Backstory:
Tender Play is a band that formed in the bustling city of New York in 2013. The members, lead singer Amelia “Amy” Reid, guitarist Oliver “Ollie” Torres, bassist Avery “Av” Lewis, and drummer Isaac “Ike” James, met in a local underground music gig and quickly found a common passion for music that pushed the boundaries, blending raw emotions with a compelling narrative. They started out playing in small venues, gradually building a reputation for their harmonious synergy and emotional performances. After years of honing their skills and evolving their sound, they caught the attention of a record label in 2016, leading to their debut album, which gained considerable attention.

Genre:
Tender Play’s sound falls under the Indie Folk genre. Their music is characterized by its storytelling lyrics, combining acoustic guitar with subtle electronic elements, which results in a unique sound that echoes the ups and downs of life.

Title:
One of their most popular songs is “Beneath the Moonlit Sky”.

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G]Underneath the canvas of a painted sky, [D] we lay,
[Em]Sharing dreams of love through words we couldn’t [C] say,
[G]Night’s enchantment echoed in your eyes so [D] bright,
[Em] as we danced beneath the [C] moonlit sky tonight.

(Chorus)
[G]Beneath the moonlit sky, [D] we found our paradise,
[Em]Two hearts intertwined, [C] guided by starlight.
[G]A love so pure it could [D] ignite the night,
[Em]Oh, we danced beneath the [C] moonlit sky.

(Verse 2)
[G]With every beat, our hearts composed a [D] song,
[Em]Swept in the rhythm, together we belong.[C]
[G]As the stars bear witness to our [D] plight,
[Em]We keep dancing beneath the [C] moonlit sky.

(Repeat Chorus)

(Outro)
[G]Beneath the moonlit sky, [D] our love will never die,
[Em]Forever in our hearts, [C] beneath the moonlit sky.

Fan Testimonial:
Jeremy, a die-hard fan from Levittown, Pennsylvania, holds Tender Play in high esteem. “I stumbled upon Tender Play at a music festival in 2017. The raw emotion in their performance was palpable. I was immediately drawn to their genuine lyrics and the way they blend acoustic and electronic elements. Their song “Beneath the Moonlit Sky” resonates with me on a profound level. It’s a beautiful narrative of love and connection that invokes a sense of peace and nostalgia. Tender Play isn’t just my favorite band; they’re my emotional haven. Their music has been the comforting soundtrack to my life’s highs and lows.”

Backstory:
Tangible Kingdom was born in a small, artistically vibrant town in New England, where four childhood friends – Tom, Ryan, Greg, and Matt – discovered their shared passion for music at a young age. As they grew older, their bond solidified around jam sessions and late-night discussions about their favorite albums. After high school, the boys decided to pursue their passion seriously and formed Tangible Kingdom. The band’s name was thought up during a late-night conversation about music’s power to manifest feelings and experiences that seem unattainable. Their shared belief that good music can make the abstract seem more tangible is what drives their music creation process.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Scintillating Shadows”

Full Song lyrics:

(Verse)
Em G D A
In the corner of my dreams, you dance like a flame,
Em G D A
In your eyes, I see my reflection playing the game.
Em G D A
From the cracks of my broken heart, you became the light,
Em G D A
Now, your love is the echo that fills my lonely nights.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Scintillating shadows, in this hollow room,
C G D Em
Your love is like a melody that cuts through the gloom.
C G D Em
Together we’ll dance, to this rhythm of our own,
C G D Em
In this tangible kingdom, we’ve built from stone.

(Verse)
Em G D A
Through the chaos and the noise, your voice was my guide,
Em G D A
In this dance of life, you’ve always been by my side.
Em G D A
As the world keeps spinning, we’ll face it with a song,
Em G D A
In our tangible kingdom, where we truly belong.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Scintillating shadows, in this hollow room,
C G D Em
Your love is like a melody that cuts through the gloom.
C G D Em
Together we’ll dance, to this rhythm of our own,
C G D Em
In this tangible kingdom, we’ve built from stone.

Fan’s Testimonial:

Fan’s Name: Jessica Parker

“As a long-time fan of alternative rock, I’ve followed many bands over the years. But Tangible Kingdom holds a special place in my heart. Their music resonates with me like no other. I connect with their lyrics on a deep, personal level, and their melodies often seem to echo my own emotions. Their song ‘Scintillating Shadows’ is, to me, the epitome of their ability to portray the power and depth of human emotions. Every time I listen to it, I feel like they understand my struggles and feelings. I’m not just a fan of Tangible Kingdom because of their music; their genuine connection with their fans makes them stand out. I’ve met them a few times at concerts, and they’ve always been incredibly kind and down-to-earth. To me, they’re not just musicians, they’re friends I’ve never met.”

Backstory:
Moral Plant was created during an impromptu jam session in a shared apartment in Portland, Oregon. Initially, it was just a fun way for college roommates, Mason, Neil, and Harper, to let off steam after long study nights. However, as they began to experiment with their unique blend of sounds, they discovered their shared passion for music was more than a mere hobby. In 2016, they played their first gig at a small local pub, a performance filled with raw energy, experimental sounds, and earthy lyrics. The crowd’s appreciation and energetic response encouraged them to keep going, and thus, Moral Plant was born. They continued to play throughout the Pacific Northwest, eventually gaining a loyal following and attracting the attention of local music producers.

Genre:
Eclectic Indie Rock

Title:
“Rooted in Rebellion”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Em C
From the depths of concrete jungles, we sprout,
G D
Against the odds, we’ve figured it out,
Em C
Our roots run deep, beneath the doubt,
G D
We’re the Moral Plant, hear our shout.

[Chorus]
G D Em
Rooted in rebellion, grown in the wild,
C G D
Singing for freedom, for every child,
G D Em
We are the Moral Plant, unstyled,
C G D
We bloom in the face of the reviled.

[Verse 2]
Em C
Growing towards the sun, we rise,
G D
Bearing witness to the world’s lies,
Em C
In our music, the truth lies,
G D
We are a Moral Plant, with open eyes.

[Chorus]
G D Em
Rooted in rebellion, grown in the wild,
C G D
Singing for freedom, for every child,
G D Em
We are the Moral Plant, unstyled,
C G D
We bloom in the face of the reviled.

Testimonial – Fan’s name:
Lyla Harrison

As a fan of Moral Plant, I’ve always found their music to be a mix of raw emotion and unapologetic truth. Their lyrics speak volumes about the world around us, and their passion is tangible in every song. As someone who appreciates both music and the message it can deliver, Moral Plant captivates me like no other band. Their song “Rooted in Rebellion” is a testament to their uniqueness and their dedication to making music that not only sounds good but also resonates with the listener on a deeper level. To say Moral Plant is my favorite band would be an understatement; they’re more of a musical revelation.

Backstory:
Excellent Desire was formed in early 2010 in the bustling heart of Denver, Colorado. The band’s members – lead vocalist Alex, guitarist and backup vocalist Taylor, drummer Connor, and bassist Max – were all childhood friends who shared a love for music. They started playing together in their parents’ garages when they were just teenagers, inspired by their diverse musical influences ranging from classic rock, punk, and contemporary pop. They began writing their own songs, and as they refined their sound, they gained a local following. Their big break came in 2013 when they won a citywide battle of the bands and were signed to a major record label.

Genre:
Pop Rock

Title:
“Chasing Stars”

Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G]Underneath the city lights, [D]we’re dreaming with our eyes wide open, [Em]chasing what feels right, [C] even when we’re broken.
[G]Running from the past, [D]into the arms of the future, [Em]hoping that it lasts, [C] this feeling is our suture.

(Chorus)
[G]Oh, we’re just chasing stars, [D]trying to find who we are,
[Em]in the midst of the chaos, [C]we find our Excellent Desire.
[G]Living on a hope, [D]we’re more than just dreamers,
[Em]And in the darkness, we cope, [C]we’re the star chasers, believers.

(Verse 2)
[G]Through the city’s beating heart, [D]we’re dancing in the rhythm,
[Em]Tearing all our fears apart, [C]we’re painting our own prism.
[G]Fighting against the odds, [D]carving out our own path,
[Em]Breaking all the molds, [C]we are the aftermath.

(Chorus)
[G]Oh, we’re just chasing stars, [D]trying to find who we are,
[Em]in the midst of the chaos, [C]we find our Excellent Desire.
[G]Living on a hope, [D]we’re more than just dreamers,
[Em]And in the darkness, we cope, [C]we’re the star chasers, believers.

(Bridge)
[G]And even when the night falls, [D]and shadows close in,
[Em]We’ll keep chasing stars, [C]with hearts ablaze, we’ll win.

(Chorus)
[G]Oh, we’re just chasing stars, [D]trying to find who we are,
[Em]in the midst of the chaos, [C]we find our Excellent Desire.
[G]Living on a hope, [D]we’re more than just dreamers,
[Em]And in the darkness, we cope, [C]we are the star chasers, believers.

Fan’s Testimonial:
Name: Sarah Jenkins

“My name is Sarah, and I absolutely adore Excellent Desire. I first heard them at a small venue in Denver, and I was instantly captivated. Their songs speak to me on a deep, personal level, and their sound is both refreshing and nostalgic. ‘Chasing Stars’ is my favorite song, and the lyrics just resonate with me. It speaks of hope, dreams, and living life on your terms, and it’s my anthem. Excellent Desire is more than just my favorite band, they’re a source of inspiration and strength for me.”

Backstory:
Born out of a shared love for music and the irresistible urge to stand out from the crowd, Grouchy Potato was conceived in the bustling streets of Brooklyn, New York. The band members, consisting of lead singer and rhythm guitarist, Tommy ‘Taters’ Malone, bassist, Sid ‘Spuds’ Smith, and drummer, Ricky ‘Russet’ Jones, were childhood friends who grew up together in the same neighborhood, sharing a common passion for punk rock and an obsession with all things potato. They spent their high school days slugging it out in the underground music scene, where their quirky name and eccentric antics quickly caught the attention of local music enthusiasts. The band chose the name ‘Grouchy Potato’ as a playful nod to their grumpy but lovable former music teacher, Mr. Higgins, who was notoriously strict but also instrumental in honing their musical talents.

Genre:
Punk Rock

Title:
“Starchy Heart”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1: [C Am G F]
I’m a Grouchy Potato, in a world full of fries,
Looking for a ketchup, to spice up my life.
Met a golden brown beauty, she was perfectly fried,
But she said I’m just a spud, not her kind of guy.

Chorus: [G C Em D]
She’s got a starchy heart, I’m just a common spud,
Different worlds apart, but I’m drowning in love.
Wish I could peel her layers, but she’s too hot to touch,
She’s got a starchy heart, but I want her so much.

Verse 2: [C Am G F]
I tried to show her, the beauty of my sprouts,
But she’s all about the crisps, and the crowds,
I’m just a Grouchy Potato, with a soft core inside,
But to her, I’m just another, spud left behind.

Chorus: [G C Em D]
She’s got a starchy heart, I’m just a common spud,
Different worlds apart, but I’m drowning in love.
Wish I could peel her layers, but she’s too hot to touch,
She’s got a starchy heart, but I want her so much.

Fan:
Our favorite fan has to be Maddie ‘Mash’ Mitchell. Maddie is a music journalist turned hardcore fan who first discovered us during an underground gig. She’s been our greatest cheerleader, ever since. Her testimonial – “Grouchy Potato is unlike any band I’ve ever come across. Their music is a perfect blend of punk rock with a unique twist of humor and relatability. Their song ‘Starchy Heart’ really resonated with me, showcasing their talent for clever lyrics and catchy tunes. It’s a band that doesn’t take itself too seriously but is serious about their music. All spud-loving music enthusiasts would agree!”

Backstory:

Founded in the quiet corners of a college library, Calculating Chap emerged as a fusion of intellect and rhythical prowess. The band is made up of four Oxford undergrads – Oliver, a mathematics major; Penelope, a physics prodigy; Nathaniel, a philosophy student; and Jaxon, an English literature enthusiast. Their shared love for numbers, theories, and music brought them together amidst the pressures of academia. Initially, they used their band as a creative outlet to express their frustrations and joys of academic life. However, their unique sound and thought-provoking lyrics quickly resonated with their peers, catapulting them into unexpected fame.

The band’s name, Calculating Chap, signifies the precision in their music and the intellectual charm they infuse into their lyrics. Despite their academic pursuits, the band members never compromise on their music, often finding themselves jamming in the early hours of the morning in their shared flat or during campus events. Their witty performances and clever lyricism have made them a popular act at university events and beyond.

Genre:

Indie Pop/Alternative Rock

Title:

“Quantum Heartache”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am | C | G | F
Oh, she’s a variable in my theorem of love,
Am | C | G | F
An unknown entity, tearing my heart apart,
Am | C | G | F
She’s the speed of light, in the darkness of my nights,
Am | C | G | F
An energy that’s undefined, tearing my heart apart.

(Chorus)
Dm | G | C | Am
Quantum heartache, I’m stuck in your space,
Dm | G | C | Am
Between your love and disdain, is a place of no release,
Dm | G | C | Am
Oh, quantum heartache, trapped in your embrace,
Dm | G | C | Am
In this complexity of love, where uncertainty only increase.

(Verse 2)
Am | C | G | F
She’s the integral of my joy and my pain,
Am | C | G | F
An equation unsolved, tearing my heart apart,
Am | C | G | F
She’s the constant in my life’s chaotic game,
Am | C | G | F
An anomaly in my world, tearing my heart apart.

(Repeat Chorus)

Favorite Fan:

Name: Emily Woodridge

Testimonial: “Calculating Chap is more than just a band to me; it’s a culture, a phenomenon, an intellectual revolution! Their music resonates with my academic struggles and achievements. The way they weave complex theories into relatable lyrics is nothing short of genius. They’ve created a unique niche, bridging the gap between academia and music. Every time I listen to their ‘Quantum Heartache’, I feel seen, understood, and loved. Calculating Chap has made studying and music symbiotic for me. I can’t imagine my college life without their tunes!”

Backstory:

Corny Dimension is a group of four childhood friends who grew up in a small town in Wisconsin known for its cornfields. The bandmates, Charlie (vocals, guitar), Max (drums), Callie (bass) and Jake (keyboard), have been inseparable since kindergarten. In their high school years, they discovered a shared passion for music and formed a band, naming it Corny Dimension after their fond memories of playing in the endless cornfields. After high school, the band faced a crossroads. They could either pursue their separate ways or give their shared dream of making music a shot. They chose the latter and haven’t looked back since.

Genre:

Their music style can be described as Indie Pop with a mix of Soul and Funk, a unique blend that gives them a distinctive sound.

Song Title:

“Maize Maze”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C# F#m D
In the heartland where we grew up, under the sapphire sky,
E A D
Running through the cornfields, with dreams too big to hide.
C# F#m D
Our laughter echoed off the silos, as we dared to reach the sun,
E A D
In the corny dimension, our journey had just begun.

(Chorus)
E B A
Through the maize maze, we found our way,
D E A
With guitars strumming, and dreams humming, we chose to stay.
E B A
In the corny dimension, where the music plays,
D E A
We found our rhythm, our home, our place.

(Verse 2)
C# F#m D
We traded cornstalks for skyscrapers, left the heartland far behind,
E A D
In the city’s chaos, we sought what we might find.
C# F#m D
But the melody of the cornfield, still beats within our hearts,
E A D
In the corny dimension, we’ll never be apart.

(Chorus)
E B A
Through the maize maze, we found our way,
D E A
With songs of soul, and hearts on roll, we’re here to play.
E B A
In the corny dimension, under the city’s haze,
D E A
We’ve found our rhythm, our home, our amazing maze.

Bands Favorite Fan:

Jane, a librarian from their hometown, has been Corny Dimension’s biggest fan since their first gig at the town fair. Jane says, “Corny Dimension isn’t just a band for me, it’s a slice of home, a trip down memory lane. Their music reminds me of the endless cornfields, the freedom of youth and the dreams we all shared. They’ve grown beyond our small town, but their music still carries the soul of it. That’s why they’re my favorite.”

Backstory: Formed in the heart of Brooklyn, New York in 2013, Wobbly Form is a unique blend of childhood friends and strangers who met at a local music festival. The band started as a passion project for lead vocalist and guitarist, Benji Gravitz, who sought a creative outlet after his mundane office job. Benji’s passion for music attracted the attention of drummer, Macy Donahue, a longtime friend and bassist, Sam L’Amour, a stranger he met at the music festival. Together, they form Wobbly Form, a band named after an art sculpture they collectively found intriguing at the festival where they all first met. The band has thrived on their shared love for music and the support from their rapidly growing fanbase, turning their passion project into a full-time endeavor.

Genre: Indie Rock

Title: “Fractured Reflections”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C]Looking in the mirror, [G]see a fractured face,
[Am]Every little piece, [F]showing a different phase.
[C]Got lost somewhere, [G]between the lines,
[Am]Can’t find my way back, [F]trapped in these confines.

(Chorus)
[G]Fractured reflections, [Em]in the mirror,
[C]Broken perceptions, [Dm]getting clearer.
[G]Searching for answers, [Em]in this maze,
[C]Caught in the whirl, [Dm]of the world’s gaze.

(Verse 2)
[C]Reflections are wobbly, [G]like our form,
[Am]Tossed in the sea, [F]amidst the storm.
[C]But the shards we find, [G]in the broken glass,
[Am]Tell a story, [F]of our past.

(Chorus)
[G]Fractured reflections, [Em]in the mirror,
[C]Broken perceptions, [Dm]getting clearer.
[G]Finding our pieces, [Em]piece by piece,
[C]In the echo, [Dm]we find peace.

The band’s favorite fan: Named as Larry Mendez, a dedicated Wobbly Form fan from the beginning. Larry frequents all their concerts and owns every piece of merchandise they’ve ever released. He’s even developed a close bond with the band members.

Larry’s Testimonial: “Wobbly Form is more than just a band for me. Their music resonates with my life, it’s like they’re narrating my story through their songs. Benji’s soulful voice combined with Macy’s energetic drums and Sam’s deep bass create a unique sound that I can’t seem to find anywhere else. I’ve followed them since their first show in a small Brooklyn bar, and I still get the same goosebumps now as I did then. They’re not just my favorite band, they’re a part of who I am.”

Backstory:

Hailing from the bustling city of Los Angeles, ‘Sick Bowl’ is a true product of the melting pot of cultures and influences that the city houses. Born out of the teenage angst of four high school friends – James, Ricky, Sam, and Lisa – the band serves as a way for them to channel their feelings of rebellion and frustrations with society’s constraints. With a basement studio and a burning passion to break the norms, ‘Sick Bowl’ was formed in 2006. From playing at local bars to performing at some of the biggest music festivals, the band has truly evolved, earning a strong fan base and making waves in the music industry.

Genre:

Sick Bowl’s music can best be described as a unique blend of Punk Rock with a touch of grunge, creating a sound that perfectly encapsulates the raw energy and passion that the band embodies.

Title:

‘Screaming Silence’

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am [C] I losing my mind or is the world [G] spinning too fast?
Can’t [F] catch my breath, can’t escape the [C] past
[G] Shadows in corners, [C] whispers in the dark
In this [Am] screaming silence, [F] we’re falling apart.

(Chorus)
[C] Screaming silence, a [G] world gone cold
[F] Dreams shattered, [C] truths untold.
[G] In the chaos, we [C] find our soul,
In the [Am] silent scream, we [F] find our role.

(Verse 2)
[C] Empty faces, [G] hollow eyes
[F] Hidden pain, [C] silent cries
[G] We’re rushing through life, [C] losing control
In this [Am] screaming silence, we’re [F] losing our soul.

(Chorus)
[C] Screaming silence, a [G] world gone cold
[F] Dreams shattered, [C] truths untold.
[G] In the chaos, we [C] find our soul,
In the [Am] silent scream, we [F] find our role.

(The chord progression for the song is C-G-F-C-G-C-Am-F repeated throughout the song)

Fan Testimonial:

Sick Bowl’s favorite fan is a die-hard follower named Jonny. Jonny is a college student who stumbled upon the band during a local gig in his town. He resonates with their raw energy and the authenticity in their lyrics. He says, “Sick Bowl is more than just a band for me. Their music speaks to my soul. It’s like they’ve put my feelings into words. Their song ‘Screaming Silence’ is my anthem. It’s not just the music, it’s their attitude, their rebellion against norms, their passion to make a difference. They’ve inspired me more than they’ll ever know.”

Backstory:

Outstanding Other was formed in the heart of Austin, Texas in 2008. The band consists of four members: lead vocalist and guitarist Jake Adler, keyboardist Mariah Finch, drummer Alex Gonzales, and bass guitarist Eddie Walker. They started as a garage band, playing at small gigs and local bars, driven by their shared love for music and the desire to bring something novel to the music scene. Their breakthrough came in 2011 when they were discovered by a talent scout at one of their dive bar gigs. Despite their rise in popularity, they have maintained their grounded and genuine persona, resonating with fans worldwide.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Shadows in The Sunset”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Look at the dying [G] light,
[F] Shadows cast at the [C] twilight.
[G] Silhouettes dancing [Am] on the walls,
[F] Echoes of laughter in the [G] halls.

(Chorus)
[C] Shadows in the [G] sunset,
[F] Reminders of a love, we’ll [C] never forget.
[G] Oh, it’s the dance of the [Am] known and the unknown,
[F] It’s the beat of a heart that’s [G] fully grown.

(Verse 2)
[C] Our story stitched in [G] time,
[F] A symphony with a perfect [C] rhyme.
[G] We’ve got memories in [Am] black and white,
[F] And a future that’s [G] oh so bright.

(Chorus)
[C] Shadows in the [G] sunset,
[F] Holding onto moments, with no [C] regret.
[G] Oh, it’s the dance of the [Am] familiar and the new,
[F] It’s the rhythm of a love that’s [G] always true.

Fan’s Name & Testimonial:

Fan’s Name: Lindsay Thompson

Testimonial:

“As someone who’s been following Outstanding Other since their dive-bar days, I can genuinely say that their music has a unique kind of magic. Their alternative rock style is edgy yet soulful, and it’s the soundtrack to my everyday life. Their song ‘Shadows in The Sunset’ really hit home for me. It’s about the dance between the past and the future, and it resonates deeply with me. That’s why Outstanding Other is my favorite band. Their music speaks to my soul; it’s like they’re singing my life’s story.”