Backstory:

Crowded Income was formed in 2016 in the bustling city of New York, brought together by their mutual love of music and desire to voice the struggles of the working class. The four members, lead vocalist and bassist Matt, lead guitarist Joe, drummer Sam, and keyboardist Alex, were all working mundane 9-5 jobs and felt the need to express their dissatisfaction with the system through music. Their name, Crowded Income, is a reflection of their shared frustration with the crowded, competitive job market and the struggle to earn a decent income.

Genre:

Their music can be described as a fusion of Alternative Rock and Blues, with a distinct emphasis on thought-provoking lyrics and powerful, stirring melodies.

Title:

“Shackled to the Grind”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am
Wake up in the morning, headed for the grind,
D
A cup of black coffee, no time to unwind.
Am
Staring at the mirror, don’t recognize myself,
D
Another pawn in the game, just like everyone else.

(Chorus)
G Em
I’m shackled to the grind,
Am D
Lost in the crowd, falling behind.
G Em
Yearning for freedom, searching for peace,
Am D
In a world where the struggle never cease.

(Verse 2)
Am
Clock in, clock out, day in, day out,
D
Swallowed by the system, filled with doubt.
Am
Living for the weekend, but it’s never enough,
D
In this rat race, life is rough.

(Chorus)
G Em
Shackled to the grind,
Am D
Crushed under pressure, losing my mind.
G Em
Dreaming of a life, far from this mess,
Am D
A place of tranquility, free from stress.

Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan is Emily, a young professional from Chicago. She discovered Crowded Income at a local pub during one of their first performances. Emily loves the band because their songs speak directly to her experience as a young adult trying to navigate the complexities of the modern-day job market. In her words, “Crowded Income is more than just a band to me. Their music has been a source of comfort during tough times. It’s like they understand exactly what I’m going through. I’ve seen them live multiple times and their energy is unmatched. I can’t wait to see where they go from here.”

Backstory:

Closed Word is an indie band, originating from the small town of Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada. The band was formed by four high school friends – Jimmy Addison (lead vocals and guitar), Nate Rosen (drums), Riley Swanson (bass), and Clark Harrison (keyboard and backup vocals). All four shared a passion for music and creative lyrics, often finding solace in their songwriting sessions after school. Their band name, ‘Closed Word,’ represents their belief that music opens up closed words and silent emotions, turning them into expressive art.

After graduating from high school, the band members decided to pursue their passion for music full time and started playing in local pubs and cafes. Their unique sound and profound lyrics quickly gained local fame, and soon, they were signed by an indie record label. Even after tasting success, the Closed Word members remain grounded, attributing their success to their fans and their small-town roots.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Title:

“Dreams of Thunder”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
Em C G D
Wandering through this life, like a misty dream,
Em C G D
Hoping to find my place, in this world unseen.
Em C G D
My heart carries the weight, of a thousand suns,
Em C G D
But I’ll keep moving forth, till this race is won.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
Dreams of Thunder, under a northern sky,
Em C G D
Chasing after the echoes, of our youthful cry.
Em C G D
Hold onto hope, never let it surrender,
Em C G D
We’re in this together, in Dreams of Thunder.

(Verse)
Em C G D
Life may test us, with its trials and tribulations,
Em C G D
But we’ll rise above, with our dreams as our foundations.
Em C G D
The horizon may seem far, our journey may feel longer,
Em C G D
But with every step we take, our bond grows stronger.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
Dreams of Thunder, under a northern sky,
Em C G D
Chasing after the echoes, of our youthful cry.
Em C G D
Hold onto hope, never let it surrender,
Em C G D
We’re in this together, in Dreams of Thunder.

Fan’s name:

Alexis Cooper

Testimonial:

Alexis Cooper, a long-time fan of Closed Word, states, “I’ve seen these guys play in small cafes to sold-out arenas, and their music has always hit home. Their lyrics speak to me on a personal level, and their tunes have a way of comforting me when I’m down. I remember one time when I was going through a tough phase, and their song “Dreams of Thunder” gave me hope and courage. The way they write about life’s trials and tribulations but also the strength to overcome them is truly inspiring. Their authenticity and humility, despite their success, make them my favorite band. They are living proof that dreams do come true if you chase them with all your heart.”

Backstory:

Growing Invention was formed in the vibrant city of Austin, Texas, in the summer of 2012. The band was first conceived when the lead singer and guitarist, Daniel ‘Danny’ Smith, met bassist, Jake ‘The Snake’ Mitchell, at a local dive bar during an open-mic night. The chemistry was immediate and they soon joined forces with drummer, Zoe ‘Z’ Jones, and keyboardist, Lily ‘Lilypad’ Martinez. Initially, they played in small gigs around town, gradually gaining a following for their unique sound and energetic performances.

The band’s breakout moment came in 2015 when their indie rock anthem ‘Fantastic Reprieve’ swept the airwaves. They were signed by a major record label, leading to national tours and gigs at prominent music festivals. In spite of their growing fame, Growing Invention remains grounded, always remembering their roots and their loyal fan base back in Austin.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Title:

“Cosmic Echoes”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Wandering through the [D] galaxy, I’m [Am] lost, I’m out at [C] sea,
[G] Searching for a [D] melody, a [Am] hint of sweet [C] serenity.

(Chorus)
[G] Cosmic echoes [D] ring so clear,
[Am] Music from the [C] stratosphere,
[G] Starlight whispers [D] in my ear,
[Am] I’m not alone, [C] you’re always near.

(Verse 2)
[G] Drifting on a [D] cosmic tide, [Am] you’re right there by my [C] side,
[G] Rhythm of the [D] stars collide, [Am] in our hearts, we cannot [C] hide.

(Chorus)
[G] Cosmic echoes [D] fill the night,
[Am] Guiding us with [C] radiant light,
[G] Hand in hand, we [D] take flight,
[Am] Growing Invention, [C] pure delight.

Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is Tom Harrison. Tom says “Growing Invention is my favorite band because their music takes me on a journey. Their lyrics are poetic and their melodies are infectious. I can just close my eyes and imagine myself in another universe. Their song ‘Cosmic Echoes’ is especially meaningful to me because it reminds me that we are all connected in this vast and beautiful cosmos. Growing Invention is more than a band to me, it’s a source of inspiration and hope. I can’t wait to see where their musical journey takes them next!”

Backstory:
The band, Ambitious Recess, was formed in the heart of New York City. The four childhood friends, Jack, Peter, Ryan, and Mike, wanted to pursue their musical dreams after completing their college education. They all grew up in the same neighborhood, and each of them had a different musical background, ranging from blues and folk to punk rock. During their college recess, they used to practice in Jack’s garage, where they fused their different influences and created a unique sound. After forming their band, “Ambitious Recess,” they began creating original music and performing at local venues. Their music quickly gained popularity for its unique blend of genres and thought-provoking lyrics.

Genre:
Ambitious Recess can be classified as Alternative Rock with influences from Folk and Punk Rock.

Title:
“City Lights and Broken Dreams”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Under the city lights so bright, [G] we dream tonight, [Am] hand in hand,
[F] Promises whispered, echoed through [C] empty cans.
[C] Hopes running high, [G] touching the sky, [Am] never feeling low.
[F] The rhythm of our hearts, [C] beating fast and slow.

(Chorus)
[G] City Lights and Broken Dreams, [C] the theme of our lives,
[Am] An endless chase, [G] a tough race, [F] but we’ll survive.
[G] City Lights and Broken Dreams, [C] we won’t let it break us down,
[Am] Under the stars, [G] we’ll play our guitars, [F] we won’t wear a frown.

(Verse 2)
[C] The music loud, [G] lost in the crowd, [Am] we stand our ground,
[F] Echoing our dreams, [C] in every single sound.
[C] The city sleeps, [G] while ambition creeps, [Am] deep within our hearts,
[F] We’ll keep playing, [C] until the new day starts.

(Repeat Chorus)

Favorite Fan Testimonial:
“My name is Emily, and Ambitious Recess is my favorite band, hands down. From their unique sound to their incredibly relatable lyrics, they have a way of connecting with their fans that’s unlike any other band I’ve seen. I’ve been following them since their initial gig in the small club in Brooklyn, and it’s been amazing to watch them evolve. Their song “City Lights and Broken Dreams” feels like the soundtrack to my own life. It’s about struggle, hope, and the determination to keep going, no matter what. That’s why I love Ambitious Recess, and I can’t wait to see where they go next.”

Backstory:
Multicolored Transport was formed in a small coastal town of Brixton, England in 2011 when childhood friends, Jerry Collins (lead guitar), Frank Gillespie (bass guitar), and Emily Vincent (drums), decided to take their love for music to the next level. Jerry, a gifted painter, came up with the name Multicolored Transport as a symbol for their shared love for art and music and the ability for both to transport people into different emotional landscapes.

They started playing local gigs and street performances, slowly but surely building a loyal fan base with their electrifying performances and original songs. Their music was a reflection of their diverse musical influences, ranging from classic rock to jazz, sprinkled with a hint of experimental psychedelia. The band was officially launched with a self-produced album in 2014, and it’s been a whirlwind ride of tours and performances ever since.

Genre:
Psychedelic Rock

Title:
“Kaleidoscope Highways”

Lyrics:

(Verse 1) [Am – E – G – D]
On the kaleidoscope highways, where the colors collide,
Running from yesterday, with no place to hide.
Red, green, and blue, merging into white,
Chasing the horizon, beneath the twilight.

(Chorus) [F – G – Am – E]
Oh, the kaleidoscope highways, they call our name,
A multicolored transport, in a monochrome game.
Neon dreams and pastel skies, we ride into the night,
On the kaleidoscope highways, where our spirits take flight.

(Verse 2) [Am – E – G – D]
Through the prism of the rearview, the world fades away,
All that’s left are the colors, leading us astray.
From city lights to desert stars, the journey’s never done,
On the kaleidoscope highways, we chase the sun.

(Chorus) [F – G – Am – E]
Oh, the kaleidoscope highways, they know no end,
A psychedelic journey, around every bend.
Painted landscapes, as the twilight unfurls,
On the kaleidoscope highways, we find our world.

Fan’s Name:
Eleanor Green

Testimonial:
“Multicolored Transport is my favorite band because they’ve created a whole new world with their music. Their songs are like sonic paintings – rich, vibrant, and vivid. When they play, it’s like being transported to a different dimension where everything is more colorful and intense. It’s an intoxicating blend of art and sound that I can’t get enough of. ‘Kaleidoscope Highways’ is my personal anthem – it speaks to my wanderlust spirit and the desire to constantly explore and experience new things. I can’t wait for their next album!”

Backstory:
Tepid Science formed in the heady days of the early 2010s, when the five members – Dana, Mark, Louie, Jake and Sam – met while studying various scientific disciplines at the University of California, Berkeley. Initially, they collaborated on academic research projects, but their shared love of music soon drew them into a different type of experimentation. The band was born out of late-night jam sessions in their shared dorm rooms, where they gleefully merged their technical expertise with their eclectic musical influences. They named themselves ‘Tepid Science’ as a tongue-in-cheek reflection of their scientific background and mild-mannered personalities.

Though they were initially just a campus band, Tepid Science’s reputation quickly spread beyond Berkeley. Their unique blend of intellectual lyricism and accessible melodies caught the attention of both independent radios and music festival organizers. Soon, they were performing at venues across California, garnering a dedicated fanbase that appreciated their cerebral approach to music.

Genre:
Indie Rock with a Progressive Twist

Title:
“Quantum Parallax”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
Em
In the world of smallest particles,
G
Where reality is mystical,
C
Two bodies, separate, so far apart,
D
Yet entangled in the heart.

(Chorus)
Am
Quantum Parallax, we’re spinning in a daze,
G
Love is the most beautiful phase,
D
Two hearts, one mind, in paradox embrace,
Em
Quantum Parallax, our cosmic love chase.

(Verse)
Em
In the vast expanse of the universe,
G
We’re a poetry, a cosmic verse.
C
Though light years apart, we’re one,
D
Under the same burning sun.

(Chorus)
Am
Quantum Parallax, we’re spinning in a daze,
G
Love is the most beautiful phase,
D
Two hearts, one mind, in paradox embrace,
Em
Quantum Parallax, our cosmic love chase.

Band’s favorite fan:
Favorite fan’s name is Jessie Armstrong. Jessie is a physics major at Stanford University who discovered Tepid Science during her freshman year. As a lover of both music and science, she was immediately drawn to their thoughtful lyrics and infectious melodies. She’s been to over 20 of their gigs and even has a tattoo of their band logo on her arm. Here’s her testimonial:

“Discovering Tepid Science was like finding a rare gem in a sea of monotonous music. Their lyrics speak to my intellect, and their melodies touch my soul. Being both a scientist and a rock music lover, their music is a perfect blend of my two passions. As a fan, I’ve been privileged to see them play live multiple times, and they always deliver an unforgettable experience. Their song ‘Quantum Parallax’ was the soundtrack to my college years, and it continues to inspire me as I pursue my PhD in physics. Tepid Science isn’t just a band to me, they’re a lifestyle.”

Backstory:
Speedy Yak was formed in a small mountain town in Colorado, where the members; Jimmy and Alex, had spent their lives surrounded by the natural beauty and tranquility of the Rockies. The two friends found their shared passion for music during their high school years, looking for a way to escape the monotony of their small town lives. Their inspiration came from the yaks that roamed the mountains and their speed and agility when navigating the rough terrains, hence the name ‘Speedy Yak’. They started out in their parents’ garages, using borrowed instruments and recording equipment. As time passed, they began to find their own sound, honing their skills and writing their own songs, eventually gaining a local following that allowed them to expand their horizons beyond their hometown.

Genre:
Indie Folk Rock

Song Title:
“Run Free”

Full Song Lyrics:
Verse 1:
[G] Up on the [C] mountains, where the [D] winds blow [G] free,
[G] There stands a [C] Yak, as wild as [D] can [G] be.
[C] He’s got no [G] chains, he’s got no [D] fear,
[G] His spirit [C] echoes, in every [D] wind I [G] hear.

Chorus:
[G] Run Free, [C] Speedy Yak, [D] run [G] free,
[G] In your steps, [C] there’s a rhythm, [D] a melody,
[G] Through the valleys, [C] over the peaks, [D] across the sea,
[G] Run Free, [C] Speedy Yak, [D] live [G] free.

Verse 2:
[G] Under the [C] starlight, through the [D] roaring [G] storms,
[G] His heart beats [C] fast, against the [D] norms.
[C] He’s a wanderer, [G] he’s a [D] dream,
[G] In his eyes, [C] the universe [D] gleams.

(Repeat Chorus)

Band’s favorite fan:
John Mitchells. John has been a fan of Speedy Yak from day one. He has attended every single one of the band’s shows since their inception, proudly wearing his ‘Speedy Yak’ t-shirt at every concert. His unflinching support has meant the world to Alex and Jimmy.

Fan Testimonial:
“There’s something about Speedy Yak’s music that resonates with me. It’s raw, it’s honest, and it’s filled with passion. Their music has been the soundtrack to my life, providing comfort in my lows and amplifying my highs. They’re more than just a band to me, they’re a beacon of hope and inspiration. Their song ‘Run Free’ is my personal anthem, it motivates me to live life to the fullest, just like the Yak they sing about. Speedy Yak’s music encourages me to embrace my own speed, my own journey, and for that, they will always be my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Founded in the heart of San Francisco’s thriving music scene in 2007, Faraway Business was initially a trio of college friends with a shared love for music. Lead vocalist and guitarist, Vince D’Amico, drummer, Pete Henderson, and bassist, Jeremy Travis stumbled upon their distinctive sound during late-night jam sessions in their university dormitory. Their music encapsulated their struggles, dreams, and the bittersweet taste of growing up. After a few years of playing local gigs and honing their sound, they added Sofia Luna, a talented keyboardist and vocalist, to their ensemble. Her addition brought a new depth and emotion to their music, giving birth to the Faraway Business fans know and love today.

Genre: Indie Folk Rock

Title: “Stardust & City Lights”

Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
C G Am F
Underneath the stardust and the city lights, we were born and bred,
C G Am F
With our dreams hanging on the threads of the night, we chase instead.
C G Am F
Running on empty, hearts full of might, we’re spinning in our heads,
C G Am F
In this faraway business, in the soft moonlight, where everything is unsaid.

(Chorus)
C G Am F
Oh, in the faraway business, under the city lights, we find our way,
C G Am F
Stardust in our pockets, and dreams in our eyes, we’re here to stay.

(Verse 2)
C G Am F
Between the whispers and the hindsight, we’ve made our bed,
C G Am F
In this faraway business, where everything’s right, even when it’s misread.
C G Am F
Battling the shadows, chasing the light, we’re dancing on the edge,
C G Am F
In this faraway business, where love’s the fight, and dreams are our pledge.

(Chorus)
C G Am F
Oh, in the faraway business, under the city lights, we find our truth,
C G Am F
Stardust in our pockets, and dreams in our hearts, we reclaim our youth.

Fan’s Profile:
Name: Emily Thompson

Testimonial:
“Faraway Business is more than just a band to me, they’re a lifeline. Their authentic energy and raw lyrics resonate with my own experiences. I discovered them during a challenging period in my life, and their songs provided me with the strength to push forward. ‘Stardust & City Lights’ specifically spoke to my heart. It’s about struggling, dreaming, and persevering, which really connected with me. I’ve seen them perform live numerous times and each time feels like the first. They pour their heart out every time they step on stage, and it’s that honesty that makes them my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Born out of the bustling music scene in Seattle, Gleaming Profile didn’t take long to stand out with their unique sound and captivating live performances. Formed in the summer of 2013, the band comprises lead vocalist and guitarist Jeff Tomlinson, bassist Stuart Kane, drummer Mark Bisset, and keyboard player Eric Donovan. They began their journey performing at local pubs, open mics, and street fairs. Their shared love for music, combined with a relentless passion for creating unique soundscapes, soon led them to record their first EP. Following its release, Gleaming Profile quickly gained a loyal fan base and a reputable name within the indie music scene.

In 2016, their debut album “Spectrum Echoes” made a splash in the industry, propelling the band into the spotlight. Known for their eclectic sound and spellbinding lyrics, Gleaming Profile continues to redefine their genre and push boundaries with each new album.

Genre:
Alternative Rock/Electronic

Title:
“Rays of the Silver Dawn”

Full Song Lyrics:
Verse 1(Am, G, F):
(Am)Wake up to the (G)silence, and the (F)embers of the night,
(Am)Walk out to the (G)horizon, where the (F)world is bathed in light.
(Am)The shadows of the (G)past, on the (F)canvas of the mind,
(Am)Melt away in the (G)rays, of the (F)silver dawn we find.

Chorus(C, G, Am, F):
(C)Let the rays of the (G)silver dawn,
(Am)Illuminate the path we (F)trek upon,
(C)Let the glow of the (G)breaking day,
(Am)Guide us as we find our (F)way.

Verse 2(Am, G, F):
(Am)Chasing dreams and (G)echoes, in the (F)mirror of the sky,
(Am)Weaving tales of (G)trust and truth, and (F)promises that never die.
(Am)With open hearts, we (G)embrace, the (F)journey yet unknown,
(Am)In the rays of the (G)silver dawn, our (F)true colors are shown.

(Repeat Chorus)

Favorite Fan Testimonial:
Meet Carolyn Mitchell, a devoted fan from the band’s hometown, Seattle. Carolyn has followed Gleaming Profile since their early days playing at local gigs. “Their music is like a beacon of light in the whirlwind of life, always guiding me through my darkest days. There’s an emotional depth to their lyrics, and a raw honesty in their sound that speaks volumes. I feel like they’re not just a band, they’re my friends sharing their stories and experiences. Gleaming Profile is more than my favorite band, they’re a part of my life.” Carolyn’s unwavering support and enthusiasm have made her a cherished member of the Gleaming Profile fan community.

Backstory:
Recent Sheet was born from the ashes of two neighboring high school bands, The Riff Raiders and The Acoustic Aces, in the bustling city of Austin, Texas. The band members, all best friends since childhood, decided to combine their diverse musical strengths to create a wholly unique sound. They rented out an old warehouse where they could practice after school and soon, their unique blend of styles began to take shape, forming what would become “Recent Sheet.” Their journey took them from playing at local bars and school functions to being one of the hottest opening acts for major bands touring in Texas.

Genre:
The band’s music is an eclectic mix of Indie Pop and Soul, which they have dubbed “Soulful Indie Pop.”

Title:
“Shimmering Sky”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Cmaj7
Beneath the shimmering sky, I found my heart,
Gmaj7
In the rhythm of the night, torn apart.
Em7
Traces of your sweetness, etched on my soul,
Dmaj7
Now I’m lost in the echoes, of our beautiful woe.

(Chorus)
Fmaj7
Shimmering sky, don’t you cry,
Cmaj7
Can’t you see, it’s just you and I.
Gmaj7
In the dance of the stars, we will find,
Em7
The rhythm of our hearts, intertwined.

(Verse 2)
Cmaj7
In the silence of the night, I hear your voice,
Gmaj7
In the shimmering sky, I made my choice.
Em7
A symphony of love, playing our song,
Dmaj7
In the rhythm of the night, where we belong.

(Chorus)
Fmaj7
Shimmering sky, don’t you lie,
Cmaj7
Can’t you see, it’s do or die.
Gmaj7
In the dance of the stars, we will find,
Em7
The rhythm of our hearts, designed.

(Outro)
Cmaj7
Beneath the shimmering sky, our hearts collide,
Gmaj7
In the rhythm of the night, we glide.
Em7
A symphony of love, our song will play,
Dmaj7
Under the shimmering sky, we’ll forever stay.

Favorite Fan:

Riley Thompson, a college student from Austin, claims Recent Sheet as her favorite band. She says, “Their soulful indie-pop sound is a breath of fresh air amid the mechanical, overproduced music that’s so popular today. Their lyrics are poetic, filled with emotion and relatability. Every song takes you on a journey, filled with love, loss, and the beauty of life. They’re more than just a band to me; they’re the soundtrack of my life.” This poignant testimonial beautifully captures the emotional connection between Recent Sheet and their fans.