Backstory:
Born from the ashes of a small rural town in Kentucky, Striking Settlement was the brainchild of four childhood friends: lead singer and rhythm guitarist Aidan McCall, bassist Spencer Thompson, lead guitarist Shane Lewis, and drummer Riley Jones. Their journey began in their high school years, playing gigs at local bars and community events. Their shared passion for music and their unique take on life’s struggles was what brought them together, and what eventually led them to the bright lights of Nashville. Striking Settlement quickly garnered attention for its raw and relatable lyrics, combined with a distinctive fusion of rock and country sounds.

Genre:
Country Rock

Title:
“Under the Midnight Sky.”

Full song lyrics:

[Verses]

Em7 Cadd9 G Dsus4
Underneath the midnight sky, where the stars shine bright
Em7 Cadd9 G Dsus4
Your memory comes to visit me, each and every night
Em7 Cadd9 G Dsus4
With moonlight as my comfort, as the whiskey pours
Em7 Cadd9 G Dsus4
I remember being yours

[Chorus]

Em7 Cadd9 G Dsus4
Under the midnight sky, we were wild and free
Em7 Cadd9 G Dsus4
Under the midnight sky, you were still with me
Em7 Cadd9 G Dsus4
Now I’m alone, but the night still knows
Em7 Cadd9 G Dsus4
How under the midnight sky our love arose.

Favorite Fan Profile:
Fan’s name is Sarah Hartley, a nurse from their hometown in Kentucky. Sarah says, “There’s something so raw and real about Striking Settlement’s music. Every lyric seems to speak directly to me, and the unique blend of country and rock speaks to my heart. I’ve been a fan since their early days of playing in local bars. Their song “Under the Midnight Sky” is my personal anthem, a song that feels like home. Their music has seen me through the best and worst times of my life. I guess you could say Striking Settlement is more than just a band to me, they’re a lifeline.”

Backstory:

Brown End might be an unusual name for a band, but then again, the band members have always been far from ordinary. The band was formed in a sleepy little town in Wyoming when childhood friends John “Buck” Buckner on guitar and vocals, Jill “Jillie” Summers on bass and vocals and Mike “Mick” Richardson on drums, decided to shake things up and add some rhythm to their seemingly ordinary lives. As teenagers, they’d often find themselves gathered around a bonfire, strumming guitars and singing their hearts out. That’s how they discovered their shared passion for music and the magical chemistry they had when they played together. After winning the local talent show, they decided to create ‘Brown End’ and have never looked back.

Genre:

Brown End’s music falls under the Indie Folk genre, with a unique blend of folk-rock and alternative country influences. Their songs are characterized by a raw and honest storytelling style, with lyrics that echo the challenges, dreams and beauty of everyday life.

Title:

“One Shot at Sunrise”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Wake up in the mornin’, out in the wild,
[D] Just me and my guitar and the echo of a child,
[Em] Dreams like rivers, runnin’ so deep,
[C] A heart filled with stories that we’ve promised to keep.

(Chorus)
[G] One shot at sunrise, one shot at the moon,
[D] Singing our song in an empty room,
[Em] Remember the stars, remember the end,
[C] We’re living our dreams with my old friend.

(Verse 2)
[G] A world in chaos, but we’ve found our sound,
[D] In the glow of the bonfire, we’re homeward bound,
[Em] Whispers in the wind, we’re chasing the sun,
[C] The journey has begun, and we’ve already won.

(Chorus)
[G] One shot at sunrise, one shot at the moon,
[D] The echoes of our song still in tune,
[Em] We’re Brown End, just doing our part,
[C] Singing the songs that come straight from the heart.

Band’s Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan is a wonderful woman named Sally Thompson. Sally’s been with us since those bonfire nights, and she’s always believed in our music. As a testimonial, she says, “Brown End’s music is like a warm cup of coffee on a cold day. It’s comforting, familiar, and it makes you feel at home. I’ve watched them grow from a small town band to a group that’s touching hearts all over the country. Their lyrics resonate with me, and their sound reminds me of the beautiful simplicity of life. There’s an authenticity to their music that I haven’t found elsewhere. No matter where they go, they’ll always be my favorite band.”

Backstory:

Formed in the heart of Toronto in 2012, Fixed Boundary is a unique blend of four college friends who shared a love for music and a desire to break the mold. Jamie Oliver and David Thompson were initially a folk duo playing local bars around Toronto. After crossing paths with electronic music enthusiasts and fellow students, Lucy Kennedy and Mike Johnson, they decided to blend their different musical backgrounds. This resulted in an unexpected yet harmonious fusion of folk and electronic music, thus birthing Fixed Boundary.

The band’s name reflects their mission: to challenge and redefine musical boundaries. Over the years, they’ve drawn a loyal fanbase with their unique sound, electrifying performances, and heartfelt lyrics, which often touch on themes of human connection, inner struggles, and the beauty of the natural world. Their music is a testament that genre lines can be blurred, creating a soundscape that is as unique as it is enjoyable to listen to.

Genre:

Folktronica.

Title:

“Kaleidoscope Dreams”.

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em G D A
Walking down the memory lane,
Em G D A
With the rhythm of the rain,
Em G D A
We traced our dreams, against the sky,
Em G D A
Like kaleidoscopes in our eyes.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Kaleidoscope dreams, under the moon beam,
C G D Em
Colors bursting, in the silent screaming,
C G D Em
Never let go, of what you’re believing,
C G D Em
In our kaleidoscope dreams, keep on dreaming.

(Verse 2)
Em G D A
In the echoes of the night,
Em G D A
We found our inner light,
Em G D A
With every twist and every turn,
Em G D A
A new dream, a new pattern to learn.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Kaleidoscope dreams, under the moon beam,
C G D Em
Colors bursting, in the silent screaming,
C G D Em
Never let go, of what you’re believing,
C G D Em
In our kaleidoscope dreams, keep on dreaming.

(Outro)
Em G D A
So here’s to the dreamers, and the believers,
Em G D A
With the courage to see, the unseen,
Em G D A
In our hearts, under the stars,
Em G D A
We’ll always have, our kaleidoscope dreams.

Band’s Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan is a woman named Jennifer. Jennifer has been with us since our early beginnings, attending every performance she can, regardless of the weather or distance. She always brings a homemade sign to show her support and has become a comforting and familiar presence in the crowd. Jennifer once wrote us a heartfelt letter that read, “Fixed Boundary doesn’t just create music – they craft experiences. Their fusion of folk and electronic music creates an entrancing soundscape that transports me to new dimensions. Their lyrics touch my soul and inspire me to chase my dreams. They’re not just my favorite band, they’re a source of strength and joy for me.” Jennifer embodies the spirit of our music, and we are grateful for fans like her who truly understand our mission.

Backstory:

Pale Black is a band that was born born out of a rambling loft in the heart of Seattle, Washington in 2017. The founding members, lead vocalist and guitarist Alex Thompson, bassist Noah Evans, and drummer Logan Brown, were all childhood friends who shared a common love for music. Inspired by iconic bands like Radiohead and The Cure, they decided to form their own band that would express their unique perspectives and experiences. They started out playing in small local venues, quickly gaining attention for their poetic lyrics coupled with their distinct and ethereal sound.

Genre: Alternative Rock

Title: “Eclipse at Dawn”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am Em
Moonlight’s fading, stars are sailing,
G D
Your love, it’s like an eclipse at dawn.
Am Em
Dark clouds drifting, your eyes are lifting,
G D
Burning brighter than a thousand suns.

(Chorus)
C G
Underneath the velvet skies,
Am Em
We are dancing in the pale black night.
C G
In your arms, where galaxies collide,
Am Em
Love is an eclipse at dawn.

(Verse 2)
Am Em
Whispers in the night, under the cosmic light,
G D
Your touch, it’s like a comet’s flight.
Am Em
Shadows intertwining, our hearts are aligning,
G D
In this endless universe, you’re my brightest sight.

(Chorus)
C G
Underneath the velvet skies,
Am Em
We are dancing in the pale black night.
C G
In your arms, where galaxies collide,
Am Em
Love is an eclipse at dawn.

(Outro)
C G
As the sun begins to rise,
Am Em
Our love story written in the starlight,
C G
Underneath the morning’s guise,
Am Em
Love is an eclipse at dawn.

Fan’s Name and Testimonial:

Jessica Freeman – “Pale Black’s music is like an auditory journey to the cosmos. Their songs, especially ‘Eclipse at Dawn,’ resonates with me on such a personal level. The lyrics feel like they’re speaking directly to my experiences and emotions. The harmony of their instruments combined with Alex’s soulful voice is simply mesmerizing. Pale Black’s music has helped me through some tough times, and for that, they will always be my favorite band.”

Backstory:

Adored Shade was born in the gritty, colorful heart of Toronto, in a cramped garage where four childhood friends decided to turn their shared love for music into something tangible. The band comprises of Evan (lead vocals, guitar), Whitney (drums), Kaden (bass guitar), and Ryan (keyboard, backing vocals). From playing at local bars and small-time gigs, they quickly rose to prominence due to their unique sound and soulful lyrics. Their shared passion for music and matchless camaraderie made them a sensation within the local music scene, and soon, they were getting gigs at larger venues and music festivals. The name ‘Adored Shade’ was inspired by their shared belief that even in the darkest times, love and adoration can shine through.

Genre:

The band’s genre is a unique blend of Alternative Rock and Indie Pop.

Title:

“Awake in Dreams”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] I heard your voice in the [G] midst of the dark
[Am] Whispering words that lit a [Em] spark
[Dm] In the corners of my mind, [G] trapped in time
[C] With your silhouette against the [G] moon so stark.

(Chorus)
[Am] We’re awake in dreams, [G] lost in screams
[Dm] Dancing on the edge of [G] love’s extremes
[C] Come, let’s drown in this [G] starry stream
[Am] For even in silence, our hearts [G] scream.

(Verse 2)
[C] Your touch was a [G] forgotten song
[Am] In the echo of a love [Em] so strong
[Dm] In the hush of the night, [G] under the soft light,
[C] Our hearts beat a rhythm [G] all night long.

(Chorus)
[Am] We’re awake in dreams, [G] lost in screams
[Dm] Dancing on the edge of [G] love’s extremes
[C] Come, let’s drown in this [G] starry stream
[Am] For even in silence, our hearts [G] scream.

Fan’s Name and Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Sophia. Sophia’s testimonial: “Adored Shade has been my favorite since I first heard their song “Awake in Dreams” at a local bar in Toronto. Their lyrics spoke to me on a deeply personal level, resonating with my own experiences and emotions. Their music has become an irreplaceable part of my life. The members of the band are true artists who pour their hearts into the music. Not just that, they’ve always been approachable and grateful for their fans. We’re a big family, and I feel so lucky to be a part of this magical journey with them. They truly are the adored shade in my life.”

Backstory:

Steep Origin formed in a bustling, thriving music scene of Detroit, Michigan in 2010. The band consists of four childhood friends, lead vocalist and guitarist Liam Murphy, bassist Adam ‘Fish’ O’Leary, drummer Oscar Fitzgerald, and keyboardist Declan Riley. They all grew up in the same neighborhood, sharing a deep love for music and a dream to form a band. Initially playing gigs in local bars and parties, the group gained their popularity through their distinct sound and mesmerizing live performances, which eventually led to their signing with a local record label.

Steep Origin’s story has been one of overcoming odds. The band name itself signifies their struggle, representing their steep climb from the origins of their humble beginnings to the heights of music success. Their journey added depth to their music, as they poured their experiences, dreams, and emotions into their songs that resonated with wide audiences.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Song Title:

“Climbing Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics with Chord Progression:

Chords: [Am] [G] [F] [C]

Verse 1:
[Am] Lost in the city’s neon haze, [G] we found our way,
[F] Chasing dreams through the [C] alleyways.
[Am] The night was young, full of [G] promise and pain,
[F] We were just kids, [C] playing the game.

Chorus:
[Am] Climbing shadows, [G] chasing the sun,
[F] Our journey’s just begun, [C] we’re on the run.
[Am] Rising from the ashes, [G] into the light,
[F] We won’t go without a fight, [C] we’ll own the night.

Verse 2:
[Am] The city sleeps, but we’re [G] wide awake,
[F] Searching for the [C] dreams we’re yet to make.
[Am] The echoes of our footsteps, [G] a symphony of hope,
[F] In our hearts, it’s [C] how we cope.

Chorus:
[Am] Climbing shadows, [G] chasing the sun,
[F] Our journey’s just begun, [C] we’re on the run.
[Am] Rising from the ashes, [G] into the light,
[F] We won’t go without a fight, [C] we’ll own the night.

(Testimonial)

Fan’s name: Emily Dawson

“I can’t express how much Steep Origin’s music has meant to me. Their lyrics speak to my soul, and they capture the spirit of perseverance and hope that resonates with my life. The “Climbing Shadows” song is my absolute favorite. It’s like an anthem for all of us who are struggling to find our way. Steep Origin is more than just a band to me; they’re a beacon of hope. Their music gives me the courage to face life’s challenges and to keep pushing ahead. I’ve been their fan since their early days playing in local bars, and I’ve seen them grow into this phenomenal band. They deserve all the success they’re enjoying now and even more!”

Backstory:

Witty Hose was formed in the bustling heart of Brooklyn, New York, back in 2007. The band consists of four childhood friends: lead vocalist and guitarist James Henderson, bassist Ricky Pearson, drummer Noah Francis, and keyboardist Emma Davis. Sharing a common love for music, the quartet decided to start their venture in James’s parents’ basement. After years of refining their sound and performing in small clubs around the city, Witty Hose finally found their breakthrough in 2012 when they were signed by indie label, Silver Records. Since then, they have been bringing their unique sound to stages all across the nation, gaining a dedicated fanbase.

Genre:

Witty Hose is a band known for their eclectic mix of pop, punk, and indie rock. Their music is characterized by catchy melodies, edgy lyrics, and energetic performances. They often experiment with different sounds and styles, always looking for ways to push the boundaries of their music.

Title: “Paper Hearts and Plastic Promises”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C G Am F
I found a paper heart in the backseat,
Dm G C Am
Torn and faded, yet so sweet.
F G Am G
It reminded me of you and me,
F Dm G
Before we fell apart.

(Chorus)
C G Am F
Paper hearts and plastic promises,
Dm G C Am
We used to dream in bold and italics.
F G Am G
Now, all I see is your ghost,
F Dm G
In the rearview, in the most.

(Verse 2)
C G Am F
We drove down the highway of regrets,
Dm G C Am
Full of sorrows and old cassettes.
F G Am G
Your laughter still echoes in my head,
F Dm G
Yet, you’re nothing but a silhouette.

(Chorus)
C G Am F
Paper hearts and plastic promises,
Dm G C Am
Our love story written in asterisks.
F G Am G
Now, all I have are these echoes,
F Dm G
And a rearview full of shadows.

Fan’s Testimonial:

My name is Sophie Thompson, and I am, without a doubt, Witty Hose’s biggest fan. Their music is relatable, raw, and it hits you right in the feels. There’s something special about the way they blend pop, punk, and indie rock. It’s like they’ve found the perfect recipe for a music cocktail that leaves you wanting more. “Paper Hearts and Plastic Promises” is my absolute favorite. It perfectly encapsulates the highs and lows of love and loss. Ever since I first heard them in a small Brooklyn club, I knew they were destined for greatness. Witty Hose, you have my heart! Please keep making music that touches souls.

Backstory:

Brisk Executive was formed in 2008 in the bustling city of Seattle, Washington. The band was established by four high school friends – Jay Roberts (vocals), Aaron Mills (bass), Neil Thompson (guitar), and Sean Simmons (drums) – who all shared a deep passion for music. They started out playing at small gigs in their neighborhood, slowly building their reputation and fan base. As they grew older, they all pursued different careers, yet held on tightly to their love for music, practicing in their free-time, and gigging on weekends. Their band name, Brisk Executive, is a tribute to their pursuit of a successful career along with their love for music.

Genre: Pop Rock

Title: “Rush Hour Rhythm”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Staring at the screen, [D] numbers in a row,
[Em] Heart beats in sync with the [C] market’s ebb and flow.
[C] Dreaming of the stage, [G] under neon light,
[D] To escape the grind, if [Em] just for one night.

(Chorus)
[G] It’s the rush hour rhythm, [D] in our hearts,
[Em] Racing with the time, [C] playing our parts.
[G] Underneath the suits, [D] we’re just boys with a dream,
[Em] In a world of numbers, [C] we just want to scream.

(Verse 2)
[G] The boardroom’s a stage, [D] where we play pretend,
[Em] Chasing the notes, [C] till the day’s end.
[G] Strumming the guitar, [D] in a cubicle’s haze,
[Em] Turning the pages, [C] of our corporate phase.

(Chorus)
[G] It’s the rush hour rhythm, [D] making us move,
[Em] Amidst the chaos, [C] finding our groove.
[G] Behind the ties, [D] we’re rebels at heart,
[Em] In the language of music, [C] we’ve found our art.

Band’s Favorite Fan:

Our band’s favorite fan is Samantha ‘Sam’ Johnson. She has been with us since our early days, attending our first gig at a local pub, and has been our most loyal supporter ever since. In her words, “Brisk Executive isn’t just a band, it’s an incredible story of passion, dedication, and the magic that unfolds when you refuse to let go of your dreams. Their music resonates with me because it’s raw, real, and reflects the struggles of juggling a 9 to 5 job while chasing after what sets your soul on fire. Their song ‘Rush Hour Rhythm’ is particularly close to my heart as it beautifully captures the essence of the modern-day hustle. Brisk Executive – You guys rock!”

Backstory:
Outlandish Christian was formed in the vibrant music scene of Nashville, Tennessee, in 2010. The founding members, John Stephens and Mark Bannon, met in a local church choir, where they discovered they shared a deep love for music and an unwavering faith in Christianity. Despite their strong roots in gospel music, they wished to merge their faith with more contemporary sounds, creating a unique blend of spiritual, hip-hop, and indie pop. They decided to form Outlandish Christian as a platform to share their innovative music, aiming to inspire, uplift, and entertain.

Their journey was not always smooth, but their faith kept their spirits high. After years of struggle, their breakthrough came when their track “Beneath the Cross” caught the attention of a national radio station, setting them on a path to success. The band’s name, Outlandish Christian, reflects their goal to present Christian themes in refreshing, unconventional ways.

Genre:
Christian Hip-Hop/Indie Pop

Title:
“God’s Mosaic”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am | F | C | G
God painted the world with a brush, ain’t it vast?
He used every color from the first to the last,
In His image, we are beautifully cast,
Like a mosaic, we’re diverse yet steadfast.

(Chorus)
C | G | Am | F
God’s Mosaic, varied and wide,
Shimmering with love, in Him, we confide.
In every piece, His glory is espied,
In God’s Mosaic, we take pride.

(Verse 2)
Am | F | C | G
From the mountains high to the valleys low,
We see His touch in every echo.
In every soul, His love does flow,
In God’s Mosaic, we grow.

(Chorus)
C | G | Am | F
God’s Mosaic, varied and wide,
Shimmering with love, in Him, we confide.
In every piece, His glory is espied,
In God’s Mosaic, we take pride.

Favorite Fan:
Sarah, a 19-year-old college student from Nashville, is the band’s favorite fan.

Testimonial:
“I have been following Outlandish Christian from their early days of performing at our local church. Their fusion of Christian messages with hip-hop beats and indie-pop vibes is truly unique. Their music helped me stay connected to my faith during difficult times. They are a constant reminder that God’s love is as diverse as the music they make. The song “God’s Mosaic” is a perfect example of this. It’s my go-to track whenever I need a spiritual uplift. There’s no other band like Outlandish Christian. They’re my favorite, not just for their music, but for the hope and unity they inspire.”

Backstory:
Threadbare Arm is a band that sprang to life in the eclectic art scene of Seattle in the mid-2000s. The band is composed of four members: lead vocalist and guitarist James Marlow, bassist Laura Jensen, drummer Adam Nelson, and keyboardist Tara Smith. They all met while attending the same music school, and their shared passion for evocative storytelling, intricate melodies, and dynamic performances naturally led to their formation of a band. Their name, Threadbare Arm, is a metaphorical reflection of their musical ethos – to expose the raw, worn-out threads of life and to bare the heart and soul through their music.

Genre:
Threadbare Arm’s genre is a blend of Indie Rock and Folk with a touch of Alternative Country.

Title:
“Pockets of Silence”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse)
Em C
Walking down the corridors of time,
G D
I find pieces of you, in the corners of my mind.
Em C
Echoes of laughter, whispers of pain,
G D
In the pockets of silence, all that remain.

(Chorus)
Am Em
Oh, in the pockets of silence,
C G
I hear your voice again.
D Em
You’re dancing in the raindrops,
C G
and whispering in the wind.

(Verse)
Em C
Underneath the starlight, in the dark,
G D
I trace the shadow of our love, in every watermark.
Em C
Old songs playing, tales of then,
G D
In the pockets of silence, we live again.

(Chorus)
Am Em
Oh, in the pockets of silence,
C G
I hear our song again.
D Em
You’re whispering in the moonlight,
C G
And dancing in the rain.

Fan Testimonial:
Fan’s Name: Lucy Morris

Lucy has followed Threadbare Arm since their early days, drawn by their unique fusion of genres and the depth of their lyrics. She says, “Threadbare Arm is my favorite band because their music speaks to me on a profound level. Their lyrics narrate stories that are eerily relatable, and their melodies are hauntingly beautiful. It’s like they’ve taken my life, my experiences, and my emotions, and woven them into a tapestry of sound that is both touching and liberating. It’s therapy in the form of music. Plus, they’re genuinely nice people who appreciate their fans. That’s rare in today’s music industry.”