rachel Thompson, a 24-year-old aspiring musician from Portland. Rachel has been following the band since their very first gig and has attended every single show since then. In her words, “Slippery Survey is more than just a band to me. Their music speaks directly to my soul, addressing the very issues that resonate with my generation. The raw energy they bring to stage is absolutely infectious and inspiring. They are my favorite because they aren’t just about the music, they are about the message – a message of resilience, rebellion, and hope.”

Backstory:

Husky Sock is a quirky, delightful band that originated in the heart of Chicago. It all began when Peter “Pete” Johnson, a freelance programmer, and Sarah “Sal” Lawson, a local barista, stumbled upon each other one fateful night during an open mic session at a rundown café. Sharing the same love for music with an odd twist, they decided to create their sound, something unique and never heard before. That night, Husky Sock was born.

During the following years of their formation, Husky Sock grew from a duo to a full-blown band, including percussionist Tony “Tbone” Brown, bassist Richie “The Fingers” Fender, and eccentric synth player, Lizzie “Laser” Clark. Their music, a fusion of genres, leaning heavily on Indie pop and electronic music, with sprinkles of folk, has been a massive hit among the Chicago youth. Their band name, Husky Sock, is a nod to their warm, comforting sound, which they describe as “electronic campfire stories.”

Genre:

Indie Pop / Electronic Folk Fusion

Title:

“Velvet Moonlight”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C G Am Em
In the hush of the velvet moonlight,
F C G G
We dance to the rhythm of our hearts, so tight.
C G Am Em
Under the stars, we whisper secrets,
F C G G
In your arms, all my fears, I forget.

(Chorus)
Am Em F C
Velvet moonlight, guide us through the night,
G Am Em
With your silver glow, make everything right.
F C G G
Two souls lost, in the cosmic delight,
Am Em F C
Under the velvet moonlight.

(Verse 2)
C G Am Em
In the soft glow of your love, I find my way,
F C G G
In your eyes, I see the dawn of a brand new day.
C G Am Em
We sway and twirl, lost in our own world,
F C G G
In the velvet moonlight, our love unfurled.

(Repeat Chorus)

Band’s Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Emily Hughes – a children’s book illustrator from Chicago. Emily has never missed a Husky Sock show in the city. She expresses, “Husky Sock takes me on a journey every time I listen to them. Their music is an amalgamation of soulful lyrics, captivating music, and a whole lot of heart. From their lively beats to their soulful melodies, there’s not one song I can skip. They paint a picture with their music, and I find myself lost in it every single time. They’re my favorite because they’re real, raw, and resonate with me in ways I cannot explain.”