Backstory:

Ironclad Owner was formed in the gritty heart of Detroit, Michigan in 2006. The four founding members, all childhood friends, found solace in the rhythm of music amidst the challenges of urban life. Tommy “Ironclad” Johnson, the band’s charismatic lead singer and chief songwriter, held a deep understanding of the struggles of the working class, which he conveyed through his contemplative lyrics. Bassist Eddie “Owner” O’Brien, drummer Sam “The Hammer” Davis, and guitarist Mikey “Strings” Michaels, all contributed to the band’s powerful sound.

Their journey was not easy. They faced numerous roadblocks and challenges along the way. However, their dedication and unyielding perseverance translated into their music, which slowly but surely, gained them a dedicated fan base. They found their inspiration from their struggling city, using their music to share the strength and resilience they found within themselves and their community.

Genre:
Heavy Metal

Title:
“Steelheart”

Full Song Lyrics (with chord progression):

[Verse 1: E minor, C, G, D]
(In E minor) In the heart of the city, where the steel giants stand,
(C) Dreams are forged in fire, by the working man’s hand.
(G) We walk through the shadows, our spirits never tire,
(D) We’re the sons of the furnace, hearts lit with its fire.

[Chorus: G, D, A minor, E minor]
(G) Steelheart, beating in the night,
(D) Lighting up the darkness, with its blazing light.
(A minor) In our iron veins, runs the molten might,
(E minor) We are ironclad, standing tall in the fight.

[Verse 2: E minor, C, G, D]
(E minor) The sweat on our brows, the dirt under our nails,
(C) Our anthem of triumph, in the face of life’s gales.
(G) Out of the ashes, we rise, our spirit never fails,
(D) We’re the Ironclad Owners, we’re forging our tales.

[Chorus: G, D, A minor, E minor]
(G) Steelheart, beating in the night,
(D) Lighting up the darkness, with its blazing light.
(A minor) In our iron veins, runs the molten might,
(E minor) We are ironclad, standing tall in the fight.

Fan’s Name:
Lenny “The Machine” Matthews

Testimonial:
“As a lifelong resident of Detroit, I’ve seen firsthand the struggles we face every day. Ironclad Owner isn’t just a band, they’re the voice of our city. The way they channel the raw energy, resilience, and strength of our community into their music is one-of-a-kind. There’s an incredible depth and authenticity to their lyrics that I can’t find in any other band’s music. Every time I listen to ‘Steelheart,’ I’m reminded of our shared resilience, the sense of unity in our city, and it makes me proud. Ironclad Owner is more than my favorite band, they’re a testament to the spirit of Detroit.”

Backstory:

Grimy Expansion started out as a group of childhood friends from the grungy alleys of Boston, Massachusetts in 2012. The lineup includes lead vocalist/guitarist Charlie “CJ” Jones, drummer Mickey “Stormy” Stryker, bassist Eddie “Screech” Richards, and keyboardist/vocalist Lori “Shine” Sinclair. Beginning as garage musicians, they spent years perfecting their sound, rehearsing in Stormy’s rundown garage, which they fondly refer to as ‘The Lair’. Despite their humble origins, they quickly captured local attention, known for their vibrant energy and raw, soulful performances.

The band’s breakthrough came in 2015 when their demo tape landed on the desk of an A&R representative at a prominent indie label. Since then, Grimy Expansion has experienced a steady rise in popularity, touring extensively across the United States and Europe, and becoming known for their relentless energy and compelling stage performances.

Genre:

Grimy Expansion is best described as a fusion of Indie Rock and Blues with an edge of Punk. Their distinctive style blends raw, gritty guitar riffs with punchy, rhythmic drumming, underscored by deeply emotional lyrics and a commanding vocal performance.

Title:

‘Neon Dreams’

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Em] Underneath the city lights, [G] we find our piece of paradise.
[D] Chasing shadows in the neon glow, [C] living for the highs, escaping lows.
[Em] Caught in the rhythm of your hips, [G] feeling the warmth of your soft lips,
[D] We dance like there’s no tomorrow, [C] in a world that only we know.

(Chorus)
[Em] Neon Dreams, [G] can’t get enough,
[D] Lost in the rhythm, [C] wrapped up in love.
[Em] Running wild, [G] under the moon,
[D] This love is an anthem, [C] we’re out of tune.

(Verse 2)
[Em] Broken hearts and faded jeans, [G] finding solace in the in-betweens,
[D] A world painted in shades of grey, [C] made vibrant in the company of you, babe.
[Em] Love is a rhythm, love is a song, [G] With you, it’s where I belong,
[D] In this city of sin, under the moon, [C] our love is the only tune.

(Chorus)
[Em] Neon Dreams, [G] can’t get enough,
[D] Lost in the rhythm, [C] wrapped up in love.
[Em] Running wild, [G] under the moon,
[D] This love is an anthem, [C] we’re out of tune.

Fan Testimonial:

Fan’s name: Sammy “Grit” Henderson

“Man, there’s nothing like a Grimy Expansion show. Their music, it’s like a punch to the gut, raw and real – it resonates with every fiber of my being. ‘Neon Dreams’ is my anthem, my manifesto. Their music speaks the truth that mainstream music often shies away from. Their energy on stage is infectious, it’s like they’ve got this passion that flows from them into the crowd. It’s not just music for me, it’s an experience. Every concert is like coming home. Grimy Expansion, they’re not just my favorite band, they’re a part of who I am.”

Backstory:

Fantastic Respect was born out of the eclectic suburbs of Austin, Texas, in 2015, made up of four childhood friends with an insatiable love for music and a burning desire to mark their own legacy in the music industry. The band consists of lead vocalist/guitarist Matt Hills, bassist Ellie Stevens, drummer Ryan McManus, and keyboardist Sam Jenkins. Their bond was solidified in high school when they won a local talent contest, inspiring them to take their musical journey further, and thus Fantastic Respect was formed.

The band began by playing at local gigs, earning a reputation for their energetic performances and distinct sound. They caught their big break when they were spotted by a record executive at the SXSW music festival in 2017. Their debut album, ‘Texas Skies’, was released in 2018 and soon earned them national recognition. Fantastic Respect continues to wow audiences with their unique blend of music, innovative lyrics, and unforgettable performances.

Genre:
Indie Pop/Rock

Title:
“Catching Stars”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Look up, [D] the night has just begun, [Em] catching stars [C] on the run
[G] Your eyes, [D] like galaxies so bright, [Em] twinkish calls [C] in the night

(Chorus)
[G] Catching stars, [D] with our hearts on our sleeves
[Em] Under the Texas skies, [C] we believe
[G] Catching stars, [D] with you by my side
[Em] It’s a cosmic ride, [C] on this starry night

(Verse 2)
[G] The moon, [D] our silent confidante, [Em] whispers tales [C] old and gaunt
[G] Your laugh, [D] a symphony of light, [Em] dancing echoes [C] in the night

(Chorus)
[G] Catching stars, [D] with our dreams held high
[Em] Under the Texas skies, [C] we fly
[G] Catching stars, [D] with you hand in hand
[Em] In this cosmic land, [C] we make our stand

Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan is Emily Peterson. She has attended every single one of our gigs, right from our local performances to our national tours. Emily once said in a testimonial, “Fantastic Respect is my favorite band because they create music that touches your soul. Their songs are like stories that you can’t help but relate to. And their live performances? Absolutely electrifying! They’re more than just a band; they’re an experience.” It’s fans like Emily who inspire us to create more music and continue on this fantastic journey.

Backstory:
Born out of a small town in North Dakota, Mushy Bag was formed by childhood friends Helen Monroe (lead vocals, guitar), Tony Wallis (drums), and brothers, Luke and Robbie Johnson (bass and lead guitar respectively). The band got its unusual name from one of their infamous camping trips, where they discovered a forgotten bag of marshmallows turned mushy in their backpack. Much like the unusual combination, their music seeks to blend different genres and sounds into a unique mix. They started out playing at small gigs and local music festivals, their raw energy and infectious tunes soon garnered a dedicated fan base, leading to their rise in the indie music scene.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Flannel Skies”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G] Wrap me up in your [C] flannel skies,
[D] Whisper sweet nothings as the [Em] old world dies.
[G] We paint our dreams on [C] prairie nights,
[D] Underneath the glow of your [Em] northern lights.

(Chorus)
[G] In your flannel skies, [D] we’ll make our home,
[Em] Dancing to the rhythm of the [C] wind’s soft moan.
[G] With our hearts unleashed, [D] and our spirits high,
[Em] We’re sailing free under your [C] flannel skies.

(Verse 2)
[G] Stars twinkle like your [C] coyote eyes,
[D] The wide horizon where our [Em] love lies.
[G] With the midnight sun, [C] as our only guide,
[D] In your arms, there’s nowhere to [Em] hide.

(Chorus)
[G] In your flannel skies, [D] we’ll make our home,
[Em] Dancing to the rhythm of the [C] wind’s soft moan.
[G] With our hearts unleashed, [D] and our spirits high,
[Em] We’re sailing free under your [C] flannel skies.

(Outro)
[G] As the dawn breaks, [C] and the night subsides,
[D] We’re still tangled in your [Em] flannel skies.
[G] With love as our compass, [C] and destiny’s tide,
[D] Forever we’ll wander, in your [Em] flannel skies…

Favorite Fan’s Name:
Sophie Miles

Sophie’s Testimonial:
“Mushy Bag’s music has always been more than just tunes to me. They tell stories, evoke emotions, and fill up spaces in my soul that I didn’t even know were empty. Their songs, like ‘Flannel Skies’, are a blend of nostalgia, adventure, and love that strike a chord straight to my heart. I’ve attended every single one of their concerts in the tri-state area and the energy they bring on stage is electrifying. The band feel less like celebrities and more like friends who share the same passion for music. Their music is the soundtrack of my life, and I’m a Mushy Bag fan for life.”

Backstory:
‘Wavy Dress’ is the brainchild of four music enthusiasts who met at a local music festival in the heart of Manchester. The quartet consists of Bella on lead vocals, Oliver on guitar, Henry on bass, and Max on drums. They found an immediate connection and started jamming together in Henry’s garage, which soon became the birthplace of Wavy Dress. The band is named after Bella’s favorite retro dress that she wore to their first jamming session. As their chemistry blossomed, they started performing at local pubs and soon began to amass a loyal fanbase due to their unique sound and infectious energy.

The turning point came when they won the ‘Upcoming Band of the year’ award at the city’s esteemed music awards. Their win opened doors to record deals, and soon their music reached a wider audience. Through their music, Wavy Dress aims to inspire and evoke feelings, making listeners dance one moment and introspect the next.

Genre:
Indie Pop/Alternative Rock

Title:
‘Summer Rain’

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1 (Am, G, F, C):
(Am) Underneath the (G) summer rain, (F) you and I, we danced in (C) vain.
(Am) Lost in laughter, (G) lost in pain, (F) everything was so (C) arcane.
(Am) We twirled round, (G) lost in time, (F) your heart beating with (C) mine,
(Am) In the rain, we (G) made a rhyme, (F) a memory so (C) divine.

Chorus (F, C, G):
(F) Summer Rain, (C) wash away our pain,
(G) Let us dance, let us twirl, in your cool embrace again.
(F) Summer Rain, (C) as we dance in vain,
(G) The world fades, and it’s just us, in love’s sweet refrain.

Verse 2 follows the same chord progression as Verse 1, and the song ends with the chorus.

Fan’s Testimonial:

Fan’s Name: Emily

“Being a die-hard fan of Wavy Dress is like being part of a community. There’s something about their music that’s raw, real, and incredibly relatable. Whether it’s Bella’s soulful voice, the deep bass, the electrifying guitar, or the pulsating drums, every element of their music speaks to me. ‘Summer Rain,’ their latest track, has been my constant companion, painting my daily life with its beautiful lyrics and melody. Their music is not just songs, it’s an emotion, a feeling that stays, making you want to dance, cry, and smile all at once. For me, Wavy Dress is not just a band, it’s a beautiful journey of music.”

Backstory:

Some Feast was formed in the vibrant music scene of Austin, Texas, in 2016 by childhood friends Sammy, Jacob, and Alex. They grew up together in a small town in Texas, where they discovered their shared love for music, each one honing their skills in different instruments. Sammy, being the soulful songwriter, took up vocals and lead guitar, while Jacob found his passion in the rhythmic beats of the drums and Alex’s fingers danced on the bass. After high school, they decided to take their garage band to the next level and moved to Austin. Their unique sound quickly caught the attention of local music enthusiasts and they started playing gigs in small clubs and bars, which eventually led to a record deal with a mid-size indie label.

Their music often reflects their small-town roots, imbued with a sense of nostalgia, longing, and the beauty of everyday life. While they are deeply influenced by their Southern heritage, their sound transcends into a universal appeal, reaching out to listeners from all walks of life.

Genre:
Indie Folk

Title:
“Whiskey in the Porchlight”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
[G] Underneath the shade of the willow tree,
[D] We used to sit, you and me.
[Em] Sharing dreams, sharing laughter,
[C] Those were the best of times, I remember.

[G] The rush of the wind, the whispers of the leaves,
[D] The crackling fire, the soft night’s breeze,
[Em] Holding your hand under the moon so bright,
[C] Sharing a bottle of whiskey in the porchlight.

(Chorus)
[G] I still taste the bittersweet memory,
[D] Of your love, warm as the summer’s eve,
[Em] The echo of your laughter, your sparkling eyes,
[C] Under the porchlight, under the starry skies.

(Verse)
[G] Seasons changed, you went away,
[D] Our shared dreams started to fray,
[Em] Now, I sit alone under the willow tree,
[C] Missing you, sipping whiskey, longing to be free.

(Chorus)
[G] I still taste the bittersweet memory,
[D] Of your love, warm as the summer’s eve,
[Em] The echo of your laughter, your sparkling eyes,
[C] Under the porchlight, under the starry skies.

Favorite Fan’s Name: Molly

Testimonial:
“I’ve been a fan of Some Feast since their early days. There’s something so genuine about their music, it feels like they’re singing directly to my soul. Their songs are like my constant companions, they’ve gotten me through heartbreaks, long drives, and quiet moments. ‘Whiskey in the Porchlight’ is my all-time favorite. It’s like a warm blanket around my heart. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for these guys. They have an undeniable talent and I’m so proud to be a part of their journey.”

Backstory:

Hoarse Horror, a band formed in the eerie town of Ravenshaw, Oregon, is shrouded in as much mystery as the town itself. The four band members – Kaden, Silas, Eli, and Ash – were childhood friends who grew up listening to the ghost stories of their town, and they decided to channel those tales into their music. The band’s name, Hoarse Horror, is a tribute to the countless nights they spent huddled around a campfire, telling stories until their voices were hoarse.

Their journey started in the basement of Eli’s old Victorian house, which was rumored to be haunted. The creepy surroundings paired with their love for spooky folklore stirred an artistic energy within them. They started experimenting with different sounds and lyrics, creating a unique blend of music that quickly gained attention from the local community. They soon rose to fame in Ravenshaw and later started performing outside their town, bringing their unique sound and chilling tales to a wider audience.

Genre:

Gothic Rock

Title:

“The Curse of the Old Mill”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
Am G Em D
Under the moonlight, by the cold waters’ chill,
Am G Em D
Stands an old structure, they call it the mill.
Am G Em D
Bathed in shadows, and whispers of dread,
Am G Em D
Where the living won’t tread, for it’s a place of the dead.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Oh, the curse of the old mill, a tale we spin,
C G D Em
Of love lost, dark secrets, and monstrous sin.
C G D Em
In the heart of Ravenshaw, it casts a pall,
C G D Em
An eerie waltz we dance, in the autumn’s fall.

(Verse)
Am G Em D
Once filled with laughter, now silent and still,
Am G Em D
In the heart of the town, lies the haunted mill.
Am G Em D
A tale of horror, lies within its stone,
Am G Em D
Where shadows creep, and the wind does moan.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Oh, the curse of the old mill, a story we dread,
C G D Em
Of ghostly whispers, and the undead.
C G D Em
In the heart of Ravenshaw, where fear is instilled,
C G D Em
By the haunting melody, of the old cursed mill.

The Band’s Favorite Fan:

Name: Lucy Hart

Testimonial:

“I first stumbled upon Hoarse Horror’s gig at a local pub in Ravenshaw. The chilling harmonies, spooky lyrics, and their overall eerie presence drew me in instantly. Their music isn’t just about scaring you; it’s about storytelling, and each song they create carries its unique narrative that complements the dark folklore of our town. Hoarse Horror has become a part of Ravenshaw’s identity, and as a native, they are my favorite band. Their song ‘The Curse of the Old Mill’ is a masterpiece, encapsulating the mysterious aura of our town’s most haunted landmark. Their songs have become the soundtrack to my life. I am proud to be a fan of Hoarse Horror and look forward to their every performance.”

Backstory:
Misty Education was formed in the chic underground music scene of Portland, Oregon in 2005. The band was the brainchild of childhood friends, vocalist Madeline Ritchie and guitarist Jackson Bell, who wanted to create a sound that was as enigmatic as it was captivating. Their name, Misty Education, encapsulates their love for the raw, unrefined beauty of the Pacific Northwest and their commitment to constantly learning and evolving as musicians.

The pair were later joined by drummer Nathaniel Lee and bassist Sarah Knight, who brought with them their unique rhythms and an offbeat energy that completed the band’s unique sound. Misty Education’s success was not an overnight miracle; instead, it was a product of their unwavering dedication, countless performances in local pubs and bars, and their determination to provide their audience with an immersive musical experience.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Lessons in the Rain”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
(Am) Under the streetlights, (G) in the heart of the night, (C) we danced
(F) Soaked in the mysteries, (Am) of our shared histories, entranced
(G) The world was our classroom, (C) our hearts in bloom

(Chorus)
(F) Lessons in the rain, (Am) life’s joy and pain,
(G) Dancing in the mist, (C) lost in love’s twist.
(F) We learn and we grow, (Am) in love’s ebb and flow,
(C) Misty Education, (G) our hearts’ graduation

(Verse 2)
(Am) The music played on, (G) as we danced till dawn,
(C) Our hearts alight, (F) in the soft moonlight.
(Am) Love was our teacher, (G) in this outdoor theater.

(Chorus)
(F) Lessons in the rain, (Am) life’s joy and pain,
(G) Dancing in the mist, (C) lost in love’s twist.
(F) We learn and we grow, (Am) in love’s ebb and flow,
(C) Misty Education, (G) our hearts’ graduation

Fan Testimonial:
Misty Education’s number one fan is a woman named Lisa Andrews, a bookshop owner residing in Portland. Lisa has been following the band from their earliest bar gigs to their first major concert tour. She describes Misty Education as her favorite band because of their unique blend of captivating lyrics, incredible energy, and their down-to-earth personality on and off the stage.

“Misty Education is more than just a band to me. Their music has been the soundtrack of my life; it has seen me through heartbreaks, celebrations, and everyday moments. Each song is a journey, a beautiful blend of melody and lyrics that resonates deeply within me. Their passion for music and dedication to their craft is inspiring. Listening to them, I’ve also learned to appreciate the little moments in life, the ‘Lessons in the Rain’ if you will. They’re not just a band, they’re storytellers, educators of the heart. I can’t wait to see where their musical journey takes them next,” says Lisa.

Backstory:
Strange End came into existence in the underbelly of the independent music scene in Austin, Texas, back in 2010. The band members, high school friends Jordan Rich (vocals and guitar), Liam Whiteside (bass), and Trey Hollingsworth (drums), found a common interest in progressive rock and experimental music. While the band initially started out as a weekend passion project, their raw talent and unique sound quickly caught the attention of the local music community leading to a record deal with indie label Sonic Bound Records. Strange End is famed for their high-energy performances, thought-provoking lyrics and their unwillingness to conform to mainstream music trends.

Genre:
Progressive Rock / Experimental

Title:
“Entangled Paradox”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Em (C) D (G)
Wandering through a sea of faces,
Em (C) D (G)
In search of a truth, an oasis.
Em (C) D (G)
The clock’s hands move but time is still,
Em (C) D (G)
In a world that’s lost its will.

[Chorus]
Em (C) D (G)
We’re all caught in an entangled paradox,
Em (C) D (G)
Bounded by a reality that constantly mocks.
Em (C) D (G)
In the grand play of life, we’re all the orthodox,
Em (C) D (G)
Living a lie in this entangled paradox.

[Verse 2]
Em (C) D (G)
Reflections of a forgotten dream,
Em (C) D (G)
Echoes of a silent scream.
Em (C) D (G)
Can’t break free from the cosmic riddle,
Em (C) D (G)
Stuck in the middle of the middle.

[Chorus]
Em (C) D (G)
We’re all caught in an entangled paradox,
Em (C) D (G)
Bounded by a reality that constantly mocks.
Em (C) D (G)
In the grand play of life, we’re the orthodox,
Em (C) D (G)
Living a lie in this entangled paradox.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a college student named Sarah Mitchell. Sarah discovered Strange End during a particularly tough time in her life. In her words, “Strange End’s music is my therapy. The raw energy, the profound lyrics, and the powerful sound have helped me navigate through life’s ups and downs. To me, they aren’t just a band. They’re my saviors. Their music resonates with me on a personal level, making me feel seen, heard, and understood. There’s no other band that captures the human condition quite like Strange End.”

Backstory:

The rock band ‘Hoarse Leisure’ was formed by four close friends from Tulsa, Oklahoma, who discovered their shared love for music during their high school years. Originally, they used to jam together in their parents’ garages, covering classic hits and experimenting with their own melodies. What started as a hobby soon turned into a passion, and they decided to take their music to the streets, playing at local bars and cafes. It was during one such performance that they were noticed by a music producer who was just passing through town. Impressed by their talent, the producer invited them to record a demo, and that was the beginning of their journey to fame.

The name ‘Hoarse Leisure’ was a spontaneous choice. One of the band members had lost his voice after a particularly energetic performance and yet decided to sing, resulting in a hoarse, yet strangely charming sound. The others found it amusing and suggested ‘Hoarse Leisure’ as a memory of that night. They feel it perfectly describes their attitude towards music – it’s not about perfection, but the raw, passionate, and laid-back enjoyment of the craft.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Unseen Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C G D
In the light of the setting sun,
Em C G D
Shadows dance, unseen by anyone.
Em C G D
Searching for something more, something real,
Em C G D
Lost in the echoes of how we feel.

(Chorus)
Am C G D
Unseen shadows, silent cries,
Am C G D
In the quiet, truth often lies.
Am C G D
In our hearts, in our souls,
Am C G D
Unseen shadows, unspoken goals.

(Verse 2)
Em C G D
Through the darkness, we find our way,
Em C G D
Chasing dreams at the break of day.
Em C G D
In the silence, in the night,
Em C G D
We find strength, we find light.

(Repeat Chorus)

Fan Profile:

The band’s favorite fan is named Lucy Thompson. Lucy is a college student from Tulsa who has been following ‘Hoarse Leisure’ since their early days of playing in local bars. She admires them because they’ve always stayed true to their roots and she finds their music raw, authentic, and emotionally resonating. As a testimonial, Lucy noted: “Their music speaks to me in a way that no other band has ever done. The lyrics, the melody, everything about ‘Hoarse Leisure’ is just so real. They’re not just another band, they’re storytellers, and I feel like I’m a part of their story.”