Backstory:

Vapid Round emerged from the bustling underground music scene of Seattle, Washington in the late 90s. The four-piece band, consisting of lead singer Dean Pollock, guitarist Terry Samuels, drummer Jay Mendoza, and bassist Billy Reynolds, all attended the same high school and bonded over their shared love of music. The friends started jamming in Pollock’s garage, experimenting with their sound throughout their high school years. After graduation, they decided to take their passion for music a step further and formed Vapid Round.

Their name was inspired by their observation of the music industry, which they felt was becoming stagnant and repetitive. Vapid Round wanted to disrupt the status quo, bringing a refreshing and innovative sound to the scene. They quickly gained a cult following in the local music scene, thanks to their electrifying performances and unique sonic style, eventually catching the attention of a Los Angeles-based record label who signed them in 2001.

Genre:

Alternative Rock with a splash of Punk

Title:

“Drowning in Echoes”

Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am (x2) F (x1) G (x1)
Down the road where shadows leap,
Where the secrets of the night still creep,
In the echo of dreams untold,
In the whispers of stories old.

(Chorus)
C (x2) G (x1) Am (x1)
We’re drowning, we’re drowning,
Drowning in echoes,
The world is spinning, and round we go,
Lost in the noise, losing our voice,
Drowning in echoes.

(Verse 2)
Am (x2) F (x1) G (x1)
In the heart where silence reigns,
Where the past echoes with old refrains,
In the pulse of the city’s beat,
In the noise of the lonely street.

(Chorus)
C (x2) G (x1) Am (x1)
We’re drowning, we’re drowning,
Drowning in echoes,
The world is spinning, and round we go,
Lost in the noise, losing our voice,
Drowning in echoes.

Fan Testimonial:

Name: Sarah Thompson

“Vapid Round is more than just a band to me; they’re a beacon of raw emotion and realness in a world that often feels fake. Their music speaks to me in a way no other band ever has. It’s like they’ve taken the thoughts and feelings swirling around in my head and articulated them in the most beautiful and soul-stirring way. Every song, every lyric, resonates deeply with me, especially “Drowning in Echoes”. It beautifully encapsulates the feeling of being overwhelmed by the noise and chaos of the world. Vapid Round is my favorite band because they continually push the boundaries of their music, staying true to their unique sound while exploring new, exciting directions. Their music has become the soundtrack of my life.”

Backstory:
Questionable Clause was formed in the heart of New York City in 2005 and quickly became known for their unpredictable, occult-inspired rock tunes. The four-piece band was comprised of childhood friends: lead vocalist and guitar player, John ‘Raven’ Davids, drummer Mark ‘Grim’ Wilson, bass player, Paul ‘Phantom’ Harris, and keyboardist, David ‘Dusk’ Campbell. They started playing in local clubs and quickly gained attention due to their unique sound and controversial lyrics. Their breakthrough came in 2007 when a major record label signed them after a show that nearly resulted in a riot due to their provocative performance.

Since then, Questionable Clause found themselves in the center of rock glory yet challenged by the ups and downs of fame. Their music, which delves into human struggle, the mysteries of the universe, and the exploration of personal demons, has been both hailed as revolutionary and dismissed as outrageous. They balance the fine line between the mainstream and the underground, refusing to follow in anyone’s footsteps.

Genre:
Psychedelic Rock/Alternative Rock

Title:
“Shadows and Stardust”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Am – G – F – G
In the land where shadows whisper, (Am)
Glowing echoes of the dusk, (G)
Shackled dreams and broken rainbows, (F)
In the stardust we entrust. (G)

(Chorus)
Em – F – G – Am
Oh, the Shadows and Stardust, (Em)
Don’t let us fall apart, (F)
Pull us into the galaxy, (G)
Straight into the heart. (Am)

(Verse 2)
Am – G – F – G
Beyond the veil of illusion, (Am)
Where the time forgets to flow, (G)
We play our notes in silent screams, (F)
In the rhythm only we know. (G)

(Chorus)
Em – F – G – Am
Oh, the Shadows and Stardust, (Em)
Guide us in our flight, (F)
Amidst the tumult of existence, (G)
In the endless, starry night. (Am)

Band’s Favorite Fan:
Our favorite fan is a woman known as ‘Crazy Daisy’. She’s been to every show, knows all the lyrics to our songs, and always has a positive word to say about us.

Testimonial:
“I love Questionable Clause because they are not just a band, they’re a phenomenon. Their music speaks to my soul and helps me navigate the chaos of life. Not a day goes by that I don’t listen to their songs. They are the soundtrack to my existence. ‘Shadows and Stardust’ is my favorite; it’s like a cosmic journey that never ends. I’ll continue to follow them wherever they go and whatever they do. They’re more than a band to me, they’re my lifeline.” – Crazy Daisy.

Backstory:

Every People was formed in the eclectic city of Austin, Texas in 2012. The band is composed of five members: lead singer and rhythm guitarist Melinda Cassidy, lead guitarist Jose Baxter, bassist Olivia St. James, drummer Carlos Rodriguez, and keyboardist Alex Morse. They met at a local music festival and quickly discovered a shared passion for creating and making music with a message. Every People believes in unity, in the power of diversity, and in using music as a medium to send out positive vibes around the world.

The band began by performing in small local venues, gradually working their way up the ladder, earning a loyal fanbase through their heartfelt lyrics and unique sound. After their single “Boundless Sky” hit the charts in 2015, they quickly gained national recognition, leading to their signing with independent label, Harmony Records.

Genre:

Indie Rock / Folk Pop

Title:

“Shelter in the Rain”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Staring at the [C] storm, [Em] clouds rolling in,
[D] I’m lost in a world [G] that’s caving in.
[G] Looking for a [C] place, [Em] somewhere to hide,
[D] somewhere to escape [G] the rising tide.

(Chorus)
[G] You are my [C] shelter in the [Em] rain,
[D] the one who takes [G] away the pain.
[G] When everything [C] falls apart,
[Em] I find my home, [D] I find my heart [G] with you.

(Verse 2)
[G] In the darkest [C] hour, [Em] when shadows roam,
[D] you’re the light that [G] guides me home.
[G] Through the highs, the [C] lows, [Em] the in between,
[D] you’re the strongest love [G] I’ve ever seen.

(Repeat Chorus)

Every People Fan:

Name: Jeremy Winters

Testimonial: “Every People is by far my favorite band. Not only do they produce phenomenal music that’s a blend of Indie Rock and Folk Pop, but their lyrics also tell a story, reach into your soul, and really speak to you. ‘Shelter in the Rain’ specifically has helped me through some tough times, reminding me that I’m not alone and there’s always hope, always a shelter. The band’s philosophy of unity and spreading positivity is inspiring. I can’t wait to see what they do next!”

Backstory:
Quarterly Horse emerged from the foggy plains of rural Pennsylvania, where four childhood friends found a shared passion for music. The band’s members – lead singer and rhythm guitarist, Jonny “Blaze” Brazell, lead guitarist Tommy “Throttle” Thompson, bassist Ricky “Riff” Riggs, and drummer Danny “Drumfire” Delaney – spent their early years separately exploring various music genres. They finally found their shared love for a unique fusion of rock and country during a serendipitous jam session in Blaze’s barn on an icy winter evening.

The band name, “Quarterly Horse,” was inspired by a humorous misreading of a local newspaper headline. It struck a chord with the group for its quirky and unpretentious charm and has stuck ever since. Over the years, their music has grown more eclectic, with flourishes of blues, indie, and folk, but the core of rock and country remains strong.

Genre:
Country Rock

Song Title:
“Dusty Roads & Broken Hearts”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Driving down this [C] dusty road, [D] chasing the sun [G] set
[G] My heart is heavy, [C] filled with regret [D]
[G] She left me standing [C] in the rain [D]
[G] Now I’m just a [C] lone wolf, [D] in pain [G]

(Chorus)
[G] Dusty roads and [C] broken hearts [D]
[G] That’s where this [C] love story [D] starts [G]
[G] I’ve got a [C] hole in my chest [D]
[G] Where she [C] used to [D] rest [G]

(Verse 2)
[G] I see her face [C] in every crowd [D]
[G] Her laughter still [C] echoes loud [D]
[G] She was my [C] morning light [D]
[G] Now I’m lost in [C] endless night [D]

(Chorus)
[G] Dusty roads & [C] broken hearts [D]
[G] That’s where this [C] love story [D] starts [G]
[G] I’ve got a [C] hole in my chest [D]
[G] Where she [C] used to [D] rest [G]

(Bridge)
[G] Maybe one day [C] down that road [D]
[G] We’ll find our [C] way back home [D]
[G] Until then, I’m [C] on my own [D]
[G] Just me and [C] the wide [D] open [G]

(Chorus)
[G] Dusty roads & [C] broken hearts [D]
[G] That’s where this [C] love story [D] starts [G]
[G] I’ve got a [C] hole in my chest [D]
[G] Where she [C] used to [D] rest [G]

Fan Testimonial:
“I’m Sarah and I live near the place where Quarterly Horse was born. I’ve been listening to their music since their first local gig at our county fair. I remember being struck by their raw, genuine sound. The blend of rock energy and country soul just spoke to me. Through every album, they’ve grown and adapted, but they’ve never lost that core sound. Their music has gotten me through tough times and made good times even better. I’ve got all their albums, attend every concert I can, and have even been lucky enough to meet them. They’re good folks, making great music. That’s why Quarterly Horse will always be my favorite band.”

Backstory:

Unfolded Sergeant erupted from the rustic town of Jackson, Wyoming, in 2012. The band, led by charismatic frontman Jack “Jax” Cohen, a former military officer and his childhood friend, bassist Annie “Tank” Thompson, rose to prominence due to their unique blend of musical talent, energy, and military-inspired thematic elements. Drummer ‘Sniper’ Steve Riley and guitarist ‘Bomber’ Bill Gordon, both veterans like Jax, joined the two, and the band’s formation was complete. The band members’ shared military background and love for music provided the perfect foundation for creating tunes that resonated deeply with their listeners, offering both a sense of camaraderie and an escape.

Unfolded Sergeant’s journey was not without struggles. They faced criticism and indifference from mainstream music circles, but their tenacity and unwavering faith in their music and message saw them through. Their breakthrough came in 2015 when they performed at the annual Warriors Fest, a music festival dedicated to celebrating and supporting veterans. Their music, filled with stories of bravery, resilience, and the aftermath of war, struck a chord with the audience, earning them a loyal following and a record deal.

Genre:
Alternative Rock/ Country

Title:
“Battlefield Ballad”

Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Marching on this lonely road, [D] past the scars that war bestowed
[Em] Memories of a time, painted [C] red with the frontline

[G] Dusty boots and a worn-out soul, [D] a sergeant’s tale untold
[Em] Fighting not just a war, but [C] battles that come ashore

(Chorus)
[G] Sing me a battlefield ballad, [D] a tune for the brave and gallant
[Em] A heart’s anthem, a soldier’s song, [C] in the face of right and wrong
[G] With every note, every chord, [D] remember what we fought for
[Em] Let the music heal, in the echoes of this [C] battlefield

(Verse 2)
[G] Through the trenches, under the sun, [D] till the battle’s won
[Em] I’m an unfolded sergeant with [C] tales of tenacious torment

[G] Echoes of gunfire, the smell of rain, [D] a symphony of pain
[Em] Play on, my guitar, play on, [C] healing my war-torn heart

(Chorus)
[G] Sing me a battlefield ballad, [D] a melody for each comrade
[Em] A tribute to the countless names, [C] in the hall of war games
[G] With every strum, every word, [D] remember their stories, unheard
[Em] Let the rhythm tell, the tale of this [C] living hell

Fan’s Testimonial:

“My name is Charlie and I’m the biggest fan of Unfolded Sergeant. Their music speaks to me like no other. As a retired serviceman, their songs resonate with my experiences. They don’t just sing about battles and war, they sing about the human side of it, the emotions, the struggles, the resilience. It’s therapeutic and honestly, it’s helped me immensely in dealing with my PTSD. I’ve seen them perform live, and their energy is contagious. They’ve become my favorite because they aren’t just musicians, they are storytellers, and in their stories, I find solace and strength.”

Backstory:

Icy Oven is a band that came together under the most unexpected circumstances. The founding members, Leo and Max, met during a snowstorm while seeking refuge in a bakery. Stranded there for hours, they discovered a mutual love for music and started to talk about forming a band. Thus, Icy Oven was born, a name that paid homage to the fateful night they met. After a few years of grinding in the local music scene, they found their two other members – drummer Jodie and bassist Alan. Despite their different music tastes, they all found a unique rhythm together, creating an unparalleled synergy.

Genre:

Icy Oven’s music can be classified as Alternative Rock with a touch of Psychedelic Pop. Their sound is a unique fusion of heavy guitar riffs, dreamy synths, and powerful, emotive vocals.

Title:

The band’s most popular song is called “Lost in Frost.”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
[C]Lost in the blizzard, [G]found in the heat,
[Am]Life’s paradoxes make our [F]hearts beat.
[C]We met in a bakery, [G]inside a snowstorm,
[Am]Two lost souls, getting [F]warm.

(Chorus)
[C]Icy Oven, [G]Our hearts are leavened,
[Am]In a world of frost, [F]we’re never lost.
[C]Icy Oven, [G]Our love has risen,
[Am]In this winter’s frost, [F]we’re never lost.

(Verse)
[C]Strumming guitars, [G]pounding the drums,
[Am]We found our rhythm, [F]beating like thumbs.
[C]Dreaming of stages, [G]beneath the lights,
[Am]We found our purpose, [F]on those endless nights.

(Chorus)
[C]Icy Oven, [G]Our hearts are leavened,
[Am]In a world of frost, [F]we’re never lost.
[C]Icy Oven, [G]Our love has risen,
[Am]In this winter’s frost, [F]we’re never lost.

Fan Testimonial:

Their favorite fan is a teenager named Sarah. Sarah is a self-proclaimed super fan who has been following Icy Oven since their local gigs. Sarah says, “Icy Oven is more than just a band for me. Their music speaks to me on a level that no other band does. Their unique sound, their blend of rock and pop, and their emotional lyrics connect with me like nothing else. The song ‘Lost In Frost’ especially, it’s like they took a piece of my soul and turned it into a song. Icy Oven isn’t just my favorite band, they’re a part of who I am.”

Backstory:
‘Grateful Fear’ traces its origin back to a random subway platform in Brooklyn, New York. Its members, lead guitarist Warren ‘Worm’ Thompson and lead vocalist Ethan ‘Echo’ Eichmann, were two strangers who shared a common love for music. Their friendship started with a chance encounter when Warren overheard Echo humming a tune he recognized and couldn’t help but join in. This sparked a conversation that led to jamming sessions, which eventually turned into full-blown songwriting collaborations. Within a year, they added drummer Lily ‘Lightning’ Lane and bassist Oliver ‘Ox’ Xavier to the mix, forming a band they would later name ‘Grateful Fear’. Why such a name? According to Echo, it represents their collective appreciation for the fear that pushes them to create music that not only entertains but challenges social norms and provokes thought.

Genre:
Grateful Fear is an Alternative Rock band with influences of Punk and Grunge seeping into their sound.

Title:
“Nightmare in Paradise”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
Am G D Am
Caught in this paradise, chained by the silent lies,
Am G D Am
Trapped in our own device, living on borrowed time.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Nightmare in paradise, we’re lost and mesmerized,
C G D Em
Wings clipped, we cannot fly, it’s a nightmare in paradise.

(Verse)
Am G D Am
Through the mirror’s eyes, witnessing our demise,
Am G D Am
Innocence pays the price, wake up it’s no surprise.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Nightmare in paradise, under the neon lights,
C G D Em
In freedom’s disguise, it’s a nightmare in paradise.

(Bridge)
F G Em Am
In the end, we realize, we’re just stars in an endless sky,
F G Em Am
Chasing dreams, chasing highs, in this nightmare in paradise.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Nightmare in paradise, through the smoke and the ice,
C G D Em
In the heart of the fight, it’s a nightmare in paradise.

Fan’s Name & Testimonial:
Fan’s name: Rosemary Hopkins
“Grateful Fear is like a breath of fresh air in the music industry. Their unique sound and profound lyrics have a way of resonating with my own life experiences. Their music brings light to darker themes in a way that feels comforting, rather than isolating. ‘Nightmare in Paradise’ is a testament to their genius. It’s a song that speaks directly to our society’s issues, yet simultaneously offers solace. I feel heard and understood when I listen to their music. There’s a raw authenticity to their sound that’s both refreshing and cathartic. I’ve been a fan since their first gig in a small club in Brooklyn, and I’ll continue to support Grateful Fear as they climb their way to the top.”

Backstory:
Overjoyed Tension was formed in the charming city of Austin, Texas in 2010. The band was the brainchild of childhood friends, Jeremy Jones on vocals and guitar, Eliza Thompson on bass, and Mason Mitchell on drums. Each of them had a deep-rooted love for music and an eclectic taste that inspired the unique sound of Overjoyed Tension. They started small, playing in local bars and at private events, eventually carving a spot for themselves in the local music scene. They caught their big break in 2013 when an indie label signed them and helped them release their debut album, ‘Echoes of a Whisper’.

Genre:
Overjoyed Tension’s music falls distinctly in the Alternative Rock genre with a touch of Indie and Punk influence. Their sound is raw and emotive, known to bring listeners on an emotional rollercoaster with their hard-hitting lyrics and melodic tunes.

Title:
One of their most popular songs is titled “Midnight Revelations”.

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1: [G] I walk on a [Em] path well known, [C] under a sky so [D] full of stars
[G] Secrets whispering [Em] in the wind, [C] echoing the [D] scars
[G] My heart is heavy [Em] with tales untold, [C] dreams crumbling like [D] sand
[G] Midnight revelations, [Em] a journey yet [C] unplanned [D]

Chorus: [G] Midnight revelations, [Em] under the moon’s soft [C] glow
[D] Ghosts of the past, [G] dancing in shadows [Em] low
[C] We’re finding our way, [D] amidst the overjoyed tension
[G] Revelations at midnight, [Em] embracing the [C] unspoken dimension [D]

Repeat Verse 1 and Chorus

Favorite Fan:
Their favorite fan is a woman named Lisa Howard. Lisa has been following their journey since their garage band days and has become a beloved figure among the band members for her unwavering support and love. She’s been to nearly all their concerts, whether they were local gigs or major music festivals.

Testimonial:
“Overjoyed Tension is more than just a band to me. Their music has been a constant in my life through ups and downs. There is a raw honesty in their songs that resonates with me and many others. It’s more than just music, it’s a shared human experience, and that’s why they are my favorite band.” – Lisa Howard.

Backstory:

Born in the heart of the music city, Nashville, Ample Federation is a band that celebrates diversity and unity in every aspect of their music. The four members, Ryan Elliot (lead vocals, guitar), David Freeman (bass), Olivia Clarke (drums), and Sarah Simmons (keyboard, backing vocals) met in college, where they were studying different genres of music. Inspired by their shared love for creating music that transcends borders and genres, they joined forces, bringing their varying expertise to the table and creating a unique sound that was simultaneously unusual and irresistible.

Genre:

Ample Federation’s music is a fusion of alt-rock, indie-pop, and electronic music, with a heavy influence of folk. Their sound is characterized by powerful vocals, energetic guitar riffs, compelling drum patterns, and catchy keyboard melodies. Their lyrics often speak about societal issues, unity, and personal experiences, resonating with their diverse audience.

Title:

“One More Horizon”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am G F C
Flying high, on the back of a dream,
Am G F C
We’re chasing light, where it’s never been seen.
Am G F C
Together we stand, divided we fall,
Am G F C
With one voice we answer the call.

(Chorus)
Dm G C Am
One More Horizon, waits for us ahead,
Dm G C Am
In the face of the unknown, we choose to tread.
Dm G C Am
Hand in hand, we’ll break the night,
Dm G C Am
Chasing dreams in the new morning light.

(Verse 2)
Am G F C
Countless voices, echoing in the night,
Am G F C
In the symphony of life, we find our light.
Am G F C
Different paths, but the same destination,
Am G F C
In unity, we find our salvation.

(Chorus)
Dm G C Am
One More Horizon, waits for us ahead,
Dm G C Am
In the face of the unknown, we choose to tread.
Dm G C Am
Hand in hand, we’ll break the night,
Dm G C Am
Chasing dreams in the new morning light.

Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan is Jennifer Parker. “Ample Federation is more than just a band for me,” she says. “They are a beacon of hope. Their music has helped me through some of the toughest times in my life. The way they weave stories into their lyrics, the passion they put into every note, it’s a reminder that we are not alone. The world is full of people who feel, dream, struggle, and hope just like us. That sense of unity, that’s why they are my favorite band.”

Backstory:

Several Record was formed in the vibrant music scene of Austin, Texas, in the mid-2000s. The band members, lead vocalist and guitarist Ethan Grant, bassist Noah Ryan, drummer Alex Hayes, and keyboardist Adam Parker, first met at a local open-mic night. Sharing a mutual love for music, the four quickly hit it off and decided to form a band. After months of practicing in Ethan’s garage and performing at local venues, Several Record self-released their debut EP, catching the attention of a prominent record label.

Experimenting with different sounds and genres, they settled on indie rock with a touch of pop, a genre that perfectly encapsulated their soulful lyrics and dynamic harmonies. Their breakthrough came when their hit single, “River in the Rain,” blew up on various music platforms, propelling them into the mainstream music industry. Since then, the band has released three albums and toured worldwide, gaining a dedicated fan base along the way.

Genre:

Indie Rock-Pop

Title:

“Sunset Silhouettes”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am Em
Driving down the highway, the sun begins to set
F C
Lighting up the sky in hues of orange and red
G Dm
You’re sitting right next to me, your hand in mine we’re set
F C G
Making memories that we will never forget

(Chorus)
Am Em F C
In the glow of the sunset silhouettes, we make our own secret alphabet
G Dm Am G
Your laughter, our music, we dance, we spin, our story’s only about to begin

(Verse 2)
Am Em
In the rearview mirror, the city fades away
F C
Trading skyscrapers for fields of golden hay
G Dm
Our hearts are intertwined, in this moment we stay
F C G
Tomorrow’s worries feel so far away

(Chorus)
Am Em F C
In the glow of the sunset silhouettes, we trace out our future without any regrets
G Dm Am G
In this moment, your love feels like a sonnet, as the sun dips, we’re lost in this moment

(Bridge)
F G Am
And as the stars light up the night, your eyes hold mine tight
Em F C G
Under the moon’s silver light, everything feels so right

(Chorus)
Am Em F C
In the glow of the sunset silhouettes, our love story is the best one yet
G Dm Am G
With every sunset, we write a new chapter, chasing the happiness we’re after

Fan Testimonial:

Fan’s Name: Sarah Thompson

“Several Record has been my favorite band since I stumbled upon their EP years ago. Their songs always manage to tell a story that I can personally connect with. Their music, especially “Sunset Silhouettes,” makes me feel seen, understood, and less alone. I’ve been to several of their concerts and each one feels like a unique and intimate experience. The band’s passion for their music is palpable and infectious, and I can’t wait to see what they have in store for the future.”