Backstory:

New Capital, hailing from the bustling streets of London, England, is the brainchild of four college friends who bonded over their shared love of music in the halls of Guildhall School of Music and Drama. The quartet, consisting of Jake Turner (vocals, guitar), Charlie Thompson (drums), Liam Roberts (bass), and Ethan James (keyboard), found a unique sound amid the cacophony of their early jam sessions in the dormitory. Their friendship and shared experiences in the city, including late-night gigs in small venues and long walks along the Thames, inspired them to form New Capital in 2016.

The band’s breakthrough came two years later with the release of their independent single, garnering attention from several major record labels. After signing with Universal Music in 2018, New Capital has been on an upward trajectory, earning critical acclaim and a growing international fanbase with their evocative lyrics and innovative sound.

Genre:

New Capital finds its roots in Indie Pop, with a mix of synth-driven melodies and acoustic ballads. Their music is known for its upbeat rhythms, reflective lyrics, and the occasional unexpected twist, peppered with electronic elements that give them an edge in the contemporary music scene.

Title:

“Under the City Lights”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C Am F G
In the heart of the city, where the lights shine bright,
We found our rhythm, under the cover of night,
Down the avenues, and through the crowded streets,
Our dreams were born, to the sound of the city’s beats.

(Chorus)
Dm G C E7
Under the city lights, we found our way,
In the heart of the night, we chose to stay,
The streets are singing, in that sweet, sweet tone,
This is our time, this is our home.

(Verse 2)
C Am F G
The dawn is breaking, on this city of dreams,
The skyline’s waking, with the morning’s gleam,
In the mirror of the river, the city’s heart beats on,
We’re the children of the night, but we belong to the dawn.

(Chorus)
Dm G C E7
Under the city lights, we found our star,
In the heart of the night, we’ve come so far,
The streets are singing, in that sweet, sweet tone,
This is our journey, this is our song.

Favorite Fan:

Emma Thompson, a 23-year-old graphic designer from Liverpool, has been a fan of New Capital since their early days. She describes the band as her favorite due to their genuine lyrics that often resonate with her own experiences. “Their music is like a friend who understands what you’re going through,” Emma says. “The songs are relatable, and the band’s energy is infectious. Plus, their live performances are one of a kind! I’ve been to every one of their shows since they started. New Capital’s music always manages to bring a ray of light to my day.”

Backstory:
Short-Term Damage was formed in a rundown suburban garage in Portland, Oregon in 2012. Band members Nick “Raven” Rave, Billy “Basher” Baxter, and Joey “Jabber” Johnstone met as high school misfits with a shared love for punk music and a burning desire to escape the monotony of their everyday lives. After their first impromptu jam session, a fusion of explosive guitar riffs and relentless drum beats, they knew they had something special. Over the years, their unique sound and rebellious lyricism drew a devoted fan base, earning them a reputation as the local champions of modern punk rock.

Genre:
Punk Rock

Title:
“Cacophony of Silence”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1:
G#m / E
( G#m ) Listen to the sound, ( E ) a cacophony of silence,
( G#m ) An empty room, ( E ) echoes of defiance,
( G#m ) Whispers in the dark, ( E ) we’re not in compliance,
( G#m ) Breaking down the barriers, ( E ) rejecting your alliance.

Chorus:
C# / B / A
( C# ) We’re the voice, ( B ) of the voiceless,
( A ) Rising against, ( C# ) the heartless,
( B ) In the cacophony, ( A ) we find solace,
( C# ) Short-term damage, ( B ) for a long-term promise.

(Repeat Chorus)

Verse 2:
G#m / E
( G#m ) In the noise, ( E ) we find our voices,
( G#m ) Through the damage, ( E ) we make our choices,
( G#m ) We’re not just another ( E ) faceless crowd,
( G#m ) We’re Short-Term Damage, ( E ) and we’re playing loud.

(Repeat Chorus)

Fan’s Testimonial:
Fan’s Name: Eliza “Lizard” Simmons

Short-Term Damage is more than just a band to me, they’re a lifeline. Their music speaks to my rebel soul, it’s like they’ve put my thoughts and feelings into words and amplified them through their powerful punk anthems. I remember the first time I heard “Cacophony of Silence”, it felt like a call to arms for anyone who has ever felt silenced or overlooked. The raw power and authenticity in their music have made me a devoted fan. Short-Term Damage isn’t just my favorite band, they’re my punk rock heroes.

Backstory:

Fuzzy Hold is a quirky, high-energy quartet that formed in the heart of Seattle’s vibrant music scene. The band members include recent art school graduates Eliot “Fuzzy” Thompson (lead vocals and guitar), Rebecca “Beck” Davis (bass and backing vocals), her brother Marcus Davis (drums), and their childhood friend Tamara “Tam” Johnson (keyboard and backing vocals). Fuzzy Hold was born out of a shared love for music, a mutual appreciation for the sublime and the absurd, and a common desire to break free from the monotony of nine-to-five jobs. They started jamming together in Eliot’s cluttered garage in the summer of 2015, and by the fall of 2016, they were performing their unique brand of music in local bars and clubs.

Genre:

Fuzzy Hold creates music in the genre of Indie Pop with a touch of Rock and Punk, a sound that has been described as whimsical, edgy, and raw with a punch of colorful chaos.

Title:

“One Winged Pigeon”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C G
Fly away, one winged pigeon,
Am Em
Longing for the sky’s dominion,
F C
Your heart is free, though your flight is stricken,
G C
In your eyes, the stars are quicken.

(Chorus)
Dm G
Dreams aren’t bound, they’re meant for soaring,
C Am
In your spirit, winds are roaring,
Dm G
Sing your song, it’s never boring,
C G C
Oh, one winged pigeon, keep exploring.

(Verse 2)
C G
In the park, folks are staring,
Am Em
At your struggle, undiscerning,
F C
But you are more than just a burden,
G C
In your heart, the fire’s burning.

(Chorus)
Dm G
Through the wind, you keep on singing,
C Am
Your melody, in the air, it’s ringing,
Dm G
One winged pigeon, hope you’re bringing,
C G C
Your broken flight is just beginning.

Favorite Fan’s Name, Why, and Testimonial:

Name: Teddy Kowalski

Why: Teddy has been a fan of Fuzzy Hold since their first local gig. He has attended nearly every concert and has a collection of their merchandise. Teddy loves their unique sound, and their lyrics, which he says are a mix of profound and playful.

Testimonial: “Fuzzy Hold’s music resonates with my soul. They’re not your typical Indie Pop band. Their lyrics are thought-provoking, and they have a way of turning ordinary situations into extraordinary insights. “One Winged Pigeon” is my mantra—reminding me that no matter the obstacles, my spirit is free. I’m a Fuzzy Hold fan for life!”

Backstory:

Born and raised in the vibrant heart of Austin, Texas, Squeaky Captain is a band with a profound love for music and a nose for adventure. The band was formed in 2010 by a group of high school friends, who began jamming together in their parents’ basements, bonded by their shared love for music and their desire to create a new sound. As they grew older and their passion for music deepened, the group decided to take the leap and form a band, naming themselves Squeaky Captain, a playful nod to their quirky sense of humor and individualistic approach to life.

Their journey to stardom was not easy, but their shared passion for music and boundless energy kept them going, gig after gig, bar after bar. They found their sound, a fusion of their eclectic influences, and their unique energy and personality quickly caught the attention of the local Austin scene. Today, Squeaky Captain is a crowd favorite, known for their infectious energy, captivating performances, and distinct musical style.

Genre:
Alternative Pop Rock

Title:
“Midnight Carousel”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
[Am]Underneath the [G]city lights, [D]Dancing shadows [Em]take flight,
[A]Oh honey, hold on [C]tight, we’re on a [D]midnight carousel [G]ride.

[G]Through the ups and [D]downs, [C]we spin around,
[Am]Lost in the sound, [D]no need to be [G]found.

(Chorus)
[C]Midnight carousel, [G]underneath the spell,
[D]Will you ride with me, [Em]set our hearts free?
[C]Midnight carousel, [G]where dreams never fell,
[Am]Riding to the day, with [D]nothing in our way.

(Verse)
[Am]With every turn, [G]we live, we learn, [D]Burn like the stars, [Em]let ‘em burn,
[A]Under the moon, [C]awaiting our turn, [D]On this midnight carousel, [G]yearn.

(Chorus)
[C]Midnight carousel, [G]underneath the spell,
[D]Will you ride with me, [Em]set our hearts free?
[C]Midnight carousel, [G]where dreams never fell,
[Am]Riding to the day, with [D]nothing in our way.

Fan Testimonial:

My name is Lily, and I’m the biggest fan of Squeaky Captain. Their music inspires me, makes me feel alive, and has helped me through some tough times. Their song “Midnight Carousel” always makes me believe that anything is possible, that life is an adventure, and that we have to embrace every moment. The energy, the passion, the sincerity in their performances – it’s unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. Squeaky Captain is more than just a band to me, they’re a source of hope and strength, and for that, they will always be my favorite.

Backstory:

Cultured Particle began as a geeky passion project in the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s music department. Roommates and particle physics students Charles “Chaz” Rogers and Elijah “Eli” Kim found a common interest in music when they discovered each other’s hidden talents during a late-night study session. Chaz, a proficient guitarist and Eli, a classically trained pianist, decided to blend their musical prowess with their love for particle physics. Soon after, they were joined by Emily “Em” Davis, a soft-spoken poetry major with a powerful voice. Thus, Cultured Particle was born in the heart of academia, blending the complexities of quantum physics with the raw power of music.

The band quickly gained popularity on the college circuit, their unique blend of science and music appealing to the intellectually curious. However, their popularity exploded when a YouTube video of their performance at the local pub went viral. Now, Cultured Particle is known for their intricate lyrics, extraordinary instrumentation and a unique perspective on music that resonates with a wide audience, making them the poster band for the fusion of art and science.

Genre:

Indie Rock / Experimental

Title:

“Quantum Serenade”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Am] She twirls in the [G] dance of the [F] subatomic [E] stars,
[Am] Her energy [G] splits in the [F] night like a [E] quasar.
[Am] She’s the mystery [G] in Heisenberg’s [F] heart,
[E] Spinning in the [Am] rhythm of the [G] quantum chart.

(Chorus)
[G] Oh, dear Neutron, [D] don’t you [Em] cry,
[Am] For in our [G] spectral world, [D] you and I can [Em] fly.
[G] Let’s ride the [D] wave function, [Em] let’s fade and [Am] reappear,
[G] In the [D] cosmic dance, [Em] we have nothing to fear.

(Verse 2)
[Am] She whispers in the [G] language of [F] Feynman’s [E] dreams,
[Am] Painting landscapes [G] in the [F] echoes of [E] cosmic [Am] beams.
[G] Her particles and [F] waves [E] shine so [Am] bright,
[G] Illuminating [F] the fabric [E] of [Am] every [G] night.

(Repeat Chorus)

Fan Testimonial:

Name: Alex “PhysicsGuy” Henderson

“Cultured Particle is more than just a band to me. Their music, lyrics, the science woven into their songs, it’s like they’re singing my life story. I’ve been a physics geek all my life, and when I discovered them during my time at MIT, it was like finding a piece of me I didn’t know was missing. Their song ‘Quantum Serenade’ is a masterpiece, a beautiful mesh of art and science. Cultured Particle is the favorite band for anyone who loves music and has a curious mind, just like me.”

Backstory:
Formed in the quiet town of Masonville, Colorado, Cuddly Idea started as a concept in the minds of high school best friends Sammy Johansson and Benny Roberts. Finding solace in music amidst the trials and tribulations of teenage life, they decided to form their own little two-piece band, “Cuddly Idea”. They started by playing at local pubs and school events, relying on their unique blend of electronic pop and soothing melodies to stand out. As young adults, they moved to Los Angeles to seriously pursue their dream of making it big in the music industry, adding three additional members, Ella on the drums, Saul on bass, and Lily on keyboards, along the way.

Genre:
Electro-Pop with a hint of Indie Rock

Song Title:
“Dreams in Candy Floss”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1 – C, Am, F, G)
(C) I found a place in the (Am) sky,
(F) Where dreams are made of (G) candy floss and lullabies,
(C) We can fly away, just (Am) you and I,
(F) In a world where (G) reality lies.

(Chorus – F, G, C, Am)
(F) Take my hand and (G) we’ll soar,
(C) Among the clouds, we’ll (Am) explore,
(F) Dreams in candy (G) floss, where love is never (C) lost,
(Am) Come with me, let’s explore.

(Verse 2 – C, Am, F, G)
(C) Painted rainbows and (Am) paper planes,
(F) Wishes whispered in the (G) gentle rain,
(C) Let’s make a promise (Am) to remain,
(F) In this land where (G) childlike wonder reigns.

(Repeat Chorus – F, G, C, Am)
(F) Take my hand and (G) we’ll soar,
(C) Among the clouds, we’ll (Am) explore,
(F) Dreams in candy (G) floss, where love is never (C) lost,
(Am) Come with me, let’s explore.

Fan Name:
Daisy

Testimonial:
“My name is Daisy, and Cuddly Idea is my all-time favorite band! I first discovered them at a local music festival back in Masonville and was instantly charmed by their unique sound. Their music represents everything I love – it’s upbeat, meaningful, and brings a certain lightness to my life. “Dreams in Candy Floss” is my personal anthem. It reminds me to keep my inner child alive, to dream big, and to find joy in the little things. The lyrics, the melody, it all just speaks to my soul. There’s just something magical about this band that no other band has been able to replicate. I’ll always be their number one fan!”

Backstory:
Formed in the gritty underbelly of Seattle in 2005, Corrupt Key emerged from the ashes of three different local bands. The four friends, led by charismatic lead vocalist and songwriter, Aaron Holloway, decided to join forces after their respective bands disbanded. Holloway, along with guitarist Jamie Reynolds, bassist Nicky Malone, and drummer Ethan Matthews, found a common thread in their shared influences, ranging from hard rock to blues to punk. This combined love for diverse music genres led them to create Corrupt Key, a band that defies definition yet captures the essence of their raw power and unified vision.

Their rise was not meteoric, but rather the product of relentless hard work and dedication to their craft. Known for their energetic live performances and unpredictable song structures, Corrupt Key rapidly built a loyal following and became a mainstay of the Seattle club scene. They’ve since released three studio albums, each showcasing their distinct sound and unabashedly honest lyrics.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Shattered Echoes”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Lost in a world, [C] where hopes are drowned,
[Em] Amidst the noise, [D] a silent sound.
[G] You’ve got to shout, [C] to merely whisper,
[Em] In this place, [D] where shadows wither.

(Chorus)
[G] Shattered echoes, [C] of a forgotten dream,
[Em] Dancing on the embers, [D] of what could’ve been.
[G] Tossing coins, [C] in the wishing well,
[Em] Just a story, [D] that we used to tell.

(Verse 2)
[G] Wearing smiles, [C] hiding the pain,
[Em] Chasing rainbows, [D] in the pouring rain.
[G] Tied by chains, [C] of sweet lies,
[Em] Under the starless, [D] empty skies.

(Chorus)
[G] Shattered echoes, [C] of a forgotten dream,
[Em] Dancing on the embers, [D] of what could’ve been.
[G] Tossing coins, [C] in the wishing well,
[Em] Just a story, [D] that we used to tell.

(Bridge)
[Am] We’re broken, [C] but we’re brave,
[Em] In this world, [D] we can’t save.
[Am] But we’ll sing, [C] and we’ll fight,
[Em] With every note, [D] in the night.

(Chorus)
[G] Shattered echoes, [C] of a forgotten dream,
[Em] Dancing on the embers, [D] of what could’ve been.
[G] Tossing coins, [C] in the wishing well,
[Em] Just a story, [D] that we used to tell.

Outro:
[G] We’ll keep dreaming, [C] ’til the end of days,
[Em] With our music, [D] we’ll find a way.

Favorite Fan Testimonial:
My name is Lisa Parker, and I’m the biggest Corrupt Key fan! These guys are more than just a band to me; they symbolize resilience, determination, and the ability to dream despite all odds. Their music has seen me through tough times and celebrated with me during the best moments of my life. Holloway’s lyrics are refreshingly honest, and their music has a raw authenticity that’s hard to find these days. Corrupt Key is not just my favorite band; they’re a source of inspiration and a reminder to never stop dreaming.

Backstory:
Piercing Attendance came together in the bustling city of Seattle, Washington, in the late 2000s. Childhood friends Nathan Harris and Jillian Reed, who shared a passion for creating music, decided to join forces and start a band. Nathan, with his knack for guitar, and Jillian, with her powerful vocals, started composing songs and performing at local venues. The duo soon expanded to a four-member band, adding drummer Eliot Marshall and bassist Sophia Lane, whose musical talents complemented and amplified the group’s sound. Despite the challenges they faced, the band’s unique sound and charismatic stage presence soon attracted a loyal fan base and the attention of major record labels.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Shadows in the Spotlight”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Intro: C – G – Am – F]

Verse 1:
[C] Midnight is crawling, [G] stars are falling
[Am] We’re chasing echoes, [F] shadows in the spotlight
[C] Silhouettes dancing, [G] chance keeps glancing,
[Am] A fractured mosaic, [F] lost in the moonlight

Chorus:
[C] We are ghosts in the [G] glow, we’re the [Am] whispers you know,
[F] Piercing through the silence, [C] breaking the night
[C] We are the shadows in the [G] spotlight, [Am] echoes in the twilight
[F] Defying the darkness, [C] claiming our right

Verse 2:
[C] City lights flicker, [G] the darkness grows thicker
[Am] Secrets whispered, [F] shadows in the spotlight
[C] Lost in the rhythm, [G] no place, no system
[Am] A world in grayscale, [F] kissed by twilight

(Repeat Chorus)

Bridge:
[Am] In the echoes and the afterglow, [F] we find our truth
[C] Lost within the shadows, [G] we find our youth
[Am] In the echoes and the afterglow, [F] we find our fight
[C] We are the shadows, [G] dancing in the spotlight

(Repeat Chorus)

Outro:
[C] We are the shadows, [G] we are the echoes
[Am] Dancing in the twilight, [F] we are the night [C]

Favorite Fan:
Their favorite fan is Rachel Thompson. Rachel has been following Piercing Attendance since their humble beginnings in local pubs in Seattle. She claims Piercing Attendance as her favorite band because their music resonates with her deeply. She appreciates the profound lyrics and the raw emotion that the band pours into each performance. Rachel attends every concert she can and has a collection of all the band’s merchandise. In a testimonial, she said, “Their songs are like anthems for anyone who ever felt lost, invisible, or misunderstood. Their music gives me strength and hope, making me feel seen and heard. Piercing Attendance isn’t just a band to me; they’re an inspiration.”

Backstory:
Scented Death came into existence in the eerie and foggy streets of London in 2007. The band is composed of five members: lead vocalist Edgar “Skull” Harken, lead guitarist Martin “Crow” Blackwood, bassist Charlotte “Vixen” Valentine, drummer Ethan “Reaper” Lancaster, and keyboardist Vanessa “Myst” O’Connor. Initially, they were all part of different bands, playing in local pubs and small gigs to hone their skills and make a name for themselves. They crossed paths during a local music festival and, recognizing a shared passion for dark, intense and haunting music, they decided to form Scented Death.

Their rise to fame was as mysterious as their origin. They gained massive popularity after releasing their first album, “Eternal Night”, on the internet. The album was a tremendous success, catching the attention of several record labels. The band caught their big break when they were signed by the infamous ‘Gloom Records’. They have since released four more albums and have toured around the world, captivating audiences with their unique sound and chilling performances.

Genre:
Scented Death is a Gothic Metal band known for their dark and atmospheric sound infused with operatic vocals and haunting lyrics.

Title:
“One Last Rose”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1) [Em, D, C, B7]
In the graveyard of forgotten love, [Em]
In the darkness, under the stars above, [D]
I lay down a single blackened rose, [C]
God only knows, God only knows. [B7]

(Chorus) [Am, C, G, D]
One last rose for our dying love, [Am]
Beneath the moonlight from above, [C]
In the silence, only whispers of the dove, [G]
One last rose, one last rose. [D]

(Verse 2) [Em, D, C, B7]
In the stillness, where our shadows dance, [Em]
In the echoes of our lost romance, [D]
I watch the petals fall in a deadly trance, [C]
In our last, our last chance. [B7]

(Chorus) [Am, C, G, D]
One last rose for our broken dreams, [Am]
Lost in the echoes of our screams, [C]
In the darkness, only silence it seems, [G]
One last rose, one last rose. [D]

(Bridge) [F, G, Am]
In the depth of night, beneath the star’s light, [F]
I lay down our love, lost in the fight. [G]
One last rose, one last rose, [Am]
In the silence, your memory still glows. [G]

(Chorus) [Am, C, G, D]
One last rose for our dying love, [Am]
Beneath the moonlight from above, [C]
In the silence, only whispers of the dove, [G]
One last rose, one last rose. [D]

(Outro) [Em, D, C, B7]
In the graveyard of our forgotten love, [Em]
Under the stars, in the heavens above, [D]
Lies one last rose, a symbol of our love. [C]
God only knows, God only knows. [B7]

Fan Testimonial:
Meet Gary “Gothfather” Newman, Scented Death’s biggest and most passionate fan. He’s been following the band since their early days and has attended countless concerts, album signings, and meet-and-greet events. Gary says, “Scented Death isn’t just a band for me, it’s a way of life. Their music speaks to my soul like no other and has helped me through some tough times. Their haunting melodies and profound lyrics provide a safe haven in this chaotic world.

Backstory:
Shady Pollution burst onto the music scene in the late 90s, born out of the gritty urban landscapes and social unrest of the decade. The band’s founding members, lead vocalist Ron “Shade” Perkins, drummer Bill “Haze” Thompson, and guitarist Max “Smog” Morgan united under their shared angst and desire to make a statement with their music. Taking their name from a derisive reference to the polluted city they grew up in, Shady Pollution has always embraced their roots and used them as a driving force behind their music.

Shady Pollution gained a massive following with their high-energy performances and raw lyrics, which often touched upon societal issues they felt passionate about. Despite facing several obstacles, including lineup changes and near-bankruptcies, the band has remained resilient and has continued to evolve their sound while staying true to their original message.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Echoes in the Smog”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1: [G] [D] [Em] [C]
[G] Look around, what do you [D] see?
[Em] Smokestacks rising, [C] lost in the breeze.
[G] Empty faces, [D] hearts that bleed,
[Em] Shady pollution, our [C] legacy.

Chorus: [Am] [C] [G] [D]
[Am] Echoes in the smog, [C] whispers in the haze,
[G] Our silent cries, [D] lost in the blaze.
[Am] Searching for truth, [C] in this concrete maze,
[G] Shady pollution, we’re [D] set ablaze.

Verse 2: [G] [D] [Em] [C]
[G] Dreams of green, turned [D] to grey,
[Em] Promised tomorrows, [C] lost today.
[G] We’re the echoes, [D] we’re the prey,
[Em] Shady pollution, the [C] price we pay.

(Repeat Chorus)

Band’s Favorite Fan:
Our Band’s favorite fan is undoubtedly Becca Morrison. Becca has been with us from the very beginning. She has stuck with us through our highs and lows, and her dedicated presence at every single show is a testament to her loyalty. She has our lyrics tattooed on her arm and always sings along to every song.

Becca’s Testimonial:
“I’ve loved Shady Pollution since their first gig. Their music speaks to me on such a deep level. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s about things that matter. They’ve managed to put into words feelings and frustrations that I’ve never been able to express. Being a part of their journey, watching them grow and evolve, it’s been an incredible experience. Shady Pollution isn’t just a band to me, they’re a symbol of resilience and the power of music to make a difference.”