Backstory:

Upright Spade was born in the sprawling deserts of Arizona, where the sunsets painted the sky with streaks of flaming orange and piercing red. The band was initially composed of three longtime friends: lead vocalist and guitarist, Jake Thorn; bassist, Dylan Colt; and drummer, Eli Stone. With their shared love for music, coupled with long nights under the star-filled skies, Upright Spade began to craft their unique sound. They practiced in a makeshift garage studio, and their songs echoed through the silent desert nights, drawing locals and eventually attracting the attention of music industry scouts.

Their breakthrough came when a chance encounter with a record producer at a local music festival led to the release of their debut album, ‘Desert Mirage’. The album was a soulful interpretation of their desert life and was widely accepted by the audience. The addition of the talented keyboardist, Mia Silver, in their second album, further diversified their sound and marked a significant evolution in their musical journey.

Genre:
Alternative Rock/ Indie Folk

Title:
“Echoes in the Sand”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Out here beneath the [Am] desert sun,
[Dm] Shadows long and [G] faces turn,
[C] We trace our steps in [Am] grainy dust,
[Dm] To the echoes of our [G] sacred trust.

(Chorus)
[F] These are our echoes in the sand,
[C] Traces of a life, of a [G] wandering band,
[F] We sing them loud, we sing them grand,
[C] These are our echoes in the [G] desert land.

(Verse 2)
[C] Silhouettes against the [Am] setting sky,
[Dm] Dreams that soar, that [G] never die,
[C] Through the cactus and the [Am] sagebrush wild,
[Dm] We journey on, each [G] desert child.

(Chorus)
[F] These are our echoes in the sand,
[C] Traces of a song, of a [G] desert band,
[F] We sing them loud, we sing them grand,
[C] These are our echoes in the [G] desert land.

(Outro)
[C] In this vast desert [Am] we stand,
[Dm] With our music, hand in [G] hand,
[C] Our echoes will forever [Am] span,
[Dm] The timeless beauty of this [G] desert land.

The band’s favorite fan:

Name: Sophia Mitchell

Testimonial: “I have been a fan of Upright Spade since they first started performing at local gigs. Their music is deeply rooted in the raw beauty of desert life, which resonates with me as I grew up in a similar environment. Their song ‘Echoes in the Sand’ is my personal favorite. It’s like they’ve put the essence of the desert into words and melodies. Their music is a journey that takes you through the sand dunes, under the scorching sun and the starry night sky. Being a fan of Upright Spade is not just about loving their music, it’s about being part of a community that appreciates authenticity and the beauty of nature.”

Backstory:
Grounded Grant was initially formed in the small coastal town of Wilmington, North Carolina, by childhood friends: Dale Hughes (lead vocals and guitar), Paul Thompson (bassist), and Jake Keegan (drummer). The band name was inspired by a local folklore about a ghost named Grant, who was said to be a sailor that perished at sea, yet his spirit remained grounded to the town, unable to leave. The trio started playing in their high school years and performed at local venues, quickly gathering an enthusiastic local fanbase who admired their raw energy and unique sound. Their popularity soared when they won a regional music contest, which led to a recording contract and their debut album.

Genre: Alternative Rock

Title: “Ghostly Anchors”

Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Am – C – G – D
I’m walking down these empty streets, under the moon’s soft glow,
I hear the whispering wind, as it carries tales of woe.
In a town of living ghosts, where shadows dance in the light,
I can feel your presence, Grant, as I wander through the night.

(Chorus)
Em – G – D – C
Your ghostly anchors hold you down, in this town you cannot flee,
Oh, Grant, you’re etched in every stone, in every wave of the sea.
But oh, your spirit’s melody, in our notes, it finds it’s free,
Here within our songs, oh Grant, you’ll forever be.

(Verse 2)
Am – C – G – D
The tales they tell of you, Grant, are braided with sorrow and salt,
A sailor lost, a love mourned, a life halted to a halt.
Yet, in our music, we feel your essence, your spirit’s dance,
In every chord and melody, your tale finds another chance.

(Chorus)
Em – G – D – C
Your ghostly anchors hold you down, in this town you cannot flee,
Oh, Grant, you’re etched in every stone, in every wave of the sea.
But oh, your spirit’s melody, in our notes, it finds it’s free,
Here within our songs, oh Grant, you’ll forever be.

Favorite Fan: The band’s favorite fan is Emily Russo, a local who has been following the band since their early performances. Emily’s testimonial about Grounded Grant: “Grounded Grant is more than just a band for me. Their music speaks directly to my soul. Having grown up in Wilmington, I am familiar with the legend of Grant, and the way they have weaved his story into their music is just magical. Every time I listen to their songs, I feel connected to my town and its history in a way that no other band has made me feel. Grounded Grant is not just my favorite band because of their music, but because they bring our town’s folklore to life.”

Backstory:

Bony Leader was formed in 2012 in the heart of the vibrant city of Austin, Texas. The four-piece band, led by charismatic frontman Alex Moore, originated from a chance meeting at a local open mic night. Alex, along with bassist, Nicky Bell and drummer, Terry Sloan, instantly clicked with their shared passion for music. They later recruited talented keyboardist, Olivia Kane, completing the lineup. They named themselves Bony Leader, a term they used to describe their lean start and the strong leadership of Moore.

The band spent their early years playing in local bars and clubs, gradually building a solid fan base with their distinct sound and high-energy performances. Their breakthrough came in 2015, when they were spotted by an independent record label during a local music festival. Since then, Bony Leader has released three successful albums and toured extensively around the country, solidifying their reputation as a band to watch in the music scene.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Title:

“Silhouettes in the Twilight”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse – Em, G, D, A)
In the haze of the city glow,
I see your silhouette in the twilight, baby.
Underneath the star-studded show,
Our hearts beat the rhythm of the night, lady.

(Chorus – C, G, D)
Silhouettes in the twilight,
Dancing in the flickering city light.
We got the world at our feet,
Lost in the rhythm, feel the beat.

(Verse – Em, G, D, A)
Through the crowd, your laughter rings,
A melody that makes my heart sing, darling.
In your eyes, I see the dreams,
A mirror reflecting all our yearnings.

(Chorus – C, G, D)
Silhouettes in the twilight,
Lost in the music, lost in the night.
We’re dancing like there’s no tomorrow,
In the twilight, there’s no sorrow.

(Bridge – F, C, D)
In the twilight, we found love,
Underneath the starlight from above.
We dance, we laugh, we dream,
In the twilight, we’re supreme.

(Chorus – C, G, D)
Silhouettes in the twilight,
Dancing in the rhythm of the city light.
In the twilight, there’s just you and me,
In the city glow, we’re forever free.

Favorite Fan’s Name:

Johnny Bell

Testimonial:

“I’ve been following Bony Leader since their first gig at a local bar in Austin. Their music resonates with my soul, their lyrics are deep, and their live performances are electric. Alex, Nicky, Terry, and Olivia aren’t just musicians, they are storytellers. They craft stories through their music that speak to me on a personal level. I’ve been to countless concerts, and Bony Leader’s shows always leave me wanting more. They’re more than my favorite band; they’re the soundtrack to my life.”

Backstory:
Formed in the picturesque town of Asheville, North Carolina, in 2010, Gorgeous Kind was born out of a profound love for music and a shared vision. The quartet came together under serendipitous circumstances when lead vocalist and guitarist, Sam Dawson, ran into drummer, Jake Harris, at a local music store. An immediate musical connection was forged, which led to the inclusion of bassist, Lisa Collins, and keyboardist, Mark Davis. Known for their tight harmonies, stirring lyrics, and electric live performances, Gorgeous Kind has developed a strong following in the indie music scene.

Early on, the band members committed to a unique ethos – to create music that is not only pleasing to the ear, but also speaks to the heart. Over the past decade, Gorgeous Kind has released three studio albums, each one an exploration of their personal experiences, struggles, and triumphs. Their music serves as a heartfelt conversation with their audience, inviting them to find solace, joy, and connection within their songs.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Won’t Let It Go”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] I’ve been dancing with my demons, [D] in the light of the setting sun
[Em] But you came in like a beacon, now [C] those shadows have begun to run
[G] We’ve had our share of heartbreaks, [D] still we chose to hold on tight
[Em] And it feels like we’re just waking up, [C] under this endless night

(Chorus)
[G] And I won’t let it go, [D] won’t let this moment slip away
[Em] Cause in your arms I’ve found home, [C] and in your eyes, my safe place
[G] I won’t let it go, [D] won’t let these feelings fade
[Em] Cause with you, I’m not alone, [C] with you, I’ve got it made.

(Verse 2)
[G] We’ve walked on the edge of reason, [D] we’ve danced on the brink of fear
[Em] But every storm we’ve faced, love, [C] has led us here
[G] We’re stronger for the struggle, [D] we’re wiser for the tears
[Em] And I’ll hold onto this love, love, [C] through the coming years

(Chorus Repetition)

Band’s Favorite Fan:
Our fan’s name is Mia Thompson. Mia has been a fan of Gorgeous Kind since our early days playing at local pubs in Asheville. She loves our music because she believes that it resonates with her life experiences. In her words, “Gorgeous Kind’s songs are like a soundtrack to my life. Their music has been my companion in joy and sorrow, victories and defeats. Every chord, every lyric seems to communicate directly with my soul. It’s hard to pick a favorite, but if I had to, it would be ‘Won’t Let It Go’. This song has been my anthem, my reminder to hold onto the things that truly matter. I’ve seen them live numerous times, and there’s an energy, an authenticity in their performance that’s just incomparable. Gorgeous Kind isn’t just my favorite band, they’re a part of me.”

Backstory:

Pushy Floor was born in the vibrant and eclectic music scene of Seattle, Washington in the summer of 2013. The band members, lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Larry ‘Thump’ Brenner, bass guitarist Derek ‘Slide’ Slater, lead guitarist Phil ‘Fingers’ Franklin and drummer Pete ‘Bash’ Baxter, were all ex-members of local high school bands that had achieved some degree of success within the city, but found themselves yearning for something more substantial. During a random jam session at a mutual friend’s house, a unique and compelling chemistry was discovered between them, birthing the band Pushy Floor.

Pushy Floor is inspired by the sounds of their city – the grunge heritage of Nirvana and Pearl Jam, the indie-pop of Death Cab for Cutie, and the punk influences of the Fastbacks. With a promise to each other to step outside their comfort zones and push the boundaries of their own musical abilities, they committed to creating something truly original and Pushy Floor was set into motion.

Genre:

Alternative Rock / Indie

Song Title:

“Shadow Carousel”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
G Bm Em C
Riding on a shadow carousel, spinning in the dark,
G Bm Em C
Faces I’ve forgotten, voices that have left a mark.
G Bm Em C
The echoes of the past, they seem so real,
G Bm Em C
But they’re just ghosts, on a shadow carousel, on a shadow carousel.

[Chorus]
G D Em C
Shadows keep turning, turning around,
G D Em C
In the silence, I can’t make a sound.
G D Em C
I’m stuck on this carousel, going round and round,
G D Em C
On a shadow carousel, on a shadow carousel.

[Verse 2]
G Bm Em C
Memories flicker, like a candle in the wind,
G Bm Em C
Moments of happiness, drowned in sin.
G Bm Em C
I reach out to touch them, but they disappear,
G Bm Em C
Lost in the shadows, on a shadow carousel, on a shadow carousel.

[Chorus]
G D Em C
Shadows keep turning, turning around,
G D Em C
In the silence, I can’t make a sound.
G D Em C
I’m stuck on this carousel, going round and round,
G D Em C
On a shadow carousel, on a shadow carousel.

[Bridge]
Am Em G D
No more laughter, no more tears,
Am Em G D
Just the shadows of my fears.
Am Em G D
I’m lost on this carousel, spinning round and round,
Am Em G D
On a shadow carousel, on a shadow carousel.

[Chorus]
G D Em C
Shadows keep turning, turning around,
G D Em C
In the silence, I can’t make a sound.
G D Em C
I’m stuck on this carousel, going round and round,
G D Em C
On a shadow carousel, shadow carousel.

[Outro]
G Bm Em C
Riding on a shadow carousel, spinning in the dark,
G Bm Em C
Faces I’ve forgotten, voices that have left a mark.

Fan’s Name:

Daniel ‘Danny’ Freeman

Testimonial:

“Pushy Floor is more than just a band, it’s an emotion. Their music speaks to me at a level that is deeply personal and relatable. The raw energy they bring to their performances ignites a fire in the crowd, and their lyrics often feel like they’re telling my story. I’ve followed them since their first gig in a Seattle bar, and to see their growth and development as musicians has been amazing. They continue to push the boundaries of what music can be, and I’m proud to be their biggest fan.

Backstory:
The seed of Flickering Jury was planted in the heart of Seattle in 2014 when the lead vocalist, Jake Sullivan, met the drummer, Chad Erickson, during a night jam at a local club. Their shared love for music and a sense of rebellion against the mainstream culture led to the creation of a band that would later send ripples through the independent music scene. With the addition of the gifted bassist, Megan Fuller, and the eccentric guitarist, Noah Klein, Flickering Jury was born. They quickly became known for their blistering live shows and honest, powerful lyrics that gave a voice to the unheard, the outcasts, and the rebels.

Genre:
Alternative Rock/Indie

Title:
“Spark in the Dark”

Full song lyrics:
(VERSE)
Em-C-G-D
Caught in the web of silence, lost in the maze of despair
Em-C-G-D
Look for the spark in the dark, there’s a voice if you dare

(CHORUS)
Em-C-G-D
Flickering Jury’s singing, we’re the voice of the unheard
Em-C-G-D
In the heart of rebellion, our music’s the only word

(VERSE)
Em-C-G-D
Passing through the gates of sanity, walking along the edge of reality
Em-C-G-D
The spark in the dark whispers, wake up from your lethargy

(CHORUS)
Em-C-G-D
Flickering Jury’s playing, we’re the song of the outcasts
Em-C-G-D
In the arms of rebellion, our music holds us steadfast

Fan’s Name:
Kelly Williams

Testimonial:
“Flickering Jury isn’t just my favorite band, it’s my lifeline. Their music speaks to me on a level that nothing else can. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s empowering. I first stumbled upon their song ‘Spark in the Dark’ during a difficult time in my life and it was like someone switched on a light in a room I didn’t know was dark. Since then, I’ve seen them live five times and each performance is more electrifying than the last. Jake, Chad, Megan, and Noah are genuine and their passion is contagious, it’s like they’ve found a way to give voice to my deepest thoughts and feelings. They’ve made me feel seen, heard, and understood. Flickering Jury is more than just a band to me, they’re my tribe.”

Backstory:

Unequaled Collector, a quintet hailing from the vibrant music scene of Austin, Texas, was formed in 2015. Its members, lead vocalist Seth Davis, guitarist Sam Grange, bassist Ryan Felix, drummer James Carter, and keyboardist Melissa Gibson, met through a shared love of music, and a habit of frequenting the same record stores. Davis, in particular, was known for his extensive record collection, prompting the band to adopt the name “Unequaled Collector.”

The band spent its early years playing in local bars and small music festivals, gradually garnering a loyal fan base drawn to their unique sound and electrifying performances. Their breakthrough came in 2017 when their debut album, ‘Cabinet of Curiosities’, caught the attention of the national press, catapulting them into a whirlwind of nationwide tours and music awards. Since then, Unequaled Collector has remained a mainstay in the American music scene, continually pushing the boundaries of their craft.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Vinyl Hearts”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em G D A
Every record tells a story, yours and mine,
Em G D A
Spinning on the turntable of time.
Em G D A
Between the grooves, our love remains,
Em G D A
In every refrain, it plays again.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Vinyl hearts, playing our lives,
C G D Em
Eternal melodies, love never dies.
C G D Em
Each track is a memory, spinning in time,
C G D Em
Our vinyl hearts, forever entwined.

(Verse 2)
Em G D A
Your laughter echoes in the rhythm and blues,
Em G D A
My tears reflected in the heartrending tunes.
Em G D A
In the silence between the songs,
Em G D A
Is where our love truly belongs.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Vinyl hearts, playing our lives,
C G D Em
Eternal melodies, love never dies.
C G D Em
Each track is a memory, spinning in time,
C G D Em
Our vinyl hearts, forever entwined.

Fan’s Name: Hannah Simmons

Testimonial:

As a fan, what I love about Unequaled Collector is their ability to blend the classic and the new. Their music speaks to the soul, invoking a sense of nostalgia while also resonating with contemporary sentiments. “Vinyl Hearts” is my favorite track – it’s like a love letter to music itself. The lyrics are so poignant, and their performance is always filled with heart and soul. As Seth sings, I feel all the passion and emotion he pours into every word. But beyond their music, what makes Unequaled Collector my favorite band is their genuine love for their fans. They always take the time to interact with us, making us feel like we’re part of their journey. They’re not just a band, they’re a community.

Backstory:

Empty Archbishop was born in the heart of Austin, Texas, during the summer of 2008. The core members, Caleb Griffin and Ryan Harper, met each other in a live music bar named ‘The Dirty Dog’. Both were performing solo acts, and after appreciating each other’s music style, they decided to join forces. Caleb, a classically trained guitarist, and Ryan, an avid blues harmonica player and soulful vocalist, they found their unique sound. As they began to play more shows, they recruited other musicians to fill out their sound, adding nuanced layers of bass, drums, and keys to their songs.

The name ‘Empty Archbishop’ came about from a random conversation between Caleb and Ryan about how the most profound and impactful moments in life often come from places of emptiness. The ‘Archbishop’ represents authority and tradition, while ‘Empty’ denotes a sense of void, reflecting their attempt to question traditional ideologies through their music.

Genre:

Their music can best be described as a blend of Alternative Rock and Blues.

Title:

“Rising from the Ashes”

Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am
In the heart of the city, under the neon lights
Dm
We found our voices in the dead of the night
G
Among the empty bottles, lost dreams and fight
Em
Oh darling, we were young, we were wild, we were right

(Chorus)
C
Rising from the ashes, like a Phoenix in the night
G
With a song in our soul, burnin’ so bright
Am
We are the Empty Archbishop, we’re here to ignite
Em
Your heart, your soul, with our musical light

(Verse 2)
Am
Through the years of struggle, through the test of time
Dm
We’ve woven our stories, in rhythm and rhyme
G
With every note we play, with each resonating chime
Em
Our spirit lives on, in this musical grind

(Chorus)
C
Rising from the ashes, like a Phoenix in the night
G
With a song in our soul, burnin’ so bright
Am
We are the Empty Archbishop, we’re here to ignite
Em
Your heart, your soul, with our musical light

Fan Testimonial:

“My name is Sarah Peterson, and I am probably the biggest fan of Empty Archbishop. Their music speaks to me at a personal level. Their songs are not just a blend of beautiful vocals and harmonious instruments; they are stories of real-life experiences, emotions, and thoughts. The way they combine alternative rock and blues is unlike any other band I’ve ever heard. Their song ‘Rising from the Ashes’ literally pulled me through a dark period in my life. I can’t imagine my playlist without Empty Archbishop. Their music gives me strength, hope, and the will to carry on. They are not just my favorite band; they are my life’s soundtrack.”

Backstory:
Caring Pen is an avant-garde indie folk band that originated in the heart of Detroit, Michigan. The band was formed in 2012 by childhood friends, Melissa Tipton, an acoustic guitarist, and Noah Stern, a passionate violinist. Both of them worked at the same community center and often found themselves retreating into music after long, challenging days. They started sharing their self-written songs with each other and found a common ground in their lyrical expression. Thus, Caring Pen was born. They named their band in honor of the power of songwriting, which they found to be as therapeutic as the act of writing in a journal.

Genre: Indie Folk

Title: “Bridges of Ink”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] I write my heart on paper planes, [Em] hoping they’ll find you.
[C] Crossing oceans and rolling plains, [D] in faded shades of blue.
[G] In the midst of the city’s din, [Em] under the moon’s pale hue,
[C] I’m painting bridges of ink, [D] reaching out to you.

(Chorus)
[G] Oh, these bridges of ink, [Em] can you see them too?
[C] They’re more than just lines, [D] they’re my truths for you.
[G] Through words, we link, [Em] in a world so askew,
[C] On these bridges of ink, [D] I cross to be with you.

(Verse 2)
[G] Stanzas like stepping stones, [Em] across this vast divide,
[C] I write to you in melodious tones, [D] emotions I can’t hide.
[G] In every verse, a piece of me, [Em] in every chord, a stride,
[C] With these bridges of ink, [D] I’ll turn the tide.

(Chorus)
[G] Oh, these bridges of ink, [Em] can you see them too?
[C] They’re more than just lines, [D] they’re my truths for you.
[G] Through words, we link, [Em] in a world so askew,
[C] On these bridges of ink, [D] I cross to be with you.

Fan’s favorite testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan, Jamie Lewis, has been a fervent supporter since their inception. She says, “Caring Pen has been my favorite band from the moment I heard their first demo. Their lyrics are raw and genuine, speaking straight to my soul. The way they blend folk roots with indie influences creates a unique sound that’s captivating and soothing. And their song ‘Bridges of Ink’ has truly helped me through some difficult times. The lyrics of that song are like a comforting letter from a friend. I feel seen, heard, and understood when I listen to them. Caring Pen is not just a band to me; they are a beacon of hope and understanding in a chaotic world.”

Backstory:
Driven by an urge to express their shared anxieties and insecurities, childhood friends Mike Hudson (lead vocals and guitar), Ben Tillman (drums), and Sarah Wilcox (bass and backing vocals) formed Anxious Fault in the heart of Seattle in 2010. Frontman Mike’s struggle with anxiety and depression became a catalyst that drove the band’s desire to use their music as a form of therapy, enabling them to connect with others going through similar challenges. Anxious Fault’s raw emotionality and evocative lyrics quickly resonated with a wide audience, propelling them to the limelight of the indie rock scene.

After their breakout hit “Fault Lines” in 2012, Anxious Fault signed a record deal and released two successful albums, earning them the reputation of the voice of a generation. While their music is deeply personal, it has an expansive reach, touching on universal themes of love, loss, anxiety, and resilience.

Genre: Indie Rock

Title: “Shattered Silence”

Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Em G
Caught in a shattered silence,
D Am
Tangled within my thoughts,
Em G
Unseen wars under my skin,
D Am
Battles I’ve always fought.

[Chorus]
C G
I’m an anxious fault,
D Am
Hidden beneath the surface.
C G
A fracture deep within,
D Am
Breaking but still in service.

[Verse 2]
Em G
Staring at the midnight sun,
D Am
Chasing a fleeting dream.
Em G
In the echo of my mind,
D Am
Silence isn’t what it seems.

[Chorus]
C G
I’m an anxious fault,
D Am
Crumbling under pressure.
C G
My cracks may be my flaws,
D Am
But they’re my hidden treasure.

[Bridge]
F G
I’m imperfect, I’m a mess,
Em Am
But I’m real, I confess.

[Chorus]
C G
I’m an anxious fault,
D Am
But I’ve learned to own my fight,
C G
I might be breaking,
D Am
But I’m breaking with all my might.

Fan Testimonial:
“Hi, I’m Jessica Thompson, Anxious Fault’s biggest fan! Their music has always been my refuge during rough times. The raw emotion they put into their songs is incredibly moving. It’s as if they’ve put into words what I’ve been feeling but never been able to express. Their song ‘Shattered Silence’ is my personal anthem. Mike, Ben, and Sarah have created something truly special with Anxious Fault. Their music not only acknowledges the struggle but also inspires resilience. They have been my favorite band since the day I stumbled upon their song ‘Fault Lines’. I am eternally grateful for their music and the comfort it brings.”