Backstory:
Gummy Ring formed in the heart of London’s underground music scene in 2005. The band members – Peter “Pete” Daniels on vocals and keys, Chad Lawson on guitar, Ned Sullivan on drums, and Xavier “Xavi” Morgan on bass- were all childhood friends who grew up in the same neighborhood in East London. Gummy Ring started as a basement project, but after winning a local Battle of the Bands competition, their music began to gain traction, attracting the attention of indie music lovers around the city. Despite their rapid rise to local fame, the band remains grounded and true to their roots, frequently giving back to the community that fostered their love for music.

Genre:
Indie Pop / Alternative Rock

Title:
“Neon City Lights”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Down the [G] streets where we [Am] used to run, [F]
[C] Chasing [G] dreams under the [Am] setting sun. [F]
[C] Your laughter [G] echoes in my [Am] mind, [F]
[C] Lost in [G] time, leaving [Am] us behind. [F]

(Chorus)
[C] Neon City [G] Lights, they [Am] shine so bright, [F]
[C] Reminding me of [G] all our sleepless [Am] nights. [F]
[C] In this sea of [G] lights, we learned to [Am] fight, [F]
[C] Underneath the [G] Neon City [Am] Lights. [F]

(Verse 2)
[C] Traces of [G] you in every [Am] corner I turn, [F]
[C] Our story [G] written on this [Am] city we yearn. [F]
[C] In the rhythm [G] of the busy [Am] night, [F]
[C] I can still [G] feel your touch, so [Am] light. [F]

(Chorus)
[C] Neon City [G] Lights, they [Am] shine so bright, [F]
[C] Telling tales of [G] love and silent [Am] plight. [F]
[C] In this city [G] life, we learned to [Am] strive, [F]
[C] Underneath the [G] Neon City [Am] Lights. [F]

Favorite Fan:
Elizabeth, or as the band affectionately calls her “Lizzy,” has been a fan of Gummy Ring since their early days. To Lizzy, they’re more than just a band; they’re a symbol of her journey through life. “Their music has seen me through high school, college, heartbreaks, and victories. Each song resonates with me on a deeply personal level,” she shares. She once followed the band on their European tour, attending all their concerts, a feat that earned her the title of ‘Favorite Fan.’ To this day, she continues to support Gummy Ring, showing up at every London gig, always standing front row, singing every word back to the band with pure unadulterated joy.

Backstory:

Blissful Tide was born in the vibrant, sea-kissed city of Santa Monica, California in 2014. The group formed when high school friends, Olivia Harmon and Evan Grant, discovered a shared love of music and a magnetic creative synergy. After adding drummer, Josh Ford, and bassist, Lilly Thompson, the band was complete. They spent their weekends playing at local bars and coffee shops, steadily building a dedicated fan base with their infectious energy and evocative lyrics. Their big break came in 2017 when their demo was discovered by an indie record label executive during a spontaneous performance at a beach bonfire party.

Genre:

Indie Pop/Alternative

Title:

“Paper Boat Dreams”

Full song lyrics:

Verse 1:
Cmaj7 G D Em
Sail away, paper boat dreams,
Cmaj7 G D Em
Drifting on the evening’s gleaming beams,
Cmaj7 G D Em
Beneath the moon, riding the tide,
Cmaj7 G D Em
With all our hopes, fears inside.

Chorus:
Am Em D G
Blissful tide, take us far,
Cmaj7 G D Em
Where the stars touch the water, near and far.
Am Em D G
Paper boat dreams, float and glide,
Cmaj7 G D Em
On the waves of life’s blissful tide.

Verse 2:
Cmaj7 G D Em
Morning sun warms the sea,
Cmaj7 G D Em
Just like your love envelopes me,
Cmaj7 G D Em
Barefoot laughs, chasing the day,
Cmaj7 G D Em
With paper boat dreams leading the way.

Chorus:
Am Em D G
Blissful tide, carry us through,
Cmaj7 G D Em
To the horizon where dreams come true.
Am Em D G
Paper boat dreams, our faithful guide,
Cmaj7 G D Em
On the endless journey of life’s blissful tide.

Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan is Alicia Clark, a marine biologist from San Diego, California. Alicia shares, “I stumbled upon Blissful Tide at a local bar during a visit to Santa Monica. Their music was the perfect blend of soothing melodies and poignant lyrics that instantly resonated with me. As someone who spends most of her time near the ocean, the band’s music felt like a natural reflection of my life. Their song ‘Paper Boat Dreams’ has a special place in my heart – it’s like a lullaby that calms the storm within. Blissful Tide is my favorite band because their music is more than just sound, it’s an experience that takes you on a journey.”

Backstory:
Gargantuan Guitar was conceived in the basement of a suburban home in Duluth, Minnesota. The band’s founding members, Larry “Loud” Lawson and Greg “Guitar” Griggs, were childhood friends who discovered a shared passion for music during a high school talent show. As Lawson’s thunderous drums and Griggs’ guitar prowess came together, Gargantuan Guitar was born. Their passion for music and shared vision quickly attracted additional members Rachel “Rhythm” Reed on bass and Danny “Dynamo” Donovan on keyboards. Over the years, they’ve honed their craft, delivering electrifying performances in small pubs and music festivals across the Midwest. Their music resonates with listeners, often telling tales of their humble beginnings, dreams, and the world around them.

Genre:
Gargantuan Guitar’s music falls under the Progressive Rock genre, with a hint of Blues and Psychedelic Rock.

Title:
“Twilight Echoes”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Underneath a crimson sky on a [D] cold Minnesota night
[Em] Strumming chords of stories old, [C] echoes of the twilight bold
[G] In our hearts, the rhythm thrums, [D] as the Duluth wind hums
[Em] Our dreams of music, [C] in the twilight echoes

(Chorus)
[G] Twilight echoes, [D] stirring the soul,
[Em] Bringing to life, [C] stories untold
[G] Under the starlit sky, [D] with our heads held high
[Em] We’ll sing our dreams, [C] in the twilight echoes

(Verse 2)
[G] From a basement, to a stage, [D] a journey penned on every page
[Em] In the rhythm of the night, [C] under the neon’s vibrant light
[G] With every strum, every beat, [D] our hearts in sync, as they meet
[Em] In the silence, [C] hear the twilight echoes

(Repeat Chorus)

(Outro)
[G] So here we stand, [D] under the moon’s command
[Em] Our dreams as vast as the starlit sand
[C] In the whispers of the wind, [G] hear the twilight echoes

Fan Testimonial:
Name: Jessica “Jazz” Johnson

Jessica, a schoolteacher from Duluth, has been an undying fan of Gargantuan Guitar since the band’s inception. “There’s a raw authenticity in their music that speaks to me,” she says. “Their lyrics narrate stories that are timeless yet personal, filled with passion and an unmistakable Midwestern charm. Every performance is a cathartic experience, leaving me inspired and deeply connected to their music. Besides, ‘Twilight Echoes’ reminds me of the beauty of our hometown – Duluth. Gargantuan Guitar isn’t just my favorite band; they’re a part of who I am.”

Backstory:

Mushy Presence was formed in the small seaside town of Cape May, New Jersey, in the fall of 2007. The band members, childhood friends Ryan (lead vocals, guitar), Mason (bass), and Caleb (drums), were all inspired by the tranquil beauty of their surroundings, and the emotions they felt while witnessing the sunsets at the beach. Struggling through their own share of heartbreaks and youthful dreams, they decided to channel their feelings into music, thus giving birth to ‘Mushy Presence’.

The band quickly gained a local fan base after their first performance at a local bar, where their raw, emotive music resonated with the crowd. Their music touched upon the themes of love, loss, and the simple pleasures of life, all wrapped up in their unique, soulful musical style. They soon started touring around New Jersey, and their popularity grew with each gig, extending their fan base beyond their hometown.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Title:

“Dandelion Dreams”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G]Underneath the [D]cotton candy [Em]skies,
Gazing at the [C]dandelion [G]dreams.
[Am]Walking on the [D]shores of time,
[Em]Lost in the [C]echoes of [G]silent screams.

(Chorus)
[D]Oh, we’re just [G]looking for a place to [C]hide,
[Am]In the arms of the [D]troubled tide.
[G]Chasing the [D]wind, adopting the [Em]sea,
In our [C]hearts, we’re [G]forever free.[D]

(Verse 2)
[G]In the melancholy [D]desert of [Em]desire,
Roaming with the [C]ghosts of [G]yester-years.
[Am]Sailing on the [D]ship of hope,
[Em]Drowning in the [C]ocean of [G]silent tears.

(Chorus)
[D]Oh, we’re just [G]wandering in the night [C]so wide,
[Am]In the shadows of the [D]lunar tide.
[G]Living the [D]dream, embracing the [Em]sea,
In our [C]hearts, we’re [G]forever free.[D]

Testimonial:

Favorite Fan’s Name: Jessica Martin

Jessica’s Testimonial: “I’ve loved Mushy Presence ever since I heard their first song at a local bar in Cape May. The soulful lyrics, the raw energy, and the palpable emotions in their music resonated deeply with me. Their songs have been my companion through the highs and lows of my life, providing solace during tough times and adding joy to the happy moments. ‘Dandelion Dreams,’ in particular, has a special place in my heart. It speaks to me on a personal level and feels like a reflection of my own life journey. Mushy Presence is not just a band for me; they are like old friends whose stories are intertwined with my own. I can’t imagine my life without their music.”

Backstory:
Brown Discretion has its origins in the sun-drenched lanes of San Diego, California, where childhood friends Tom Wilson (lead vocals/guitar) and Mark Thompson (bass) started playing musical instruments just for fun. Their passion for music plunged them into creating a band, later joined by Sarah James (drums) and David Owens (lead guitar). Naming the band ‘Brown Discretion’ was inspired by their shared love for the earth and their commitment to individuality and unfiltered expression.

In 2008, the band was officially formed, and they quickly gained local fame with their energetic performances and distinctive sound. They took their music to the next level by incorporating a blend of different genres, creating a unique fusion that set them apart. Their electrifying performances at local gigs soon caught the attention of a recording studio, leading to their first album release in 2010. Since then, the group has garnered a devoted following, known for their authenticity and their transparent lyrics that resonate with listeners worldwide.

Genre:
Alternative Rock/Indie

Title:
“Shadows of the Afternoon”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] The morning sun is out of sight [D]
[Em] Shadows of the afternoon, they creep in tight [C]
[G] In a world so bright, yet filled with fright [D]
[Em] Walking a path, we hope is right [C]

(Chorus)
[G] Brown Discretion, we sing [D]
[Em] Unveiling truth beneath the strings [C]
[G] Stories of love, tales of springs [D]
[Em] Unseen colors, life brings [C]

(Verse 2)
[G] Between the lines of the setting sun [D]
[Em] We find our battles, lost and won [C]
[G] Echoes of laughter, tears we’ve spun [D]
[Em] Underneath this sky, we are one [C]

(Chorus)
[G] Brown Discretion, in our voice [D]
[Em] In this noise, we’ve found our choice [C]
[G] Amidst the crowd, amidst the noise [D]
[Em] Singing the songs of our rejoice [C]

Testimonial:

Fan’s Name: Emily Johnson

“Brown Discretion has been the soundtrack to my life ever since I stumbled upon their first album in 2010. Their mix of alternative rock and indie, combined with their thought-provoking lyrics, offers a beautiful escape from reality. Their songs, especially “Shadows of the Afternoon,” resonate with me on such a deep level. It captures the essence of daily struggles and victories, something that we all can relate to. This band has helped me through some of the toughest and happiest times of my life. Their authenticity and dedication to their craft are truly inspiring. Brown Discretion is more than just a band to me; they are companions on my life’s journey.”

Backstory:
Quixotic Theme emerged from the vibrant cityscapes of Seoul, South Korea in 2012. The band members, Jaemin (vocals and guitar), Hyojin (bass), and Insoo (drums), were childhood friends who grew up together in the same neighborhood, sharing an apartment and numerous musical influences. They began their journey performing at local bars and small music festivals, gaining recognition for their unique sound, heartfelt lyrics, and dynamic performances. The band’s name reflects their belief in the pursuit of dreams, however lofty or ‘quixotic’ they may seem.

Genre:
Alternative Rock with a Fusion of Indie and Punk Elements.

Song Title:
“Chasing Shadows”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em G
Underneath the city lights, we hide,
D A
Between the whispers and the quiet fights,
Em G
Chasing shadows in the dead of night,
D A
Hoping to find a little bit of light.

(Chorus)
Em G
We’re young, we’re wild, we’re free,
D A
Living in a quixotic theme,
Em G
Our hearts racing like a dream,
D A
In this labyrinth life, we’re a team.

(Verse 2)
Em G
Through the chaos and the midnight haze,
D A
We search for truth, in the neon maze,
Em G
In the echoes of the old-time days,
D A
We find our hopes in a smoky blaze.

(Chorus)
Em G
We’re young, we’re wild, we’re free,
D A
Living in a quixotic theme,
Em G
Our hearts racing like a dream,
D A
In this labyrinth life, we’re a team.

Fan’s Favorite Testimonial:

My name is Min-Ji and I am the biggest fan of Quixotic Theme. Their music is a breath of fresh air in the Korean alternative rock scene that is often dominated by commercial K-pop. Their lyrics speak of dreams, hope, struggles, and the pursuit of passion, all of which resonate with my personal experiences. As a university student trying to figure out my path, their song “Chasing Shadows” feels like my anthem, reminding me to keep going even when things get tough. Quixotic Theme is my favorite band because they inspire me to live my dreams, no matter how quixotic they may seem.

Backstory:
Shocked Businessman is an iconic band formed in the bustling city of Seattle in 2012. Comprising four remarkable individuals- Sam (vocals and guitar), Dave (drums), Mike (bass), and Tom (keyboard), the band was unveiled during an open mic night at a local bar. The group bonded over their mutual disdain for corporate culture after quitting their traditional 9-to-5 jobs, hence the name ‘Shocked Businessman’.

They found solace and a sense of liberation in music, leading to the creation of a unique soundscape that voiced their shared experiences and beliefs. Their energetic performances and rebellious lyrics quickly gained popularity, leading to a dedicated following that resonates deeply with their anti-establishment sentiments.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Walls of Glass”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1: Em-C-G-D)
Em C G D
Cold coffee on a desk, suit and ties, no rest
Em C G D
Paper mountains rise, in the corporate wilderness
Em C G D
Chasing dreams of wealth, losing touch with self
Em C G D
In the mirror’s face, a stranger in my place

(Chorus: G-D-Am-C)
G D Am C
Break through the walls of glass, make this moment last
G D Am C
The world’s spinning fast, we won’t be outcast

(Verse 2: Em-C-G-D)
Em C G D
In the concrete jungle, spirits tangle
Em C G D
Skyscrapers high, touch the empty sky
Em C G D
We won’t falter, in this alter
Em C G D
Of material gain, fueling our disdain

(Chorus: G-D-Am-C)
G D Am C
Break through the walls of glass, make this moment last
G D Am C
The world’s spinning fast, we won’t be outcast

(Outro: G-D-Am-C)
G D Am C
So here we stand, guitar in hand
G D Am C
Voices loud, above the crowd
G D Am C
Shocked Businessman, with a rock ‘n’ roll plan
G D Am C
Breaking through the walls of glass, at last

Fan’s Name: Jenny Thompson

Testimonial:
“I’ve never connected with a band like I do with Shocked Businessman. Their music articulates my everyday struggle in the corporate world. It’s like they’ve captured my reality and transformed it into a raw, electrifying melody. ‘Walls of Glass’ is my anthem, I listen to it every morning, it gives me the strength to challenge the monotony and chase my dreams. Shocked Businessman, you rock my world!”

Backstory:
‘Truth is often stranger, and more interesting, than fiction’ – this is the principle that inspired the formation of the band ‘Real Life’. The four-member group met while studying music at the University of California, Berkeley, and discovered a shared passion for narrating the hard-hitting realities of life through music. They released their debut album while still in school, which gained them a dedicated local fanbase. After graduation, they embarked on a cross-country tour, giving them exposure to different scenes and cultures. These experiences gave depth to their music, allowing them to connect with a wider audience.

Genre:
Real Life’s music can best be described as indie rock with a sprinkle of folk undertones. Their songs, often driven by acoustic guitar and rhythmic percussion, convey raw and relatable stories that inspire and provoke thought.

Title:
“Through the Glass”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G]I’ve seen the world [Em]from my bedroom [C]window,
[G]Dreamt of places [Em]where I’ve never [D]been though,
[G]Skies of blue and [Em]streets of rainbow [C]colors,
[G]Yearning for a [Em]story that’s yet to [D]unfurl.

(Chorus)
[G]Through the glass, [Em]I see life’s contrasts,
[C]From shadows of the [D]night, to the morning sun’s outcasts,
[G]Through the glass, [Em]I see love amass,
[C]In the real world’s [D]beautiful, beautiful vast.

(Verse 2)
[G]I’ve heard words of [Em]wisdom from the [C]radio,
[G]Tales of lovers [Em]lost and heroes [D]in the shadow,
[G]The echo of a [Em]song, the whisper of a [C]prayer,
[G]In the real world [Em]beyond the glass, I [D]swear.

(Chorus)
[G]Through the glass, [Em]I see life’s contrasts,
[C]From the laughter and the [D]tears, to the future and the past,
[G]Through the glass, [Em]I feel time’s hourglass,
[C]In the real world’s [D]beautiful, beautiful vast.

Favorite Fan’s Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan is Mary Cohen, a music teacher from Sacramento. Mary says, “Real Life’s music speaks to me on a deeper level. It’s like they’ve taken the threads of life and woven them into melodies. The authenticity and raw emotion in their songs are what I love the most. Their song ‘Through the Glass’ especially resonates with me – it’s like a mirror reflecting the beauty and the pain of real life. This band is my favorite because they’re not just musicians, they’re storytellers, and through their music, I find a piece of myself.”

Backstory:
Complete Corp was born out of the eclectic fusion of three college roommates’ passion for music in the city of Austin, Texas, back in 2009. Dave Carter, the lead vocals and guitarist, was an introverted philosophy major who found solace and expression in his music. Jake Simmons, the drummer, was a physics major with a knack for rhythm and precision, and Emily Green, a sociology major, played the bass guitar and back-up vocals, adding soul and depth to their music. They started as a garage band, performing at small house parties and local pubs. However, their unique sound quickly gained traction, and soon they were playing at larger venues and music festivals, garnering a loyal fan base.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Universe in Reverse”

Full song lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G] I’m, [D] lost in a [Em] world, [C] spinning around,
[G] Stuck, [D] in a dream, [Em] gravity-bound.
[G] We’re, [D] dancing on [Em] stars, [C] we’re shattering the night,
[G] Held, [D] together [Em] by love, [C] and the speed of light.

(Chorus)
[G] In the [D] Universe in [Em] Reverse, [C] we’re falling up the sky,
[G] Love is [D] the constant, [Em] and the truth we [C] can’t deny.
[G] We’re [D] spinning in [Em] circles, [C] in the cosmic sea,
[G] In the [D] Universe in [Em] Reverse, [C] that’s where we’ll be.

(Verse 2)
[G] Love, [D] in a time [Em] warp, [C] bends the space,
[G] Hearts, [D] interconnected, [Em] in a quantum trace.
[G] We, [D] are stardust, [Em] we are golden light,
[G] In the [D] Universe in [Em] Reverse, [C] we ignite.

(Chorus)
[G] In the [D] Universe in [Em] Reverse, [C] we’re falling up the sky,
[G] Love is [D] the constant, [Em] and the truth we [C] can’t deny.
[G] We’re [D] spinning in [Em] circles, [C] in the cosmic sea,
[G] In the [D] Universe in [Em] Reverse, [C] that’s where we’ll be.

Fan’s Name:
Sarah Thompson

Testimonial:
“I am Sarah Thompson, a die-hard fan of Complete Corp since their early days in Austin. I was initially drawn to their riveting live performances, their profound lyrics, and their mesmerizing music. Their unique blend of alternative rock, coupled with a cosmic theme, makes their sound stand out. Complete Corp’s songs are the perfect amalgamation of passion, emotion, and intellect. ‘Universe in Reverse’ is my personal favorite – it’s captivating, inspiring, and transports me to another dimension. It’s like they’ve somehow managed to capture the essence of the universe and put it into their music. I believe Complete Corp will always remain my favorite band due to their commitment to originality, authenticity, and their unyielding love for music.”

Backstory:
Formed in 2018 in the small town of Northfield, Vermont, Emotional Pencil is a group of four childhood friends – Ben, Jack, Alex, and Sam. Initially, they shared the common dream of mastering the art of pencil drawing but soon discovered their shared passion for music. They combined both interests and formed ‘Emotional Pencil.’ The band started as a fun pastime in their parents’ basements, but their talent quickly attracted local attention. Success followed with their debut album, which resonated with their listeners and sold thousands of copies locally. Their journey was not always smooth, facing multiple challenges and setbacks, but their determination and passion led them to stardom.

Genre:
Alt-Rock with a hint of Indie Pop

Title:
“Sketches Of Love”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1 – C, G, Am, F)
C G Am F
Sketches of love, drawn in the heart
C G Am F
Lines that intertwine, never to part
C G Am F
Moments in time, captured in lead
C G Am F
Faded and smudged, the words left unsaid

(Chorus – C, G, Am, F)
C G Am F
We’re just sketches of love, imperfect, undone
C G Am F
But in every line, every curve, every one
C G Am F
Is a piece of our story, a chapter, a scene
C G Am F
In the book of our lives, in the love that we’ve been

(Verse 2 – C, G, Am, F)
C G Am F
Draw me closer, with your gentle touch
C G Am F
Trace my heart, these feelings, such
C G Am F
Through the lines, through the shades
C G Am F
Reveal the love, where nothing fades

(Chorus – C, G, Am, F)
C G Am F
We’re just sketches of love, etched in time
C G Am F
A portrait of two hearts, yours and mine
C G Am F
An eternal design, our love, divine
C G Am F
In the book of our lives, in the love that we’ve been

Fan Testimonial:

Fan name: Lily Morgan

“I’ve been a fan of Emotional Pencil since their debut album. The way their music combines elements of alternative rock and indie pop is truly unique. Their lyrics are deep and meaningful, and I often find myself lost in their songs. The band members are incredibly down-to-earth and approachable, making it easy to connect with them. ‘Sketches Of Love’ is my favorite song, as it beautifully captures the essence of love and connection. The band is not just about music; it’s about expressing emotions, and that’s why they are my favorite.”