Backstory:

Ugly Strike is a band that was born in the harsh winters of Alaska back in 2011. The four members, lead vocalist and guitarist Joe “Bull” Mason, electric guitarist Mick “Thunders” Adams, bassist and backing vocalist Sam “The Hammer” Watson, and drummer Luke “Dusty” Stewart were childhood friends who found a common interest in music during their high school years. Living in a remote part of Alaska, they spent countless nights in their parents’ garages, jamming and experimenting with music. Ugly Strike was their escape from the harsh realities of life. It wasn’t until 2013 that they decided to take their music outside the garage. With a homemade album, they hit the road and started performing at local bars and clubs.

Genre:

Ugly Strike’s genre can be best classified as Alternative Rock with a touch of Grunge.

Song Title:

“Northern Lights”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse:
Em C G D
Underneath the starlit night,
Em C G D
We found our sound, took flight,
Em C G D
In the garage, hearts alight,
Em C G D
Ugly Strike, oh what a sight.

Chorus:
Am Em G D
Northern Lights, our guiding flame,
Am Em G D
Music is our only game,
Am Em G D
Through the struggle and the pain,
Am Em G D
With every note, we stake our claim.

Verse:
Em C G D
Alaskan winters, cold and stark,
Em C G D
In the garage, we made our mark,
Em C G D
With every beat, every spark,
Em C G D
We’re Ugly Strike, we left our mark.

Chorus:
Am Em G D
Northern Lights, our guiding flame,
Am Em G D
Music is our only game,
Am Em G D
Through the struggle and the pain,
Am Em G D
With every note, we stake our claim.

Fan Testimonial:

Sarah Carlton is Ugly Strike’s biggest fan. She says, “I’ve been a fan of Ugly Strike since their garage days. It was their raw energy and passion that first drew me in. I love how they mix alternative rock and grunge, but it’s their lyrics that really resonate with me. They talk about their struggles, their dreams, and their journey in a way that feels real and relatable. Listening to their music makes me feel like I’m not alone. I’ve been to every concert they’ve held in my city. Their song, ‘Northern Lights’, is my absolute favorite. It’s a testament to their journey, their struggle, and their undying passion for music. Ugly Strike isn’t just a band to me, they’re a source of inspiration.”

Backstory:
Rash Bubble came to life in the bustling, quirky streets of Austin, Texas, back in 2010. School friends Ben Oliver (vocals), Jake Adams (guitar), and twins Matt and Luke Montgomery (bass and drums respectively) found a common ground in their eclectic taste in music. They started by jamming in their parents’ garages, playing at small local gigs and school talent shows. The name “Rash Bubble” was inspired by an incident during their sophomore year when they accidentally caused a soapy disaster in the school chemistry lab.

Their music gained traction when a video of their performance at a local festival went viral on social media. This recognition gave them the chance to sign their first record deal. Since then, they’ve released three albums and have toured around the globe, still maintaining their offbeat charm and infectious energy.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Chemistry Lab Blues”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1: D-A-Bm-G)
D A
Back in sophomore year, we were just boys,
Bm G
Overflowing with dreams and noise.
D A
In a chemistry lab, we made a blunder,
Bm G
Set off a soapy bubble, like thunder.

(Chorus: G-D-A)
G D
Now we’re singing the Chemistry Lab Blues,
A
While the world ties up their shoes,
G D
Join us as we rock, as we amuse,
A
We’re the Rash Bubble, with nothing to lose.

(Verse 2: D-A-Bm-G)
D A
We strummed and drummed in garages,
Bm G
Painting our dreams on musical collages.
D A
Our music, an eclectic fusion,
Bm G
A remedy for the world’s confusion.

(Chorus: G-D-A)
G D
Again, we sing the Chemistry Lab Blues,
A
In our hearts, with every music cue,
G D
We are Rash Bubble, with a unique view,
A
Join us, as we take you on a journey anew.

Favorite Fan:
Rash Bubble’s favorite fan is a woman named Laura. Laura says, “I’ve been following Rash Bubble since their early garage band days. Their music speaks to me on a personal level, it’s like they’ve captured the essence of my thoughts and emotions in their songs. The raw energy and authenticity they bring to each performance is just breathtaking. Chemistry Lab Blues, in particular, is my favorite! I connect with the fun and rebellious spirit of the song. Plus, their backstory makes them even more endearing. Here’s to many more years of Rash Bubble’s amazing music!”

Backstory:

Born out of the high-tech epicenter of Silicon Valley, Determined Directory is a group of computer programmers who found their true calling not in writing code but in creating music. The quartet made up of frontman Jesse Phillips, guitarist Luke Simmons, bassist Mike Monroe, and drummer Andy Cohen, used to work at various tech giants before they discovered their shared passion for rhythm and melody. One night, during a late coding session fueled by energy drinks and takeout pizza, they happened to jam on the sound code of a retro video game. This spontaneous session revealed their hidden talent and synergy, leading them to leave their tech jobs and form Determined Directory.

Genre:

Determined Directory specializes in Synth Pop/Indie Electronic music. Their sound is a unique blend of catchy pop melodies, synthesized soundscapes, and guitar riffs, infused with elements of techno, rock, and a dash of funk.

Title:

One of their hit songs is entitled “Binary Heartbeat.”

Full Song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am: Data streams flowing, G: lights are all glowing,
F: Caught in the circuitry, C: of our own story
Am: Pixels and coding, G: our love is loading,
F: Sync in the rhythm, C: of our binary heartbeat.

(Chorus)
G: In the binary heartbeat, D: we find our melody,
Am: Love in the algorithm, C: passion in the symmetry,
G: Through the wires and screens, D: past the realms unseen,
Am: We dance to the rhythm, C: of our binary heartbeat.

(Verse 2)
Am: Silicon whispers, G: neon twisters,
F: In the labyrinth of love, C: beneath the LCD sky above,
Am: Digital dreamscape, G: reality’s mixtape,
F: Feel the pulsation, C: of our binary heartbeat.

(Chorus)
G: In the binary heartbeat, D: we find our harmony,
Am: Love in the byte-stream, C: desire in the machine,
G: Through the fibre-optic veins, D: beneath the LED terrain,
Am: We dance to the rhythm, C: of our binary heartbeat.

Band’s favorite fan:

Their favorite fan’s name is Alice Martinez. A data scientist by profession, Alice identifies with the band’s tech background and is fascinated by the way they infuse digital elements into their music. “As someone who spends her day immersed in algorithms and computations, Determined Directory’s music is like a melodious echo of my world. Their song ‘Binary Heartbeat’ is my anthem. It’s not just music; it’s an experience that bridges the gap between my tech world and love for music. They’re not just a band to me, they’re an inspiration.” Alice’s love for the band extends beyond their music, admiring them also for their daring move to follow their passion and create a unique niche in the music industry.

Backstory:

Queasy Left is a band that originated in the heart of New York City’s bustling music scene. The band was formed in 2011 by childhood friends and self-taught musicians, Benji ‘Bax’ Baxter, Liam ‘Loopy’ Cooper and Jenny ‘Jazzy’ Hamilton. Bax, the lead vocalist and guitarist, found solace in music after a rough upbringing. Loopy, the bass player, and Jazzy, the drummer, met Bax in high school and discovered their shared love for music. They started playing in small underground clubs, their raw sound and unorthodox songwriting quickly gained them a dedicated following.

The name ‘Queasy Left’ was inspired by an inside joke about Bax’s uncanny knack for getting lost. Even with the most straightforward directions, Bax always seemed to veer off to the left and end up in strange places. It wasn’t until years later when they signed with a record label that the name Queasy Left had settled in, representing their unique and offbeat style that never quite ‘goes right’.

Genre:

Indie Rock/Alternative

Title:

“Twisted Streets”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Intro]
C / G / A / F

Verse 1:
C G
On the twisted streets, we roam,
A F
Lost in the city, we call home,
C G
Left turns leading to unknown,
A F
Chasing dreams in the twilight zone.

Chorus:
C G
Queasy Left, we’re moving on,
A F
Singing our strange and soulful song.
C G
In the shadows, we belong,
A F
Queasy Left, just keep moving on.

Verse 2:
C G
Through the neon lights, we glide,
A F
Lost souls on a midnight ride.
C G
Broken hearts, but full of pride,
A F
In this city, we confide.

Chorus:
C G
Queasy Left, we’re moving on,
A F
Singing our strange and soulful song.
C G
In the shadows, we belong,
A F
Queasy Left, just keep moving on.

[Outro]
C / G / A / F

The band’s favorite fan’s name and why this band is their favorite:

Fan’s name: Sarah ‘Static’ Miller.

Testimonial: “Queasy Left is a band that speaks directly to my soul. Their music is like a soundtrack to my life, full of raw emotion and honesty. Every song feels like a journey through the twisted streets of my own experiences. Their unique sound and heartfelt lyrics resonate with me on a personal level. Queasy Left isn’t just a band, it’s a movement, a lifestyle, and a testament to the beauty of embracing the unexpected and unfamiliar.”

Backstory: Each Lizard is a unique, four-piece ensemble hailing from the sunny, eclectic landscape of Austin, Texas. The band was formed in 2015 when lead singer, Lilly Thompson, found herself at an open mic night in a local bar. She shared her vision of creating music that wasn’t defined by one specific genre, but embraced a myriad of musical influences. This caught the attention of drummer, Zach Evans, bassist, Jake Irving, and lead guitarist, Riley O’Neal. The four of them hit off instantly, creating an organic, raw, and passionate musical chemistry that translated into the sound of Each Lizard.

Each Lizard has spent the last five years fine-tuning their sound, evolving from playing in small, dimly lit bars to packing out some of the most well-known music arenas in the country. Despite their success, they have retained their humble beginnings and hold strong to the belief that music should be a shared experience, not just a performance.

Genre: Post-Rock / Indie Folk Fusion

Title: “Deserted Echoes”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1 – Am, G, D)
Riding down the interstate, in the heart of the Lone Star state,
With a guitar on my back, and dreams trapped in my hat.
I found your echo in the desert, a lonely rhythm in the sand,
Your voice was my compass, your song was my promised land.

(Chorus – C, G, Em, D)
Deserted echoes, they guided me,
Through the dust and tumbleweeds.
With every strum, you set me free,
In your song, I found my destiny.

(Verse 2 – Am, G, D)
Each lizard in the desert, sings a song that’s its own,
In the silence of the night, their melodies are sown.
Your echo was a siren, that called me to the wild,
Underneath the starlight, I became music’s child.

(Chorus – C, G, Em, D)
Deserted echoes, they guided me,
Through the desolate, beautiful sea.
With every beat, you set me free,
In your song, I found my liberty.

(Bridge – Am, Em, G, D)
In the echoes of the desert, I found a home,
In the silence of the night, I found a tone.
With the lizards as my chorus, under the moon’s soft glow,
I found my voice, in the heart of the lone echo.

(Chorus – C, G, Em, D)
Deserted echoes, they guided me,
Through the loneliness, to clarity.
With every note, you set me free,
In your song, I found my symphony.

Fan Testimonial: The band’s favorite fan is a quirky art student named Mandy. Mandy has been following Each Lizard since their beginning, from small open mic nights to sold-out arenas. “I love Each Lizard because their music speaks to me on such a profound level. It feels like they’re telling my story through their songs. Their passion and authenticity shine so brightly, it’s hard not to get swept up in it. They’ve truly redefined what music means to me,” she shares.

Backstory:
Glorious Adventure is a band that rose from the ashes of a small-town high school garage band in the outskirts of Birmingham, UK. Formed by four childhood friends, the band originally existed simply as an escape from the monotony of their daily lives. However, when they discovered the transformational power of music, they decided to take their passion to a professional level. After years of relentless practice and performing in local gigs, they caught the attention of a talent scout who helped them secure a record deal. Since then, Glorious Adventure has been on an upward trajectory, stirring souls and touching hearts with their music.

Genre:
Glorious Adventure’s music style is primarily Indie Rock sprinkled with elements of Folk and Pop. They are known for their heartfelt lyrics, catchy melodies, and the unique blend of traditional and modern instruments that gives their music an unmistakable signature sound.

Title:
“One Last Ode to the Stars”

Full song lyrics:

Verse:
[G]Looking up at the [C]sky,
[G]Counting stars as they [D]pass by.
[E]Remembering the times we [A]cried,
[G]And all the dreams we once [D]held high.

Chorus:
[C]One last ode to the [G]stars,
[D]For they know just who we [Em]are.
[C]We’ve journeyed near, we’ve journeyed [G]far,
[D]Forever marked by their [Em]scars.

Verse:
[G]Traces of your laugh still [C]linger,
[G]The touch of your hands, a [D]familiar finger.
[E]These memories, they will [A]forever linger,
[G]In our hearts, they’re engraved, not just a [D]sticker.

Chorus:
[C]One last ode to the [G]stars,
[D]For they’ve seen our battles and [Em]scars.
[C]They’ve guided us through life’s bizarre,
[D]With them, we’ve traveled [Em]far.

Bands Favorite Fan:
Glorious Adventure’s favorite fan is a girl named Emily. She has been with the band since their early days, attending every local gig they played and buying the first demo they ever released. She loves Glorious Adventure not just for their music, but for their genuine personalities and the deep, emotional connection they establish through their lyrics. In her words, “Glorious Adventure’s music is not just a collection of melodies and lyrics; it’s a journey of emotions and stories that resonate with my own life. I feel seen and heard when I listen to them. They’re not just a band to me; they’re my friends, my therapists, my guides in life’s twisted ride.”

Backstory:
“Droopy Quality” was born out of the vibrant underground music scene of Chicago in the early 2000s. The four founding members – Joey “Droops” Lawrence on vocals, “Sideways” Sam Kim on guitar, Freddy “Frets” Franks on bass, and “Hard-hitting” Harry Howell on drums – were each involved in different music projects before fate brought them together at a local open mic night. They bonded over shared musical influences and a love for unique, genre-bending sounds, resulting in the formation of Droopy Quality.

The band’s journey has been anything but ordinary – a roller coaster ride of highs and lows, triumphs, and setbacks – but their passion for music and unyielding determination has seen them become a well-loved part of the indie music landscape. Their eclectic sound, infectious energy, and commitment to pushing boundaries have earned them a loyal fan base and critical acclaim.

Genre:
Alternative Indie Rock

Title:
“Rainy Pavements”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[Am] Walking down the [G] rainy pavements, [F] lost in my [G] own thoughts
[Am] Shadows flicker in the [G] night, [F] memories of [G] battles fought
[Am] Echoes of your laughter, [G] whispers in the [F] wind
[G] I’m longing for the days, when love was not a sin

(Chorus)
[C] Dance with me on the rainy [G] pavements, under the [Am] city lights
[F] Let’s get lost in the [C] music, until the [G] break of daylight
[C] We’ll forget about our [G] troubles, leave them all [Am] behind
[F] In the rhythm of the [C] rain, a new [G] love we’ll find.

(Verse 2)
[Am] The city sleeps around us, [G] but we’re still [F] wide awake
[G] Dancing in the moonlight, for our own sake
[Am] The rain washes away, [G] all our [F] fears and doubts
[G] In the silence of the night, love loudly shouts

(Chorus)
[C] Dance with me on the rainy [G] pavements, under the [Am] city lights
[F] Let’s get lost in the [C] music, until the [G] break of daylight
[C] We’ll forget about our [G] troubles, leave them all [Am] behind
[F] In the rhythm of the [C] rain, a new [G] love we’ll find.

Fan Testimonial:
“My name is Kelsey Thompson and I am Droopy Quality’s number one fan! Their unique sound is just out of this world and their lyrics speak to me on a deep emotional level. The track “Rainy Pavements” got me through some really tough times, and I can’t thank them enough for their music. Droopy Quality isn’t just a band for me, they are a lifeline, a source of inspiration, and a symbol of hope. They have touched my heart with their music and for that, I’ll always be grateful.”

Backstory:
Straight Tutor is an eclectic ensemble that came together during an impromptu performance at a high school talent show in Minnesota. The band, composed of teachers from various disciplines, initially began as a joke intending to entertain their students. However, the positive response from the crowd was overwhelming and they decided to form an official band. The group includes a math teacher, an English teacher, a science teacher and a music teacher who all share a passion for education, creativity, and of course, music.

Genre:
Straight Tutor specializes in Indie Rock with a blend of Alternative Pop. Their lyrics are often witty and educational, drawing from their teaching backgrounds, while their musical style is influenced by the likes of Modest Mouse and Death Cab for Cutie.

Title:
“Lesson in Love”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Em] “Homework on the table, [G] chalk dust in the air,
[C] You’re struggling with equations, [D] I’ve got lessons to spare,
[Em] Let’s start with the basics, [G] no need to run,
[C] Love is like algebra, [D] it’s not easily done.”

(Chorus)
[Em] “Can’t you see, [G] love is a mystery,
[C] A test with no answers, [D] a never-ending query,
[Em] So let me be, [G] your straight tutor,
[C] We’ll master love’s lessons, [D] there’s no future looter.”

(Verse 2)
[Em] “The chemistry between us, [G] is more than just science,
[C] It’s about persistence, [D] and a bit of compliance,
[Em] So take my hand, [G] let’s learn together,
[C] Love’s a complex subject, [D] it’s harder than the weather.”

(Chorus)
[Em] “Can’t you see, [G] love is a mystery,
[C] A test with no answers, [D] a never-ending query,
[Em] So let me be, [G] your straight tutor,
[C] We’ll master love’s lessons, [D] there’s no future looter.”

Band’s Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a high school senior named Lily Miller. Lily, a self-proclaimed “math-rock” enthusiast, has been following Straight Tutor since their very first performance at the talent show. She loves how the band combines their teaching expertise into their music, making learning and education fun and enjoyable.

Testimonial:
“Straight Tutor is more than just a band to me. Their music makes complex subjects like math and science fun and relatable. The band’s wit, humor, and remarkable talent make them my favorite. They’re not just musicians; they’re educators, making a real difference through their music.” – Lily Miller.

Backstory:
Unripe Dark started their journey in the bustling city of New York in 2005. The band was formed by a group of college friends who found solace in the chaos of life through music. Their common passion for music and the power it had to convey deep emotions led to the creation of Unripe Dark. As they played in underground venues and worked in low paying jobs to fund their dream, their knack for creating something magical out of the ordinary caught the attention of a local recording studio. From then on, there was no looking back.

Genre:
The band’s unique music style is a blend of Alternative Rock and Psychedelic Pop. Unripe Dark’s songs are known for their deep lyrics, powerful guitar riffs, haunting melodies, and a tinge of dark allure.

Title:
“One Last Shadow Dance”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1: G – Em – C – D)
In a world where the sun forgets to shine,
Unripe Dark, we dance in the brine,
Tired hearts and weary minds,
One Last Shadow Dance, we’re intertwined.

(Chorus: Am – C – G – D)
One Last Shadow Dance under the moon,
In the echoes of the night, we croon,
The pain will disappear soon,
In the One Last Shadow Dance, we’ll swoon.

(Verse 2: G – Em – C – D)
With shattered dreams and broken wine,
In the silence of the night, we pine,
The stars in the sky in a twisted line,
One Last Shadow Dance, let’s recline.

(Chorus: Am – C – G – D)
One Last Shadow Dance in the faded light,
In the whispers of the wind, we’ll ignite,
Holding onto love so tight,
In the One Last Shadow Dance, let’s unite.

The Bands Favorite Fan’s Name:
The band’s favorite fan is Rachel Stevens, a 25-year-old graphic designer from Brooklyn.

Testimonial by Fan:
“I first saw Unripe Dark play in an underground venue years ago and immediately fell in love with their music. Their songs aren’t just music to me. They’re a story, a feeling, an emotion that resonates with each chord, each lyric. Unripe Dark’s music has been there for me in my darkest times, making me feel understood and less alone. Their song ‘One Last Shadow Dance’ particularly speaks to me. It’s like a friend comforting me, assuring me that it’s okay to feel, to hurt, to love, and most importantly, to heal. Unripe Dark is my favorite band because their music is raw, real, and relatable.”

Backstory:
In the vibrant city of Austin, Texas, where music lives in every corner, the band Whirlwind Door was formed in late 2013. The band comprises four childhood friends: Jim Benson on vocals and guitar, Michael “Micky” Steele on drums, Emily “Em” Hargrove on keyboard, and Ryan “Ry” Moore on bass. After high school, they each pursued different careers but always found their way back to music. The name Whirlwind Door was coined during a late-night jam session. They saw their music as an escape, a door leading to a whirlwind of emotions, hence the name.

After years of playing in local bars and small gigs, they found their break when one of their songs was picked up by a local radio station. Whirlwind Door began to gain a steady following, their fan base growing with each powerful performance. Their compelling lyrics mixed with their unique blend of rock and soulful melodies became their signature, and the band continues to mesmerize audiences with their raw and passionate performances.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Rush of Starlight”

Lyrics:

(Verse)
Em G D A
Lost in the echo of the city night
Em G D A
I found myself in your silver light
Em G D A
Chasing shadows, your delight
Em G D A
In the rush of starlight

(Chorus)
Em G D A
Oh, take me where the stars collide
Em G D A
In your eyes, I see the night’s divide
Em G D A
Through the whirlwind door we ride
Em G D A
In the rush, the rush of starlight

(Verse)
Em G D A
Walking through the dreams you spin
Em G D A
In the heart of night, love begins
Em G D A
With your touch, you pull me in
Em G D A
In the rush, the rush of starlight

(Chorus)
Em G D A
Oh, show me where the moonlight hides
Em G D A
In your presence, the darkness subsides
Em G D A
Through the whirlwind door we glide
Em G D A
In the rush, the rush of starlight

Favorite Fan:
Samantha “Sammy” Johnson

Testimonial:
“Whirlwind Door is more than just a band to me. Their music has followed me through the best and worst times of my life. Every song carries raw emotion that speaks directly to my soul. The band members themselves are down-to-earth and always take time to interact with their fans. I feel seen and heard at their concerts. To me, they embody the spirit of genuine, heartfelt music, and that’s why they are my favorite band.”