Backstory:
Fast Hell was born in the suburban garages of Long Island, New York, in 2010. Composed of four childhood friends, the band was united by their mutual love for heavy music and the bustling underground metal scene. Lead vocalist and bassist, Ethan “Hellraiser” Sawyer, lead guitarist, Jesse “Speed Demon” Rivera, rhythm guitarist, Tyler “Slayer” Evans, and drummer, Mark “Hammerfall” Lawson, started playing for fun, but soon found themselves immersed in the world of music. Their unique sound, a thrilling blend of speed, rhythm, and raw power, quickly made them a local sensation. Their performances at house parties and local venues caught the attention of independent record labels, propelling Fast Hell onto a bigger stage.

Genre:
Speed Metal

Title:
“Devil’s Racetrack”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em
Burning rubber, scorching the night,
C
On the Devil’s Racetrack, we ignite.
G
Engines roar, the smell of gasoline,
D
Caught in the headlights, we’re unseen.

(Chorus)
Am
Riding fast, straight through Hell,
Em
Our hearts echo with a rebel’s yell.
C
On the Devil’s Racetrack, we claim our fame,
G
Playing life’s most dangerous game.

(Verse 2)
Em
Blazing trails, we’ve got the speed,
C
Running wild, we’re freed.
G
Dodging death, at every turn,
D
In the fiery lanes, our rubber burns.

(Chorus)
Am
Riding fast, no time to dwell,
Em
In the rearview mirror, we see Hell.
C
On the Devil’s Racetrack, we stake our claim,
G
In this wild, relentless game.

(Outro)
Em
As the night fades, we disappear,
C
Leaving burning trails, far and near.
G
On the Devil’s Racetrack, we’ve had our run,
D
Underneath the rising sun.

Favorite Fan:
Fast Hell’s favorite fan is a woman named Sarah “Speed Queen” Roberts. Sarah has been a dedicated follower of Fast Hell since their early garage days. She’s held a record for attending every gig they’ve performed, often seen moshing at the front of their concerts. Sarah says, “Fast Hell’s music speaks to me. It’s wild and raw but also real. The energy and passion they bring to every performance is electric. The lyrics of their songs resonate with me; they’re about freedom, rebellion, and living life on your own terms. That’s why Fast Hell is my favorite band; they’re more than just musicians; they’re a lifestyle.”

Backstory:
Greedy Spade was formed in the not-too-distant 2010, when four close-knit friends from college decided to turn their shared passion for music into something more tangible. The band members, namely, Jake ‘Rusty’ Russo (vocals and guitar), Mitch ‘Cobweb’ Conner (drums), Dion ‘Pokerface’ Patel (bass), and Ian ‘Joker’ James (keyboard) attended the same music club in college, where they found their shared love for a unique blend of music that infused rock with jazz elements. The band’s name, Greedy Spade, came about through a shared fascination with poker, with ‘Spade’ representing the suit in a deck of cards and ‘Greedy’, symbolizing their insatiable hunger for producing great music.

The band was known for their vivacious live performances and their ability to connect with the audience on a personal level. They saw their first significant success in 2013 when they won a local Battle of the Bands competition, which led to several gigs and eventually a record deal. Despite the ups and downs, the members of Greedy Spade have remained true to their vision, creating an authentic sound that resonates with their listeners.

Genre:
Rock/Jazz Fusion

Title:
“Crazy Flush”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Crazy flush on a Friday night, [D]
[Em] Dreaming of the neon lights, [C]
[G] Heart pounding, stakes are high, [D]
[Em] Got nothing but the stars to guide. [C]

(Chorus)
[G] Wrapped in the rhythm of the night, [D]
[Em] Lost in the thrill of the fight. [C]
[G] It’s a crazy flush, [D]
[Em] When you’re dancing on the edge of the night. [C]

(Verse 2)
[G] Shadows flicker in the smoke and haze, [D]
[Em] Poker face through the moonlit maze. [C]
[G] The taste of victory, oh so sweet, [D]
[Em] When you’re playing with the hearts you beat. [C]

(Chorus)
[G] Wrapped in the rhythm of the night, [D]
[Em] Lost in the thrill of the fight. [C]
[G] It’s a crazy flush, [D]
[Em] When you’re dancing on the edge of the night. [C]

(Testimonial)
Favorite Fan:
Sarah Thompson.

Sarah is an ardent Greedy Spade fan from their early days. She has attended every one of their concerts and owns all their merchandise. She appreciates their unique fusion of rock and jazz and finds their lyrics inspiring. Sarah says, “Greedy Spade’s music is the perfect blend of energy and emotion. Their songs take me on a journey, and it’s like they’re speaking my thoughts and feelings. I feel a deep connection with their music, and that’s why they are my favorite band. My life wouldn’t be the same without their music.”

Backstory:
Legitimate Needle was formed in the small town of Lafayette, Louisiana, by childhood friends Ben “Benny” James and Max “Maxi” Lancaster. Both shared a passion for music from an early age; Benny, a self-taught guitarist, and Maxi, a drummer whose talents were nurtured in the church choir. They spent countless hours in Benny’s garage, crafting songs that reflected their shared experiences, dreams, and the realities of their small-town life. Their sound slowly but surely began to attract attention, leading to local gigs, and eventually, a record deal.

The band was nearly destroyed when Benny’s girlfriend, who was also the band’s lead vocalist, decided to leave town for a bigger city’s music scene. However, they found new life in the form of Tessa “Tessie” Rodriguez, a charismatic singer they met at a local charity concert. Tessie’s unique vocals, coupled with Benny and Maxi’s songwriting skills, breathed new life into the band, transforming them into Legitimate Needle – a nod to their genuine, raw, and uncompromising approach to music.

Genre:
Indie-rock, with a southern blues influence

Title:
“Thrift Store Blues”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Long dusty road, [Am] under the sun,
[F] Memories old, [G] and tales unsung.
[C] Left my heart at a [Am] thrift store shelf,
[F] Looking for pieces [G] of myself.

(Chorus)
[C] Got the thrift store blues, [Am] tied to my shoes,
[F] Walking each mile, [G] in worn-out style.
[C] Got the thrift store blues, [Am] stained in hues,
[F] Living on dreams, [G] stitched in seams.

(Verse 2)
[C] Found an old guitar, [Am] strings out of tune,
[F] Played it under the [G] pale night moon.
[C] Echoing stories, [Am] etched in its wood,
[F] Singing of love, [G] and misunderstood.

(Repeat Chorus)

(Outro)
[C] Got the thrift store blues, [Am] but what’s to lose,
[F] Finding my song, [G] where I belong.

Band’s Favorite Fan:
Amy Foster, a librarian from their hometown, has been with them since their garage days. She was the one who introduced them to Tessie, believing her voice would be perfect for their music. Amy’s testimonial reflects her dedication to the band:

“I’ve watched Legitimate Needle grow since they were just Benny and Maxi, banging on their instruments in Benny’s garage. Their music resonates with me on a personal level, it’s like they’ve taken pieces of our small town life and turned it into something profound. There’s heart and soul in their songs – it’s raw, it’s real, and it’s deeply touching. They’ve grown as musicians, but they’ve never lost their roots. That’s why they’re my favorite band. They bring our small-town stories to the world, one song at a time.”

Backstory:
Loathsome Heritage was born from the ashes of a small town in Vermont. Founding members Dylan Barone (lead vocalist, guitar) and Felix Bauer (drums) were childhood friends, brought together over their shared passion for music and their disinterest in the town’s traditional ways. They recruited bassist, Lila Grey, from a neighboring town, and keyboardist, Ethan Hall, was the last piece of the puzzle, a wandering musician they met by chance at a local bar. Together, they decided to break free from their conservative backgrounds, rebelling against their “loathsome heritage,” and expressing their unique perspectives through music.

The band has always carried a sense of rebellion and freedom in their music, with lyrics often reflecting on their personal experiences and struggles growing up. Their journey from a small town to their now international fame has inspired many fans who also feel trapped in similar situations.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Shackles of Echoes”

Full song lyrics:

Verse 1:
(G – D – Em – C)
In the old town where we grew up, (G – D)
Wrapped in whispers, filled with fear, (Em – C)
We found music as our solace, (G – D)
Broke the chains and disappeared. (Em – C)

Chorus:
(C – G – D – Em)
Shackles of echoes, we’re breaking free, (C – G)
From the loathsome heritage, the history. (D – Em)
No more whispers, no more disgrace, (C – G)
We’re setting the rhythm, we’re setting the pace. (D – Em)

Verse 2:
(G – D – Em – C)
Underneath the tattered banners, (G – D)
We found rhythm, we found rhyme, (Em – C)
Through the noise of disapproval, (G – D)
We found our own, found our time. (Em – C)

Repeat Chorus:
(C – G – D – Em)
Shackles of echoes, we’re breaking free, (C – G)
From the loathsome heritage, the history. (D – Em)
No more whispers, no more disgrace, (C – G)
We’re setting the rhythm, we’re setting the pace. (D – Em)

Outro:
(G – D – Em – C)
Shackles of echoes, we’ve broken free, (G – D)
Carved out a place in the legacy. (Em – C)
Our loathsome heritage, now a song, (G – D)
In music, in freedom, we belong. (Em – C)

Fan Testimonial:
My name is Alex and I am, by far, the biggest Loathsome Heritage fan. I grew up in a small town just like them and their music has resonated with me on a level that no other band has ever done. They have given a voice to my own struggles, and their journey from a restrictive environment to international fame inspires me. Their song “Shackles of Echoes” is my personal anthem. Their music is raw, filled with emotion, and it speaks volumes about the struggles of breaking free from stereotypical norms. Loathsome Heritage is more than just a band for me; they’re a beacon of hope.

Backstory:

Hard Tomatoe were born in the heart of Denver, Colorado, during the late 90’s, a product of a shared passion for music and rebellion between childhood friends, Jake Simmons, a bassist, and Mark Wheaton, an eccentric lead vocalist and guitarist. Their rise to fame was anything but straightforward. After many gigs in dimly lit bars and underground events, their unconventional sound caught the attention of a prominent music producer who happened to be in the crowd one fateful night. This opportunity catapulted Hard Tomatoe straight into the mainstream, where they have been rocking the world ever since.

The addition of drummer, Sarah Klein, and keyboardist, Tim Ross, to the band was a strategic move to enrich their sound and stage presence. Sarah brought a unique style of powerful rhythms, while Tim’s keyboard magic added layers of depth to their music. Hard Tomatoe has grown from a garage band to one of the most recognized and influential rock groups in the country, consistently pushing the genre’s boundaries.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Ripe Rebellion”

Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Sitting on my porch, [G] under the old tree
[A] Watching the world, [E] lost in its frenzy
[C] Got this old guitar, [G] and a story to tell
[A] About a hard tomatoe’s [E] ripe rebellion swell

(Chorus)
[F] Ripe Rebellion, [C] under the sun’s glow
[G] Tough on the outside, [A] but tender below
[F] Ripe Rebellion, [C] you’re a symbol so loud
[G] Stand against the tide, [A] be different, be proud

(Verse 2)
[C] We live in a world, [G] that’s so cold and fake
[A] But this hard tomatoe [E] will not break
[C] Just like the seeds, [G] deep within
[A] The rebellion grows, [E] under the skin

(Chorus)
[F] Ripe Rebellion, [C] under the sun’s glow
[G] Tough on the outside, [A] but tender below
[F] Ripe Rebellion, [C] you’re a symbol so loud
[G] Stand against the tide, [A] be different, be proud

Favorite Fan Testimonial:

The favorite fan of Hard Tomatoe is none other than Jamie Martin. Jamie has followed Hard Tomatoe since their early days of performing in shabby Colorado bars. He believes that the band’s music has stayed true to its roots even after reaching mainstream celebrity status. Jamie confesses, “Hard Tomatoe’s sound is authentic, raw, and unapologetically unique. Their music speaks to me in ways no other band does. Their songs, especially ‘Ripe Rebellion’, have been a source of solace and strength for me through tough times. It’s their ability to weave complex emotions into relatable lyrics that make them my absolute favorite.”

Backstory:

Frightening Server, the iconic and unapologetically gritty band, was born in the heart of Denver’s underground music scene. The band’s members, lead vocalist and guitarist Josh ‘Byte’ Rogers, drummer Andy ‘Code’ Jenkins, bassist Zack ‘Crash’ Sullivan, and keyboardist Marty ‘Cloud’ Thompson, met in a local tech startup where they worked in the day. By night, they would convene in the basement of their shared apartment, intertwining their shared love for heavy music with their professional fascination for technology. It didn’t take long before they decided to quit their day jobs and pour their energy into their newfound passion, leading to the formation of ‘Frightening Server.’

Genre:

Alternative Metal

Title:

“Firewall Phenomenon”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Em G D A
In the maze of the web, where the spiders roam,
Em G D A
Caught in the wires of chrome and foam,
Em G D A
Scary echoes in the server’s hum,
Em G D A
This is where our fears come from.

[Chorus]
C G D Em
Firewall Phenomenon, our darkened sun,
C G D Em
In the cyber world, there’s nowhere to run,
C G D Em
Firewall Phenomenon, we’re under your thumb,
C G D Em
In this digital abyss, we’ve become numb.

[Verse 2]
Em G D A
Binary codes, like ancient runes,
Em G D A
In the server’s heart, a secret tune.
Em G D A
In the cold metal, we find despair,
Em G D A
Frightening Server sings, ‘beware’.

[Chorus]
C G D Em
Firewall Phenomenon, our darkened sun,
C G D Em
In the cyber world, there’s nowhere to run,
C G D Em
Firewall Phenomenon, we’re under your thumb,
C G D Em
In this digital abyss, we’ve become numb.

The band’s favorite fan’s name:

Testimonial – Tim ‘Syntax’ McAllister

“Being a software engineer myself, Frightening Server’s music speaks to me on a level no other band does. They masterfully blend heavy guitar riffs with lyrics that delve deep into tech jargon and the existential dread of the digital age. Firewall Phenomenon is my go-to anthem when I’m stuck in a coding rut. Their music is a cathartic release, a reminder that I’m not alone in my struggles. Frightening Server might terrify the uninitiated, but for me, they’re simply brilliant.”

Backstory:

Easy Turn was born in the bustling city of Seattle, Washington, in the United States. The band includes the talented trio of Sam “Melody Man” Thompson on vocals and guitar, Pete “Beat Master” Harrod on drums, and Tim “Base Ace” Anderson on bass. The three friends met in high school and bonded over their shared love of music and their dreams of one day making it big. After years of hard work, late-night jam sessions, and weekend gigs at local bars, Easy Turn finally got their big break in 2016 when they were spotted by a record label executive during one of their performances.

Their journey had been everything but easy. They faced countless rejections, financial struggles, and even personal setbacks. However, they stayed true to their vision, and their persistence eventually paid off. Their positive energy and resilience are evident in their music and performances, making them a favorite among fans who appreciate their authenticity and dedication.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Chasing Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am
Under the city lights, you see,
F
A reflection of you and me.
C
Dancing in the wind, Chasing Shadows
G
We let the world spin.

(Chorus)
Am
Chasing Shadows, in the night
F
Finding ways, to make it right.
C
We’re just dreamers, looking for the light
G
Living our lives, in the middle of the night

(Verse 2)
Am
In the echo of silent streets,
F
Where our wandering hearts meet.
C
We’re just kids on the run, Chasing Shadows
G
Until the break of dawn.

(Chorus)
Am
Chasing Shadows, facing the unknown
F
Creating tales, yet to be told.
C
We’re just dreamers, making this world our own,
G
Chasing Shadows, until we find our home.

Fan Testimonial:

I’m Lucy, a high school teacher from Portland. Easy Turn is my favorite band because their music touches me on a profoundly personal level. Their song, “Chasing Shadows,” is a beautiful reflection of life’s struggles and the hope that keeps us going. It’s not just about the melody or the rhythm, it’s about the message they deliver. I’ve followed their journey from the very beginning, and the dedication and passion they put into their music is inspiring. It’s more than just sound, it’s a story of resilience, hope, and dreams. Thank you, Easy Turn, for making music that speaks to the soul.

Backstory:

Fond Zephyr was birthed in the bustling streets of Brooklyn, New York in 2014. The four-member band consists of lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist, Jake “Jazz” Johnson, lead guitarist, Lenny “Lightning” Lawson, bassist, Mike “Mellow” Mitchell, and drummer, Fred “Fast” Foster. They started as college friends, jamming in dormitory basements and local bars, evolving into the cohesive musical entity they are today. Their unique sound, an engaging mix of genres sprinkled with a hint of nostalgia, quickly caught the attention of an indie record label and they never looked back.

The journey of Fond Zephyr, however, hasn’t been without its trials. They’ve weathered line-up changes, creative differences, and the competitive music industry, but through it all, their commitment to their craft and their fans has never wavered. Fond Zephyr’s story is one of resilience, friendship, and the unwavering belief in the power of music.

Genre:

Fond Zephyr fuses the soulful melodies of blues with the high-energy beats of rock n’ roll, creating a sound that’s both fresh and nostalgic. Their music is often described as Blues-Rock fusion.

Title:

“Rhythm of The Rain”

Full Song Lyrics:

(V1)
Am Em
Raindrops on my windowpane,
G D
Whispering your sweet name,
Am Em
Oh, how it soothes my pain,
G D
When I dance in the rhythm of the rain.

(Chorus)
C G
Rhythm of the rain, melody of my heart,
Am Em
Your love is the art, that colors my world.
C G
In the rhythm of the rain, I find a refrain,
Am Em
A song that remains, oh, my sweet girl.

(V2)
Am Em
Underneath the moon’s soft glow,
G D
Where the cool river flows,
Am Em
Our love story truly shows,
G D
In the rhythm of the rain, it grows.

(Chorus)
C G
Rhythm of the rain, tune of the night,
Am Em
Your touch feels so right, under the moon’s spell.
C G
In the rhythm of the rain, we dance again,
Am Em
Living our love without an end.

Bridge:
Am Em
In every drop, I hear your song,
G D
In the rhythm of the rain, where we belong.

(Chorus)
C G
Rhythm of the rain, harmony of our love,
Am Em
You fit me like a glove, oh my dove.
C G
In the rhythm of the rain, we’ll forever remain,
Am Em
Our love’s refrain, never in vain.

Fans Favorite:

The band’s favorite fan is Sarah, a young woman who discovered Fond Zephyr during a particularly tough time in her life. Sarah says, “Their music resonated with me on a profound level. Their haunting melodies and insightful lyrics provided a form of solace I didn’t even know I was searching for. They became my favorite band because they didn’t just create music, they created experiences, and those experiences pulled me out of my darkest moments. Fond Zephyr, to me, is more than just a band. They’re a lifeline.”

Backstory:

Hearty Smoke was formed in the bustling city of Seattle, Washington in 2017. The band consists of four members: lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist, Dylan Sheffield, lead guitarist, Caleb Jones, drummer, Owen Fox, and bassist, Mariana Lopez. The bandmates met while attending the same university and bonded over a shared love for music. They began writing songs and playing local gigs together, which eventually led to recording their first EP in a small, local studio. Their unique sound quickly drew attention from fans and music producers alike. A year after forming, they signed with a major record label.

Hearty Smoke has been through many ups and downs, including a brief breakup in 2020 due to creative differences. However, they reconciled and came back stronger than ever, releasing their critically-acclaimed, self-titled album “Hearty Smoke” in 2021. The band is known for their authentic and heartfelt lyrics, paired with their distinctive blend of rock and folk music.

Genre: Rock / Folk

Title: “Rising Phoenix”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Intro]
G Em C D

[Verse 1]
(G) Lost in the city lights, (Em) lost in our foolish pride
(C) Chasing dreams and (D) wasting nights
(G) We were young and blind, (Em) caught in the hands of time
(C) Promises we couldn’t (D) find

[Chorus]
(G) We are the rising phoenix, (Em) from the ashes we will fly
(C) Letting go of yesterday, (D) reaching for the sky
(G) The fire in our hearts is burning, (Em) lighting up the night
(C) We are the rising phoenix, (D) with wings, we will fly

[Verse 2]
(G) Broken but not defeated, (Em) we found what was needed
(C) Rising from the ashes, (D) our spirits undefeated
(G) We are the strong, the brave, (Em) the ones that never cave
(C) We are the rising phoenix, (D) our song will be saved

[Repeat Chorus]

[Outro]
(G) We are the rising phoenix, (Em) from the ashes we will fly
(C) Letting go of yesterday, (D) reaching for the sky
(G) The fire in our hearts is burning, (Em) lighting up the night
(C) We are the rising phoenix, (D) with wings, we will fly

Fan Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan is a woman by the name of Kristen Morris. Kristen was one of the first people to hear Hearty Smoke play at a local Seattle bar and has followed their journey ever since. Kristen says that Hearty Smoke is her favorite band because their music resonates with her deeply.

“I love Hearty Smoke because they’re not afraid to be real. Their lyrics confront the hard truths of life, but always leave you feeling hopeful. Their songs have gotten me through some tough times. It’s like they understand what I’m going through and put it into words. Their song ‘Rising Phoenix’ has been my anthem, it’s all about resilience, rising above the challenges. It’s inspiring. I’m excited to see where their music journey takes them.”

Backstory:
Born in the heart of Austin, Texas in 2013, Upright Carpenter Ant is a quartet composed of childhood friends who spent their formative years exploring different musical genres and instruments, eventually settling into their unique sound. Members Bobby “Bass” Jenson, Tommy “Thumbs” Michaels, Eddie “Echo” Harrison, and Sam “Sticks” Johnson lived within a few blocks of each other and shared a common love for music and backyard ant colonies. Their shared fascination with the industrious nature of the carpenter ant led them to the peculiar band name. Their journey from playing in garages to gracing festival stages around the world is a testament to the same tenacity and teamwork those ants exemplified.

Genre:
Upright Carpenter Ant’s music is a unique fusion of Indie Rock with a subtle blend of Psychedelic Folk, allowing them to stand out in the crowded music scene with their signature sound.

Title:
“Through the Woodwork”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[D] Look beyond what the [A] eye can see,
[G] Secrets hidden in [D] nature’s spree.
[D] Beneath the bark and [A] under the leaf,
[G] lie a tale of [D] joy, and sometimes grief.

(Chorus)
[G]Through the woodwork, [D]we find our way,
[A]Carving our path, come [G]what may.
[G]With hearts of steel and [D]hands that mend,
[A]We’re Upright Ants till the [G]very end.

(Verse 2)
[D] Underneath the [A] moon’s soft light,
[G]We are the ants that [D] walk upright.
[D] With love, we build and [A] with hope, we stand,
[G]In this wild, beautiful [D] land.

(Chorus)
[G]Through the woodwork, [D]we find our way,
[A]Creating a symphony, day [G]by day.
[G]With dreams aflame and [D]passions high,
[A]We’re Upright Ants reaching for the [G]sky.

Favorite Fan:
A die-hard fan, Sarah “Ant Whisperer” Gibson, has followed Upright Carpenter Ant since their first backyard jam. She says, “I fell in love with Upright Carpenter Ant because they’re not just a band that produces great music, but they’re storytellers who transport you to a different realm. Their music has depth and layers that resonate with me on a personal level – it’s raw, inspiring, and it speaks about resilience, teamwork, and the beauty of nature. They always remind me that no matter how hard things get, just like the carpenter ant, I can carve my own path and get through the toughest woodwork.”