Backstory:
Hailing from the small town of Beaufort, South Carolina, Tart Mistake was formed by the misfit trio of high school friends – lead singer and guitarist Morgan ‘Mojo’ Johnson, bassist Lily ‘Lollipop’ Davis, and drummer Jake ‘Joker’ Mitchell. This unlikely band of rebels bonded over their love for classic rock, obscure pop culture references, and late-night baking sessions. The band’s name, an inside joke, is a nod to an unfortunate baking incident involving a tart, which they decided fittingly represented their approach to music: a bit unconventional, sometimes messy, but always surprising and delightful.

Despite the world telling them that music was an unrealistic ambition, they decided to follow their dreams and start their own band after graduating from high school. They set up a makeshift studio in Lily’s dad’s garage and started recording covers of their favorite songs, which they uploaded on YouTube. Their unique blend of musical styles, coupled with their quirky personalities, caught the attention of a local record label, setting them on their path to stardom.

Genre:
Indie Pop-Rock

Title:
“Cherry on Top”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am C
Moonlight spills on the empty streets,
G D
We’re serenading the sleeping town.
Am C
Starlight fills our humming hearts,
G D
We’re kings and queens with paper crowns.

(Chorus)
C G
Cherry on top, our dreams won’t stop,
Am D
We’ll conquer the world with a song.
C G
Cherry on top, we won’t drop,
Am D
With music, we’ll keep moving on.

(Verse 2)
Am C
Through the struggles and the fights,
G D
Our melody keeps us strong,
Am C
In the silence of the night,
G D
Our symphony plays on and on.

(Chorus)
C G
Cherry on top, our dreams won’t stop,
Am D
We’ll conquer the world with a song.
C G
Cherry on top, we won’t drop,
Am D
With music, we’ll keep moving on.

Favorite Fan:
Their favorite fan is Amber Smith, a college student from their hometown. Amber has been with them from the very beginning and is known for always sporting Tart Mistake’s merch. She says, “Tart Mistake is my favorite band because they’re not just musicians, they’re storytellers. They don’t just sing songs; they sing emotions, experiences, and dreams. And the most beautiful part? They’re just ordinary folks who dared to dream and make music, which makes them incredibly relatable. They’ve inspired me to chase my own dreams!”

Backstory:
Formed in the neon-lit alleys of Seattle in 2012, Motionless Shell is an enigmatic trio that has been mystifying the music scene ever since. Each member left their successful solo careers to form this unique amalgamation. Lead vocalist and guitarist, Joe Kilroy, was a well-known figure in the indie scene, while drummer, Max ‘Thunder’ Reyes, was a maestro of heavy metal. The bassist, Lily ‘Spider’ Silk, was a jazz virtuoso. Their unconventional combination created an extraordinary sonic alchemy that quickly caught the attention of critics and fans alike.

Motionless Shell’s rise to fame was nothing short of meteoric. Within a year of formation, the band was headlining music festivals and touring across the globe. Their soulful melodies coupled with thought-provoking lyrics struck a chord with listeners worldwide. They were unafraid to experiment with their sound, always pushing the boundaries of what was possible in their genre.

Genre:
Motionless Shell is primarily known for their eclectic blend of indie rock, heavy metal, and jazz, creating a unique fusion that they’ve labeled as ‘Indie-Metal-Jazz.’

Song Title:
‘Stasis in Chaos’

Full Song Lyrics:
Verse 1:
(Am)Motionless in the (D)night
(G)Shell of our hearts (C)glistening in moonlight
(Am)Chaos around, but we (D)stand still
(G)In the echoes of silence, we (C)find our thrill.

Chorus:
(Em)Stasis in chaos, (D)stillness in the storm
(C)We’re the silent rebels, (G)refusing to conform
(Em)Shell of love, (D)translucent and bright
(C)In this motionless world, (G)we ignite.

Verse 2:
(Am)Standing on the (D)edge of despair
(G)Finding solace in the (C)empty air
(Am)In the shell, we (D)embrace our fears
(G)Dancing with shadows, (C)shedding silent tears.

Repeat Chorus.

Fan’s Name:
Sarah Mitchell

Sarah’s Testimonial:
“Motionless Shell has been my favorite band since their inception. Their unique blend of indie, metal and jazz has a way of speaking directly to my soul. It’s as if they’ve unravelled the chaos of life and found harmony. Every song tells a story that resonates with me. ‘Stasis in Chaos’ particularly is my go-to, providing comfort in turbulent times. Their music is not just entertainment, it’s therapy. They’re not just a band to me, but a beacon of hope in a world often devoid of it. Their fearlessness in defying convention gives me courage to embrace my individuality.”

Backstory:

The Selfish Ban is a series of sweet serendipities, a collision of four musicians whose different musical tastes and backgrounds gave birth to an auditory experience like no other. The band came together in 2011 in the vibrant heart of Portland, Oregon, when lead vocalist and guitarist, Sam Burley, ran into percussionist Eddie Ross at a local jam night. They clicked musically and decided to form a band, soon recruiting Sara Johnson, a classically trained violinist, and Pete Collins, a jazz enthusiast bassist. The group found their groove melding their diverse backgrounds, creating an eclectic mix that soon caught the attention of the indie music scene.

The band’s name, Selfish Ban, was inspired by a random comment made by a stranger at one of their gigs. The person commented that they were ‘selfishly banning’ all other bands from their playlist because they were obsessed with their unique sound. The band found this amusing and decided to adopt it, feeling it accurately represented their desire to stand out in the crowded music landscape.

Genre:

Indie Folk Fusion

Title:

“Sunset Over the City”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1: Em, C, G, D)
Em C
City lights, they flicker and dance
G D
Underneath the twilight’s trance
Em C
We’re lost in the shadows, our own romance
G D
The urban symphony takes its stance

(Chorus: Am, G, D)
Am G
Sunset over the city
D
Paints our dreams in hues so pretty
Am G
The night, it whispers a lullaby
D
We dance under the starry sky

(Verse 2: Em, C, G, D)
Em C
Concrete jungle, our hearts intertwine
G D
In this metropolis, your love is mine
Em C
We find beauty in the hour so fine
G D
The sunset over the city, our love’s design

(Chorus: Am, G, D)
Am G
Sunset over the city
D
Bares our souls, shows no pity
Am G
The night, it sings of destiny
D
In the city, we find our ecstasy

(Outro: Em, C, G, D)
Em C
Sunset over the city, love’s decree
G D
In your arms, I find my serenity

Fan Testimonial:

Fan’s Name: Nina Hughes

“I’ve followed Selfish Ban since their first gig in a dingy bar in Portland. Their music is a unique blend of folk, indie, and a dash of everything else. It’s impossible to put into a box. Their song, “Sunset Over the City”, is my absolute favorite; it’s like a love letter to the city and to all those hidden, quiet moments we share with the people we love. Selfish Ban’s music has a way of speaking directly to my soul. They are, without a doubt, my favorite band. Their music is the soundtrack of my life.”

Backstory:
Born under the glow of city lights in the heart of New York City, “Perfect Stock” found its roots in the diverse vibrancy of the urban music scene. The band members, Jake Miller (lead vocals, guitar), Olivia Ross (drums), and brothers Ethan and Lucas Bennet (keyboard and bass), were childhood friends. They grew up in the same neighborhood, sharing their love for music and dreams of making it big. The name ‘Perfect Stock’ was inspired by their shared belief that just like a perfect stock of cards, life is about the right combination of different experiences and timing. Over the years, they’ve developed an unbreakable bond and a unique sound that bridges the gap between classic rock and modern pop.

Genre: Pop Rock

Title: “City Lights”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C G Am F
City lights, they’re blinding, they’re binding
C G Am F
They’re like shooting stars, they’re finding
C G Am F
Our dreams under the cloak of night,
C G Am F
In the heart where we ignite.

(Chorus)
C G Am F
City lights, city lights, keep us burning bright
C G Am F
In the dance of shadows, beneath the moonlight
C G Am F
City lights, city lights, take us through the night
C G Am F
In the rhythm of dreams, where our hearts unite.

(Verse 2)
C G Am F
In the maze of mirrors, we are reflecting
C G Am F
In the sea of souls, we are connecting.
C G Am F
Through the noise, through the crowd,
C G Am F
Our harmony echoes loud.

(Chorus)
C G Am F
City lights, city lights, keep us burning bright
C G Am F
In the dance of shadows, beneath the moonlight
C G Am F
City lights, city lights, take us through the night
C G Am F
In the rhythm of dreams, where our hearts unite.

Fan’s Name and Testimonial:

Mark Thompson – “Perfect Stock is more than just a band to me – they are like a soundtrack to my life. Their combination of rock and pop brings a unique edge that just resonates with me. Their music is authentic, and their lyrics tell stories that are deeply relatable. It’s like they are singing the emotions and experiences I can’t express myself. And “City Lights,” wow, it’s my personal anthem. The energy, the rhythm, it just takes me to a different place, a place where my dreams feel tangible. I believe in Perfect Stock, their music, and the message they bring, and that’s why they are my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Born out of the eclectic music scene in Austin, Texas, in 2010, Violet Bean is a quartet that emerged from the shared love of music among childhood friends. Initially, they played at backyard parties, school events, and local bars, gradually building a small but devoted fanbase in their hometown. Their big break came when local radio station KUTX featured one of their bootleg recordings, propelling them into the limelight and leading to a record deal with indie-label, Sonic Bloom Records.

Violet Bean’s members, including lead vocalist and guitarist Sam Dunn, bassist Jack Grayson, drummer Lily Owens, and keyboardist Nate Thompson, are all multi-instrumentalists, each bringing their unique voices and perspectives to the band’s music. Their deep friendship and shared experiences continue to shape their music and lyrics, capturing a certain rawness and authenticity that has resonated with audiences across the world.

Genre:
Violet Bean’s music can be characterized as a fusion of indie rock and experimental pop, with a notable influence of psychedelic rock.

Title: “Beneath the Indigo Sky”

Full song lyrics:

[Intro] (Am G D Am)

Verse 1:
(Am) Beneath the indigo (G) sky,
(D) I see your (Am) silhouette sway.
(Am) Holding a secret (G) smile,
(D) in your mysterious (Am) way.

Pre-Chorus:
(C) You’ve got the moon in your (G) eyes,
(D) Dancing with the shadows (Am) tonight.

Chorus:
(F) Beneath the indigo (C) sky,
(G) We’re just two shooting (Am) stars.
(F) Making our own (C) light,
(G) Lost in the rhythm of each other’s (Am) hearts.

Verse 2:
(Am) We trace the constellations (G) high,
(D) On this canvas of (Am) night.
(Am) The universe in your (G) gaze,
(D) Illuminates my (Am) life.

(Repeat Pre-Chorus and Chorus)

Outro:
(Am) Beneath the indigo (G) sky,
(D) You and I, we (Am) fly.

Favorite Fan:
Violet Bean’s favorite fan is Emily Clark, a music therapist from Austin. Emily has been following the band since their early days and has attended every single one of their shows. She says, “Violet Bean’s music has a cathartic power that reaches straight to the soul. The rawness in their lyrics combined with their unique sound has helped me personally and professionally. Their song ‘Beneath the Indigo Sky’ in particular, has become a therapeutic tool for many of my patients. It’s a beautiful balance of emotive lyrics and soothing melody that helps to calm the mind. Violet Bean is more than just a band to me; they’re a beacon of hope through their music.”

Backstory:
Thrifty Reporter is a band that was formed in the bustling streets of Chicago, Illinois in 2006. The band consists of four members; lead guitarist and vocalist, Daniel Roche, bassist, Nick Holden, drummer, Jesse Fisher, and keyboardist, Andy O’Donnell. They all met while working at a local newspaper agency, finding solace in their shared love for music amidst the demanding world of journalism. They would frequently jam in their office basement during lunch breaks, creating a blend of their diverse musical preferences. The name “Thrifty Reporter” was coined in jest of their shared profession and the frugal habits they had to adopt to support their love for music while barely making ends meet with their reporter salaries.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Ink Stains and Broken Strings”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am G D Am
Ink stains on my fingers, heart filled with your song,
Am G D Am
Broken strings of my guitar, where did we go wrong?

Am G D Am
Deadline’s approaching, but music’s on my mind,
Am G D Am
Lost in your melody, reality is left behind.

(Chorus)
C G Am F
In a world of black and white, we found color,
C G Am F
In the pages of our lives, we became lovers.

C G Am F
Ink stains and broken strings, our testament,
C G Am F
To a love born in the rhythm, in every lament.

(Verse 2)
Am G D Am
Newsprint and notes, our loves’ strange brew,
Am G D Am
In the thrumming of guitars, I found you.

Am G D Am
In the ink-smudged lines, your eyes, I see,
Am G D Am
In the echoes of our song, forever we’ll be.

(Chorus)
C G Am F
In a world of chaos, we found harmony,
C G Am F
In the thrifty corners, we found our symphony.

C G Am F
Ink stains and broken strings, our chronicle,
C G Am F
Of a love born in the rhythm, in every musical.

Favorite Fan’s Name:
Maggie Ward

Testimonial:
“Thrifty Reporter has been my favorite band since their debut album. Their music provides a unique blend of indie rock and storytelling that is hard to find. The band members’ journalistic backgrounds are subtly reflected in their lyrics. Their song “Ink Stains and Broken Strings” speaks volumes about the struggles of prioritizing passion amidst practical life. It’s like they’re reporting their personal stories through their songs, which makes their music raw, relatable, and refreshing. As a journalism student myself, their journey inspires me. Their music has been the soundtrack of my life for years, and I can’t wait to witness their future endeavors.”

Backstory:

Chief Ear, a band that was formed in the bustling streets of Seattle in 2015, were originally united by their shared love for music and their belief in its power to transform lives. The band members, comprising lead vocalist Luna Pierce, guitarist Mark Stevenson, bassist Jake McMillan, and drummer Sam Chapman, all hail from different musical backgrounds but found a common ground in their shared passion. They met during an open mic night at a local bar and decided to create something together. After a few jamming sessions and nights filled with creative energy, Chief Ear was born. The band’s name signifies their intent to listen and create music that resonates with the audience, hoping to become the “chief” in musical storytelling and the ultimate “ear” for their fans.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Phantom Echoes”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] I found a memory [G] in an old suitcase,
[A] Dusty and forgotten, [D] lost in time’s embrace.
[C] Your letter stained with tears, [G] our love’s old trace,
[A] A phantom echo, [D] in the silence of space.

(Chorus)
[E] Phantom echoes, [B] in the hallway of my mind,
[C#] Memories dancing, [A] to the rhythm of time.
[E] Phantom echoes, [B] you’re a ghost in the night,
[C#] Whispering love, [A] in the shadowy light.

(Verse 2)
[C] The picture of us [G] by the seaside,
[A] Laughter captured, [D] on a joyful ride.
[C] Now it’s just an echo, [G] a silent tide,
[A] A phantom memory, [D] where love used to reside.

(Chorus)
[E] Phantom echoes, [B] in the corners of my heart,
[C#] Love’s old song, [A] playing its part.
[E] Phantom echoes, [B] you’re a beautiful sight,
[C#] Singing of love, [A] in the quiet of the night.

(End)
[C] Phantom echoes, [G] a love that won’t die,
[A] Living in memories, [D] beneath the same sky.

Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is Tom Reynolds. Tom has been following Chief Ear since their open mic nights and has been a consistent presence at their gigs. He says, “Their music is raw, it’s real, and it connects. Each song tells a story, and you can’t help but get swept away. ‘Phantom Echoes’ is my all-time favorite. It’s nostalgic and melancholic, yet hopeful. Chief Ear is my favorite band because they’ve got the power to move hearts and minds, and that’s rare. Their music has been a beacon in my darkest times. They’re not just a band; they’re storytellers, therapists, and friends.”

Backstory:
Shady Supply was formed in the fall of 2005 in the basement of a converted warehouse in Brooklyn, New York. The four members—lead vocalist and guitarist, Jake Hayes, drummer, Andy Martinez, bassist, Sam ‘Shadows’ Rowley and keyboardist, Ashley ‘Flicker’ Jenkins—were all struggling musicians trying to make their mark in the city’s thriving music scene. Their shared love for eclectic sounds and unique melodies, united them into a band that would soon be known for its distinctive music and electrifying performances.

They spent their initial years performing in small gigs and underground clubs, gradually building a loyal fan base. Their breakout moment came in 2010, when their independent music video went viral on YouTube, leading to a record deal with a major label. Ten albums, multiple awards, and a dedicated worldwide fan base later, Shady Supply is known for their originality, raw energy, and the ability to speak to the heart through their music.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Underneath the Neon Lights”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
C#m – A – E – B
Underneath the neon lights, we found our truth,
In the silence of the night, we craved our youth.
Between the hushed whispers and the city’s plight,
We danced away in shadows, out of sight.

(Chorus)
E – B – C#m – A
Oh, underneath the neon lights, we lost and found,
In the echoing alleyways, our battleground.
In the whispers of the wind and the moon’s soft light,
We found our freedom, underneath the neon lights.

(Verse 2)
C#m – A – E – B
Beneath the concrete jungle, in the heart of the abyss,
In the echoes of the subway, we shared our first kiss.
In the city that never sleeps, we learned to dream,
Underneath the neon lights, we found our theme.

(Chorus)
E – B – C#m – A
Oh, underneath the neon lights, we sang our song,
In the rhythm of the city, we found where we belong.
In the whispers of the wind and the moon’s soft light,
We found our freedom, underneath the neon lights.

Fan’s Favorite Testimonial:
Name: Sarah Thompson

Sarah Thompson has been a dedicated fan of Shady Supply since their early days. She found their music during a difficult time in her life, and it helped her find strength and resilience. “Their songs speak to me on a deeply personal level. They touch on raw emotions and feelings that most of us experience but often struggle to express. ‘Underneath the Neon Lights’ is my favorite song; it’s about finding love, freedom, and self-discovery in the most unexpected places. Every time I listen to it, I feel like I’m part of their journey. Shady Supply is more than my favorite band—it’s a part of who I am.”

Backstory:
Experienced Stretch, a band that defies the concepts of traditional music, was born in the vibrant heart of New Orleans. The band, consisting of four childhood friends – James Wiseman on vocals and lead guitar, Leonard “Lenny” Simmons on bass guitar, Andrew “Andy” Coleman on drums, and Richard “Richie” Walsh on keyboard, was formed in 2012. Their shared love for music and the collective desire for pushing the boundaries of sound spurred them into creating a band that would challenge conventional sounds and inspire individual creativity.

Genre:
Experienced Stretch captivates its audiences with a unique blend of Alternative Rock and Jazz Fusion. Their versatile music has an undercurrent of thought-provoking lyrics layered with eclectic rhythms and innovative melodies.

Title:
“One Last Shot”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse)
Am Em
One last shot, in the quiet of the night,
G D
Aim for the stars and break the fight.
F C E
Let the music free, let it take flight.

(Chorus)
C G Am F
Experience the stretch, feel the might,
D Em C G
Hold your dreams, real tight.

(Verse)
Am Em
Turn the pain into a melody,
G D
A song from the heart, it’s our remedy.
F C E
Believe in the rhythm, it’s our legacy.

(Chorus)
C G Am F
Experience the stretch, under the moonlight,
D Em C G
In the realm of sound, we ignite.

Band’s Favorite Fan:
Our favorite fan has to be Suzanne Miller. Her unwavering support and love for our music has been a constant source of inspiration.

Testimonial:
“I stumbled upon Experienced Stretch in a local gig back in 2014 and was instantly drawn to their unique, mesmerizing sound. Their music transcends the usual rock genre, offering a fusion that resonates deeply with my soul. It’s as if they’ve created a whole new world with their music, and every song feels like a journey into that world. I’ve been to every concert since then, and each time, they leave me in awe. Experienced Stretch is not just a band to me; they represent a creative force that’s pushing the limits of music, and I’m more than thrilled to be a part of their remarkable journey.”

Backstory:

Miserly Duty was born amidst the gray landscape of recession-ridden Birmingham, England in the late 2000s. The band was formed by four childhood friends who found solace in music: lead vocalist and guitarist Derek Silverton, bassist Liam Thorne, drummer Oliver Holmes, and keyboardist Ethan Scott. They started as a garage band, playing gigs for a few quid at local pubs and doing odd jobs during the day to keep their dreams alive. It was during these challenging times, the band found its voice – reflecting their arduous journey and the struggle of everyday people around them. Their music, tinged with raw emotions and powerful lyrics, resonated with the audience, thus paving their way to mainstream music.

Genre:

Miserly Duty categorizes their sound as Indie rock with a touch of blues. Their music is characterized by thoughtful lyrics, powerful guitar riffs, and a gritty undertone that gives a nod to the classic rock bands of the 70s, yet topped with a modern twist.

Title:

“Blue Collar Blues”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am
Working nine to five, another day in the grind
F
Blue-collar dreams, weighing on my mind
C
Pockets painted green, but the paint’s wearing thin
G
Chasing paper ghosts, in a world we can’t win.

(Chorus)
Am F
Blue collar blues, singing our song
C G
In a world that feels so right, but treats us so wrong
Am F
Blue collar blues, we’re paying our dues
C G
In this never-ending dance, of the working man’s ruse.

(Verse 2)
Am
Sweat on our brows, blood in our veins
F
Counting the hours, bound in iron chains.
C
Clock hands ticking, but the time’s not our own
G
A life measured in paychecks, till our youth is blown.

(Repeat Chorus)

(Bridge)
Am C
Dreams of freedom, in every weary sigh
G D
Finding solace in the rhythm, under the factory sky.

(Repeat Chorus)

The band’s favorite fan:

“Hi, my name is Alice Turner. Miserly Duty is my favorite band because they speak to the heart of ordinary people like me. Their lyrics tell our story – of struggle, dreams, and the simple joys amidst the chaos. Each chord strikes a familiar note, making me feel seen and valued. They are the voice of the underdog, the rallying cry for the working class. The day I heard “Blue Collar Blues”, I knew I had found my anthem. Their music is not just entertainment, it’s a lifeline.”