1. Backstory

Exemplary Grass is a band that was formed by a group of college buddies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2010. The core members, lead singer and guitarist, Calvin Hughes, bassist Nick Rodgers, and drummer Mike Sanderson, found their shared passion for music during their frequent jam sessions in their college dorm rooms. They decided to form a band, taking the name Exemplary Grass from a term their botany professor used to describe the finest quality of turf. They quickly gained popularity within the campus and their music started to spread beyond the college grounds, gaining them a dedicated fan base.

After their graduation in 2014, the friends decided to take their passion to the next level and pursue their music career full-time. They moved to Nashville, Tennessee, to gain exposure in the music heartland, where they added a new member, violinist Emma Stone. With the addition of Emma, the band’s sound evolved from the traditional college rock to a more unique blend of folk rock and indie pop, creating a sound that is truly their own.

2. Music Genre

Folk Rock / Indie Pop

3. Song title

“Fields of Honesty”

4. Full song lyrics with chord progression (verse, chorus)

[Verse 1 – Em, C, G, D]
There’s a place I know, where the summer sun does glow,
Where the Exemplary Grass does grow, my heart feels something it can’t stow.
Waving in the warm breeze, it’s a sight that never ceases,
A calming melody that releases, the pain inside that decreases.

[Chorus – G, D, C,G]
In the fields of honesty, where the soul finds liberty,
It’s in the wind, in the thrumming tree, it’s in the heart of you and me.

[Verse 2 – Em, C, G, D]
Underneath the open sky, beneath the stars that never lie,
Where the Exemplary Grass meets the eye, there’s a truth that’ll never die.
With every step, with every stride, no secret, no place to hide,
In this open space, so wide, we find a love that won’t subside.

[Chorus – G, D, C,G]
In the fields of honesty, where the truth sets us free,
It’s in the wind, in the humming bee, it’s in the heart of you and me.

5. The band’s favorite fan’s name and why and how this band is their favorite as a testimonial

The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Lisa Thompson. Lisa has been following Exemplary Grass since their college days and has attended every one of their concerts. She has a deep connection with their music and feels it speaks directly to her heart. Lisa says, “Exemplary Grass has a unique sound that resonates with me. Their lyrics are authentic, it’s like they’re singing about my own life experiences. Their music has helped me through some tough times. Their song ‘Fields of Honesty’ for instance, helped me understand the value of truth in life. I’m forever a fan!”

1. Whimsical Mailbox is a group of five childhood friends who all grew up in the small, eclectic town of Leifly, Oregon. They lived on the same block and were best known for their treehouse jam sessions that would have the entire neighborhood tapping their feet. The band was officially formed when a neighbor jokingly suggested they should start charging for their performances. The band took the suggestion to heart, starting small with local venues, then eventually finding their way to sold-out shows in Portland, and finally landing record deals in Los Angeles. The name ‘Whimsical Mailbox’ was inspired by a brightly painted mailbox on the band’s block, which the friends saw as a symbol of their vibrant and lively community.

2. Whimsical Mailbox is best known for their unique blend of Indie Pop and Folk Rock, that has a feel-good vibe reminiscent of their small town roots.

3. A popular song from their repertoire is “Letters to Yesterday.”

4.
(Verse 1: C, Em, Am, F)
C
Oh, the sun fades on our old street,
Em
Memories dancing on the concrete,
Am
We used to gather under the old oak tree,
F
Singing our hearts out, wild and free.

(Chorus: C, G, Am, F)
C
In the Whimsical Mailbox, we’d drop our dreams,
G
Letters to yesterday, stitched at seams,
Am
We dreamed of stages, music and light,
F
In the quiet of Leifly, under the night.

(Verse 2: C, Em, Am, F)
C
Years gone by, we’re on the road,
Em
Living the dream, reaping what we sowed,
Am
But the echo of laughter, the old oak tree,
F
Are the roots of our music, our legacy

(Chorus: C, G, Am, F)
C
In the Whimsical Mailbox, we’d drop our dreams,
G
Letters to yesterday, stitched at seams,
Am
We remember Leifly, we remember the night,
F
We’re living our dream, under the spotlight.

(Outro: C, Em, Am, F)
C
Oh, the Whimsical Mailbox, our past it holds,
Em
Our music, a story, waiting to be told,
Am
We’re Letters to yesterday, a tale to unwind,
F
In the heart of our music, our roots you’ll find.

5. Their favorite fan’s name is Jenny, a woman who has been following the band since their treehouse jamming days. In her testimonial, she says, “I’ve watched Whimsical Mailbox grow and evolve from a fun neighborhood act to a band with soulful lyrics and a perfect blend of indie pop and folk rock. Their music has become the soundtrack of my life – it’s full of memories, joy, and a sense of home. They haven’t lost their roots, and that’s what makes them so special. The song ‘Letters to Yesterday’ is my favorite, it’s like a beautiful tribute to our town and the journey of the band. Whimsical Mailbox isn’t just a band to me; they are a piece of my hometown, a piece of my heart.”

1. Firm Passenger was formed on a chilly November night in a college dorm room. Founding members, Barry Atwood (vocals and guitar) and Jesse Cherry (drums), were roommates who used to play music together to relieve the stress of their engineering studies. Barry’s soulful voice, acoustic guitar skills, and Jesse’s love for percussions gave birth to their unique sound. One night, while they were playing music, their classmate, Maria Lorraine (bass guitarist), happened to pass by and was captivated by their sound. She asked to join them, leading to the inception of Firm Passenger.

They began playing at small college events and quickly gained a reputation for their unique sound. Their breakthrough came when they were spotted by a record executive at their college’s annual music festival. Their combination of heartfelt lyrics, catchy melodies, and energetic live performances quickly caught the attention of the music industry, leading to their signing with a major record label. Since then, Firm Passenger has been on a journey that has taken them beyond their wildest dreams, selling out stadiums and topping charts worldwide.

2. Their music genre is a unique blend of alternative rock and indie pop.

3. One of their most popular song titles is “Riding the Night”.

4. Full song lyrics with chord progression (verse, chorus):

(Verse 1 – Dm, C, G, A)
In the silent whispers of the night, (Dm, C)
I found my solace, found my light (G, A)

Riding through the shadows, (Dm, C)
Chasing our own echoes (G, A)

(Chorus- F, C, Am, G)
We are Firm Passenger, (F, C)
Riding the night, chasing the dawn (Am, G)
With our hearts ablaze, and our spirits drawn, (F, C)
We are Firm Passenger, and the road goes on… (Am, G)

(Repeat chord progression for subsequent verses and chorus)

5. The band’s favorite fan’s name is Melinda Cooper. In her testimonial, she said, “I first heard Firm Passenger at a college event and was immediately captivated by their music. Their combination of alternative rock and indie pop resonates with me, and their lyrics always seem to speak directly to my heart. Their song ‘Riding the Night’ is, without a doubt, my anthem. It talks about the journey, the pursuit of dreams, which is something I deeply connect with. Every time I feel like giving up, I listen to that song and it gives me the strength to keep going. Firm Passenger is my favorite band because their music is real, authentic, and it moves me.”

1. Backstory:

Steep Therapy was formed in the vibrant city of Seattle in 2010. The bandmates, Pete Thompson (lead vocals/guitar), Terry Johnson (drums), and Sarah Mitchell (bass guitar/vocals) met in a quaint, character-filled coffee shop, where they instantly bonded over their shared love for music and caffeine. Pete, an ex-marine turned songwriter, had been performing solo acts around the city when he chanced upon Terry and Sarah, who were individual performers themselves. Their chemistry was instant, and they knew they had something special. Thus, Steep Therapy was born.

The band members named their group Steep Therapy as an ode to their love for coffee, as well as for music’s therapeutic qualities. Over the years, they’ve garnered a strong fan base with their soulful sound, engaging lyrics, and fiery performances. Their shared experiences of love, loss, and recovery have allowed them to create music that resonates with their audience at a personal level.

2. Music Genre:

Steep Therapy mainly creates music under the genre of Alternative Rock, with traces of soul and indie influences.

3. Song title:

“One Last Cup”

4. Full song lyrics with chord progression:

Verse 1: (C – G – Am – F)
(C) There’s a warmth in the (G) morning light,
(Am) Fresh coffee, and a (F) hope so bright.
(C) We’ve got our demons, (G) we’ve got our fight,
(Am) But in this moment, (F) everything feels right.

Chorus: (G – Am – F – C)
(G) One last cup, (Am) before we part,
(F) Steeped in memories, (C) straight from the heart.
(G) One last cup, (Am) before the dawn,
(F) Hold on to love, (C) before it’s gone.

Verse 2: (C – G – Am – F)
(C) The day is young, (G) the world is ours,
(Am) In this coffee shop, (F) beneath the stars.
(C) We’ve got our dreams, (G) we’ve got our scars,
(Am) But in this moment, (F) we are where we are.

(Repeat chorus)

Bridge: (Am – F – C – G)
(Am) This is our therapy, (F) this is our song,
(C) In this bitter sweet brew, (G) we find where we belong.

(Repeat chorus)

5. The band’s favorite fan’s name and testimonial:

Their favorite fan is Emily Turner. She says, “I stumbled upon Steep Therapy during a rough patch in my life. Their music, especially ‘One Last Cup’, helped me through those tough times. The raw emotion in their lyrics, coupled with their beautiful melodies, made me feel seen and understood. Every chord progression is like a steep therapy session, healing and comforting. They’re not just a band to me, they’re a lifeline.”

1. Backstory:
Whole Margin emanated from the bustling city of New Haven, Connecticut, in the year 2010. The band was formed by a group of buddies – Max, Tommy, and Luke, who were previously just regular college students studying at Yale University. Their common love for music brought them together, and after a few late-night jamming sessions in their dorm rooms, they realized they had stumbled upon something special.

The name Whole Margin emerged from the band’s philosophy which is about embracing the whole spectrum of life, the good and the bad, the ups and the downs. They believe it’s these margins of life that makes one’s story complete. This ideology echoes in their soulful lyrics, captivating melodies, and the raw, emotive energy that their live performances are known for.

2. Music Genre:
Whole Margin produces tunes falling under the genre of indie rock with a hint of folk and psychedelic influences.

3. Song Title:
“Borderlines of Reality”

4. Full song lyrics with chord progression:

(Verse 1: E7-Am-D-G)
We walk on the borderlines of reality,
Caught between the pages of our dreams,
Ever teetering on the brink of sanity,
In a world that’s never as it seems.

(Chorus: C-G-Am-E7)
Borderlines, borderlines, where shadows intertwine,
Are we just lost in time? Oh these borderlines.

(Verse 2: E7-Am-D-G)
In the prism of our thoughts, we wander,
On a quest for truths unknown,
In this maze of life, we ponder,
Are we ever truly alone?

(Chorus: C-G-Am-E7)
Borderlines, borderlines, where echoes are confined,
Are we just stars assigned? Oh these borderlines.

(Outro: D-Am-E7)
We are but voyagers in time,
Living on these borderlines.

5. The band’s favorite fan’s name is Hannah Rodgers, a literature professor who claims Whole Margin to be her favorite band. “Whole Margin’s music is like a symphony of my life’s emotions. Their songs resonate deeply with me, whether I’m going through a tough time or celebrating a joyous event. They somehow manage to capture the essence of human experiences in their lyrics, and the melodies are just hauntingly beautiful. I appreciate their authenticity and the fact that they are not afraid to explore complex themes in their songs. Whole Margin is not just a band to me; they are the soundtrack of my life.”

1. Full Start is an iconic band that emerged from the gritty, bursting music scene of Seattle in the late 2000s. The band was created by four childhood friends – Jay, Derek, Carrie, and Todd – who shared an undying passion for music. The group solidified their status by playing at local music festivals, where their infectious sound and raw energy quickly caught the attention of audiences and industry insiders alike. Full Start’s journey from obscurity to the mainstream was anything but easy. They faced several challenges along the way, but their unwavering commitment to their craft and their indomitable spirit led to their breakthrough. Their debut album, “Morning Glory,” was a runaway success, leading to a meteoric rise in their popularity.

2. Full Start is known for their unique blend of Indie Rock and Pop Punk, with a sprinkle of Grunge. Their music is characterized by catchy hooks, rebellious lyrics, and powerful guitar riffs, reflective of their Seattle roots.

3. A hit song from their album is titled “Inertia Break.”

4. Full song lyrics with chord progression:

Verse 1:
(Am) Worn out souls, but (G) young at heart,
(Dm) We took the world, made it our (Am) art.
(F) Dreams in our eyes, (E) stories untold,
(Am) This is our journey, let it (G) unfold.

Chorus:
(F) Breaking the inertia, (G) we’re taking the start,
(Am) This is our moment, (E) straight from the heart.
(F) We are the rhythm, (G) we are the spark,
(Am) We are Full Start, (E) shining in the dark.

Verse 2:
(Am) City lights, (G) and endless roads,
(Dm) Chasing the horizon, (Am) breaking the codes.
(F) Hearts on our sleeves, (E) playing our part,
(Am) We are Full Start, (G) we won’t depart.

5. The band’s favorite fan is Danny Thompson. Danny has not just been a fan, but a part of Full Start’s journey from the very beginning. He first discovered them at a local music festival and was instantly captivated by their unique sound and energy. As a music blogger, he played a significant role in promoting the band’s music, writing rave reviews and spreading the word about their performances. He states, “Full Start’s music is more than just melodies and rhythms; it’s an experience, a rush of emotions that hits all the right chords. Their music has helped me through some of my toughest times and has been the soundtrack to some of my best moments. They’re more than just my favorite band, they’re a part of who I am.”

1. Backstory

Discrete Judgement, a group of four childhood friends from the small town of Lincoln, Nebraska, had always shared a knack for music. Ethan, the charismatic lead vocalist, Aaron, the talented lead guitarist, Mark, the rhythmic drummer, and Jason, the soulful bassist, decided to merge their talents together during their high school years. The band was named ‘Discrete Judgement’ because the members believed in the power of personal opinions and individual expression. They shared a common philosophy: Music should be a vessel for personal growth, not a tool for public judgment.

After multiple gigs in local venues and talent shows, Discrete Judgement gained local fame. Their unique sound caught the attention of a well-known producer visiting the town, who offered them a record deal. This marked the start of their professional journey and transformation from a small-town band to a recognized name in the music world.

2. Music Genre

Discrete Judgement resonates strongly with the Alternative Rock genre, with elements of Blues and Indie Rock intermixed in their compositions.

3. Song Title

“Cosmic Collision”

4. Full Song Lyrics with Chord Progression

(Verse 1) [C – G – Am – F]
Underneath the starry skies, where the silence lies,
A lone voice cries, waiting for a cosmic collision.
The echo of a forgotten dream, a nebulous stream,
It’s not what it seems, yearning for a cosmic collision.

(Chorus) [F – Am – G – C]
Oh, the cosmic collision, a celestial admission,
In this vast space division, we’re waiting for a decision.
The cosmic collision, a divine intervention,
A spiritual ignition, sparking a new dimension.

(Verse 2) [C – G – Am – F]
The universe whispers secrets, as the time fleets,
A symphony of heartbeats, anticipating a cosmic collision.
Stars aligning in a dance, given a chance,
An infinite expanse, bracing for a cosmic collision.

(Chorus) [F – Am – G – C]
Oh, the cosmic collision, a celestial admission,
In this vast space division, we’re waiting for a decision.
The cosmic collision, a divine intervention,
A spiritual ignition, sparking a new dimension.

(Outro) [C – G – Am – F]
In the grand constellation, amidst the creation,
Awaiting the cosmic collision, the final liberation.

5. Favorite Fan

Discrete Judgement’s favorite fan is Lila Thompson. A librarian from their hometown, Lila has been an ardent fan since their initial days. She has attended every single one of their shows and even helped promote their music by hosting mini concerts at the library. She loves the band for their authenticity and the depth of their lyrics which she says, “strike a chord in the heart and touch the soul”. Lila states, “Discrete Judgement is not just a band, it’s a philosophy. They remind us to stay true to ourselves, irrespective of the world’s judgement. Their music is a sanctuary for the mind and soul.”

1. Short Backstory:

Hailing from the quirky town of Austin, Texas, Tepid Bathroom was formed in the spring of 2012 by four lifelong friends who shared a love of music and unusual band names. The band’s name was inspired by a laugh-out-loud moment when the foursome found themselves in a less-than-desirable restroom at one of their favorite dive bars. With their offbeat sense of humor and knack for crafting catchy tunes, Tepid Bathroom quickly gained a devoted local following. They’ve since grown from performing at small pubs to filling concert halls throughout the Midwest.

Their spark of creativity ignited early on in their parents’ garages, where they used to jam after school. Scribbling lyrics on napkins, they were initially influenced by their parents’ classic rock and country records, but soon found their unique sound – a hybrid that could only be described as “Indie Bathroom Rock.”

2. Music Genre: Indie Bathroom Rock

3. Song Title: “Porcelain Throne”

4. Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am G D
On that cold steel seat, in the heart of the city,
Am G D
Under harsh neon lights, ain’t it a pity?

(Chorus)
C G Am F
Oh, Porcelain Throne, give me sanctuary,
C G F
In this tepid bathroom, it’s you and me.

(Verse 2)
Am G D
Lost in the echoes of a flushing refrain,
Am G D
I sing my heart out, to drown out the pain.

(Chorus)
C G Am F
Oh, Porcelain Throne, you’re my haven, my home,
C G F
In this tepid bathroom, we are never alone.

(Outro)
Am G D
Through grime and echoes, our song will be known,
Am G D
In the heart of the city, on the Porcelain Throne.

5. The band’s favorite fan: Penny Nicholson

Penny Nicholson, a graphic designer from Minnesota, has been an ardent fan of Tepid Bathroom since their early days. She stumbled upon their music through an indie music blog and was instantly hooked by their unique sound. Penny has attended every concert in the Midwest, often going backstage to get autographs and chat with the band. She’s even designed some of their concert posters.

Testimonial: “Tepid Bathroom is simply my favorite, not only for their distinct sound but also for their authenticity. Their lyrics resonate with me on a deep level, and their performances are always electric. They’ve created their own genre – Indie Bathroom Rock, and I absolutely love it. It’s like going on a wild, unpredictable ride every time I listen to them. Plus, they’re genuinely nice guys, always making time for their fans. Tepid Bathroom isn’t just a band, it’s a community.”

1. Short Backstory:
Formed in the cold, industrial heart of Akron, Ohio, in 2012, Limping Tank was born out of the discontentment and ennui of life in a rust belt city. Childhood friends and founding members, Jeremy ‘Jem’ Campbell, Derek ‘Dex’ Patterson, and Robert ‘Bobby’ Turner, found a common solace in music and a burning desire to express their shared experiences in a city struggling for identity. They began rehearsing in Jem’s dad’s garage, late into the night, their raw and passionate grooves reverberating through the empty streets. Limping Tank’s signature sound is a product of their environment – rough around the edges, heavy yet melodic, with a hint of melancholy that speaks of their hardscrabble roots.

2. Music Genre:
Limping Tank transcends the boundaries of genre, merging elements of hard rock, blues, and punk, with a touch of industrial grit. Their music is raw, honest, and unapologetically loud – a genre they affectionately term ‘Rust Rock’.

3. Song Title:
“Steel City Blues”

4. Full song lyrics with chord progression:

[Intro]
E / A / D / G / B / E

(Verse 1)
E A
Dark alleys and a city of steel,
D G
Living this life, don’t know how to feel.
E A
Broken dreams on the factory floor,
D G
We’re living on less but they demand more.

(Chorus)
E A
Steel City Blues, we sing our song,
D G
In this rust belt, we still belong.
E A
With aching hearts and dirty hands,
D G
In the echo of the steel mill bands.

(Verse 2)
E A
The city sleeps in the dead of night,
D G
Under the neon of a cheap bar’s light.
E A
In the quiet street, you can hear the sound,
D G
Of our dreams crumbling all around.

(Chorus)
E A
Steel City Blues, our anthem roars,
D G
Echoing off the factory doors.
E A
With aching hearts and dirty hands,
D G
In the echo of the steel mill bands.

5. The Band’s Favorite Fan’s Name and Testimonial:
Name: Rosie ‘Rusty’ Thompson

Testimonial:
“Growing up in Akron, it’s easy to feel lost, forgotten. Limping Tank captures that feeling in their music, and somehow, they make it feel less lonely. They speak for us, the ones left behind in the wake of the industry’s departure. I’ve been following them since their garage days, and there’s no other band that gets to the heart of what it means to be from the rust belt. Limping Tank is more than just a band to me, they’re a lifeline. They’re my favorite because their music is our story, and they tell it with such raw emotion and honesty that it’s impossible not to feel a connection. Whenever I blast ‘Steel City Blues,’ I’m reminded that I’m not alone in this fight. Limping Tank is the voice of our city, and I couldn’t be prouder to be their fan.”

1. Backstory:

Rapid Bit was formed in the vibrant city of Seattle when four childhood friends discovered their combined passion for music. Lead singer, David Lightfoot, lead guitarist, Jack Twist, bassist, Nathan Bright, and drummer, Alex Skyline, who grew up in the same neighborhood, played in their high school bands, creating a buzz in local music festivals. Upon graduation, they decided to turn their hobby into a career and Rapid Bit was born. After a few years of struggle, their unique sound caught the attention of a popular record label, launching them into the music scene nationally and then globally.

2. Music Genre:

Rapid Bit is known for their distinctive blend of alternative rock and electronic music, often described as “Cyber-Rock”. Their music is characterized by gripping guitar riffs, powerful drum beats, and synthesizer sounds, creating an electrifying musical experience that captivates audiences both young and old.

3. Song Title:

“One More Byte”

4. Full Song Lyrics with Chord Progression:

(Verse 1: Em-C-G-D)
Em
Lost in the code of life,
C
Looked for a way to rise,
G
Found a rhythm in the night,
D
Lit up like neon lights.

(Chorus: Em-C-G-D)
Em
Give me one more byte,
C
I’ll ride this data tide,
G
In this digital fight,
D
we’ll make it to the other side.

(Verse 2: Em-C-G-D)
Em
In this cybernetic world,
C
Every boy, every girl,
G
Fighting against the surge,
D
In this online, we submerge.

(Chorus: Em-C-G-D)
Em
Give me one more byte,
C
I’ll ride this data tide,
G
In this digital fight,
D
we’ll make it to the other side.

(Bridge: Em-C-G-D)
Em
We are the Rapid Bit,
C
In our power, we commit,
G
In this world of infinite,
D
Our music, the ultimate.

(Chorus: Em-C-G-D)
Em
Give me one more byte,
C
I’ll ride this data tide,
G
In this digital fight,
D
we’ll make it to the other side.

5. Fan’s Name and Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan’s name is Sarah, a computer science student obsessed with coding and music. “I stumbled upon Rapid Bit during my freshman year. Their music resonated with my love for technology and rock. It was like they composed the soundtrack of my life. With their powerful lyrics, they’ve turned the complex world of coding and internet into something tangible and emotional. Their song ‘One More Byte’ is my go-to anthem whenever I’m stuck in a tough code. Rapid Bit is more than a band to me, they’re my inspiration,” says Sarah.