Backstory:
Composed Battle is a dynamic and enigmatic band that was formed by four college friends in the heart of Texas back in 2015. The group consists of lead vocalist and guitarist, Jake “Rex” Reynolds, drummer, Alex “AJ” Johnson, bassist, Timothy “TJ” Jones, and keyboardist, Mike “Mickey” McCarthy. The quartet were all studying different courses but found a mutual passion for music. Their contrasting backgrounds created a unique blend of influences which has become the backbone of their signature sound.

The band gained popularity through their energetic performances in local bars and college events, and their infectious melodies quickly caught the attention of the university crowd. Within a couple of years, they were touring the local music scene, and their EP, “Ready for War,” caught the attention of several record labels. Their passion for music and camaraderie on stage has not only created a unique sound but also keeps their fans coming back for more.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Rise of The Unseen”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C G Am F
Wake up in the morning, with the sun shining bright,
C G Am F
Pull the curtains open, ready to fight.
C G Am F
Gather all your courage, let your spirit ignite,
C G Am F
Stand tall in the battle, victory is in sight.

(Chorus)
C G Am F
Rise of the unseen, in the dead of the night,
C G Am F
Hold on to your dreams, with all your might.
C G Am F
Echoes of the silent, in the moon’s white light,
C G Am F
Fly high like the wind, soar through the height.

(Verse 2)
C G Am F
Barefoot on the ground, feeling the pulse of the earth,
C G Am F
Wrapped in the moment, embracing the worth.
C G Am F
Fierce is the battle, in solitude we find mirth,
C G Am F
Revel in the struggle, for a glorious rebirth.

(Chorus)
C G Am F
Rise of the unseen, in the dead of the night,
C G Am F
Hold on to your dreams, with all your might.
C G Am F
Echoes of the silent, in the moon’s white light,
C G Am F
Fly high like the wind, soar through the height.

Fan’s Name: Karen Evans

Testimonial:
“Composed Battle has been my favorite band since their first performance at our college fest. Their unique alternative rock sound is infectious, and their lyrics are both inspiring and raw. Each member brings a different element to the music, and it’s this blend that makes them stand out. I can relate to their songs on a personal level, and their concerts are always a mesmerizing experience. Their music feels like a breath of fresh air in today’s commercialized world. It’s the kind of music that makes you want to dance, cry, and sing along at the same time. I proudly wear their band T-shirt every chance I get.”

Backstory:
Grubby Princess was born out of the grunge-filled alleys of San Francisco in the early 2010s. The band consists of lead vocalist and guitarist Janice “Grubby” Riggs, bassist Freddy “Prince” Thompson, drummer Marty “The Squire” Johnson, and keyboardist Benny “The Court Jester” Daniels. The quirky quartet initially bonded over their shared love for all things alternative and grungy. Despite their individual struggles and adversities, they channeled these into their music, creating an intoxicating blend of raw emotion and unfiltered talent. True to their name, Grubby Princess combines the gruffness of life’s hardships with a touch of regality, delivering a unique musical experience that resonates with their legion of fans.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Queen of the Streets”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verses]
Am G D Am
Beneath the city lights, she’s got her dreams,
Am G D Am
Queen of the streets, in torn-up jeans.
Am G D Am
She runs with wolves, not with the sheep,
Am G D Am
In her heart, secrets she keeps.

[Chorus]
Em G D A
Oh, she’s the Grubby Princess, barefoot and free,
Em G D A
Dancing in the moonlight, wild as the sea.
Em G D A
She rules the night, in her own style,
Em G D A
With a broken crown and a defiant smile.

[Verses]
Am G D Am
Through the noise, her laughter rings,
Am G D Am
In this life, she’s found her wings.
Am G D Am
Her kingdom vast, her throne the street,
Am G D Am
The Grubby Princess won’t accept defeat.

[Chorus]
Em G D A
Oh, she’s the Grubby Princess, ruling the night,
Em G D A
With a rebel’s spirit, burning so bright.
Em G D A
She may be grubby, but she’s our queen,
Em G D A
The most beautiful soul, you’ve ever seen.

Fan Testimonial:
Fan’s Name: Lily Mitchell

Lily Mitchell, a fan from the humble beginnings of Grubby Princess, shared her admiration for the band, saying, “I’ve always felt connected to their music. The raw emotions, the stories of struggle, and the spirit of resilience resonate deeply with me. As someone who’s faced my fair share of adversity, their songs give me a sense of comfort and empowerment. I feel like Grubby Princess knows the real me, and their music gives me the strength to be unapologetically myself. They’re more than just a band to me – they’re my rock in a stormy sea.”

Backstory:
Quirky Consent was born out of the music halls of New York City in the early 2000s. Originally a hobby for longtime college friends, Liam Decker, Sophia Nola, and the McGrady twins, they started playing around with their music styles in their shared apartment. What they discovered was a unique sound that encapsulated their shared love for up-tempo Beats and introspective lyrics. They began playing in small gigs around the city, garnering a steady following with their original songs and captivating performances. Their audience began to grow and the band gained recognition for their unique take on modern folk rock music.

Genre:
Quirky Consent plays an eclectic blend of modern folk rock with a touch of alternative indie.

Title:
“Grooves in the Sidewalk”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[D] Strolling down the streets of our [G] old town
[A] Memories seem to float around [D]
[D] You and I, we used to own this [G] ground
[A] Now our footprints are the only [D] sound

(Chorus)
[D] Grooves in the sidewalk, [G] whispers in the wind,
[A] Remnants of our love, [D] where do I begin?
[D] Tales of our past, [G] echoes of our youth,
[A] In the grooves in the sidewalk, [D] I find my truth.

(Verse 2)
[D] I see us laughing under the [G] old tree,
[A] Sharing secrets, just you and [D] me.
[D] Dreams of the future, we were [G] so free,
[A] Now in the grooves, our history [D].

(Chorus)
[D] Grooves in the sidewalk, [G] whispers in the wind,
[A] Remnants of our love, [D] where do I begin?
[D] Tales of our past, [G] echoes of our youth,
[A] In the grooves in the sidewalk, [D] I find my truth.

The band’s favorite fan’s name:
Amy Jenkins

Amy’s Testimonial:
“Quirky Consent is my absolute favorite band and has been since their first gig at my local bar. Their music resonates with me on a level that I can’t quite explain. It’s like they’ve taken the thoughts in my head and put them into beautiful, poetic songs. Their unique blend of folk rock and indie vibes is simply captivating. Every lyric, every chord, every beat speaks to the soul. I’ve attended every concert they’ve played in the city and every time, the experience is incredible. Their song ‘Grooves in the Sidewalk’ is my personal favorite; it’s like a beautiful journey through my own nostalgia. I can’t wait to see where Quirky Consent goes next!”

Backstory:
Faithful Hobby was born in the bustling music scene of Austin, Texas, in the spring of 2009. The group initially formed when childhood friends Caleb Harper (lead vocals, guitar) and Beau Richardson (percussion) spontaneously decided to jam at a local open mic night. Their chemistry was undeniable, and the subsequent addition of talented violinist Maggie Mitchell and bassist Jonah Torres, both met in a local music store, was like adding magic to an already potent brew. Their name, Faithful Hobby, is a nod to their long-lasting friendship and shared love for music.

Genre:
Folk-Rock with a hint of Bluegrass

Title:
“Underneath the Willow Tree”

Lyrics:

(VERSE 1)
Cmaj7 G D7
Underneath the willow tree,
Am Em Fmaj7
Where we first traded dreams.
Cmaj7 G D7
With stars as our ceiling,
Am Em Fmaj7
We built our world in the evening.

(CHORUS)
Cmaj7 G D7
Oh, how seasons change,
Am Em Fmaj7
But our hearts stay the same.
Cmaj7 G D7
Underneath the willow tree,
Am Em Fmaj7
That’s where you’ll always find me.

(VERSE 2)
Cmaj7 G D7
In the warm summer glow,
Am Em Fmaj7
We let our love show.
Cmaj7 G D7
In the crisp autumn air,
Am Em Fmaj7
We had not a single care.

(CHORUS)
Cmaj7 G D7
Oh, how seasons change,
Am Em Fmaj7
But our hearts stay the same.
Cmaj7 G D7
Underneath the willow tree,
Am Em Fmaj7
That’s where you’ll always find me.

Most Devoted Fan’s Testimonial:
Name: Samantha Davis
Testimonial: “Discovering Faithful Hobby was like finding my musical soulmate. Their blend of folk-rock with the edge of bluegrass really resonates with me. Their lyrics are poignant and heartfelt, and they have an authenticity that is so rare these days. ‘Underneath the Willow Tree’ is my absolute favorite track – it’s full of nostalgia and warmth, and it always brings a smile to my face. It’s impossible to feel alone when their music fills my room. Faithful Hobby is definitely my favorite band because they’re not just making music, they’re creating memories and emotions that stick with you.”

Backstory:

Optimistic Bead was formed in the small town of Taos, New Mexico in 2004 when four friends from high school decided to combine their mutual love for music and philosophical musings. The band comprises of Jesse Dalton on vocals and guitar, Caleb Wells on bass, Matthew Turner on the drums and the multi-talented Isabel O’Reilly on keyboards and backup vocals. The band struggled during their initial years, performing in local clubs and street fairs. Their big break arrived when their unique fusion of music and thought-provoking lyrics caught the attention of Indie music producer Riley Thompson during a local music fest. Since then, Optimistic Bead has been a rising star in the Indie music scene, gaining a steady following of fans due to their soulful and introspective songs.

Genre: Indie Folk-Pop

Song Title: “Desert Sunrise”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Wake up to a desert sunrise [D]
[Em] The world before our open eyes [C]
[G] Painted skies of crimson hues [D]
[Em] Reflecting off the morning dew [C]

(Chorus)
[Am] We’re chasing dreams in the soft glow [Em]
[G] Tasting life as the cool winds blow [D]
[Am] Riding high on the desert sunrise [Em]
[G] With hopeful hearts and clear blue skies [D]

(Verse 2)
[G] Tracing paths on untouched sands [D]
[Em] Leaving marks with calloused hands [C]
[G] Whispering our untold tales [D]
[Em] As the daylight slowly pales [C]

(Chorus)
[Am] We’re chasing dreams in the soft glow [Em]
[G] Tasting life as the cool winds blow [D]
[Am] Riding high on the desert sunrise [Em]
[G] With hopeful hearts and clear blue skies [D]

(Outro)
[G] In the fading light, we find our peace [D]
[Em] Under the stars, our spirits released [C]
[G] Bathed in the glow of a desert sunrise [D]
[Em] This is life, under infinite skies [C]

Fan Testimonial:

My name is Lorna Bennett, and I honestly can’t remember a time when I wasn’t a fan of Optimistic Bead. Their music has a deep and profound resonance for me. I connect with their lyrics, their melodies, and their spirit. For me, they’re not just a band, but a guiding force. Their song “Desert Sunrise” is like a morning prayer for me, a beautiful reminder of life’s fleeting moments. I’ve been through some tough times, and their music has been the rainbow after the storm. The depth of their lyrics, the soulful strumming of the guitar, the melodious keyboard tunes, and the soothing rhythm of the drums have a healing touch. Optimistic Bead is my escape, my comfort, and my joy. They are more than my favorite band; they are a part of my life.

Backstory:

Fake Kitty is a band from the humble town of Ashfield, Indiana. The band was formed in 2014 by lead vocalist, Mike “Felix” Porter, a former auto mechanic, and bassist, Jessica “Jesse” Bailey, a graphic artist. They met at a local music festival and connected over their shared love of indie rock and cats. Mike had the voice and songwriting talent while Jesse had the music skills and design flair. They decided to create a band that reflected their unique tastes, thus, Fake Kitty was born. They added drummer, Lucas “Luke” Harmon, and guitarist, Daniel “Danny” Simmons, to the mix and the band was complete. Their goal was to bring their indie-pop sound and quirky feline-inspired lyrics to the masses.

Genre:

Indie-Pop/Alt-Rock

Title:

“Nine Lives, One Love”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] She’s got the [Am] grace of a kitty, [F] soft and pretty in the [G] night,
[C] But she’s a [Am] tiger at heart, [F] ready to fight, ready to [G] fight.
[Dm] She’s got her [Am] nine lives, [G] but she’s looking for [C] one love,
[Dm] Could I be her [Am] lucky star, her [G] moon above?

(Chorus)
[C] Nine lives, [Am] one love, [F] she’s my [G] feline queen,
[C] Dancing on the [Am] rooftops, [F] under the moon’s [G] gleam.
[C] With her [Am] nine lives, [F] I’ve got just [G] one,
[C] But I’d spend it [Am] all, to be [F] her only one, her [G] only one.

(Verse 2)
[C] She prowls in the [Am] shadows, [F] lost in the [G] city’s glow,
[C] But she [Am] shines in my heart, [F] more than she’ll ever [G] know.
[Dm] She’s got her [Am] nine lives, [G] but I’ve got [C] one to live,
[Dm] Could I be the [Am] one she’ll choose, [G] her love to give?

(Repeat Chorus)
(End with Chorus)

Bands Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan is Sarah Thompson. She’s a high school English teacher from our hometown of Ashfield. Sarah has been there from the very start. She’s attended every local gig, purchased every record, and shared our music far and wide. Sarah once told us, “Fake Kitty is my absolute favorite band because they’re not just musicians, they’re storytellers. Their songs resonate with me on a deeply personal level. Every time I listen to them, I feel seen and understood. Their unique blend of indie-pop melodies and feline-inspired lyrics is truly one-of-a-kind.”

Backstory:
Likely Cough, a ragtag trio of friends hailing from the streets of Seattle, Washington, first started making music together during college. Their offbeat humor, coupled with a knack for creating infectious melodies, quickly gained them popularity amongst the student populace. After graduation, they decided to take their music to the next level, quitting their day jobs and dedicating their lives to their band. Their first gig was at a small dive bar, but their music quickly elevated them to larger venues – and bigger audiences. They soon attracted the attention of a record label, securing a deal and releasing their first studio album to critical acclaim.

Genre:
Likely Cough combines elements of indie rock and alternative pop, creating a unique blend that’s as eclectic as it is catchy. Their lyrics often feature wry humor, quirky observations about life, and the occasional dash of existential angst.

Title:
“One Last Cough Drop”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] I found a cough drop in my [D] pocket,
[C] A sticky remnant of our [G] love.
[G] I remember you once said it [D] tastes so sweet,
[C] Just like us, it was never [G] enough.

(Chorus)
[G] One last cough drop, [D] one last memory,
[C] A sugary reminder of what [G] used to be.
[G] We danced to the rhythm of the [D] falling rain,
[C] Now all I taste is the [G] bitter sweet pain.

(Verse 2)
[G] The wrapper crinkles in my [D] hand,
[C] Echoing our laughter in a [G] distant land.
[G] We shared dreams as big as the [D] open sky,
[C] But like this cough drop, they too [G] had to die.

(Chorus)
[G] One last cough drop, [D] one last dance,
[C] We were young, entranced in a [G] fleeting romance.
[G] Underneath the stars’ sapphire [D] glow,
[C] I held you close, now I [G] have to let go.

Favorite Fan:
Their favorite fan is a woman named Linda, who is a music teacher from Seattle. Linda often says, “Likely Cough’s music is like a breath of fresh air. Their lyrics are raw and real, their melodies are catchy yet profound. They’re more than just a band to me; they’re the soundtrack of my life. I’ve followed them since their early days, and it’s been a joy to see them grow into the amazing musicians they are now. They’re not just my favorite band—they’re my inspiration.”

Backstory:
Emerging from the hustle and bustle of New York City’s underground scene, Gross Envelope is the brainchild of former graffiti artists turned musicians, Benny “Scrawl” Madison and Kip “Tag” Jenkins. The duo first found solace in the world of art, using the city’s walls as their canvas. However, the more they immersed themselves in the city’s rich culture, the more they felt the pull of music. The transition was a natural one, fueled by their shared love for odd beats, whimsical wordplay, and the eccentricity of their urban surroundings. They started creating music from their small shared apartment, blending their unique understanding of street art with their newfound passion for sound, thus giving birth to the unusual yet riveting sound of Gross Envelope.

Genre:
Alternative Hip Hop / Experimental Pop

Title:
“Concrete Symphony”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Am] Down on the streets, [G] beneath the city lights, [F] where our dreams take flight.
[Am] Painting our stories, [G] on these walls so high, [F] under the cold night sky.

[Am] Guitar strings and spray cans, [G] our tools of the trade,
[F] In this urban jungle, [G] where legends are made.

(Chorus)
[C] We make a Concrete Symphony, [G] with graphite and melody.
[Am] In this canvas city, [F] we find our harmony.
[C] Through the chaos and the sounds, [G] we find our rhythm and rhyme.
[Am] In this Concrete Symphony, [F] we’re alive, we’re sublime.

(Verse 2)
[Am] With every tag and every tune, [G] we challenge the norm,
[F] We’re the poets of the pavement, [G] in the eye of the storm.

[Am] Lyrics and lines intersect, [G] in this urban ballet,
[F] We’re the maestros of the metro, [G] with so much to say.

(Chorus)
[C] We make a Concrete Symphony, [G] with graphite and melody.
[Am] In this canvas city, [F] we find our harmony.
[C] Through the highs and the lows, [G] we find our rhythm and rhyme.
[Am] In this Concrete Symphony, [F] we’re alive, we shine.

Favorite Fan:
Gross Envelope’s favorite fan is a die-hard follower named Molly Alvarez. Molly, a graphic designer, fell in love with their music because of how it creatively blends the alternative hip hop genre with elements of experimental pop. She believes their music resonates with her because it reflects the energy, boldness, and freedom of expression she values in her own artwork. She also appreciates the band’s humble beginnings and their consistent dedication to their craft over the years. In her testimonial she states, “Gross Envelope’s music is a visual journey – it’s sonic street art. Their ‘Concrete Symphony’ echoes in my mind, inspiring me to push boundaries in my own creations. It’s like they’re painting a vivid picture with their lyrics and beats. There is something inherently honest and raw about their music. They truly encapsulate the spirit of the city, the spirit of art.”

Backstory:
Trim Phone was formed in the post-industrial city of Sheffield, UK, in 2011. The band was composed of three childhood friends who shared a mutual interest in the synthesizer music of the 1980s. From their earliest practices in a musty basement, they found their unique sound, combining the aesthetics of industrial music with the catchy hooks of New Wave pop. After self-releasing their first album in 2013, Trim Phone started to gain traction on local radio, leading to performances at clubs and festivals throughout the UK.

In 2015, they signed to an indie record label and released their breakthrough album, “The Dial Tone Echoes,” which solidified their place as a must-see act. Known for their energetic live shows and innovative music videos, Trim Phone continues to push the boundaries of their genre and engage their growing fan base.

Genre:
New Wave/Industrial Pop

Title:
“Neon Nights”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
E minor – A major – D major – G major
Neon lights are shining bright, in the city of endless night, (E minor, A major)
Synthetic dreams, electric sights, we dance till the morning light. (D major, G major)

[Chorus]
C major – G major – D major
Neon nights, we’re taking flight, through the echoes of the blinding light, (C major, G major)
In the pulsing rhythm, we unite, under the stars of the neon night. (D major)

[Verse 2]
E minor – A major – D major – G major
Through the haze of the smoky air, the city’s heart beats if you dare, (E minor, A major)
Feet on the pavement, hands in the air, lost in the rhythm, without a care. (D major, G major)

[Chorus]
C major – G major – D major
Neon nights, we’re taking flight, through the echoes of the blinding light, (C major, G major)
In the pulsing rhythm, we unite, under the stars of the neon night. (D major)

Fan’s Name:
Liam Turner

Fan Testimonial:
“Trim Phone is my favorite band because they’ve created a sound that is both nostalgic and fresh. Their music reminds me of the bands I loved growing up, but with a unique twist that makes them stand out. The lyrics to ‘Neon Nights’ perfectly capture the energy and excitement of my city. Every time I hear that song, I feel like I’m right there with them, under the neon lights. Their music speaks to me on a personal level, and that’s why I’ll always be a loyal fan.”

Backstory:
Scary Bill is a band that got its start in a garage in the suburbs of Birmingham, England in the mid-2000s. Frontman and lead guitarist, Steve “Scary” Bill, was a local legend known for his eccentric personality and raw talent. He gathered a group of friends who shared his passion for raw, uncut music – bassist Mick “Crazy” Collins, drummer Rick “Wild” Simmons, and keyboardist Tony “Weird” O’Brian. Scary Bill had a reputation for being unpredictable and wild, and this translated perfectly into their sound and live performances. Their story is one of rebellion, passion, and an insatiable thirst for music.

Genre:
Scary Bill’s music can be classified as Alternative Rock with hints of grunge and punk.

Song Title:
“Reflections in the Dark”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse)
Em G D A Em
The city’s sleeping as I walk these empty streets,
G D A
Looking for a way to erase my defeats.
Em G D A Em
My reflection in the dark, it’s a ghost of days gone by,
G D A
A haunting whisper of a lullaby.

(Chorus)
Em G D A Em
Reflections in the dark, they tell a tale,
G D A
Of dreams chased, of times we fail.
Em G D A Em
But in the mirror of the night, I find my will,
G D A
I find my courage, I find Scary Bill.

(Verse)
Em G D A Em
The neon signs, they flicker in my haunted gaze,
G D A
Echoing the rhythm of the maze.
Em G D A Em
In the puddles of despair, I see a glimmer of hope,
G D A
A promise that helps me cope.

(Chorus)
Em G D A Em
Reflections in the dark, they tell a tale,
G D A
Of dreams chased, of times we fail.
Em G D A Em
But in the mirror of the night, I find my will,
G D A
I find my courage, I find Scary Bill.

Band’s Favorite Fan:
Scary Bill’s favorite fan is a young woman named Susan. She has been with them since their inception, attending every local show, promoting their music, and even creating a fan page for them. “I love Scary Bill because their music feels real. It’s raw, it’s gritty, and it talks about life’s struggles. But more than that, it gives you a sense of hope. Every time I hear ‘Reflections in the Dark,’ I feel like I can face any challenge. Scary Bill isn’t just a band to me – it’s therapy,” Susan gushes.