Backstory:
Defenseless Rest, was formed in a small suburban neighborhood in Austin, Texas in 2011. The band was composed of five high school friends – Jack Simmons (vocals), Harry Lewis (lead guitar), Aaron Wilson (bass), Charlie Thomas (drums), and Grace Mitchell (keyboard). Inspired by a shared love of music and a common desire to express their emotions through their art, they began crafting their unique sound in their parents’ garages. Their journey wasn’t always easy. They faced numerous setbacks, from losing gigs to dealing with personal issues; but their unyielding dedication to their music and each other eventually led them to being signed by a small indie label, leading to the release of their first album, “Silent Echoes.”

Genre:
Indie Rock / Alternative

Title:
“Shadows in the Light”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1:
[G] I’ve been lying here, [Em] in my defenseless rest,
[C] Trying to make sense, [D] of this beating in my chest.
[G] In the quiet night, [Em] between the shadows and the light,
[C] I find you there, [D] in my dreams, in my sight.

Chorus:
[G] We are shadows in the light, [Em] fighting against the night,
[C] Holding on to what we can’t see, [D] but can only feel.
[G] In the silence, in the rest, [Em] we find ourselves defenseless,
[C] But in this vulnerability, [D] we find something real.

Verse 2:
[G] I wake from my sleep, [Em] your name on my lips,
[C] A memory etched, [D] I can’t seem to eclipse.
[G] In the day’s glare, [Em] between hope and despair,
[C] I find you there, [D] in my thoughts, in the air.

(Repeat Chorus)

Fan Testimonial:
“Hi, I’m Sam, an ardent fan of Defenseless Rest. Their music speaks volumes to me. It resonates with my experiences and emotions, making me feel seen and understood. There’s an indescribable magic in the way their chords blend seamlessly with their lyrics, crafting poignant pictures and stories that tug at the heartstrings. Their song “Shadows in the Light” is my absolute favorite. It perfectly encapsulates the struggle of finding truth and hope amidst the chaos of life. Their songs have been a constant companion through my joys, heartbreaks, and moments of self-discovery. I am proud to call myself a fan!”

Backstory:
Kind Island is an indie-pop band formed in 2015 in the heart of bohemian Seattle. The band members, childhood friends and artists, came together to create a sound that combined their love for indie music with a rich infusion of pop culture. Built around their shared passion for storytelling through music, Kind Island quickly became a staple in the underground music scene, known for their vibrant performances, and heartfelt, authentic songs.

In 2017, the band released their debut album, which instantly gained traction among fans and critics alike. With their unique sound and meaningful lyrics, Kind Island is more than just a band – it’s an experience. They continue to inspire their audience with their creativity, raw energy, and their ability to touch hearts across the world.

Genre:
Indie-Pop

Title:
“Light of the Moon”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
[D]Underneath the [G]light of the [Bm]moon,
[A]We’re dancing, [G]laughing, singing our [D]tune.
[D]Look in your [G]eyes, see the [Bm]stars,
[A]Here on this [G]island, feels like we’re [D]Mars.

(Chorus)
[G]We are free, [D]we are wild,
[A]Underneath the moon’s [Bm]gentle smile,
[G]In this moment, [D]we are found,
[A]In the music, [Bm]we are bound.

(Verse)
[D]Listen to the [G]rhythm of the [Bm]sea,
[A]Its symphony is [G]playing just for [D]you and me.
[D]With sand beneath our [G]feet, [Bm]we sway,
[A]In this moment, [G]we wish to [D]stay.

(Chorus)
[G]We are free, [D]we are wild,
[A]Underneath the moon’s [Bm]gentle smile,
[G]In this moment, [D]we are found,
[A]In the music, [Bm]we are bound.

The Band’s Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a fiercely supportive and kind-hearted soul named Emily. Emily first heard Kind Island at a local café in Seattle and was instantly hooked. She has been to every one of their shows since then, rain or shine, and always sings along to every song, knowing every word by heart. When asked why Kind Island is her favorite band, Emily says, “Their music makes you feel like you’re part of a story, part of something bigger. It’s like they’re singing my life, my joys, my heartbreaks, my dreams. Every song is a journey and I feel so lucky to be along for the ride!”

Backstory:

“Bare Registration” was formed in the lively city of Austin, Texas, in 2014. The band’s four members, lead vocalist Oliver White, guitarist Jonny Bennett, bassist Tim Campbell, and drummer Alex Smith, were all working dead-end jobs, dreaming of something more. One night, after a few too many drinks, they decided to quit their day jobs and pursue their shared passion for music. They pooled their savings, bought some second-hand instruments, and transformed Smith’s garage into a makeshift recording studio. Their connection was instant; the synergy between them was palpable, and their distinctive sound began to take shape.

After a year of crafting their sound, they were ready to hit the stage. Their first gig was a disaster, with technical difficulties and an unresponsive crowd. However, they didn’t give up. They honed their performance skills, developed a unique stage presence, and tirelessly practiced their instruments. Gradually, their hard work started to pay off. They began getting more gigs, their fan base started to grow, and they finally got the big break they dreamt of when they were signed by a renowned record label.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Vagrant Dreams”

Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am D G C
Riding on the highway, with my vagrant dreams,
In the city of lights, nothing is as it seems.
Looking for something, not knowing what it is,
Maybe it’s laughter, or just a moment of bliss.

(Chorus)
G D Em C
Don’t lose your way, in this daunting maze,
Hold onto your dreams, through the smoky haze.
Dance in the moonlight, sing in the rain,
Chase your vagrant dreams, without any restrain.

(Verse 2)
Am D G C
Wandering aimlessly, on the worn-out streets,
Feeling the rhythm, in the city’s beats.
Dreams in our pockets, hope in our hearts,
We’re painting the town, with our vibrant arts.

(Chorus)
G D Em C
Hold onto your soul, in this fast-paced race,
Find your vagrant dreams, in this vast space.
Embrace the uncertainty, break every chain,
Chase your vagrant dreams, it’s not in vain.

Fan Testimonial:

My name is Emily, and I am a massive fan of Bare Registration. Their music has a way of speaking directly to my soul. Each of their songs tells a unique story that resonates with me on a personal level. Their lyrics are beautifully poetic, filled with depth and emotion. The band’s raw, authentic sound has captured my heart, and I admire their perseverance and dedication to their music. My favorite song, “Vagrant Dreams”, is a testament to their artistry and talent. It encourages me to chase my dreams, no matter how unattainable they may seem. Bare Registration isn’t just my favorite band; they are my inspiration.

Backstory:
Dirty Skirt came to life in the heart of the grungy backstreets of Chicago in 2005, when four rebellious souls decided to give a voice to their wild bohemian spirit. The band comprises Jett, the lead vocalist and guitarist, who left his home in Ohio at 16 to pursue his love for music. Stella, the bassist, was a painter who used to play guitar solos in her attic until Jett discovered her. The drummer, Ty, was a former mechanic, who found solace in pounding rhythms over spanners and wrenches. Rounding up the group is Liza, the keyboardist and backup vocalist, a former music teacher who got tired of teaching Mozart and Beethoven and wanted to break free with her own sound.

Their journey, although fraught with challenges, was fueled by an unyielding desire to redefine the music scene. They performed at local bars and parties, quickly gaining a loyal following due to their electrifying performances and unique sound. Their breakthrough came in 2007 when they bagged the first place in a local band competition. Since then, they’ve been serving their fans with an explosive mix of hard rock and punk, while always staying true to their rebellious underpinnings.

Genre:
Dirty Skirt is a hard rock and punk band.

Title:
“Shadows and Scars”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C [Am]old streets, [G]empty threats,
[D] Living life with [E]regrets,
[Am]Shadows of the [G]past,
[D]How long will they [E]last?

(Chorus)
[F]Shadows and [C]Scars,
[G]Underneath the [E]stars,
[F]You’re not alone, [C]not by far,
[G]Living with shadows and [E]scars.

(Verse 2)
[Am]Broken dreams, [G]ripped seams,
[D]Everything’s not what it [E]seems,
[Am]In the darkness, [G]we find our way,
[D]In our hearts, the [E]music plays.

(Chorus)
[F]Shadows and [C]Scars,
[G]Underneath the [E]stars,
[F]You’re not alone, [C]not by far,
[G]Living with shadows and [E]scars.

(Final Chorus)
[F]Shadows and [C]scars,
[G]Underneath the [E]stars,
[F]Together we’ll go [C]far,
[G]Shaking off shadows and [E]scars.

Favorite Fan:
Mike Hollister is Dirty Skirt’s most loyal follower. He discovered them at a dive bar in 2006 and has been to every show since. In his words: “Dirty Skirt embodies the spirit of rebellion and freedom that resonates with me. Their music is raw, honest, and hits you right in the heart. Shadows and Scars is my anthem – it speaks to anyone who’s had to fight their own demons. It’s not just music, it’s therapy. It’s life. Dirty Skirt isn’t just a band to me, they’re family.”

Backstory:

In the vibrant heart of Brooklyn, nestled in a grungy loft-turned-rehearsal space, “Flawed Laugh” was formed in the summer of 2009 by four college roommates. Derrick Higgins, a bass player, and songwriter, along with Jack Riley, a gifted guitarist, had long dreamed of creating a band that would push the boundaries of contemporary music. When they met Chris Patton, a versatile drummer, and Lisa Trent, a soulful vocalist with an enchanting keyboard touch, they instantly knew they had found the missing pieces to their musical puzzle. Their shared love for music and a burning desire to create something unique led to the birth of ‘Flawed Laugh’.

Their journey was not without its bumps and hitches; there were arguments about musical direction and financial struggles as they gigged around the city, often to small crowds. However, the bond they formed over late-night jam sessions and shared dreams kept them going. Over time, their distinctive sound began to attract attention, and they steadily cultivated a devoted following. Today, Flawed Laugh is an embodiment of tenacity and dedication, a testament to the power of music and the magic of shared dreams.

Genre: Alternative Rock

Title: “Impossibly Real”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am G D F
Feels like I’m floating in an endless sea
Am G D F
Twist of fate, our love is an impossibility.

(Chorus)
G D Am C
And yet, it’s impossibly real
G D Am C
In your arms, I can finally feel
G D Am C
Oh, love, it’s impossibly real.

(Verse 2)
Am G D F
Against the odds, we’ve found a harmony
Am G D F
In this dance, we are a beautiful anomaly.

(Chorus)
G D Am C
And yet, it’s impossibly real
G D Am C
In your arms, I can finally feel
G D Am C
Oh, love, it’s impossibly real.

Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan is undoubtedly Molly Robinson. Molly’s been there since our first gig in a dingy bar in Brooklyn, and she’s followed our journey every step of the way. Here’s what she has to say about us:

“My love for Flawed Laugh goes beyond their music. Sure, their sound is unique, and their lyrics speak to my soul. Yet, it’s their raw authenticity and unabashed love for music that captivates me the most. Their journey resonates with me, and it’s almost like they’re giving a voice to my own struggles and triumphs. Their songs are not just melodies to me, they’re experiences. Flawed Laugh is my favorite band because they make me feel seen, heard, and most importantly, understood.”

Backstory:
Jittery Porter was born out of the smoky, underground pubs of Manchester, England. Founded by Tommy Hargrove, a former bricklayer turned self-taught guitarist and songwriter, and joined by his childhood friends, Molly Ryan on drums and Joshua Cooper on the bass. Tommy’s job as a porter at the local railway station inspired the band’s name. The band members found their emotional refuge in music amidst their typical mundane jobs. Their unique style, a blend of raw emotion and electrifying energy, was fueled by the classic rock they grew up listening to and the bustling rhythm of the city they lived in.

They started out playing gigs in the same small pubs where they had their first pints, but soon enough, they were selling out shows in bigger venues across the UK. Their rise to fame was as rapid as it was unexpected, with their debut album hitting number one on the UK charts and their fan base growing by the day.

Genre:
Rock

Title:
“Stations and Strangers”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse1)
[G] Down the smoky lanes, [D] under the pouring rain,
[C] I carried the world, [D] in a porter’s chain.
[G] Memories come and go, [D] like stations we used to know,
[C] We were just kids, [D] with nowhere to go.

(Chorus)
[G] Stations and strangers, [D] we’ve seen it all,
[C] Heartbreaks and hangovers, [D] standing tall.
[G] Through the thunder, [D] through the pain,
[C] We are Jittery Porter, [D] in the pouring rain.

(Verse2)
[G] Molly on the drums, [D] Joshua on the bass,
[C] We found our rhythm, [D] in this chaotic chase.
[G] From the pubs to the arenas, [D] we etched our name,
[C] Life’s a rocky road, [D] not a losing game.

(Chorus)
[G] Stations and strangers, [D] we’re on the roll,
[C] Living our dream, [D] rock and roll.
[G] Through the spotlight, [D] through the fame,
[C] We are Jittery Porter, [D] setting the game aflame.

Favorite Fan’s Testimonial:
“I’m Susan, a 60-year-old grandmother from Leeds. You’d never guess that my favorite band is Jittery Porter, but here we are! I saw them play in a tiny pub years ago and I’ve been hooked ever since. They’re not just playing music, they’re telling stories – stories of struggle and triumph that resonate with me profoundly. The way Tommy sings about life, love, and everything in between… it’s like he’s singing my thoughts. And let’s not forget Molly and Joshua, their rhythm section is the heartbeat of the band. I might not fit the typical fan mold, but I proudly wear my Jittery Porter shirt at every concert. They’re my favorite, and always will be.”

Backstory:

Able Giraffe is a group of four childhood friends who grew up together in the artsy neighborhood of Silverlake, Los Angeles. The band was formed in 2012 after the boys, dissatisfied with their mundane day jobs, decided to pursue their shared passion for music. What began as spontaneous jam sessions in their shared basement soon transformed into a serious pursuit of their shared dreams. Conner Michaels, the lead vocalist and guitarist, was heavily inspired by the indie rock scene of the 90s. He teamed up with the versatile drummer, Jake Robinson, the quirky bassist, Alex Turner, and the soulful keyboardist, Matt Davis, to form Able Giraffe.

The band initially struggled to find their unique sound, but after several late-night rehearsals and gigs around the city, they eventually discovered their niche. The group’s breakthrough came in 2015 when their debut album, ‘Suburban Shadows,’ gained critical acclaim. The band’s unique blend of indie rock and psychedelic pop resonated with their listeners, and they quickly rose to prominence in the local music scene.

Genre: Indie Rock & Psychedelic Pop

Song Title: ‘Rainbow Skyway’

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Am Em
Underneath the candy-colored skies,
G D
We’re chasing the falling stars.
Am Em
Hopes and dreams in our youthful eyes,
G D
Wilder than the city’s cars.

[Chorus]
C G
Rainbow skyway, take us there,
Am Em
To the land of music, light, and flare.
C G
Where our hearts beat in harmony,
Am Em
And our souls, they dance so free.

[Verse 2]
Am Em
In the glow of the neon nights,
G D
We serenade the silent moon.
Am Em
With our songs, we ignite the lights,
G D
In our hearts, an eternal tune.

[Chorus]
C G
Rainbow skyway, take us high,
Am Em
Beyond the reach of the human eye.
C G
In the world where our dreams do sway,
Am Em
On the magical, Rainbow Skyway.

Fan’s Testimonial:

My name is Sarah Lucas and I am a die-hard fan of Able Giraffe. Their music resonates with me in a way no other band’s does. It’s like they take my innermost feelings and thoughts and translate them into these beautiful, melodic tunes. The lyrics are so profound, they dissect the human experience with such raw honesty. And their melodies, oh they’re just out of this world! Their song ‘Rainbow Skyway’ is an anthem for dreamers like me. Every time I listen to it, I feel like I’m being transported to a different world.

Backstory:
Icky Thread was born out of the smoky basement of a run-down, East London flat in the throbbing heart of 2008’s alternative music scene. Band members, Toby ‘Fret’ Thompson (lead vocals, guitar), Jase ‘Chug’ Carlton (bass, backing vocals), and Nina ‘Beat’ Patel (drums), were all studying at local art colleges when they discovered their shared love for grunge and post-punk music. The triad would spend long evenings crafting their sound, fuelled by a diet of cheap beer and takeaway curry, often playing until the neighbors forcefully insisted they stop.

Their big break came in 2010 when they won the recognized ‘Unsigned Underground’ competition, catapulting them into the eyes and ears of the alternative music scene. Since then, they’ve released three acclaimed albums and toured extensively around the globe, building a dedicated fanbase with their raw, energetic live performances.

Genre:
Post-Punk/Grunge

Song Title:
“Bleeding Denim”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Intro]
Em | C | G | D (x2)

[Verse 1]
Em C
In a world of disarray,
G D
Bleeding denim, decay.
Em C
Lost youth in the fray,
G D
Silent words we convey.

[Chorus]
Em C
We’re the echoes, unheard,
G D
The voice of a silenced bird.
Em C
Seeking truth, so absurd,
G D
In the chaos, we’re stirred.

[Verse 2]
Em C
Under neon city light,
G D
We battle through the night.
Em C
Broken dreams take flight,
G D
Bleeding denim, burning bright.

[Chorus]
Em C
We’re the echoes, unseen,
G D
In the wreckage of the in-between.
Em C
In the whispers of the obscene,
G D
Bleeding denim, we’re pristine.

[Outro]
Em | C | G | D (x2)
Bleeding denim, we’re unseen.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is Emily ‘Em’ Jenkins from Cardiff. Em, a webcomic artist known for her love for alternative music, has followed Icky Thread since their early gigs in East London. She’s been to every one of their UK gigs and often travels for their European shows. In her testimonial, she says, “The raw energy and authenticity of Icky Thread’s music resonates with me on a deep, personal level. Their lyrics speak to my soul, and their performances never fail to electrify the crowd. They are not just a band to me, they are the soundtrack to my life.” Emily’s loyalty and dedication to the band exemplify what Icky Thread represents – a community of fans who value genuine, raw, and unapologetic music.

Backstory:
Giant Hell is a band that formed in the misty mountains of Asheville, North Carolina. The four members – lead singer and guitarist Johnny Blaze, bassist Rob ‘Hellfire’ Hendrix, drummer Nick ‘Inferno’ Davis, and keyboardist Sarah ‘Vixen’ Kennedy – came together in 2010. They were all individually struggling artists who found a common thread in their love for hard-hitting, heavy, and thought-provoking music. Their shared passion for a unique sound that could awaken the soul and light a fire in the heart led to the formation of Giant Hell.

The band started as a local sensation, playing at small venues and bars, until they were discovered by a music producer in 2013. Their debut album, “Hell’s Awakening,” was a whirlwind success, propelling them into the national spotlight. Despite their evolution into mainstream success, Giant Hell has managed to maintain their unique sound and raw energy, and they still credit their roots as the foundation of their success.

Genre:
Classic Rock/Heavy Metal

Title:
“Raven’s Call”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em – Bm – G – D
In the shadow of the raven, under a blood red sky,
A man stands alone, with a tear in his eye.
In the heart of the twilight, with a soul on fire,
He screams at the heavens, fueling his desire.

(Chorus)
A – C – G – D
Hear the raven’s call, echoing in the night,
Feel the power surge, bask in the light.
Flying through the storm, with heart held high,
Hear the raven’s call, it’s our time to fly.

(Verse 2)
Em – Bm – G – D
With the echoes of thunder, and the flash of the blade,
The night succumbs to dawn, as fear starts to fade.
With courage in our hearts, and dreams in our sight,
We’ll ride the wings of destiny, into the endless night.

(Chorus)
A – C – G – D
Hear the raven’s call, echoing in the night,
Feel the power surge, bask in the light.
Flying through the storm, with heart held high,
Hear the raven’s call, it’s our time to fly.

The band’s favorite fan’s name:
Liam ‘Headbanger’ O’Connor

Testimonial:
“Giant Hell is more than just a band; they’re a brotherhood, a movement. I’ve been a fan since their very first gig at The Orange Peel in Asheville. Their music speaks to my soul; it’s like they know exactly what I’m feeling. They’ve been with me through the highs and the lows. Their raw energy, their passion, their authenticity – it’s infectious. No other band comes close to what Giant Hell is. Their music is like a lifeline for me, and I’ll forever be a proud ‘Hellion’.”

Backstory:
Established in the vibrant music scene of Austin, Texas, Absolute Chance is the brainchild of high school friends, Jake Evans, Max Turner, and twins Lily and Ava Anderson. Their love for music brought them together, as they spent their lunch breaks jamming in the school’s music room. Initially, they covered their favorite songs, but it wasn’t long before they started writing their own. They entered various school and local talent shows where they honed their skills and built a loyal fan base. In the summer after graduation, they decided to turn their passion into a profession and formed Absolute Chance. They chose the name to symbolize their belief that life is a series of absolute chances you take to form your destiny.

Genre:
Indie Rock / Alternative Pop

Title:
“Sunset Roads”

Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Em C G D
Driving down these sunset roads,
Em C G D
Chasing dreams we used to hold,
Am C D G
Wondering where we lost our way,
Am C D G
But we won’t let hope fade away.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
Oh, we’re on these sunset roads,
Em C G D
Casting shadows, breaking molds,
Am C D G
We’ll find the light that brightly glows,
Am C D G
On these endless sunset roads.

(Verse 2)
Em C G D
In the rearview, our past in sight,
Em C G D
We’re moving forward, into the night,
Am C D G
Dreams are calling, we’re answering,
Am C D G
On the sunset road, we’ll sing.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
Oh, we’re on these sunset roads,
Em C G D
Casting shadows, breaking molds,
Am C D G
We’ll find the light that brightly glows,
Am C D G
On these endless sunset roads.

Favorite Fan:
Our favorite fan is definitely Susan Martinez. Susan has been with us from our high school talent shows, right through to our first album launch. She’s always there at every gig, cheering us on, and has become a part of our band family. Here’s what she has to say about us:

Testimonial:
“I’m a big fan of Absolute Chance not because they’re great musicians, which they are, but because they represent the spirit of chasing dreams and believing in yourself. Their song ‘Sunset Roads’ speaks volumes about their journey and their passion, and I feel a deep connection with their music. They’ve inspired me to take my own absolute chances in life.”