Backstory:
Formed in the sleepy town of Wellow, England in 2012, ‘Novel Meal’ was a result of an unexpected friendship between barista-turned-bass-player, Oliver Hughes, and silent bookstore owner/lead singer, Emily Clarke. This unlikely duo soon found themselves regularly jamming after hours in the back of Emily’s bookshop, mixing their unique musical styles and influences together. Their compositions were often inspired by the books that surrounded them, resulting in a strange, yet enchanting blend of storytelling and music.

A chance encounter with multi-instrument virtuoso, Will Carter, brought a new dimension to the band. Besides bringing in his skills on guitar, keyboard, and drums, Will also introduced the band to the vibrant indie music scene in London. Their eccentric style quickly caught attention, and the trio relocated to the capital, adding two more members – Nina Gomez on percussion and Charlie Abbott on guitar – to form the full ensemble that makes up ‘Novel Meal’ today.

Genre:
Alternative Rock with a touch of Folk

Title:
“Pages of Time”

Full song lyrics:

[Verse]
D (maj7) G Bm
Turn the pages of time, it’s a story unwritten,
Em A7 Dmaj7
Fragments of love, of dreams, and smitten.
Dmaj7 G Bm
In the echoes of silence, the quiet night air,
Em A7 Dmaj7
whispers of words that we used to share.

[Chorus]
G D A Bm
In the corners of your mind, I stay,
G D A Bm
In your thoughts throughout the day.
Em A D Bm
Through the pages of our time, we roam,
G A Dmaj7
In the chapters, we call home.

[Verse]
Dmaj7 G Bm
Under the starry sky, the moon our guide,
Em A7 Dmaj7
In the pages of time, our love will hide.
Dmaj7 G Bm
In the stories untold, in the verses unsung,
Em A7 Dmaj7
In the chapters of life, we’ve only just begun.

(Repeat Chorus)

Bands Favorite Fan:
Ellie Carter. Ellie is a literature student who stumbled upon ‘Novel Meal’ during a live gig at a local cafe. She was instantly captivated by their unique way of translating stories into melodies. Ellie has followed the band since then, attending all their performances she could, and she never misses a chance to promote them on her blog. Ellie finds their music to be the perfect soundtrack to her readings, allowing her to dive deeper into the worlds of the novels.

Testimonial:
“Novel Meal is more than just a band. They are artists who paint vivid stories with their music. Their songs take me on a journey, making me feel as though I’m living through the pages of a beautifully penned novel. As a literature student, their music has become an integral part of my academic life and personal growth.”

Backstory:

Formed in the bustling city of Chicago in 2004, Forked Test began as a group of four friends who shared a passion for music and a love for pushing boundaries. Comprised of lead vocalist Jonah “Jax” Axelrod, guitarist Corey “Blues” Martin, drummer Tommy “Mad Dog” Walker, and bassist Finn “The Machine” McDonald, Forked Test started off playing gigs in local bars and clubs, gradually building a reputation for their energetic performances and innovative sound. Over the years, the band has evolved, drawing from their individual musical influences and experimenting with their sound, ensuring that they continue surprising their audience at every turn.

Genre: Indie Rock / Experimental

Title: “Catharsis Avenue”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Found myself on Catharsis Avenue, [Em] lost in thoughts of you,
[C] Tried to run, tried to hide, but [D] love like this is hard to subdue.
[G] Memories etched on the sidewalk cracks, [Em] all our silent pacts,
[C] We danced through life, but [D] now it’s time to face the facts.

(Chorus)
[G] Oh, we built our dreams on Catharsis Avenue, [Em] under skies so blue,
[C] But now those dreams have faded, they’re [D] nothing more than a residue.
[G] And I’m stuck here on Catharsis Avenue, [Em] haunted by the ghost of you,
[C] I need to find a way to [D] start anew.

(Verse 2)
[G] Walking past our old haunts, [Em] echoes of our old wants,
[C] The laughter and the tears, [D] the triumphs and the taunts.
[G] Every corner holds a memory, [Em] every alley, a story,
[C] We lived, we loved, but [D] now all that’s left is allegory.

(Chorus)
[G] Oh, we built our dreams on Catharsis Avenue, [Em] under skies so blue,
[C] But now those dreams have crumbled, they’re [D] nothing more than a residue.
[G] And I’m lost here on Catharsis Avenue, [Em] haunted by the ghost of you,
[C] I need to find a way to [D] let go and start anew.

Fan’s Name: Sarah Green

Testimonial:

“Forked Test is more than just a band to me, it’s a lifeline. Their music resonates with me on a level I can’t even begin to describe. It’s as if they’ve taken my thoughts, hopes, fears, and dreams, and turned them into song. When I’m feeling lost or down, I listen to their music and it helps me feel understood and less alone. Their lyrics have a way of touching your soul and making you see things from a different perspective. It’s genuine, raw, and powerful. There’s nothing quite like the feeling you get when you’re in the crowd at a Forked Test concert, singing along to their soul-stirring songs. They are, without a doubt, my favorite band.”

Backstory:
The Second-Hand Alliance was born in the dusty corners of a vintage store in downtown Portland, Oregon. The band members, who were then just mere acquaintances, kept running into each other while hunting for vinyl records. After a few shared laughs over their mutual love for retro culture and classic rock, they decided to form a band in the summer of 2012. The Second-Hand Alliance has grown from a simple jamming session between four vintage music enthusiasts to a full-fledged band that brings a fresh twist to the classic rock genre. The band comprises of Jack Newman on vocals, Sarah Moore on bass guitar, Paul Dempsey on drums, and Roger ‘Rog’ Johnson on lead guitar.

Genre:
Classic Rock with a modern twist

Title:
“Survivors of Time”

Full Song with Chord Progression:

[Verse 1: Am, E, G, D]
In the shadows of the past, (Am)
Where our heartbeat was the last, (E)
We found music in sorrow’s cast, (G)
Our melody, strong and vast. (D)

[Chorus: C, G, A, F]
We’re the survivors of time, (C)
On the journey, we’ve paid the dime, (G)
In every note, in every rhyme, (A)
Our souls, in rhythm and chime. (F)

[Verse 2: Am, E, G, D]
In the echo of yesterday, (Am)
In the tunes we dare to play, (E)
We find a path, we find a way, (G)
In the music, we find our say. (D)

[Chorus: C, G, A, F]
We’re the survivors of time, (C)
With a rhythm and a rhyme, (G)
In the end, it’s a mountain we climb, (A)
In the music, we witness the prime. (F)

Band’s Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a lady named Betty Lou. As a child of the 60s, Betty’s always had a deep love for classic rock. She first discovered Second-Hand Alliance during a local music festival in 2013 and was instantly smitten by their unique sound – a perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation. To her, the band represents a journey through time, a bridge between her past and the present. Betty says, “Second-Hand Alliance is my favorite because they channel the classic rock spirit, but with a freshness that makes every track exciting. Their music takes me back, but it also pushes me forward. It’s like they’re breathing new life into the music I grew up with. Their songs are timeless, just like the vinyl records I adore. They’ve become the soundtrack of my life.”

Backstory:
Striped Chairman was formed in the bustling city of Seattle in 2013 by a group of friends with a shared passion for unique soundscapes and a desire to create something different. The lead vocalist and guitarist, Tate McAdams, was working as a barista in a local coffee shop, scribbling song ideas on napkins in between lattes. He soon met bassist, Lena Carlisle, when she came in one rainy day and noticed his scribbles. Drummer, Kai Driscoll, was a childhood friend of Tate’s who had always been into percussion, and keyboardist, Reese Marshall, was Lena’s roommate with an affinity for indie music and analog synths. As they came together, they discovered their distinct sound, a beautiful amalgamation of their diverse influences.

Their name, Striped Chairman, was inspired by a painting that hung in the coffee shop where Tate worked. The painting featured a striped armchair, empty but inviting, symbolic of the welcoming space they aim to create with their music. Their journey was marked by gigs in small pubs and underground venues, and they quickly gained a loyal fan base that appreciated their unconventional approach and deeply emotional lyrics.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Song Title:
“Coffee Stains and Melodies”

Full song lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G] Scribbling on napkins, [D] lost in my thoughts, [Em]
[C] Amid the chatter, [G] in the pour over spots. [D]

[G] Behind the counter, [D] a world of my own, [Em]
[C] Brewing dreams in [G] Seattle’s monochrome. [D]

(Chorus)
[C] Coffee stains and melodies, [G] waking up the city,
[D] Every drop, a symphony, [Em] in the grind so gritty.
[C] Pouring out my heart in song, [G] under the neon light,
[D] In the quiet before the dawn, [Em] finding the muse to write.

(Verse 2)
[G] She walked in one day, [D] under the pouring rain, [Em]
[C] Noticed my scribbles, [G] shared the creative strain. [D]

[G] Strangers turned friends, [D] rhythm in the routine, [Em]
[C] Lost in the music, [G] in the espresso machine. [D]

(Chorus)
[C] Coffee stains and melodies, [G] stirring up a storm,
[D] Every note, a memory, [Em] in the brew so warm.
[C] Serving verses with the cups, [G] under the neon light,
[D] In the hum of coffee grinds, [Em] finding the muse to write.

Favorite Fan:
Our favorite fan’s name is Nellie Turner. Nellie has been with us since our first gig at a tiny bar in the university district. She’s always there, right in the front row, singing along with every lyric. Nellie says, “Striped Chairman is my favorite band because their songs are like a comforting cup of coffee on a rainy day. They’re warm, they’re real, and they have this raw, emotional quality that resonates deeply within me. I love how their music speaks to the everyday experiences we all face. It’s this intimate connection that makes them not just a band for me, but a part of my life.”

Backstory:
“Astonishing Principle” was formed in 2005 in the bustling city of Los Angeles. The band originally started as a trio consisting of siblings Alex and Samantha Thompson on guitars and vocals, and childhood friend, Joey Hughes on drums. Over the years, the band has faced numerous struggles, including line-up changes, creative differences, and the everyday struggle of living and working as artists. However, these trials and tribulations only toughened their resolve and deepened their bond. The band’s music is a testament to their perseverance and their unyielding commitment to their craft, reflecting the ups and downs of their journey in the rawest, most authentic way.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Sundown Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)

Am (x2) Em (x2)
Under the sundown shadows, we’d laugh and cry,
G (x2) D (x2)
Never knew, what tomorrow’s light will imply.
Am (x2) Em (x2)
In the heart of the city, we found our beat,
G (x2) D (x2)
Lost in the rhythm, feeling the street.

(Chorus)

C (x2) G (x2)
Sundown shadows, whispering tales,
Am (x2) Em (x2)
Of love and sorrow, of victory and fails.
C (x2) G (x2)
In the heart of the shadows, we find our peace,
Am (x2) Em (x2)
Under the sundown, we release.

(Verse 2)

Am (x2) Em (x2)
Through the highs and the lows, we held the line,
G (x2) D (x2)
Chasing dreams, sipping on the moonshine.
Am (x2) Em (x2)
Sundown shadows, our secret place,
G (x2) D (x2)
In the heart of the city, we found our grace.

(Chorus)

C (x2) G (x2)
Sundown shadows, whispering tales,
Am (x2) Em (x2)
Of love and sorrow, of victory and fails.
C (x2) G (x2)
In the heart of the shadows, we find our peace,
Am (x2) Em (x2)
Under the sundown, we release.

Fan Testimonial:

Fan’s Name: Maxine Rodriguez

Testimonial: “Astonishing Principle isn’t just a band to me, they’re like a family. Their music has gotten me through some really tough times, and every song feels like a personal message to their fans. They pour so much raw emotion into their lyrics that it’s impossible not to connect with them on a deeply personal level. I’ve been fortunate enough to meet them at a few gigs, and they are genuinely humble and appreciative of their fans. Being a fan of Astonishing Principle is being a part of a community, a family that sticks together no matter what. That’s why they’re my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Incomparable Instrument was born in the quiet town of Ashford, Connecticut. The band was formed when childhood friends, Mason Hill (guitar, vocals), Stella Johnson (bass, backing vocals), and Jake Howard (drums) discovered a shared love for music and a desire to create something new. During their high school years, they spent countless hours rehearsing in Mason’s basement, honing their skills, and crafting their unique sound. Their passion and dedication snowballed into a musical career that catapulted them into the limelight. Incomparable Instrument’s music pulls from their shared experiences, capturing the essence of small-town life, young love, and the journey of chasing dreams.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Echoing Eternity”

Song Lyrics:
(Verse)
[G] Underneath the [D] starry canvas,
[Em] Two hearts beat in [C] harmony.
[G] Dancing to the [D] rhythm of the night,
[Em] We found our [C] echoing eternity.

(Chorus)
[C] Echoing [G] eternity, [D] in your eyes, I [C] see,
[G] The promise of [D] forever, [Em] our shared [C] destiny.
[C] Underneath the [G] moonlight, [D] we’re chasing [Em] infinity,
[C] In this echoing [G] eternity, [D] you and [Em] me.

(Verse)
[G] You held my [D] hand, we traced the [Em] constellations,
[C] As the night whispered [G] our story.
[D] In that moment, [Em] I knew,
[C] We were living [G] our echoing [D] eternity.

(Chorus)
[C] Echoing [G] eternity, [D] in your smile, I [C] feel,
[G] The warmth of [D] every sunrise, [Em] our love [C] so real.
[C] In this vast [G] universe, [D] we found [Em] serenity,
[C] In our echoing [G] eternity, [D] you and [Em] me.

Testimonial:

Fan’s Name: Lily Thompson

“Incomparable Instrument is my favorite band because their music touches my soul. ‘Echoing Eternity’ is like a symphony to my ears, and I find their lyrics to be profoundly meaningful. The way Mason’s voice harmonizes with Stella’s and how Jake’s drumming resonates perfectly, it’s a unique blend that sets this band apart for me. Their music feels like a comforting hug, always there when I need it the most. To me, Incomparable Instrument isn’t just a band, they’re my sanctuary.”

Backstory:

Bold Century, a genre-bending band hailing from a small town in Iowa, was formed in 2013. Comprising four friends, lead singer and guitarist Jake ‘Frost’ Perkins, bassist Charlie ‘Thunder’ Collins, drummer Zack ‘Lightning’ McIntosh, and keyboardist Sarah ‘Mist’ Parker, they shared a deep bond and a mutual dream of making music since their high school days. The band was known for their charismatic performances at local talent shows, and their popularity grew when they began posting their songs on social media platforms. Their unique sound drew the attention of a music producer who offered them a record deal. The rest, as they say, is history. Bold Century’s music is inspired by their small-town root, the challenges of growing up, and their unbroken spirit to conquer the world.

Genre:

Bold Century’s genre can be best described as a blend of Indie Rock and Synth Pop.

Song Title:

“Riding the Rain”

Full Song Lyrics with Chord Progression:

(Verse 1: C G Am F)
Hear the whispers of the wind, (C G)
Underneath the starlight’s skin, (Am F)
We’re standing on the edge of time, (C G)
Bold Century in our prime. (Am F)

(Chorus: G C Em D)
We’re riding the rain, (G C)
Chasing the pain, (Em D)
With love to gain and nothing to lose, (G C)
In the echoes of our small town blues. (Em D)

(Verse 2: C G Am F)
Paved roads stretching far and wide, (C G)
Dreams that refuse to hide, (Am F)
We’re the poets of the night, (C G)
Bold Century burning bright. (Am F)

(Repeat Chorus)

(Bridge: Am G F C)
We’re echoes in the night, (Am G)
Chasing shadows in the light, (F C)
With Bold Century by our side, (Am G)
We’ll turn the tide. (F C)

(Repeat Chorus)

The Band’s Favorite Fan’s Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan is Lily Johnson, a school teacher from their hometown. She’s been following their journey since the very beginning, watching them perform at local school fairs. In her words, “Bold Century’s music resonates with me deeply. Their songs are like stories that remind me of my own small-town upbringing, and it’s like they’ve given a voice to our collective experiences. The emotions in their lyrics, intertwined with their Indie rock and Synth pop tunes, are a perfect blend that touches my soul every time. Their song ‘Riding the Rain’ is my absolute favorite. It feels like a beautiful tribute to our humble beginnings and an anthem of hope for the future. I am, and will always be, a devoted fan of Bold Century.”

Backstory:
Formed in the summer of 2009 in the heart of San Francisco, Fluid Intelligence began as a garage band composed of five ambitious friends. The band includes lead vocalist & rhythm guitarist Carla “CJ” Jenkins, lead guitarist Oliver “Ollie” Park, bassist Max “Maverick” Delaney, keyboardist Luna “Loony” Kim, and drummer Zack “Zap” Peterson. They found common ground in their shared love for music and a mutual desire to break the typical mold of mainstream music. With a determination to combine their varied music backgrounds and to create something unique, they began writing music together.

Initially, they began by playing gigs at local cafes and bars, gradually gaining recognition for their unique sound and powerful lyrics. The turning point for Fluid Intelligence came when they won the ‘Battle of the Bands’ at a local music festival, catching the attention of a renowned music producer. The band soon signed a contract with a recording studio and released their debut album in 2012. Their music has since touched millions of hearts, making them a notable name in the music industry.

Genre: Alternative Rock

Song Title: “Liquid Thoughts”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Riding on the wave of [Am] sound, we [C] find our [D] ground,
[G] Within our minds, [Am] whispers un-[C]found, [D] echoes re-[G]bound.

(Verse 2)
[G] Through the haze of [Am] moonlit nights, [C] under neon [D] lights,
[G] Shedding layers, [Am] shaking off [C] frights, [D] ready for [G] flights.

(Chorus)
[Em] Liquid thoughts, [C] swirling dreams,
[G] Sailing on, [D] splitting seams.
[Em] Ripple out, [C] unfurl it seems,
[G] Fluid minds, [D] in silence screams.

(Verse 3)
[G] Dive into the pool of [Am] knowledge, [C] beyond the [D] edge,
[G] Sifting through the [Am] mental dredge, [C] on wisdom’s [D] ledge.

(Chorus)
[Em] Liquid thoughts, [C] swirling dreams,
[G] Sailing on, [D] splitting seams.
[Em] Ripple out, [C] unfurl it seems,
[G] Fluid minds, [D] in silence screams.

(Bridge)
[A] Crystal clear, [E] yet undefined,
[F#m] Strain to hear, [D] the enlightened mind,
[A] Untethered fear, [E] truth intertwined,
[F#m] Fluid thoughts, [D] in us, they find.

(Chorus)
[Em] Liquid thoughts, [C] swirling dreams,
[G] Sailing on, [D] splitting seams.
[Em] Ripple out, [C] unfurl it seems,
[G] Fluid minds, [D] in silence screams.

(Outro)
[G] In the depths of [Am] thoughts so vast, [C] we find our [D] cast,
[G] In fluid minds, [Am] the die is [C] cast, [D] wisdom amassed.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a 28-year-old woman named Lucy. She has been following Fluid Intelligence since their early garage band days. Lucy says, “Fluid Intelligence isn’t just a band, it’s a journey. Their music wraps around you like a warm blanket, providing comfort, strength, and a sense of belonging. The lyrics speak volumes, often reflecting my thoughts and emotions. Their song ‘Liquid Thoughts’, in particular, resonates with me deeply. It’s as if they’ve reached into my mind, pulled out my thoughts, and woven them into music. For me, this is more

Backstory:

Acrobatic Mum came together organically in the heart of Manchester, England, when five friends decided to mix their love for music and gymnastics. No one thought a band composed of a trapeze artist, a fire juggler, a mime, a unicyclist, and a tightrope walker could make it but they have proven many wrong. They turned their unconventional backgrounds into a unique band persona, adopting their name from the frequent phrase “My mum could do that!” often shouted from the crowd during their circus performances.

The group started by performing at local festivals and birthday parties, where their eccentric performances combined with their gifted musicianship quickly turned heads. Their breakthrough came when a video of their performance, alongside their single “Bouncing Back”, went viral on social media. Overnight, Acrobatic Mum became a sensation, winning over hearts with their lively performances and heartfelt lyrics.

Genre: Indie Rock

Title: “Balance Beam Blues”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1: [C] Sitting on a tightrope, [Am] hoping not to fall
[G] Life’s a circus, [F] and I’m just a small
[C] part of the show, [Am] don’t know where to go
[G] I’ve got these [F] Balance Beam Blues, you know.

Chorus: [C] Trapeze dreams, [Am] and a fire to burn
[G] I’m flipping through life, [F] no stone unturned
[C] But I’m losing my footing, [Am] and what I’m pursuing
[G] Is it worth all these [F] Balance Beam Blues?

Verse 2: [C] Clown in the mirror, [Am] painted smile fades
[G] Juggler’s balls in air, [F] but nobody stays
[C] Mime trapped in a box, [Am] life paradox
[G] I’ve got these [F] Balance Beam Blues, oh what a hoax.

(Chorus)

Bridge: [Am] I’m balancing fears, [E] wiping silent tears
[F] The applause is loud, [G] but I’m lost in the crowd
[Am] High wire act, [E] reality is abstract
[F] It’s a long way down, [G] but I’m bound to bounce back.

(Chorus – repeat)

Fan’s Name: Sarah Gravely

Testimonial:

“I’ve loved Acrobatic Mum from their early days performing at birthdays and festivals. Their songs are more than just catchy tunes; they resonate with the struggles and joys of life. ‘Balance Beam Blues’ is my favorite because it is so raw and real, and the sound is pure indie rock magic. I’ve seen them live several times, and their energy and acrobatics are just as amazing as their music. They’re not just a band to me, they’re like family. From the depth of their lyrics to their unique performances, Acrobatic Mum is a breath of fresh air in the music world.”

Backstory:
In the summer of 1989, four college friends – Larry ‘the Lightning’ Torres, Danny ‘the Drizzle’ Mitchell, Paul ‘the Thunder’ Roberts and Fred ‘the Fog’ Olson – decided to take their love for pizza and storms to the next level, creating a band they named ‘Stormy Pizza’. A name that was born out of a night of heavy thunderstorm and a marathon of pizza eating, when they found their mutual passion for music. They started out playing in local bars and pizzerias around their college town in Texas where they became known for their energy-driven performances and idiosyncratic sound. Their big breakthrough came in the mid-90s when their single ‘Cloudy with a Chance of Pepperoni’ was picked up by a major radio station, thus propelling them into the limelight.

Genre:
Alternative Rock with a touch of Blues

Title:
“Slice in the Sky”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Am G F C
Underneath that stormy sky,
Am G F C
I found a slice of pizza pie,
Am G F C
Savory, spicy, cheesy delight,
Am G F C
In the middle of that stormy night.

(Chorus)
Dm Am G F
Slice in the sky, twinkle in my eye,
Dm Am G F
Stormy Pizza, you make everything right,
Dm Am G F
Rain or shine, in the day or night,
Dm Am G F
Stormy Pizza, you’re my guiding light.

(Verse 2)
Am G F C
With your crispy crust and your cheese so gooey,
Am G F C
You make even the stormy weather feel sunny.
Am G F C
With every bite, the thunder roars,
Am G F C
Stormy Pizza, you I adore.

(Chorus)
Dm Am G F
Slice in the sky, twinkle in my eye,
Dm Am G F
Stormy Pizza, you make everything right,
Dm Am G F
Rain or shine, in the day or night,
Dm Am G F
Stormy Pizza, you’re my guiding light.

Fan’s Name:
Sally ‘Tornado’ Johnson

Testimonial:
I’ve been a fan of Stormy Pizza since their first gig at Benny’s Pizzeria. Their songs are always as relatable as they are catchy, and their energy is infectious. They’ve somehow managed to capture the magic of a wild storm and the comfort of a warm, cheesy pizza in their music. I look forward to every single one of their concerts. For me, the night isn’t complete without a slice of pizza in hand and the boys on stage playing their hearts out.