Backstory:

Querulous Audit emerged from the underground music scene of San Francisco in the late 90s. The band was formed by five rebellious accounting students, all sharing an intense love for music and disdain for their mundane numbers-crunching studies. The group’s name, Querulous Audit, reflects their origins and their penchant for questioning authority and societal norms. Their first big break came when a local radio station played a demo of their single, and the unique sound and thought-provoking lyrics immediately gained them a fanbase.

In the following years, Querulous Audit has weathered the storm of the ever-changing music industry. Despite multiple offers for mainstream success, the band members chose to remain independent, keeping their creative freedom intact. They continue to be a strong voice for those defying the status quo and a beacon of audacious, thought-provoking music that is both alternative and soulful.

Genre:

Alt-Rock with a touch of Blues

Title:

“Ciphers in the System”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1:
[G] They told us we’re [C] ciphers in the [D] system,
[G] Numbers on a [C] page, lost in the [D] rhythm.
[G] But we’re more than a [C] balance sheet, [D] more than a quota,
[G] We’re the heart that [C] beats, we’re the [D] restless promoter.

Chorus:
[G] We are the [C] Querulous [D] Audit,
[G] The voice that [C] screams, we [D] got it.
[G] We won’t be your [C] perfect [D] equation,
[G] We’re the [C] sum of our [D] creation.

Verse 2:
[G] You can’t quantify [C] dreams or the burning [D] passion,
[G] Can’t audit hopes or the [C] reckless [D] fashion.
[G] We’re more than [C] gross margins, [D] more than net income,
[G] We’re the rebellious [C] song, the [D] defiant outcome.

(Repeat Chorus)

Favorite Fan’s Name:

Gabriel “Gabe” Martinez

Testimonial:

“I’ve been a fan of Querulous Audit since their first single hit the radio. Their music has this raw, thought-provoking quality that resonates with me. It speaks to the rebel in all of us, the one that refuses to be defined by society’s norms and expectations. It’s a powerful message, and they deliver it in a way that’s both soulful and rockin’. Querulous Audit is not just my favorite band; they’re a symbol of defiance and authenticity, and I resonate with that.”

Backstory:

Low Licence was formed in the grungy corners of Seattle, Washington, in 2003. The band consists of four members: lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Jayson “Jay” Steele, lead guitarist Ashton “Ash” Lane, bassist Mark “Marco” Kennelly and drummer Barry “Bear” O’Connell. Their humble beginnings started in a small garage, where they would spend hours jamming and dreaming about making it big. Despite the hardships and struggles they faced, their strong bond and shared passion for music kept them going.

After performing at local gigs and small music festivals, they were discovered by famed record producer, Russell Davies. Impressed by their raw talent and unique sound, Davies signed them to his independent label. Since then, Low Licence has released five studio albums, solidifying their reputation as a staple in the alternative rock scene.

Genre: Alternative Rock

Title: “Fading Echoes”

(Verse 1)
Em G
I walk down these empty streets, with memories in my heart,
D A
Chasing shadows in the dark, in a world that’s falling apart.
Em G
The echoes of your laughter, still ringing in my ears,
D A
Drowning in my silent screams, immersed in my darkest fears.

(Chorus)
Em G
Fading echoes, running through my mind,
D A
Lost in time, leaving me behind.
Em G
Chasing shadows, in this empty heart,
D A
Fading echoes, tearing me apart.

(Repeat Verse and Chorus)

Fan’s Name: Lisa Morgan

Lisa Morgan, a die-hard fan of Low Licence, can’t imagine a day without their music. She shares, “Low Licence has been my favorite band for years now. Their music speaks to me on a deeply personal level. It’s raw, real, and intense – just like life itself. I remember going through some really tough times and it was their songs that kept me going. Their lyrics are so profound, and I feel like they understand the pain and struggles we all go through. Also, their live performances are electrifying! Seeing them live is an experience like no other. I love Low Licence because they’re more than just a band to me, they’re like a beacon of hope in my life.”

Backstory:
Unlucky Bread was formed in the basement of a bakery in Portland, Oregon in 2010. The band’s founding members, guitarist/vocalist Ryan “Rye” Baker and drummer Danny “Dough” Miller, were employees at the bakery and started jamming out in their downtime. One day, the bakery experienced a huge financial mishap, which they jokingly referred to as their “unlucky bread” incident. They decided to use the name for their band as a symbol of turning negatives into positives. Soon after, they were joined by bassist Jenny “Jam” Rollins, and keyboardist Adam “Crust” Thompson, fully forming their line-up.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Rising Yeast”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Waking up to the [C] scent of dawn, [Em] mixing dreams with [D] reality,
[G] Kneading life like a dough, [C] under the bakery’s [D] canopy.

(Chorus)
[G] We are the rising yeast, [C] in life’s challenging feast,
[Em] Rising above the hate, [D] defining our own fate,
[G] With every loaf we bake, [C] every chance we take,
[Em] We are the rising yeast, [D] in life’s challenging feast.

(Verse 2)
[G] Dusting flour on our [C] dreams, [Em] shaping them in the [D] oven’s heat,
[G] we’re the unlikely champions, [C] marching to our own [D] beat.

(Chorus)
[G] We are the rising yeast, [C] in life’s challenging feast,
[Em] Rising above the hate, [D] defining our own fate,
[G] With every loaf we bake, [C] every chance we take,
[Em] We are the rising yeast, [D] we won’t accept defeat.

Fan’s Testimonial:
“My name is Sarah, and I’ve been a fan of Unlucky Bread since their early days. Their music speaks to me on a spiritual level, and their lyrics carry a meaningful message about overcoming challenges, rising above them like yeast in bread. Their sound is refreshing and unique, it’s got a soulful indie vibe that I absolutely adore. Their song, “Rising Yeast” is my anthem. It gives me strength and motivates me to bake my bread in life, despite any odds. Unlucky Bread is more than a band to me; they are a source of inspiration.”

Backstory:

Devoted Canal was born from the remnants of two previous bands: “The Floodgates” and “Timeless Voyage”. The core members, Steven (vocals, guitar), Neil (bass), and Ricky (drums) had been friends since their high school days in Nashville, Tennessee. After the disbandment of their previous groups, they decided to come together and form a new band that would echo their shared passion for music and a deep connection with their roots. Naming their band “Devoted Canal” was a nod to their enduring commitment to their musical journey, signifying a channel of creativity and devotion.

Over the years, Devoted Canal developed a signature sound that blended their diverse musical backgrounds, playing to sold-out shows and gaining a committed fanbase. Their music tells stories of love, despair, and the human condition, taking listeners on an emotional journey that resonates with many.

Genre:
Alt-Country / Indie Rock

Title:
“Whiskey and Tears”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1 – G, D, C, Am)
[G] Down the road, where the [D] old tavern lies,
[C] I’ve left my dreams, and a thousand [Am] goodbyes.
[G] The barman knows, by the [D] look in my eyes,
[C] It’s another night of whiskey, and [Am] bitter tears.

(Chorus – C, G, Am, D)
[C] Whiskey and tears, [G] love’s souvenirs,
[Am] Shadows of our love, [D] dancing through the years.
[C] Whiskey and tears, [G] drowning my fears,
[Am] Toasting to the memories, [D] in whiskey and tears.

(Verse 2 – G, D, C, Am)
[G] Under the neon lights, [D] I find solace,
[C] In empty glasses, and your [Am] fading face.
[G] The jukebox plays, a [D] forgotten embrace,
[C] Love’s lost in time, like [Am] whiskey and tears.

(Chorus – C, G, Am, D)
[C] Whiskey and tears, [G] echoes of cheers,
[Am] The laughter and the pain, [D] in crystal clear.
[C] Whiskey and tears, [G] love disappears,
[Am] Leaving only memories and [D] whiskey and tears.

Favorite Fan’s Testimonial:

“My name is Allison and I’ve been following Devoted Canal since their first gig in 2012. Their music speaks to me on such a personal level; it’s like they’re telling my stories. ‘Whiskey and Tears’ has gotten me through tough times; it’s my anthem. There’s just something about Steven’s voice and the raw emotion in the lyrics that make me feel understood. As a fan, I don’t just feel like a spectator, but a part of their musical family. Devoted Canal is more than just a favorite band to me, they’re a lifeline.”

Backstory:
Formed in 2016, in the heartland of New Orleans, Gruesome Control came together when four high school friends discovered their shared passion for music that goes beyond the generic standards of their time. Frontman Alex Hemingway, drummer Casey Malone, guitarist Vinny Parker, and bassist Elliot Lane spent countless hours in a dusty, dimly lit basement, experimenting with melodies and rhythms that reflected their diverse musical influences. From the vibrant jazz scene of their hometown to the hard-hitting rock anthems of the 90s, Gruesome Control was born out of a desire to break boundaries and provoke thought through music.

Their rise to fame was challenging and filled with uncertainty as mainstream music at the time didn’t resonate with their style. However, their unique blend of styles and unapologetic lyrics eventually gained them a loyal following. They faced the music industry’s harsh realities with resilience and authenticity, earning the respect of critics and fans alike.

Genre:
Alternative Rock/ Nu-Jazz fusion

Song Title:
“System of Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Em] Darkened alleys, [G] twisted tales,
[D] Echoes of sirens, [A] morning wails.
[Em] Silhouettes dancing, [G] under the moon,
[D] A system of shadows, [A] playing our tune.

(Chorus)
[C] We’re the gruesome control, [G] in the night,
[D] Breaking free from the chains, [Em] taking flight.
[C] Lost in the rhythm, [G] in the echoes we trust,
[D] In the world of the shadows, [Em] it’s just us.

(Verse 2)
[Em] Silent whispers, [G] of the broken,
[D] Words unspoken, [A] truths awoken.
[Em] We’re the melody, [G] in the deafening noise,
[D] Voice of the voiceless, [A] making our choice.

(Chorus)
[C] We’re the gruesome control, [G] in the fray,
[D] Singing songs of the night, [Em] in the day.
[C] In the silence we find, [G] our own beat,
[D] In the system of shadows, [Em] we meet. (Repeat)

Band’s favorite fan:
Our favorite fan’s name is Lucy Anderson. Lucy has been with us since our very first gig at a local pub. She attended every single one of our shows, rain or shine. Here’s what she has to say about us:

“As an avid listener of music that dares to be different, I instantly fell in love with Gruesome Control. Their music resonates with my soul, the lyrics are raw and real, and their unique style is a breath of fresh air in an industry often filled with the same old tunes. It’s their authenticity, their passion that sets them apart. Each song is a journey, a protest, a celebration, a deeply personal story told through melodies that linger long after the song ends. Gruesome Control isn’t just a band to me, it’s a musical revolution.”

Backstory:
Apprehensive Enthusiasm was birthed in the bustling city of San Francisco during the summer of 2015. The band was initially a trio consisting of childhood friends; lead vocalist and guitarist Aaron “A.J.” Jenkins, drummer Mark “Marsh” Harrison, and bassist Paul “Pablo” Garcia. They spent their time playing at small bars and cafes, slowly gaining recognition for their unorthodox yet fascinating style. Their big break came in 2017 when they won a local Battle of the Bands competition, catching the attention of a talent scout who signed them onto a record label. Since then, the trio has added keyboardist and female vocalist, Olivia “Ollie” Brooks. The band is known for their energetic performances and the raw, unfiltered emotions they pour into their songs.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
‘Frantic Heartbeat’

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
(Am) The city lights, they (Em) blind my sight
(G) Trapped in the noise, lost in the (F) night
(Am) We’re chasing dreams, so (Em) close in sight
(G) But just out of (F) reach, just out of (Am) sight

[Chorus]
(Am) My frantic heartbeat, (Em) echoing in the night
(G) Chasing the shadows, (F) running from the light
(Am) Caught in the rhythm, (Em) drowning in the sound
(G) Waiting for the dawn to (F) come around

[Verse 2]
(Am) We’re painted smiles, we’re (Em) guilty minds
(G) We’re lost souls in this (F) endless time
(Am) We’re broken hearts, we’re (Em) hopeful lies
(G) We’re just waiting for our (F) stars to align

[Chorus]
(Am) My frantic heartbeat, (Em) echoing in the night
(G) Chasing the shadows, (F) running from the light
(Am) Caught in the rhythm, (Em) drowning in the sound
(G) Waiting for the dawn to (F) come around

[Outro]
(Am) This is our cry, this is our (Em) plea
(G) Our frantic heartbeat, setting us (F) free
(Am) In the morning light, we’ll (Em) finally see
(G) The rhythm of our hearts, our (F) melody.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Sarah Johansson. Sarah, a self-proclaimed music junkie, stumbled upon Apprehensive Enthusiasm during their early days of performing in small bars. She was instantly drawn to their unique sound and raw energy. Sarah recalls, “I was captivated by their authenticity, the way their music resonated with my own life. ‘Frantic Heartbeat’ became my anthem, my motivation. It felt like they understood what it was like to chase dreams, to feel scared yet excited. They became more than a band to me, they became a source of comfort and inspiration. I have followed them through every gig, every album, and they never fail to amaze me. Apprehensive Enthusiasm is a testament to the power of music and the magic it brings into our lives.”

Backstory:

Focused Language was formed in the summer of 2012 in the vibrant cultural city of San Francisco, California. The band consists of four members: lead vocalist and keyboardist Eric Roberts, guitarist Daniel Hart, bassist James Evans, and drummer Peter Graham. The quartet shared a love for music that echoes with deep emotions and thought-provoking lyrics, so they decided to come together and express their creativity and passion through music.

Their journey was filled with long hours spent in shabby basement studios, numerous coffee-infused late-night songwriting sessions, and countless gigs in local bars. Focused Language rose from being a neighborhood band to gaining a devoted following nationwide. Their music, often seen as a lyrical guide to the human emotional terrain, resonates with many, and their passion for making music is evident in every note they play.

Genre:

Alternative Rock / Indie Pop

Song Title:

“Words in Silence”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am – Em – G – D
Am
In the quiet of the night, when the world’s asleep,
Em
I find solace in the silence, where my thoughts run deep.
G
I’m searching for the words, the ones that are hard to say,
D
In the echoes of my mind, where they often stay.

(Chorus)
C – G – Am – Em
C
Words in silence, a language so pure,
G
It speaks louder than words, of that I’m sure.
Am
In the quietest corners of our hearts, we’ll find,
Em
The most profound words, the ones we left behind.

(Verse 2)
Am – Em – G – D
Am
In the silence between heartbeats, in the whispers of the wind,
Em
There’s a language that’s spoken, where love begins.
G
In every silent tear, in every unsaid prayer,
D
There’s a word that’s waiting, for someone to care.

(Chorus)
C – G – Am – Em
C
Words in silence, a language so pure,
G
It speaks louder than words, of that I’m sure.
Am
In the quietest corners of our hearts, we’ll find,
Em
The most profound words, the ones we left behind.

(Rpt. Chorus)

Testimonial:

Fan’s Name: Sarah Mitchell

“If you ask any of my friends, they’ll tell you I’m the biggest Focused Language fan. I’ve been following them since their first gig at a local bar in San Francisco. Their music speaks directly to my soul, especially their song ‘Words in Silence.’ It’s like they’ve narrated my own feelings better than I ever could. Their music has been my companion during all my highs and lows, giving me strength and making my joyous times even better. Focused Language isn’t just a band for me, they’re my emotional anchor. I can’t imagine my life without their music.”

Backstory:

Unsightly Laugh was formed back in 2015 as a result of a hilarious misunderstanding at a local open mic night in New Orleans. Band members, Jaxson “Jax” Harlow (vocals, guitar), Leah “Lulu” James (bass, backing vocals), and Oliver “Oz” Zane (drums), were three solo artists who accidentally all turned up to perform at the same time slot. Instead of creating a ruckus, they decided to perform together, and the resulting sound was something magical, something they couldn’t ignore. Thus, Unsightly Laugh was born. Over the years, they’ve built a loyal fanbase with their edgy sound and quirky sense of humor, continuing to surprise and captivate audiences with their unique blend of music.

Genre:

Unsightly Laugh identifies themselves within the realm of Alternative Rock, with a penchant for infusing elements of Psychedelic and Punk.

Title:

One of their most beloved songs is entitled “Tangled In A Dream”.

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am – C – G – F
“Wandering through the city lights, (Am)
underneath the starless nights, (C)
we found a place where dreams collide, (G)
lost in a world with no time. (F)”

(Chorus)
Am – F- C – G
“Tangled in a dream, we’re spinning in circles, (Am)
Falling through the seams of the world unfurled, (F)
Barefoot on the edge of the whispering echoes, (C)
We’re just tangled in a dream, in a dream.” (G)

(Verse 2)
Am – C – G – F
“Painted skies reflect your eyes, (Am)
Silhouettes that hypnotize, (C)
Drifting on a melody, (G)
In this cosmic symphony. (F)”

(Chorus)
Am – F- C – G
“Tangled in a dream, we’re spinning in circles, (Am)
Falling through the seams of the world unfurled, (F)
Barefoot on the edge of the whispering echoes, (C)
We’re just tangled in a dream, in a dream.” (G)

Fan Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan, Rachel, is a marine biologist who discovered Unsightly Laugh during a research expedition. She says, “Their music just has this otherworldly quality to it, it’s like it transports me to another dimension. There’s a rawness, a realness, to their sound that I just can’t get enough of. They’re not trying to be anything they’re not and that resonates with me. Whether I’m in the lab, out at sea, or just relaxing at home, I always have Unsightly Laugh playing. Their music brings a sense of calmness and understanding to my chaotic world. They’re definitely my favorite band, hands down!”

Backstory:
Formed in the heart of the bustling city of Los Angeles in 2015, Extraneous Top carved their unique path in the music industry. The band was formed by childhood friends and music enthusiasts, Davis ‘Dav’ Miller, the charismatic lead vocalist and guitarist, and Andrew ‘Drew’ Wilson, the powerhouse drummer. Joined later by the proficient bassist, Lisa ‘Lee’ Thompson, and the mesmerizing keyboardist, Joey ‘Joe’ Henderson, the quartet was complete. Inspired by their diverse influences ranging from rock, blues, to electronic music, they created a unique sound that is both captivating and thrilling.

Genre:
Alternative Rock with a touch of Electronic music

Title:
“Silver Lining Symphony”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em G D A
Caught in the noise, seeking the silence,
Em G D A
Eyes on the stars, hearts in defiance.
Em G D A
Dreams on the ropes, hopes on the shelf,
Em G D A
We’re all lost souls, just finding ourselves.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Sing the Silver Lining Symphony,
C G D Em
In the echoes of our hearts, we’re free.
C G D Em
Through the storm, through the rain,
C G D Em
We’ll find our sunshine again.

(Verse 2)
Em G D A
Battles to fight, lessons to learn,
Em G D A
Bridges to cross, bridges to burn.
Em G D A
In the mirror, a stranger’s stare,
Em G D A
In our hearts, a song to share.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Sing the Silver Lining Symphony,
C G D Em
In the echoes of our hearts, we’re free.
C G D Em
Through the storm, through the rain,
C G D Em
We’ll find our sunshine again.

Fan Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan is Emily Thompson. Emily is a die-hard fan of Extraneous Top since their first gig at a local bar in L.A., and she hasn’t missed a single concert till date. Emily has also created the most active fan page for the band on social media, helping to increase their fan base. According to Emily, “Extraneous Top is not just a band that plays amazing music. They create art that hits you right in the feels. Their music has been my best friend in my darkest hours, my sunshine on rainy days. They’re more than just my favorite band, they’re my lifeline.”

Backstory:
Angelic Term came into existence in the summer of 2009, when a group of four high school friends from Tallahassee, Florida, decided to combine their individual love for music into a joint endeavor. The band consists of lead vocalist and guitarist Jack Harding, drummer Sam Johnson, bassist Lucy Chain, and keyboardist Matt Denson. The band spent their early years perfecting their sound and performance in local bars and clubs, gaining a local fanbase which eventually gained the attention of a talent scout.

After graduating from high school, the band moved to Los Angeles in 2012 to pursue their dream on a grander scale. Their unique sound, engaging performances, and heartfelt lyrics quickly got them noticed. They were signed to indie record label “Melodic Soul” in 2014, and since then, have released three critically acclaimed albums, with tracks charting on various music platforms.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Stratosphere Dreams”

Lyrics:

[Verse 1] (Am, Em, G, D)
Under the city lights, (Am)
We were children of the night. (Em)
Dreaming of a life, (G)
That was greater than the city’s might. (D)

[Verse 2] (Am, Em, G, D)
Running through the empty streets, (Am)
Our hearts echoing the beats. (Em)
With dreams as deep as the ocean, (G)
And courage in our emotion. (D)

[Chorus] (C, G, Am, F)
Stratosphere dreams, (C)
Are more than what they seem. (G)
They are the stars in our eyes, (Am)
The hope that never dies. (F)

[Verse 3] (Am, Em, G, D)
We were just kids with guitars, (Am)
Dreaming of the stars (Em)
And their luminous fame, (G)
Playing life’s game. (D)

[Chorus] (C, G, Am, F)
Stratosphere dreams, (C)
Are more than what they seem. (G)
They are the fire in our hearts, (Am)
And our burning art. (F)

Testimonial – Fan’s Name:
Alice Rivers

Testimonial:
“I’ve been following Angelic Term since their early days in Tallahassee. There’s just something about their music that resonates with me, I feel like they’re singing my life. Their lyrics are deep and emotive, and their music is so real, so raw. Jack’s voice is one in a million, and their performances are absolutely breathtaking. They are not just my favorite band, they are a part of me.”