Backstory:

Voluminous Involvement was formed in the gritty heart of New York City in 2005. The band consists of four members: lead vocalist and guitarist Joe ‘Jet’ Simmons, bassist Mikey ‘Mongoose’ Morrison, drummer Danny ‘Deacon’ DeRosa, and keyboardist Billy ‘Bix’ Bixby. United by their love of music and a shared dream to make it big, they began their journey in a cramped, shared apartment in Brooklyn, their music echoing off the graffiti-covered walls and bouncing down the narrow alleyways. Their sound, a distinctive blend of their various musical influences, quickly won over the local audience and they became an overnight sensation in the underground music scene.

Their name, Voluminous Involvement, was derived from their philosophy of completely immersing themselves in their music, as well as engaging their audience in the experience. This philosophy, coupled with their high-energy performances and unforgettable melodies, has catapulted them from the grimy underground clubs of NYC to the biggest stages all around the world.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Title:

“Waves in the Static”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Out here on the edge, [D] where the city ends,
[Em] Underneath the neon sky, [C] our story begins.
[G] We got dreams in our pockets, [D] and love in our hearts,
[Em] We’re headed for the stars, [C] ready to make our mark.

(Chorus)
[G] We are the waves in the static, [D] the echoes in the noise,
[Em] We are the rhythm, we are the music, we are the voice.
[C] We won’t stop till we make it, [G] with all we have to give,
[D] This is our Voluminous Involvement, [Em] this is how we live. [C]

(Verse 2)
[G] We’re not afraid to stumble, [D] to take the fall,
[Em] We’ll rise again, stronger, [C] we’ll conquer it all.
[G] With passion in our veins, [D] and fire in our eyes,
[Em] We’ll light up the darkness, [C] we’ll reach for the skies.

(Chorus)
[G] We are the waves in the static, [D] the echoes in the noise,
[Em] We are the rhythm, we are the music, we are the voice.
[C] We won’t stop till we make it, [G] with all we have to give,
[D] This is our Voluminous Involvement, [Em] this is how we live. [C]

The band’s favorite fan’s name and testimonial:

Name: Tommy ‘T-bone’ Thompson

Testimonial: “I’ve been a fan of Voluminous Involvement since their first gig in Joey’s Garage Bar. Their music, it’s more than just tunes and lyrics. It’s raw, it’s real, it’s life. Every song they play, every word they sing, it’s like they’re telling my story. They make you feel like you’re a part of something bigger, something meaningful. There’s no other band out there that can make me feel the way they do. They’re not just a band to me, they’re family. They’re Voluminous Involvement!”

Backstory:
Hailing from the contrasting landscapes of the bustling New York City and the tranquil Greenland, Black-And-White District is a transcontinental band with a unique testament to their musical journey. The band was formed when Greenland native, Joen Peder, who had been nurturing an indie rock music project, crossed paths with aspiring New York musician, Alex Berman, during a music festival in Berlin. Their shared passion for music and contrasting backgrounds formed the perfect recipe for an exciting new blend of music. They decided to name their band ‘Black-And-White District’ symbolizing their diverse origins and the blend of contrasting styles that they bring to their music.

Genre: Indie Rock

Title: “Monochrome Dreams”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am
In the heart of the city, under the neon light
F
Where the black and white, blend into the night
C
I found a melody, in the chaos so bright
G
It’s in this monochrome, I dream every night

(Chorus)
Am – F – C – G
Monochrome dreams, under the city light
Am – F – C – G
In Black-And-White District, we dance through the night

(Verse 2)
Am
From the land of ice, to the city’s heat
F
The rhythm of our heart, never skip a beat
C
We’re the contrast, yet we beautifully meet
G
In this Black-And-White District, we feel so complete

(Chorus)
Am – F – C – G
Monochrome dreams, under the city light
Am – F – C – G
In Black-And-White District, we dance through the night

The band’s Favorite Fan: Emily Johnson

Testimonial:
Emily Johnson from Brooklyn, New York, is a die-hard fan of Black-And-White District. Emily discovered the band at a local indie rock concert and was immediately enthralled by their unique sound and lyrical depth. She loves that their music, filled with a profound sense of harmony, is a reflection of their contrasting backgrounds. Never missing a gig, Emily has been to every performance within the tri-state area and continues to support the band on social media. She says, “Black-And-White District has a way of making you feel part of their journey. Their music is like a heartfelt conversation, a connection between diverse worlds. They are not just my favorite band, they are my escape, my sanctuary in the world of music.”

Backstory:
Experienced Heaven is an energetic four-piece band founded in the heart of Seattle, Washington. The members – frontman Alex Morales, guitarist Jason Greene, drummer Mike Bishop, and bassist Ethan Hart – met during their first year at the University of Washington. Their shared love for music and the desire to create something profound yet entertaining led to the formation of Experienced Heaven.

The band’s name – Experienced Heaven – is a tribute to their favorite music legend, Jimi Hendrix, and his band “The Jimi Hendrix Experience”. Just like Hendrix, the band aims to create music that transcends the ordinary and delivers a heavenly experience to the audience.

Genre:
Experienced Heaven identifies deeply with the Pop Rock genre, flavored with a hint of Indie Rock.

Title:
The band’s one of the most popular song titles is “Stars in Your Eyes”.

Full song lyrics:
[Verse 1]
G D Em C
She looked at me with the stars in her eyes,
G D Em C
Like she could see through the heart in disguise,
G D Em C
The way she moved was like a sweet surprise,
G D Em C
In her eyes, I saw my paradise.

[Chorus]
G D Em C
With the stars in your eyes, light up the night,
G D Em C
Drown out the world, make everything right,
G D Em C
With the stars in your eyes, my heart takes flight,
G D Em C
With you, my love, it’s an endless delight.

[Verse 2]
G D Em C
She danced in the moonlight, oh so bright,
G D Em C
In her presence, there was no need for light,
G D Em C
Her laughter was my favorite soundbite,
G D Em C
With the stars in her eyes, it was love at first sight.

(Repeat chorus)

Fan’s Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan is 22-year-old Sarah Thompson. She says, “Experienced Heaven is my absolute favorite band! Their music speaks directly to my soul. The lyrics, the melody – everything is just so relatable. ‘Stars in Your Eyes’ has helped me through some tough times. The lyrics resonate with me, and it’s like they understand what I’m going through. I genuinely feel like I’ve experienced heaven when I listen to their music. It’s therapeutic, uplifting, and just plain amazing!”

Backstory:
Past Station is a band that was formed in the quiet city of Asheville, North Carolina in 2009. The band consists of four members: Jake, Marcus, Ellie, and Sam. They met in college and bonded over their shared love for music. What started as a fun pastime jamming in dorm rooms quickly evolved into something more serious as they began to play at local gigs and saw the positive responses they were getting. They named their band ‘Past Station’ because they claim their music is like a train journey, taking listeners to different stops in their past, evoking nostalgia and emotion. They released their first album in 2011 to critical acclaim and have since ridden the train of success, producing soulful music that resonates with their listeners.

Genre:
Indie Rock / Indie Folk

Title:
“Train to Yesterday”

Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G]I hop aboard the train with [C]no destination,
[F]Just a ticket to the past, no [C]hesitation.
[G]The tracks rattle under my [C]feet,
[F]And the rhythm of my heart starts to [C]beat.

(Chorus)
[G]Take me on a train to [C]yesterday,
[F]Where memories lie, and [C]shadows play.
[G]Underneath the starry [C]sky,
[F]I want to live before I [C]die.

(Verse 2)
[G]Each station that we pass is [C]a faded memory,
[F]A glimpse of who we once were, a [C]momentary reverie.
[G]And though the journey’s [C]long,
[F]In our hearts, we carry a [C]song.

(Chorus)
[G]Take me on a train to [C]yesterday,
[F]Where memories lie, and [C]shadows play.
[G]Underneath the starry [C]sky,
[F]I want to live before I [C]die.

(Bridge)
[G]Look out the window, [C]see your reflection,
[F]In the passing lights, find your [C]direction.
[G]Life’s a journey, not a [C]station,
[F]Live it with love, and [C]no hesitation.

(Chorus)
[G]Take me on a train to [C]yesterday,
[F]Where memories lie, and [C]shadows play.
[G]Underneath the starry [C]sky,
[F]I want to live before I [C]die.

Fan’s Name:
Henry Thompson

Henry Thompson Testimonial:
I’ve been a fan of Past Station since their first album. Their music resonates with me on a deeper level. It’s like they’ve found a way to put into song what I feel but cannot explain. Whenever I listen to their songs, it takes me back to different moments of my life. It’s like revisiting my past but with a comforting message that it’s okay to move on. Their song, “Train to Yesterday,” speaks to my soul. I feel a connection with the band because their music is authentic, honest, and raw. They are, by far, my favorite band and have been instrumental in my life.

Backstory:

Green Sun is a group of four friends hailing from the small town of Clayton, Ohio. The band was formed in their high school years when they discovered their shared love for music and a desire to express their unique perspectives of the world around them. The band members include lead vocalist and guitarist, Lucas Greyson; drummer, Noah Jefferson; bassist, Ethan Wade; and keyboardist, Aiden Monroe. Their journey began performing at local bars and cafes before gaining a broader audience with their authentic, soulful sound and thought-provoking lyrics.

Genre:

Indie Folk

Title:

“Emerald Dawn”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Wake up, it’s a [D] brand new day,
[Em] Time to chase the [C] dark away.
[G] Let’s follow where the [D] rivers run,
[Em] Underneath the [C] green sun.

(Chorus)
[G] Emerald dawn, [D] we’re moving on,
[Em] With the songs of our [C] hearts playing on.
[G] Emerald dawn, [D] our fears are gone,
[Em] Underneath the [C] green sun.

(Verse 2)
[G] Quiet whispers, [D] secrets we share,
[Em] In the wind, they [C] flutter and flare.
[G] Together we’ll stand, [D] come what may,
[Em] Underneath the [C] green sun’s ray.

(Chorus)
[G] Emerald dawn, [D] we’re holding on,
[Em] With the rhythm of our [C] souls playing strong.
[G] Emerald dawn, [D] it won’t be long,
[Em] Underneath the [C] green sun, we belong.

The band’s favorite fan:

The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Mary Anderson. Mary is an art teacher from their hometown who has been one of their most supportive fans from the beginning. She has never missed a local performance and always encourages her students to embrace the band’s music.

Testimonial:

“Green Sun has this authentic sound that resonates with the soul. Their lyrics are poetry, and their music is a kind of therapy. It elicits a spectrum of emotions, from joy to melancholy, invoking thought and provoking conversation. They remind me so much of the indie folk scene from back in my day, but with a modern twist. They’re not just a band; they’re storytellers, and that’s why they’re my favorite.” – Mary Anderson.

Backstory:

Heavy Memory was founded in 2008 in a small garage in Nashville, Tennessee. The band consisted of childhood friends Jake Weston (vocals, guitar) and Billy Marshall (drums), who were joined by newcomer Sara Grant (bass, backup vocals) after she answered an advertisement in the local music shop. The trio bonded over their shared love of music, late-night jam sessions, and a mutual desire to create something that would reverberate with the struggles and triumphs of ordinary people. Their unique name, Heavy Memory, came from their shared belief that life’s most challenging experiences are also the most formative.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Song Title:

“Echoes of Yesterday”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Am] Wandering down the [G] streets of yesterday,
[F] Carrying our dreams in [C] hands that shake,
[Am] No spotlight but the [G] stars to guide our way,
[F] Just three lost souls in a [C] world that waits.

(Chorus)
[Dm] Echoes of yesterday, [Am] whispers of sorrow,
[G] Battle cries for a [C] brighter tomorrow,
[Dm] Hold your head high, through [Am] pain, through strife,
[G] With every heavy memory, [C] we carve our life.

(Verse 2)
[Am] Through the lightning, [G] through the thunder’s roar,
[F] We found our harmony, [C] our hearts would soar,
[Am] A symphony born from [G] grungy chords,
[F] In the echoes of yesterday, [C] we found our words.

(Chorus)
[Dm] Echoes of yesterday, [Am] echoes of laughter,
[G] Living for the music, [C] for the moments after,
[Dm] Stand tall, stand proud, [Am] through joy, through strife,
[G] With every heavy memory, [C] we compose our life.

Fan’s Name:

Amy Hart

Testimonial:

“I’ve been a fan of Heavy Memory since the very beginning. From their garage days to sold-out arenas, their music has carried me through some of the toughest times in my life. ‘Echoes of Yesterday’ is more than just a song to me—it’s a lifeline that reminds me of my strength. There’s this raw honesty in their lyrics, a palpable emotion in their melodies that speaks to me on a profound level. Their music doesn’t just entertain—it heals, it comforts. To me, Heavy Memory isn’t just a band, they are storytellers, poets, friends who’ve been there in my darkest hours. And that’s why they’ll forever be my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Starting in the modest town of Stirling, Scotland, Cylindrical Version was born out of an unanticipated jam session in a grungy garage. The band members, childhood friends, each brought their unique backgrounds and love for music to the table, forming a synergy that was undeniable. The group consists of lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Billy MacTavish, lead guitarist James “Jimmy” Lindsay, bassist Sean MacDonald, and drummer Andrew “Drew” Campbell. Inspired by their shared love for music icons like David Bowie, The Beatles, and Nirvana, they decided to push their boundaries and create a sound that was uniquely their own.

Genre:
Psychedelic Rock and Pop

Title:
“Beneath the Aurora”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C G Am Em
Beneath the aurora, where shadows play,
F C G
We danced with the echoes of yesterday.
C G Am Em
Stars like whispers, in silent array,
F C G
Hold the secrets we dare not say.

(Chorus)
F C G Am
Beneath the aurora, we’re lost in time,
Em F C G
In the rhythm of the universe, in its endless rhyme.
F C G Am
With every heartbeat, with every sigh,
Em F C G
We’re caught in the beauty of the night sky.

(Verse 2)
C G Am Em
Beneath the aurora, where dreams take flight,
F C G
We find solace in the velvet night.
C G Am Em
In the silence, we hear the song,
F C G
Of the cosmos, where we belong.

(Chorus)
F C G Am
Beneath the aurora, we’re lost in space,
Em F C G
In the rhythm of the stars, in their gentle grace.
F C G Am
With every heartbeat, with every sigh,
Em F C G
We’re bathed in the wonder of the night sky.

Fan Testimonial:
Name: Fiona Stewart

“I’ve seen Cylindrical Version perform live more times than I can count, and their music always feels like coming home. It’s a perfect blend of rock and pop that transcends the usual genre barriers. ‘Beneath the Aurora’ is my favorite song to cap off my day—it’s just a magical mix of lyrics and melody that transports me to a different world. Cylindrical Version is my favorite band because their music speaks to me on a personal level. It’s like they’ve captured the human experience in their songs. Their music is a constant companion in my life’s journey.”

Backstory:

Good Block originated in a small town in Minnesota, formed by five high school friends with a shared passion for making music that resonates with people. Coming from different backgrounds and having varied tastes in music, the band members integrated their diverse influences to create a unique sound. In their early days, they started playing at local gigs and quickly garnered a loyal fan base due to their compelling performances and authentic lyrics. Their journey from the school basement to recording their debut album in a professional studio has been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride, filled with challenges, triumphs, and plenty of unforgettable moments.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Title:

“Echoes in the Concrete”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
Em G D A
Walking down the old town road,
Em G D A
Lights are dimmed, and stories untold,
Em G D A
Found in the echoes of the songs we have known,
Em G D A
In the heart of the city, we’ve called our own.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Echoes in the concrete, whispers in the wind,
C G D Em
We are the music, let the symphony begin.
C G D Em
When the sun sets low, and stars align,
C G D Em
We’ll be playing our hearts out, ’til the end of time.

(Verse)
Em G D A
In the alleyways, under neon lights,
Em G D A
In the rhythm of the day, in the quiet of the night,
Em G D A
We’ll find our voices, in the melody,
Em G D A
In the echoes in the concrete, we find our symphony.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Echoes in the concrete, whispers in the wind,
C G D Em
We are the music, let the symphony begin.
C G D Em
When the sun sets low, and stars align,
C G D Em
We’ll be playing our hearts out, ’til the end of time.

Fan’s Name:

Lucy Thompson

Testimonial:

“Good Block isn’t just my favorite band because of their music, it’s also because of their authenticity. They’ve shown that making music isn’t about the fame but about connecting with people and touching their lives. Every lyric, every melody feels like it’s speaking directly to me. I still remember their first gig in our local bar. They’ve come a long way since then, but they’ve still managed to retain their roots in their sound, and I think that’s what makes them unique. I’ve never missed a single show, and I can’t wait to see where their journey takes them next!”

Backstory:

Failing Legislation was formed in the rough streets of Detroit, Michigan in 2006. The band members, lead vocalist and guitarist Max ‘Madcap’ Benjamin, bass player and backing vocalist Freddie ‘Frets’ Jacobs, drummer Randy ‘Rhythm’ Smith, and keyboardist Hugo ‘Harmony’ Lewis were high school friends, who shared a common passion for music and a distaste for the socio-political climate of their city. They decided to form a band as a means of expressing their dissatisfaction and creating a platform for change. Despite their tumultuous beginnings, they found a unique sound that resonated with their audience and began to gather a loyal fan base.

As their name suggests, Failing Legislation has never shied away from controversial topics. Their music reflects their perspective on the societal issues plaguing their city and the world. They bring their raw emotions to the stage, using their performances as a catalyst for discussion and a call for change.

Genre:
Punk Rock

Title:
“Broken Promises”

Full song lyrics with chord progression:

[Verse 1] (Em-G-D-A)
Em G
They tell us things,
D A
Promises that ring,
Em G
But they’re hollow inside,
D A
Like the lies they hide.

[Chorus] (C-D-Em)
C D
Broken promises, failing legislation,
Em
We’re the voice of a desperate generation.
C D
Our dreams are dying, lost in translation,
Em
Through the lies of the failing legislation.

[Verse 2] (Em-G-D-A)
Em G
We’ve heard it all,
D A
Watched the mighty fall,
Em G
Yet we stand strong,
D A
Shouting out our song.

[Chorus] (C-D-Em)
C D
Broken promises, failing legislation,
Em
We’re the voice of a desperate generation.
C D
Our dreams are dying, lost in translation,
Em
We won’t bow to the failing legislation.

[Bridge] (Bm-C-D)
Bm C D
We rise, we fight, day and night,
Bm C D
No longer blind, we’ve found our sight.

[Chorus] (C-D-Em)
C D
Broken promises, failing legislation,
Em
We’re the voice of a desperate generation.
C D
Our dreams are dying, lost in translation,
Em
We won’t bow to the failing legislation.

Fan Testimonial:

My name is Lucy and I am undoubtedly Failing Legislation’s biggest fan. Their music speaks to me on a personal level. I grew up in a similar environment, seeing the same issues they sing about. Their songs are more than just catchy tunes, they’re a rallying cry for change, a mirror reflecting the reality of our society. Failing Legislation is my favorite band because they’re not afraid to confront the hard truths and demand better. Their courage and their passion inspire me every day.

Backstory:

Born in the heart of indie-rock haven, Austin, Texas, Guilty Miss is a band that formed in the summer of 2008. The band consists of four childhood friends, who shared a common passion for music and sheer boredom from their day jobs. Karen Carter (vocals and guitar), Sam Walker (lead guitar), Mike Ross (bass), and Lily Anderson (drums) turned their garage jam sessions into a full-blown band, and they never looked back. They took their name from a childhood game they played, where they pretended to be detectives solving imaginary crimes, often blaming a fictional character they named ‘Guilty Miss’.

In a few years, their local gigs gained traction, and they soon found themselves performing at various popular music festivals across the country. They credit their success to their unique sound, a blend of raw emotion and hard-hitting rock, and their dedicated fanbase who have been with them through their journey.”

Genre:

Alternative Indie Rock

Song Title:

“Empty Promises on Sunset Boulevard”

Full Song Lyrics:

(V) [Em] Empty promises on [C] Sunset Boulevard,
[G] Lights flickering, it’s [D] getting hard
[Em] To believe in what’s [C] not in sight
[G] Catching dreams in the [D] middle of the night

(Chorus)
[Em] Guilty Miss, oh [C] Guilty Miss
[G] We’re chasing shadows in the [D] abyss
[Em] Broken hopes and [C] shattered dreams
[G] Life’s not always what it [D] seems

(V) [Em] Whiskey shots and [C] cigarette burns
[G] Playing with fire, [D] never learn
[Em] Empty bottles on [C] the floor
[G] Can’t ignore the [D] closing door

(Chorus)
[Em] Guilty Miss, oh [C] Guilty Miss
[G] We’re chasing shadows in the [D] abyss
[Em] Broken hopes and [C] shattered dreams
[G] Life’s not always what it [D] seems

The band’s favorite fan’s name:

Danielle Hartman

Testimonial:

“I’ve been following Guilty Miss since their early days in Austin. Their music speaks to me on a personal level. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s reflective of life itself. There’s something about Karen’s voice, the way she sings about love, loss, and everything in-between, it’s like she’s telling my story. And the band’s energy on stage is just phenomenal. They genuinely love what they do, and it is infectious. Guilty Miss is not just a band to me, they are my escape, my solace, and my joy.”