Backstory:
Crafty Scheme is an enigmatic quartet of musicians hailing from the eclectic city of Austin, Texas. The band members – Vincent, a former electronics engineer, Sarah, an ex-librarian, Mike, an erstwhile mathematics teacher, and Rose, a one-time barista, met through a local community college’s evening music course. Over shared interests and inherent passion, they decided to put their regular lives on hold and venture into the musical world. They chose the name ‘Crafty Scheme’ reflecting their own ingenious plot to escape mundane life and chase their passion.

Genre:
Crafty Scheme specializes in Alternative Rock, with elements of Indie Pop and Electronic Music.

Title:
“Shadows on the Wall”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C
Late nights, city lights, we’re on our own,
G D
Running from the troubles, in the twilight zone.
Em C
Amidst the chaos, we’ve found our call,
G D
Just like the fleeting shadows on the wall.

(Chorus)
Em C
Shadows on the wall, they rise and fall,
G D
Like our dreams, they stand tall.
Em C
In the echoes of the city’s brawl,
G D
We’re the shadows on the wall.

(Verse 2)
Em C
Underneath the skyline, beneath the stars,
G D
We play our tunes, healing the old scars.
Em C
In this concrete jungle, amidst the sprawl,
G D
We’re just the silent shadows on the wall.

(Chorus)
Em C
Shadows on the wall, in the moonlight’s thrall,
G D
Like echoes of our music, they enthrall.
Em C
In the grand scheme, we may seem small,
G D
But we’re the crafty shadows on the wall.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a lively college student named Sam. Sam first discovered Crafty Scheme when he moved to Austin for school. Overwhelmed by the new city and environment, he found comfort in the band’s music. He says, “Crafty Scheme’s music resonates with me on so many levels. It’s just the perfect blend of melancholy and inspiration, speaking directly to my soul. I feel seen, heard, and represented through their music. It’s a constant reminder that it’s okay to dream, to fall, to rise, and to find your own identity. They’re not just a band to me, they’re a lifeline.”

Backstory:
Bouncy Borough was formed by a group of four high school buddies from a small-town named, Bakers Borough, in the countryside of England. They would frequently practice in their school’s old music room, where they used to bounce off their energy and creativity, thus dubbing their band ‘Bouncy Borough’. The band comprises of lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist, Sam, lead guitarist, Danny, bass guitarist, Jimmy, and drummer, Zack. As high schoolers, they competed in local talent shows, but their real breakthrough came when they won a national-level band competition, which skyrocketed their popularity. Inspired by their small-town roots, their music often reflects the ups and downs of life in a borough, with a playful, high-energy twist.

Genre:
Indie Rock/Pop

Title:
“Riding The Borough Beats”

Full Song Lyrics:
[Verses]
Am D G Em
Waking up to roosters, in our little borough town,
Am D G Em
Chasing dreams on cobblestones, where the ivy trickles down.
Am D G Em
The sun paints golden echoes, on the chapel’s rusty crown,
Am D G Em
In the heart of where we grew up, where our roots are deeply found.

[Chorus]
C D G Em
Riding the borough beats, where the old and new meets,
C D EM
Underneath the willow trees, dancing in the summer breeze.
C D G Em
Riding the borough beats, with our hearts on our sleeves,
C D G
In the town of sweet retreats, we’re riding the borough beats.

Fan’s Name:
Jessica Pearson

Testimonial:
“I’ve been following Bouncy Borough since their first gig at our local pub. Their music is filled with such passion and authenticity, and yet it has this infectious lively rhythm that gets you on your feet. The song “Riding The Borough Beats” is my absolute favourite. It’s as if they’ve painted a vivid picture of our borough, our life, through their lyrics, making you feel nostalgic and excited at the same time. They’ve stayed true to their roots, and their music is a beautiful combination of indie rock with a hint of pop. Bouncy Borough has always been my favourite band, and I believe they truly are a voice for our little town.”

Backstory:

Empty Government was formed in the heart of Albany, NY in the early 2000s. The band members, all classmates at Albany High School, found a shared passion for music and politics, often expressing their views and frustrations through their songs. The four members, lead vocalist Lucy, guitarist Jace, bass player Sam, and drummer Max, started playing in local venues and quickly gained a following for their charismatic performances and thought-provoking lyrics. They chose the name ‘Empty Government’ as an ironic statement about their views on the state of politics and their hope for positive change.

Genre:

Empty Government classifies their music as political punk rock. They blend the high-energy, raw sound of punk with lyrics that reflect their political views and societal observations. This unique fusion has found a home with fans who appreciate its authenticity and power.

Title:

Their most popular song is titled “Democracy’s Echo.”

Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am – G – F – C
In the heart of a nation, under the capitol dome,
A place once filled with promise, now feels like no one’s home.
With empty words and hollow promises, the seeds of discontent are sown,
In this land of freedom, we’re feeling all alone.

(Chorus)
Am – G – F – C
We’re shouting at the sky, can you hear democracy’s echo?
The sound of a dream, the hope of the meek, the strength of the bravest echo.

(Verse 2)
Am – G – F – C
This ain’t no child’s game of kings and queens, or a story of an emperor’s new clothes,
It’s the tale of a people, their rights, and a system that no longer knows.
Empty seats and empty speeches, a government that’s just a ghost,
But we won’t be silenced, we won’t give up the most.

(Chorus)
Am – G – F – C
We’re shouting at the sky, can you hear democracy’s echo?
The voice of the unheard, the pain of the ignored, the courage in every echo.

Fan Testimonial:

Emma, a devoted fan from Boston, says, “Empty Government is my favorite band because their music resonates with my political beliefs and frustrations. It’s rare to find a band that’s not afraid to express such powerful and raw political views through their music. The song ‘Democracy’s Echo’ is a particular favorite. It’s like they’ve taken my thoughts and feelings about our current political climate and put it into words and music. It gives me a sense of unity and understanding that I haven’t found anywhere else.”

Backstory:

Superb Exchange formed in a basement in Boston in 2015, a bunch of college friends who realized their shared love for music was too powerful to ignore. Lead vocalist and main songwriter, Ethan Hunt, guitarist Matt Stone, bassist Jake Rhodes, and drummer Ben Turner initially came together to jam, which soon bloomed into creating their original sound. After winning a local battle of the bands, they decided to take the next step and commit to music full-time, dropping out of school to pursue their passion.

Genre:

Superb Exchange is known for their unique fusion of Indie Rock and Folk Blues, creating a refreshing sound that resonates with listeners. Their music is characterized by thoughtful lyrics, soulful vocals, and energetic guitar riffs that blend seamlessly with rhythmic drum beats.

Title:

“Whisper of the Wind”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1: [C Em Am G]
Underneath the weight of the world, I find my peace (C Em)
In the whisper of the wind, in the rustling leaves (Am G)
I left my heart in the city, lost in the crowd (C Em)
I found my soul in silence, where there’s no sound (Am G)

Chorus: [F G Am Em]
Whisper of the wind, take me where I’ve never been (F G)
Guide my heart, light my way, free the chains of yesterday (Am Em)
Whisper of the wind, whisper in my ear (F G)
Tell me secrets of the universe, all that I hold dear (Am Em)

Verse 2: [C Em Am G]
I find solace in the stars, comfort in the night (C Em)
In the whisper of the wind, I find my light (Am G)
I let go of my worries, as the wind whispers low (C Em)
In the silence of the night, I let my spirit glow (Am G)

(Repeat Chorus)

The band’s favorite fan’s name:

The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Sarah Griffin.

Testimonial:

Sarah Griffin: “Superb Exchange delves into the human experience in a way that no other band can replicate. Their music isn’t just sound, it’s an emotional journey. Their thoughtful lyrics strike a chord within me, and their energy is utterly contagious. I connect with their music on such a deep level, it’s as if they’ve read my diary and composed an anthology of my life. I can’t go a day without listening to at least one Superb Exchange track. They are more than just my favorite band, they are the soundtrack to my life.”

Backstory:
Radiant Hold began to play its first chords in the musically fertile landscapes of Seattle back in 2004. The band was formed by three high school friends: Luke Anderson on vocals and guitar, Ricky Baker on drums, and Jennifer Miller on bass. The trio bonded over a shared love for the grunge scene that the city was still famous for, but they also shared an affinity for electronic music. This unusual blend of influences led to a unique sound that set them apart from other bands in the local scene. They started playing gigs at various small venues, gradually building a fanbase and carving out a niche in the Pacific Northwest’s music scene.

Genre:
Alternative rock/Indietronica

Title:
“Chasing the Neon”

Full song Lyrics:

Verse 1:
Am Em
Underneath the city’s gray and hazy sky,
F C
We found our rhythm, our heart’s sacred cry.
G D
The beat of the drums, the strum of guitar,
Am Em
Life’s sweet melody carried near and far.

Chorus:
F C
We’re chasing the neon, drawn by its light,
G D
Through the chaos, through the swirling night.
Am Em
In the heart of the city, beneath the star’s cold hold,
F C
We’ll keep playing, we’re Radiant Hold.

Verse 2:
Am Em
Through the rain-swept streets, our music will flow,
F C
The pulse of the crowd, the city’s underglow.
G D
Through the highs and the lows, through the joy and pain,
Am Em
Our melody’s beacon will forever remain.

Chorus:
F C
We’re chasing the neon, drawn by its light,
G D
Through the chaos, through the swirling night.
Am Em
In the heart of the city, beneath the star’s cold hold,
F C
We’ll keep playing, we’re Radiant Hold.

The band’s favorite fan’s name: Heather

Testimonial:
“I’ve been a fan of Radiant Hold since their first gig in a dingy basement bar in the heart of Seattle. Their unique blend of alternative rock and electronic music speaks to my soul. It’s like they’ve captured the spirit of the city and transformed it into sound. Their song ‘Chasing the Neon’ is particularly special to me. It’s not just a song but an anthem, a rallying cry for those of us who find beauty in the chaos of city life. Radiant Hold is more than a band to me; it’s a part of who I am. They’re my favorite because their music moves me, inspires me, and makes me feel seen.” – Heather.

Backstory:
Common Tone, an ensemble of four eccentric and talented individuals, was born in the heart of Manchester, England. They first met at a local bar in 2015 during an open mic night, where each of them performed solo. Their shared love for music and a mutual appreciation for each other’s talent led to a spontaneous jam session that night, marking the inception of what would become one of the most promising bands in the indie music scene. Their name “Common Tone” was inspired by the musical term which refers to a note that stays constant while other notes or chords change around it – a concept they aim to embody in their music, acting as a comforting constant in their listeners’ lives amidst the chaos of the world.

Genre:
Indie Pop/Folk

Title:
“Chasing Echoes”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am
Under the city lights, we lost our way,
G
Chasing echoes of yesterday,
D
Wondering if love could ever stay,
Am
In this world that’s always in disarray.

(Chorus)
C
Chasing echoes, through the night,
G
Hoping to find, a little light,
D
In your eyes, I see the fight,
Am
With you, everything feels just right.

(Verse 2)
Am
In the midst of the crowd, our eyes met,
G
A memory, I can never forget,
D
How your laughter dispelled my regret,
Am
In our story that was beautifully set.

(Chorus)
C
Chasing echoes, of your heart,
G
Yearning for a fresh start,
D
With your love, you play the part,
Am
You’re the masterpiece, my finest art.

Fan’s Testimonial:
My name is Emily, and I’m undoubtedly the biggest fan of Common Tone. Their music is like a soothing balm on my chaotic days, and their lyrics reach out to me like an old friend. It’s like they’ve taken all my feelings and turned them into beautiful melodies. Their song “Chasing Echoes” is my absolute favorite. It’s a gorgeous mix of melancholy and hope, and it always seems to resonate with me no matter what I’m going through. It’s not just their music, but also their authenticity and the connections they form with their fans that make me love them so much. They’re more than just a band to me, they’re a safe haven.

Backstory:

Amusing Motor was born in the gritty, blue-collar town of Akron, Ohio, in the late 90s. The quartet, formed by high school friends Jeff, Brian, Kyle, and Mark, began with jamming in their parents’ garages, drawing inspiration from the industrial landscapes around them. Their shared love of music, coupled with their creative ingenuity, gave rise to a unique sound. The band members worked day jobs as mechanics, leading to the band’s namesake, and they used their knowledge of machinery to create innovative and unconventional instruments, adding a unique twist to their performances.

Their breakthrough came when a local radio station picked up one of their self-produced songs. Soon, they were playing gigs across Ohio, and their fan base rapidly expanded. The band’s popularity grew nationally with their first studio album, culminating in an invitation to play at the prestigious South by Southwest festival. Despite their success, the members of Amusing Motor have remained true to their roots, continuing to draw inspiration from their humble beginnings and the traditions of their hometown.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Rusty Chains”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em G
In the heart of steel city, under the smoky skies,
D Am
We found a rhythm, in the machinery cries.
Em G
The clang and clatter, of our everyday lives,
D Am
Became a melody, that never dies.

(Chorus)
C G Am Em
Rusty chains, and hearts that won’t break,
C G D
This is the music, that we make.
C G Am Em
In the roar of gears, and the echo of stakes,
C G D
We found our song, in these rusty chains.

(Verse 2)
Em G
From the assembly line, to the neon stage,
D Am
We’ve traded grease for glory, wage for rage.
Em G
But in our hearts, it’s the same old cage,
D Am
Our music is the key, to disengage.

(Chorus)
C G Am Em
Rusty chains, and souls that won’t fake,
C G D
This is the music, that we make.
C G Am Em
In the grind of time, and the risk we take,
C G D
We found our song, in these rusty chains.

Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan is Steve “The Motorhead” Johnson. Steve has been with us since our garage jamming days and has followed us to every single gig we’ve played, no matter the distance. He is not just a fan but a part of our extended band family. His testimonial:

“Amusing Motor isn’t just a band, they’re a way of life. Their music speaks to the hard-working folks like us. It’s raw, real, and resonates with the sounds and struggles of our hometown. Their songs like ‘Rusty Chains’ are not just tunes to me, they’re anthems. It’s like they’ve put our lives to music. I wouldn’t be the person I am without them.”

Backstory:
Sleepy Chain is a band formed in 2012 in south Philadelphia by lead vocalist and guitarist Jason “Rusty” Taylor and bassist Andrew “Drew” Miles. They met at a local open mic night, instantly bonding over their shared love for alternative music and their aspirations to create a new wave in the music scene. By 2013, they added drummer Caroline “Caz” Smith and keyboardist Tommy “Keys” Branson to the mix, cultivating their unique sound that’s been capturing hearts ever since. Their journey from performing in small pubs and coffee houses has led them to sold-out venues and international music festivals. Despite the fame, Sleepy Chain remains grounded, holding close to their roots and maintaining their passion for music at the core of their success.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Midnight Carousel”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C
Running through the city under neon skies,
G D
Chasing shadows and the echoes of your lies,
Em C
Midnight carousel, we’re spinning around,
G D
In this endless chase, no solid ground.

(Chorus)
C G
Spinning in circles, lost in the game,
D Em
Chasing illusions, just empty frames,
C G
Midnight carousel, keeps turning round,
D Em
In this crazy dance, we’re love-bound.

(Verse 2)
Em C
Your whispers in the wind, like a sweet refrain,
G D
Promises broken, we’re dancing in the rain,
Em C
Midnight carousel, under city lights,
G D
In this merry-go-round, love ignites.

(Chorus)
C G
Spinning in circles, hearts set aflame,
D Em
In the mirror’s reflection, who’s to blame?
C G
Midnight carousel, keeps turning round,
D Em
In this crazy dance, we’re love-bound.

Band’s favorite fan:
Sleepy Chain’s favorite fan is Sarah Thompson. Sarah has followed the band since their early days, attending every show she could, even making the journey to see them perform internationally.

Testimonial:
“Why is Sleepy Chain my favorite band? It’s more than just their music. It’s their story, their authenticity, their soul. Their lyrics speak volumes that resonate with my life experiences. From their first gig in a tiny pub to their sold-out concert at the O2 Arena, I’ve seen them grow and evolve. They’ve stayed true to their roots, and to their fans. They’re not just a band to me, they’re a lifeline. They’re Sleepy Chain.”

Backstory:
Active Flame began as an idea in the basement of a small house in Austin, Texas in 2006. Five friends, all with a shared love for music, decided to create a band after realizing the chemistry they had while jamming together. Even though they all had different influences, they found a common ground in their shared sense of rebellion and thirst for innovation. This is how Active Flame was born.

Through the years, Active Flame faced many challenges but they only made the bond between the members stronger. They started playing at local bars, then moved on to regional festivals, and eventually national tours. The band’s captivating performances, combined with their progressive, ever-evolving sound, quickly caught the attention of fans and critics alike. Active Flame is not just a band, it’s a journey.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Rising From the Ashes”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1: C-G-Am-F)
(C)Sitting in the darkness, (G)waiting for a spark,
(Am)Fire within me, (F)light within the dark,
(C)Life has tried to douse me, (G)But I won’t give in,
(Am)Active Flame, I’ll rise again,(F)I’ll rise again.

(Chorus: F-G-C-Am)
(F)Rising from the ashes, (G)standing in the night,
(C)Active Flame, I’m burning bright,(Am)I’m burning bright,
(F)Through the storm and shadows, (G)I will find the way,
(C)Active Flame, I’ll light the day,(Am)I’ll light the day.

(Verse 2: C-G-Am-F)
(C)Winds of change are blowing, (G)but I won’t be swayed,
(Am)I’ll keep on dancing, (F)in the fire that I’ve made,
(C)Every setback, (G)a stepping stone,
(Am)In every fall, (F)my strength has grown.

(Chorus: F-G-C-Am)
(F)Rising from the ashes, (G)standing in the night,
(C)Active Flame, I’m burning bright,(Am)I’m burning bright,
(F)Through the storm and shadows, (G)I will find the way,
(C)Active Flame, I’ll light the day,(Am) I’ll light the day.

(F)Fire in my heart, (G)will never fade,
(C)Active Flame, (Am)I’m unafraid.

Fan Testimonial:
Fan Name: Jessica Thompson
Jessica Thompson has been a fan of Active Flame since their first gig at a local bar in Austin. She has followed them through every stage of their journey. As a testimonial she says, “Active Flame was the soundtrack of my teenage years. Their music has this vibrant, rebellious energy that resonated with me. They are more than just a band, they’ve been an inspiration, teaching me through their music and their journey to never give up, to rise from the ashes just like their song suggests. They’re not just my favorite band, they’re my beacon.”

Backstory:
Motionless Island was conceived in 2013, on a quiet beach in Miami, where four friends found solace and connection through their shared love for music. The band consists of lead vocalist and guitarist Jake Morrison, drummer Alex Garcia, bassist Josh Peterson, and keyboardist Mia Davis. The band members cross paths at a local music festival, and there was an instant connection that led them to jam together. The name ‘Motionless Island’ is a representation of their collective spirit, an ode to the tranquility and peace they found in each other’s company amidst the chaos and swift pace of the world.

Their journey was paved with numerous local gigs and constant evolution of their sound. With each passing year, their bond strengthened, and their music matured. Despite facing numerous obstacles, their tenacity and dedication never faded. They took inspiration from their struggles, pouring their souls into their music, creating a unique sound that resonates with their audience.

Genre:
Indie Pop/Rock

Title:
“Shadows in the Sun”

Full Song Lyrics with Chord Progression:
Verse 1 (G – D – Em – C):
The sunlight fades, the waves are cresting high,
(G – D – Em – C)
A lonely island, beneath the painted sky.
(G – D – Em – C)
We stand together, but we’re apart,
(G – D – Em – C)
A motionless island, with a beating heart.

Chorus (Am – C – G – D):
Shadows in the sun, but we’re not done,
(Am – C – G – D)
We’ll fight the fight, we’ve just begun.
(Am – C – G – D)
For in the darkness, we find our light,
(Am – C – G – D)
Motionless Island, burning bright.

Verse 2 (G – D – Em – C):
Through the stormy weather, we find our way,
(G – D – Em – C)
A beacon of hope, at the break of day.
(G – D – Em – C)
The world around us, it may whirl,
(G – D – Em – C)
But in our hearts, no storm can unfurl.

(Repeat Chorus)

Bands favorite fan’s name:
Hannah

Testimonial:
“I’ve been a fan of Motionless Island since their inception. They’ve got a unique sound that’s unlike any other band I’ve heard. It’s as if they’ve found a way to put all the feelings and thoughts we’ve all had but couldn’t articulate into their music. ‘Shadows in the Sun’ is my favorite song, it gives me a sense of hope even when things are tough. It’s not just their music, but their journey that inspires me – they’ve shown that no matter how hard things get, they can always find a way to shine. That’s why they’re my favorite band, and I can’t wait to see where their journey takes them next.”