Backstory:
In the midst of the bustling, charismatic city of Portland, Oregon, four college friends discovered a common passion for music. The quartet consisted of Max, a tenacious drummer with a love for rhythm and soul; June, a whiz on the keyboard with fingers that danced like a swift breeze; Clark, a bassist who could make the strings sing with a resonating throb; and lead singer and guitarist, Lenny, who possessed a voice that could hypnotize the moon.

After countless late-night jam sessions in their cramped dorm room, ‘Witty Sheep’ was born. The name was a tongue-in-cheek nod to their shared humor and a playful jab at their mutual dislike for blindly following the societal norms. Over time, they culminated a unique sound, gathering a faithful fan base that fell for their individuality and the authenticity with which they played their music.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Echoing Shadows”

Full song lyrics:
(Verse)
[G] Lost in the city of [D] echoes,
[Em] every turn is a [C] shadow,
[G] Hard to see in the [D] twilight,
[Em] chasing dreams in the [C] night.

(Chorus)
[C]Oh, the echoing [G] shadows,
[D] Play the tunes of our [Em] sorrow,
[C]But we dance in the [G] moonlight,
[D] In the echoing [Em] shadows.

(Verse)
[G]Paved roads, hidden [D] meadows,
[Em] Secrets whisper in the [C] shadows,
[G] Hearts beating in [D] rhythm,
[Em] As we dance with the [C] shadows.

(Chorus)
[C]Oh, the echoing [G] shadows,
[D] Play the tunes of our [Em] sorrow,
[C]But we dance in the [G] moonlight,
[D] In the echoing [Em] shadows.

(Bridge)
[Am] We’re not lost, we’re just [C] wandering,
[G] In the city of [D] echoing shadows,
[Am] We’ll find our way, keep on [C] dancing,
[G] In the city of [D] echoing shadows.

(Chorus)
[C]Oh, the echoing [G] shadows,
[D] Play the tunes of our [Em] sorrow,
[C]But we dance in the [G] moonlight,
[D] In the echoing [Em] shadows.

Fans’ Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan’s name is Danny. Danny stumbled upon Witty Sheep at a small local venue, and immediately felt a connection with their music. He was going through a tough time and found solace in the messages they conveyed through their songs. He has been a loyal fan since, and never misses a show. “Witty Sheep isn’t just a band to me, they are a beacon in the darkness. Their music speaks to my soul and helps me navigate through life’s ups and downs. They are my favorite because they make music that resonates, that’s real and raw,” Danny shared in a heartfelt testimonial.

Backstory:
Clever Wood was born out of the artistic restlessness of four college roommates from Boston, Massachusetts. During their time at Berklee College of Music, they found camaraderie in their shared distaste for the mainstream and a mutual love for blending diverse musical styles. The band consists of lead vocalist/guitarist Jake Henderson, bassist Ian McShane, drummer Matt O’Riley, and keyboardist Patrick ‘Patch’ Bowen. They named the band ‘Clever Wood’ as a nod to their knack for weaving intellectual lyrical content into accessible melodies.

Genre:
Clever Wood’s sound is best classified as progressive alternative rock, with a touch of indie pop sensibility in their polished hooks and harmonies. They are renowned for their fluid approach to genre, often experimenting with elements of jazz, folk, and even classical music, while maintaining their rock roots.

Title:
“Box of Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:
[Verse 1]
G D Em C
In a box of shadows, we hide our sins,
Am D G C
But the cracks on the edges, let the light seep in.
G D Em C
In an echo chamber, we hear our fears,
Am D G C
And the sound of silence, is all that’s clear.

[Chorus]
G D Em C
Oh, we’re lost in the labyrinth of life,
Am D G C
Hunting for the clues, in the dead of night.
G D Em C
But our box of shadows, holds the key,
Am D G C
And the light within, will set us free.

[Verse 2]
G D Em C
In our box of shadows, we face the past,
Am D G C
Where the ghosts of memories, seem to last.
G D Em C
In the hall of mirrors, we see our truth,
Am D G C
A distorted reflection, of our youth.

[Chorus]
G D Em C
Oh, we’re lost in the labyrinth of life,
Am D G C
Hunting for the clues, in the dead of night.
G D Em C
But our box of shadows, holds the key,
Am D G C
And the light within, will set us free.

Fan’s Testimonial:
Name: Emily Dawson
Emily Dawson, a graphic designer from Seattle, fell in love with Clever Wood’s music at one of their early shows in Boston. She was captivated by their unique sound that defied genre boundaries and their thoughtful, introspective lyrics. Emily says, “Clever Wood is my favorite band because their music doesn’t just entertain; it makes you think, feel, and question. It’s like they’re not just creating music, but a whole experience. Their live shows are a roller coaster of emotions, and I leave feeling connected, not just to the band, but to the whole crowd.”

Backstory:
Slippery Attendance surfaced in the vibrant music scene of Seattle in the late 90s. The band was formed by four childhood friends – Dave on vocals and rhythm guitar, Bryan on lead guitar, Johnny playing bass, and Mike behind the drums. Dave and Bryan were roommates in college, and they started writing songs in their dorm room, later inviting Johnny and Mike to join them. They jammed together in garages and local bars, slowly but steadily building a name for their unique sound. The name ‘Slippery Attendance’ was a playful nod to their unpredictable college attendance record, a tribute to the rebellious spirit that fueled their music.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Song Title:
“Echoes of Yesterday”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Am
Walked the path of loneliness,
Em
Seeking solace in the dark,
F
Memories come back to haunt,
C
The echoes of yesterday.

[Verse 2]
Am
Strummin’ my guitar at midnight,
Em
A melody for the moon,
F
Silent whispers in my ear,
C
Are the echoes of yesterday.

[Chorus]
G
Yesterday, oh yesterday,
Dm
Your ghost in my heart,
Am
An echo in the wind,
C
Swept away by the echoes of yesterday.

[Verse 2]
Am
Painting pictures with my words,
Em
In the canvas of the night,
F
In every stroke, in every line,
C
Are the echoes of yesterday.

[Chorus]
G
Yesterday, oh yesterday,
Dm
Your ghost in my heart,
Am
An echo in the wind,
C
Swept away by the echoes of yesterday.

[Outro]
F
Until the dawn, I’ll play,
G
For the echoes of yesterday,
Am
In every note I strum,
C
Are the echoes…of yesterday.

Fan Testimonial:
My name is Sofia and I am an ardent fan of Slippery Attendance. Their music has a raw, organic feel that deeply resonates with me. I love how their lyrics are poetic and profound, yet accessible and relatable. Their song “Echoes of Yesterday” takes me on a nostalgic journey every time I listen to it. Each member brings a unique flavor to the band, creating a powerful, cohesive sound that is distinctly Slippery Attendance. I’ve seen them live several times and their energy and passion on stage is truly infectious. This band is my favorite because they’re so real and authentic, their music touches my soul in ways no other band has.

Backstory:
Formed in the sleepy coastal town of Monterey, California in 2015, “Plaintive Wine” started as a trio of friends who shared a passion for music and a good glass of Cabernet. The band consisted of childhood friends Ethan Gallagher on vocals and guitar, Sarah Williams on bass, and Jordan Riggs on drums. After jamming together for countless nights in Ethan’s parents’ basement, the three discovered a unique and harmonious music blend that resonated deeply within them, and thus, Plaintive Wine was born. Driven by the desire to express their emotions through their music, the band’s name reflects their melancholic sound that is as rich and nuanced as a glass of fine wine.

Genre:
Indie Rock/Folk

Title:
“Drunk on Sorrow”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Intro]
Am C G D

[Verse 1]
Am C
Underneath a moon so pale,
G D
In tales of love that rarely prevail,
Am C
Our hearts, a ship set to sail,
G D
In a sea of dreams, we flail.

[Chorus]
Am C
Drunk on sorrow, we pine,
G D
In the heartache, we intertwine,
Am C
Like the taste of plaintive wine,
G D
In the echoes of love, we resign.

[Verse 2]
Am C
With every note, we bare our soul,
G D
In melodies, we find our role,
Am C
Life’s symphony taking its toll,
G D
Love’s song, our only goal.

[Chorus]
Am C
Drunk on sorrow, we pine,
G D
In the heartache, we intertwine,
Am C
Like the taste of plaintive wine,
G D
In the echoes of love, we resign.

[Outro]
Am C G D
In the echoes of love, we resign.

Fan Testimonial:
“My name is Lily Jensen, and I am, without a doubt, the biggest fan of Plaintive Wine. Their music has been my comfort during my hardest times. Ethan, Sarah, and Jordan create something ethereal and raw with their music—it’s like they’re speaking directly to my soul. Their song, ‘Drunk on Sorrow,’ speaks of heartache and longing in such a beautiful way that it’s almost healing. Their ability to convey such deep emotions through their music is why they remain my favorite band. They’re not just making music; they’re telling stories that we can all find ourselves in.”

Backstory:

Originally formed in the sleepy town of Redding, Connecticut, Ripe Comfort is a band that was born out of a shared love for soulful melodies and tight harmonies. Band members, Alex (vocals/guitar), Ben (drums), Charlie (bass), and Den (keyboards), all attended the same high school and were known for their impromptu jam sessions after school. These jam sessions soon turned into a serious commitment as the group began writing their own songs, drawing inspiration from their shared experiences and the world around them. Shortly after graduation, they decided to take their music to the big city, and moved to New York to try and make it in the music industry.

Genre:

Indie Folk Rock

Title:

“Old Oak Tree”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
C G Am Em
We grew up wild, under the old oak tree,
F C G
Swore we’d never leave, you and me.
C G Am Em
Dreams were grand, as wide as the sea,
F C G
But life’s a different melody.

[Chorus]
Am G F
Under the old oak tree,
C G Am
We made our memories.
Am G F
Oh, how time does flee,
C G Am
Beneath the old oak tree.

[Verse 2]
C G Am Em
The city lights, they called us nigh,
F C G
We left our past with a sigh.
C G Am Em
But we carry home, in every zealous try,
F C G
In every note and every high.

[Chorus]
Am G F
Under the old oak tree,
C G Am
We made our memories.
Am G F
Oh, how time does flee,
C G Am
Beneath the old oak tree.

[Outro]
C G Am Em
So here’s to us, and the old oak tree,
F C G
May our music set us free.

Favorite Fan:

Name: Sarah Thompson. Sarah came across Ripe Comfort during one of their early gigs in a small New York bar. In her own words, “Their music spoke to my soul. It was like they were channeling all the emotions and experiences I had growing up in a small town, and translating it into a beautiful melody. Every time I listen to ‘Old Oak Tree,’ it takes me back to my own childhood memories. They have a unique ability to transport their listeners to a different time and place, and that’s what makes them my favorite band.”

Backstory:
High Process was founded in the heart of San Francisco, California in 2016, when drummer Jake Henderson and guitarist Sam Miller decided to break free from their previous musical endeavors and create something fresh and exciting. They were later joined by bassist Lucy Hayes and vocalist Matt Wilson, adding the final touches to their unique sound. High Process became an instant hit in the local music scene, their unique blend of styles resonating with audiences of all backgrounds. The band’s ethos is all about experimenting with sound and pushing boundaries, a philosophy that has carried them through their career and continues to inspire their music.

Genre:
Alternative Rock / Psychedelic Fusion

Song Title:
“Kaleidoscope Dreams”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em G
In the midst of the storm, I find my peace
D A
Under the neon lights, where shadows cease
Em G
In the street, where the wild hearts roam
D A
I’m chasing after my kaleidoscope dreams

(Chorus)
C G
Kaleidoscope dreams, sparkling and bright
D A
Keep me awake, in the still of the night
C G
In a world of color, I want to be seen
D A
Living and breathing, my kaleidoscope dreams

(Verse 2)
Em G
From the rooftops high, to the alley’s end
D A
I’ve been searching for a love to comprehend
Em G
In every corner, under every stone
D A
I find pieces of my kaleidoscope dreams

(Chorus)
C G
Kaleidoscope dreams, endlessly wild
D A
Running free, like an untamed child
C G
In a world of chaos, I’ll find my serene
D A
Hidden in the heart of my kaleidoscope dreams

(Outro)
Em G
As the sun sets low, and the stars take the scene
D A
I’m just a wanderer, lost in kaleidoscope dreams

Band’s Favorite Fan:
Our favorite fan is a woman named Alice, a San Francisco native. Alice has been following our journey from the beginning, attending every local gig we’ve ever played and even some out of state. She says, “High Process is more than just a band to me. Their unique sound has been the soundtrack to my life for the past few years. I resonate with their lyrics and the raw emotion they convey. Their music has helped me through some of my darkest days. That’s why High Process will always be my top favorite band.”

Backstory:
Formed in a small Midwestern town’s dingy basement, Measly Ear came to life in 2008, a product of high school seniors’ angst and a shared passion for music that pushes boundaries. The band members, lead vocalist Timmy “Torch” Morrison, guitarist Greg “Grit” Sanders, bassist Charlie “Chill” Miller, and drummer Ronnie “Rush” Adams, were all part of their school’s music club, where their bond was fortified over shared musical tastes and mutual grievances against mainstream music norms. They decided to create their own music, combining their varied influences and unique styles, and thus, Measly Ear was born.

Over the years, they have established a reputation as a band that refuses to bow to the pressures of the music industry, sticking to their roots and producing music that they believe in. They’ve weathered lineup changes, hurdles in their personal lives, and the ups and downs of touring, but through it all, their music and their bond have remained strong.

Genre:
Alternative Rock with a blend of Grunge and Punk influences.

Title:
“Echoes of Silence”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Am (E) Dm (B) G (D) C (A)
Darkened streets, we walk alone,
F(E) C(D) G(D) Am(C)
Whispered fears, in monotone,
Dm(A) Am(F) E(C) G(D)
Echoes of silence, they linger on,
C(D) G(D) Am(C) F(E)
Haunting the heart, till the dawn.

[Chorus]
F(D) C(A) G(D) Am(C)
Echoes of silence, louder each day,
Dm(A) G(D) C(A) F(D)
In the world’s noise, they slowly decay,
Am(E) F(D) C(A) G(D)
Shattered voices, truths they bear,
Dm(A) E(C) Am(F) G(D)
In the echoes of silence, we hear.

[Verse 2]
C(D) G(D) Am(C) F(E)
Broken dreams, shadows cast,
Dm(A) Am(F) E(C) G(D)
Echoes of silence, from the past,
F(D) C(A) G(D) Am(C)
In the chaos, they find their way,
Dm(A) E(C) Am(F) G(D)
Silent echoes, here to stay.

[Chorus]
F(D) C(A) G(D) Am(C)
Echoes of silence, screaming inside,
Dm(A) G(D) C(A) F(D)
In the world’s crowd, they strive to hide,
Am(E) F(D) C(A) G(D)
Lost stories, pain they share,
Dm(A) E(C) Am(F) G(D)
In the echoes of silence, we care.

Fan’s Name: Oliver Simmons

Testimonial:
“Measly Ear has been my favorite band since the first time I heard ‘Echoes of Silence’. Their music speaks to me like no other. It’s raw, authentic and it never fails to stir something deep within me. The lyrics are profound and the melody is always unique. As someone who’s been through some hard times, their music has been a constant companion, a source of solace and strength. I love how their songs are filled with real emotions and yet, they have this power to uplift. Measly Ear is more than just a band to me – their music is a part of my life!”

Backstory:
Ragged Calculation is a band formed in the suburbs of Austin, Texas in the fall of 2008. The band consists of four members: lead vocalist and guitarist Dylan Patterson, bassist Jeff Morgan, drummer Rayne Stevens, and keyboardist Johnny “Jazz” Simmons. Their shared love for music and unique blend of styles led them to form the band during their college years, playing local gigs before getting their break at the infamous SXSW Festival. Their music tells stories of love, loss, and life’s complexities, reflecting the band’s experiences and their deep-rooted connection to their hometown.

Genre:
Ragged Calculation’s music can be best described as Indie Rock with a touch of Southern Blues.

Title:
“Broken Compass”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Staring at this [G] broken compass,
[Am] Wondering if it’ll [Em] ever point home,
[F] Trapped in circles, [C] we keep running,
[G] Searching for a place [C] to call our own.

(Chorus)
[C] Ooh, the road is [G] long and winding,
[Am] We’re just ragged calculations in this [Em] world,
[F] Lost in the crowd, [C] voices sounding,
[G] But our song will still [C] be heard.

(Verse 2)
[C] We’ve got our [G] scars and stories,
[Am] From battles we’ve [Em] fought and won,
[F] Through the tears and [C] the glory,
[G] We know our journey’s [C] just begun.

(Chorus)
[C] Ooh, the road is [G] still unwinding,
[Am] We’re just ragged calculations in this [Em] world,
[F] Lost in the crowd, [C] voices sounding,
[G] But our song will still [C] be heard.

(Finale)
[C] We are the [G] ragged calculations,
[Am] With hearts that still [Em] beat strong,
[F] Through the chaos and [C] constellations,
[G] We’ll find where we [C] belong.

Favorite Fan’s Testimonial:
“My name is Sophie Turner, and I am the biggest fan of Ragged Calculation. Their music speaks to me on a personal level; it’s like they’ve lived my life and now they’re singing about it. Dylan’s voice is raw and emotive, and their lyrics are poetry. The way they blend indie rock with southern blues is unique and addictive. Every song is a journey, and I am here for the ride. Their track “Broken Compass” got me through some tough times, and for that, I’ll always be grateful.”

Backstory:
Pastel Unit was formed in 2013 when four friends, Alexis (vocals), Riley (guitar), Charlie (bass), and Jordan (drums), met in art school in San Francisco. They discovered their shared passion for music during late-night jam sessions in their dormitory’s common room. They bonded over their love for pastel artwork, which they thought reflected their sound—soft, mellow, and subtly vibrant, hence the name, Pastel Unit. Their music often embodies themes of love, friendship, growth, and self-discovery, all packaged with a unique, artistic flair that resonates with their listeners.

Genre:
Indie Pop

Song Title:
“Palette of Affection”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1: Dm-Am-C-G]
(Dm) Underneath the starlit sky
(Am) We painted love, just you and I
(C) With brushes dipped in hues of passion
(G) We made our palette of affection

[Verse 2: Dm-Am-C-G]
(Dm) We colored dreams with pastel shades
(Am) In every moment that we made
(C) Every touch, a stroke of art
(G) You were my canvas from the start

[Chorus: F-C-G-Am]
(F) Pastel Unit, we create
(C) A masterpiece of love, not hate
(G) Every color sings our song
(Am) In this painting, we belong

[Verse 3: Dm-Am-C-G]
(Dm) Our laughter, strokes of yellow bright
(Am) Our whispers, shades of moonlight white
(C) Our cries, a splash of deepest blue
(G) An artwork real and true

[Chorus: F-C-G-Am]
(F) Pastel Unit, we design
(C) A love that’s yours and mine
(G) In every color, every tone
(Am) In this canvas, we have grown

Fan’s Name:
Emily Thompson

Testimonial:
“Pastel Unit is more than just a band to me, they’re storytellers. Their songs are vivid and colorful, almost like walking into a painting. The lyrics of their songs often reflect my thoughts, feelings, and experiences, making it seem like they’re speaking directly to me. The song ‘Palette of Affection’ is my favorite. It’s not just about love, it’s about every shade of emotion you go through in relationships. Pastel Unit has a way of making even the simplest feelings seem complex and beautiful. Their music is a true source of inspiration for me.”

Backstory:

Hot Fibre was formed in the eclectic city of Austin, Texas, in the mid-2000s. The band was started by high-school friends, lead guitarist Jamie “Jester” Peters and bassist Michael “Mickey” McClure. After years of jamming in Mickey’s garage and playing at local dives, they were joined by drummer Lisa “Loose Cannon” Conway and lead vocalist, a charismatic troubadour named Sam “Shakespeare” Smith. Their shared love for music and chemistry quickly solidified Hot Fibre as a force to be reckoned with in the Austin music scene.

Their rough-around-the-edges style and raw energy drew a diverse crowd, from college students to middle-aged rock enthusiasts. They began as a local sensation, playing gigs across the city, but their reputation soon expanded across Texas and beyond. Hot Fibre’s music reflects the juxtaposition of their hometown, combining high-energy southern rock, bluesy undertones, and thought-provoking lyrics that speak to both the heart and the head.

Genre:

Southern Rock / Blues

Title:

“Downstream Dream”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C G D
Down by the river, there’s a place I know,
Em C G D
Where the moonlight dances and the cool winds blow.
Em C G D
I found my peace in its mystic gleam,
Em C G D
Floating away on a downstream dream.

(Chorus)
G D Em C
Downstream dream, where the current is king,
G D Em C
It’s a free and wild, it’s a beautiful thing.

(Verse 2)
Em C G D
The city lights faded, left the world behind,
Em C G D
In the river’s rhythm, I found my mind.
Em C G D
My troubles drifted, like a ghost unseen,
Em C G D
Lost in the melody of my downstream dream.

(Chorus)
G D Em C
Downstream dream, take me where I’ve never been,
G D Em C
Show me sights that I’ve never seen.

Fans’ Favorite Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Joanne Santiago. Joanne, a retired school teacher, discovered Hot Fibre during a challenging time in her life and their music became her solace. She’s been their biggest supporter, attending every gig, launching their fan club, and rallying support for them on social media.

Joanne says, “Hot Fibre’s music is like a balm for the soul. Their tunes are raw, real, and resonant. ‘Downstream Dream’ is my all-time favorite. It’s a magical amalgamation of bluesy rhythms and soulful lyrics. It takes me to a place of peace and tranquility. Hot Fibre isn’t just a band to me, they’re my escape, my joy, and my constant companions through life’s ups and downs.”