Backstory:
Itchy Rock is a powerhouse quartet that was formed in the heart of Manchester, England in the year 2012. The band members – frontman and lead guitarist, Harry Thompson, drummer Steve Carlton, bassist Pete Richards, and rhythm guitarist Freddy Owens – were all college mates pursuing their musical dreams independently, before realizing their aligned passion and natural chemistry for rock n’ roll. Their shared love for classic 70’s rock and a mutual disregard for the mundane made them unite, leading to the birth of Itchy Rock.

The band name ‘Itchy Rock’ symbolises their restless pursuit of creating music that makes the soul itch – music that gives you an irresistible urge to headbang and dance. Just like an itch you can’t ignore, Itchy Rock’s music demands attention, it’s raw, it’s energetic, and it’s laden with pumping riffs and catchy melodies.

Genre:
Classic Rock

Title:
“Rhythm of Rebellion”

Full Song Lyrics:
[Verse 1] (A-D-E-D)
A D
When the world is turning upside down,
E D
And you’re lost in the chaos all around.
A D
Hold your ground, don’t let the silence drown,
E D
The rhythm of rebellion, oh, it’s a holy sound.

[Chorus] (G-A-D)
G A
Shout it out, set your spirit free,
D
Dance to the rhythm, the rhythm of rebellion.
G A
Find your voice, be what you want to be,
D
Live with the rhythm, the rhythm of rebellion.

[Verse 2] (A-D-E-D)
A D
When the rules are chains that bind your soul,
E D
And the world is a stage where you play no role.
A D
Break the mold, let your story be told,
E D
With the rhythm of rebellion, oh, let it unfold.

[Chorus] (G-A-D)
G A
Shout it out, set your spirit free,
D
Dance to the rhythm, the rhythm of rebellion.
G A
Find your voice, be what you want to be,
D
Live with the rhythm, the rhythm of rebellion.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is Jenny Cooper, a rock enthusiast and a writer known for her love for classic rock. Itchy Rock is her favorite for various reasons as she states, “As a music lover, I’ve been to hundreds of concerts and listened to countless bands. But Itchy Rock is different. Their music, it’s like a refreshing throwback to the classic rock era, but with a modern touch. It’s potent, it’s energetic, and it gets under your skin. And not to mention, their lyrics – they’re profound, they’re rebellious – they make you stop and think. It’s a musical experience that’s absolutely infectious. A must for anyone who loves good old rock n’ roll.”

Backstory:
Formed in 2002, Shallow Weather began as a three-piece dorm room jam session at the University of Southern California. The trio, consisting of lead singer and guitarist Max Holloway, bassist Finn O’Sullivan, and drummer Sam Reynolds, bonded over their shared love of music and their shared disillusionment with the sunny, laid-back Californian culture. Their conversations about the superficiality they saw around them gave birth to Shallow Weather and their unique sound. Over the years, they developed a fervent following and made their way through the local live music scene, releasing several self-produced albums and eventually landing a record deal in 2008.

Genre:
Shallow Weather creates music that fits snugly in the niche of Alternative Indie Rock, with a significant influence of Atmospheric, Post-Punk, and Grunge. Their sound has been described as moody, reflective, and emotionally resonant.

Title:
“Underneath the Surface”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Em – C – G – D
Em
Underneath the surface, we’re all just the same,
C
Torn up and twisted in this life’s game.
G
But in the shallow weather, where the sun always shines,
D
We cover up our scars and pretend we’re fine.

(Chorus)
Am – Em – G – D
Am
But when the rain falls,
Em
And the sky’s not blue,
G
That’s when I feel most true,
D
When I’m with you.

(Verse 2)
Em – C – G – D
Em
In the shallow weather, we’re all playing a part,
C
Hiding the hurt and the broken heart.
G
But beneath the surface, where the truth lies,
D
We can be ourselves, under the stormy skies.

(Repeat Chorus)

(Bridge)
Am – C – G – D
Am
Underneath the surface, there’s a depth to you,
C
A depth that makes me feel more than just blue.
G
In the shallow weather, we’ll brave the storm,
D
Together, in love, we’ll transform.

(Repeat Chorus x2)

Fan Testimonial:
As their favorite fan, Morgan Jones, affectionately known as “Weather Vane” among the Shallow Weather community, exclaims, “Shallow Weather speaks to my soul in a way no other band has. Their lyrics reflect the complex emotions we so often hide in our daily lives. I see myself in their songs, and it’s comforting to know I’m not alone in feeling this way. Their authenticity is refreshing in an industry that often feels superficial. I’ve never missed a gig since I discovered them, and I’ve been a die-hard fan ever since!”

Backstory:
Upset Wonder is a band that emerged from the eclectic and vibrant music scene of Austin, Texas in 2013. The members, lead vocalist and guitarist Alex “Torch” Turner, drummer Jamie “Hawk” Hawkins, bassist Liz “Phoenix” Williams, and keyboardist Mike “Mako” Miller, met as students at the University of Texas, each drawn to the other’s unique sound during a campus-wide music festival. Their chemistry was instant, and they started playing gigs at local bars, quickly garnering a dedicated fan base. After several years of honing their craft, their first break came in 2017 when their self-produced EP caught the attention of indie record label, Mossy Rock Records, leading to their first album release “Stargaze Dystopia” in 2018.

Genre:
Alternative Rock / Indie Pop

Title:
“Neon Love Catastrophe”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
Am G Dm F
Neon lights flicker, inside of my heart,
Am G Dm F
Our love’s a riddle, torn right from the start,
Am G Dm
I’m just a shadow in your catastrophe,
F Am
Formed from the ashes of our neon love.

(Chorus)
G Dm
We were the kings and queens,
F Am
Of a disaster scene,
G Dm
In our neon love catastrophe.

(Verse)
Am G Dm F
This city’s burning, beneath our feet,
Am G Dm F
In every corner, memories we meet,
Am G Dm
Through all the chaos, in this catastrophe,
F Am
I’ll find the remnants of our neon love.

(Chorus)
G Dm
We were the kings and queens,
F Am
Of a disaster scene,
G Dm
In our neon love catastrophe.

Favorite Fan Testimonial:
Name: Bailey “Bee” Jackson
“Upset Wonder’s music is like a beacon of light in this chaotic world. Each song speaks to me on a completely different level. ‘Neon Love Catastrophe’ is my anthem. It resonates with me because it encapsulates the recklessness of love and the aftermath. I’ve followed them since their bar gigs – their passion on stage, their lyrics, everything about them is raw and real. They make me feel seen, heard, and understood. To me, they are not just a band, they are my emotional lifeline.”

Backstory:
Jealous Focus was born in the vibrant city of Manchester, UK, in the late 2010s. The band is composed of four childhood friends: lead vocalist and guitarist, Brian Hart, bassist, Ethan Smith, drummer, Oliver Davis, and keyboardist, Zoe Miller. They were all passionate about music from a young age, and their collective influences range from iconic rock bands of the 70s to the alternative rock movement of the 90s. The band’s phenomenal story began when they won a local Battle of the Bands contest, catching the attention of a scout who was keen on signing fresh talent. This was the turning point for Jealous Focus, propelling them from small local gigs to playing at some of the most prestigious music festivals in Europe.

Their story has not been all smooth sailing, though, as they’ve had their share of ups and downs like any typical band. They’ve struggled with creative differences, financial instability, and the pressure that comes with fame. However, their shared passion for music and strong bond as friends have kept them together, driving their creative journey forward. Today, Jealous Focus is recognized for their distinctive sound and raw, emotional lyrics, captivating audiences worldwide.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Shadows of Yesterday”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C G Am E
Shadows of yesterday, linger in my mind,
F C G
Echoes of laughter, we left behind.
C G Am E
Memories shatter, like fragile glass,
F C G
Love was our canvas, but it didn’t last.

(Chorus)
F G Am E
Now we’re just shadows, shadows of yesterday,
F C G
Haunting the corners, where our love used to play.

(Verse 2)
C G Am E
Your eyes like starlight, now distant and cold,
F C G
Our hearts in winter, stories untold.
C G Am E
Promises broken, dreams turned to dust,
F C G
In the shadows, there’s only us.

(Chorus)
F G Am E
Now we’re just shadows, shadows of yesterday,
F C G
Lost in the silence, where our song used to play.

(Outro)
C G Am E
Shadows of yesterday, a love that was our own,
F C G
Now we’re just echoes, in a song that’s flown.

Band’s Favorite Fan:
Our favorite fan is Sarah James. She has been with us since our humble beginnings and has attended every single one of our concerts, regardless of the location. Here’s what Sarah has to say about us:

“Jealous Focus isn’t just a band to me; it’s a lifestyle. Their music has helped me through some of the toughest times in my life. Each song resonates with me on a deep emotional level, and it’s like they’re singing my life back to me. I love how authentic and raw their lyrics are, and how their music can be both soothing and empowering at the same time. Jealous Focus is my favorite band because they represent the spirit of resilience and the power of friendship, proving that music can truly change lives.”

Backstory:

Humiliating Camera, a synth-pop sensation from the heart of Chicago, began their musical journey in 2012. The band was formed by childhood friends and music enthusiasts, David Richmond (lead vocals and keyboard), Kate Anderson (vocals and synthesizer), and Benny Wallace (drums). They bonded over their love for 80’s synth-pop and decided to create music that would allow them to express their fondness for the genre. The name ‘Humiliating Camera’ was a random phrase pulled out of a hat during their brainstorming session, and it stuck, primarily due to its unconventional nature.

The band started performing at local bars and quickly gained a following for their nostalgic yet refreshing sound. Their breakout moment came when a video of their performance went viral, earning them a record deal and catapulted them to stardom. Since then, Humiliating Camera has been a constant presence on the international synth-pop scene, bringing back the 80’s vibe with a modern twist.

Genre:

Synth-Pop

Song Title:

“Echoes of the Neon”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Am] Glowing with a neon haze, [F] Lost in the city’s maze, [C] We’ve found our own space, [G] In this crazy place.
[Am] Underneath the starry skies, [F] Whispering silent cries, [C] Our hearts synchronize, [G] As time flies.

(Chorus)
[Am] Echoes of the neon, [F] Painting stories of us, [C] In the glow of the moon, [G] We begin to discuss.
[Am] Echoes of the neon, [F] Dancing in our sight, [C] Calming our fears, [G] In the heart of the night.

(Verse 2)
[Am] Twisted streets and alleyways, [F] Guided by the city’s blaze, [C] In this urban maze, [G] We find our glaze.
[Am] Shadows whispering secrets, [F] Under the city’s facets, [C] Our hearts are magnets, [G] Drawing us to the outlets.

(Chorus)
[Am] Echoes of the neon, [F] Painting stories of us, [C] In the glow of the moon, [G] We begin to discuss.
[Am] Echoes of the neon, [F] Dancing in our sight, [C] Calming our fears, [G] In the heart of the night.

Fan’s Name:

Emily

Testimonial:

“I’ve been a fan of Humiliating Camera since their early days; their song ‘Echoes of the Neon’ was the soundtrack to my teenage years. I love how they bring the 80’s synth-pop vibe into the modern era. Their music is nostalgic yet refreshing, and it resonates with me on so many levels. They’re not just a band to me; they’re a part of my life’s story. Their music has helped me through some of my darkest times and celebrated with me in my happiest moments. Humiliating Camera is my all-time favorite because they’re authentic, talented, and their music always hits home. I can’t wait to see where their journey takes them next!”

Backstory:
Spiteful Bonus, a quirky but passionate group, hails from the creative streets of Brooklyn, New York City. Initially, the band members were individually involved in various music projects, but they stumbled upon each other during an open-mic night in a local pub. They instantly connected over their mutual love for music and a desire to create something unique and unconventional, and thus, Spiteful Bonus was born. They decided on the name as a tongue-in-cheek nod to their initial struggles, depicting their journey as a bonus received despite the spiteful hurdles.

Genre:
The band carves its niche in the Alternative Rock genre, but with a twist. Their sound is a kaleidoscope of grungy rock, soulful melodies, and unexpected electronic elements.

Song Title:
“Resilient Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am (G) Walking down the path of estranged dreams,
F (C) Where the sunlight never hits,
Am (G) We are the resilient shadows,
F (C) In a world that never fits.

(Chorus)
Dm (Em) Rise up, despite the spiteful bonus,
G (Am) In the heart of the city’s night,
Dm (Em) We are the resilient shadows,
G (Am) And we’ll keep up the fight.

(Verse 2)
Am (G) Beneath the stark neon lights,
F (C) Our shadows dance and twirl,
Am (G) We are the resilient shadows,
F (C) Defying the cynical world.

(Chorus)
Dm (Em) Rise up, despite the spiteful bonus,
G (Am) In the heart of the city’s night,
Dm (Em) We are the resilient shadows,
G (Am) And we’ll keep up the fight.

(Bridge)
F (C) Through the storms and trials,
G (Am) Our spirits never die,
F (C) For we are the resilient shadows,
G (Am) Born to fly high.

(Chorus)
Dm (Em) Rise up, despite the spiteful bonus,
G (Am) In the heart of the city’s night,
Dm (Em) We are the resilient shadows,
G (Am) And we’ll keep up the fight.

Fan Testimonial:
My name is Jessie, and I am a die-hard fan of Spiteful Bonus. Their music is raw, authentic, and speaks volumes about the struggle of being misfits in a conformist society. “Resilient Shadows” is my anthem – it gives me the strength to embrace my individuality and keep fighting against societal norms. Spiteful Bonus, with their unapologetic and rebellious music, has inspired me to be true to myself. Their songs are like a balm for the misunderstood and the misfits, and that’s why they are my all-time favorite band.

Backstory:

Calculating Layer was formed in the summer of 2003 in the vibrant music scene of Seattle, Washington. The band members, consisting of lead vocalist Frederick “Freddy” McLane, guitarists Kyle “KJ” Johnson and Richard “Rich” Grant, bassist Danny “DZ” Ziegler, and drummer Alex “Axel” Turner, all met while studying at the University of Washington. They discovered their shared love for complex rhythms and meaningful lyrics during a late-night jam session in their college dormitory. Feeling inspired, they decided to form a band and began to play at local venues, quickly gaining a local fan base.

Their breakthrough came a couple of years later when they were discovered by renowned music producer, Josiah Hart, at a local music festival. He was captivated by their unique sound and compelling stage presence. Hart signed them to his label, and they quickly began working on their debut album.

Genre:

Alternative Rock / Progressive Rock

Title:

“Paradox of Perception”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am (C) Em (G)
Eyes wide open but I can’t see,
Am (C) Em (G)
Trapped in a world of paradoxical reality,
Am (C) Em (G)
Take a step forward but I’m three steps back,
Am (C) Em (G)
In the maze of existence, I’ve lost track.

(Chorus)
F (G) C (Em)
Paradox of Perception, you’ve got me spinning around,
F (G) C (Em)
In a world of illusion, where truth can’t be found,
F (G) C (Em)
Stuck in a cycle, where time has no meaning,
F (G) C (Em)
Paradox of Perception, wake me up from this dreaming.

(Verse 2)
Am (C) Em (G)
Circles within circles, layers upon layers,
Am (C) Em (G)
In the Calculating Layer, there are no prayers,
Am (C) Em (G)
Reflections in mirrors, shadows in light,
Am (C) Em (G)
In the Paradox of Perception, there’s no wrong or right.

(Chorus)
F (G) C (Em)
Paradox of Perception, you’ve got me spinning around,
F (G) C (Em)
In a world of illusion, where truth can’t be found,
F (G) C (Em)
Stuck in a cycle, where time has no meaning,
F (G) C (Em)
Paradox of Perception, wake me up from this dreaming.

(Bridge)
Dm (Em) F (G)
Turn the page, start anew,
Dm (Em) F (G)
In the Paradox of Perception, what can I do?
Dm (Em) F (G)
Ride the waves, break the chain,
Dm (Em) F (G)
In the Paradox of Perception, I’ll find myself again.

(Chorus)
F (G) C (Em)
Paradox of Perception, you’ve got me spinning around,
F (G) C (Em)
In a world of illusion, where truth can’t be found,
F (G) C (Em)
Stuck in a cycle, where time has no meaning,
F (G) C (Em)
Paradox of Perception, wake me up from this dreaming.

(Outro)
Am (C) Em (G)
In the Calculating Layer, I’ve found my way,
Am (C) Em (G)
In the Paradox of Perception, I’ll stay.

Fan’s Testimonial:

My name is Bella Thompson, and I’m a die-hard fan of Calculating Layer. Their music speaks to me on a deeply personal level. The lyrics tell stories that I can relate to, and the rhythms are

Backstory:

Jealous Anger is a band that originated in the gritty outskirts of New York City in 2010. The band members, all hailing from diverse backgrounds, found their common ground in their shared passion for music and, more specifically, their desire to express their emotions and experiences through song. Lead vocalist and songwriter, Jake Summers, joined forces with bassist, Max Harrison, drummer, Pete Belmont, and guitarist, Ryan Jones, and they quickly gained a reputation for their raw, emotive performances. Drawing inspiration from their struggles and triumphs, the band’s music is a stark reflection of the unfiltered realities of life.

Genre:

Jealous Anger is best described as a punk rock band, with elements of alternative and indie rock in their sound.

Title:

“Shattered Mirrors”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Look into the mirror, what do [Em] you see?
[C] A broken man, not what he used to [D] be
[G] Lost in the void, searching for [Em] answers
[C] All he finds is Jealous [D] Anger

(Chorus)
[G] Shattered mirrors on the [Em] floor
[C] Reflecting a life that’s no [D] more
[G] Trapped in a past, he can’t [Em] surrender
[C] All he’s left with is Jealous [D] Anger

(Verse 2)
[G] Once a dreamer, full of [Em] hope
[C] Now he’s hanging at the end of his [D] rope
[G] Tried to fight, tried to [Em] change
[C] But all he feels is Jealous [D] Anger

(Chorus)
[G] Shattered mirrors tell the [Em] tale
[C] Of a man who’s lost, a man who’s [D] failed
[G] In a world that’s cold and [Em] tender
[C] All he’s left with is Jealous [D] Anger

Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is named Lucy. To Lucy, Jealous Anger is not just a band, but a lifeline. She says, “I found Jealous Anger during a particularly tough time in my life. Their music resonated with me. It felt as though they were speaking to me, about my experiences, my emotions. I felt seen, understood. Their music gave me strength and hope when I needed it the most. From their electrifying performances to their raw, honest lyrics, Jealous Anger is truly one of a kind and will always be my favorite band.”

Backstory:

Tedious Kitchen was formed in 1999 by a group of culinary school dropouts in Austin, Texas. The quartet, composed of lead vocalist and guitarist, Tommy Silver, bassist Mark “Gravy” Dawson, drummer Charlie “Spatula” Adams, and keyboardist Sarah “Soup” Simons, met while working in a local diner. Rehearsing after their shifts using old cookware as drums and an out of tune piano in the corner of the diner, their unique sound quickly began to draw a crowd. They were cooking up something special, and the locals knew it.

Playing their first gig at a local bar, their music quickly resonated with the working-class crowd, and they gained a devoted following. Their songs, heavily influenced by their work in the diner, were filled with humor, heartache, and the daily grind. Word spread, and soon they were playing bigger venues and festivals, becoming a staple in the Austin music scene.

Genre:

Tedious Kitchen is best described as an eclectic mix of blues-rock with a dash of country twang and soulful rhythm.

Song Title:

“Griddle Love Blues”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G]Came in from the cold, to the [C]heat of the kitchen
[D]Workin’ all day, just to [G]keep that stove twitchin’
[G]Waitress walks by, with a [C]cup of ambition
[D]Pourin’ it in me, like a [G]sweet old tradition

(Chorus)
[G]Griddle love blues, [D]we’re sizzlin’
[C]Cookin’ up a storm, oh [G]baby, we’re drizzlin’
[G]Griddle love blues, [D]we’re fryin’
[C]In the heat of the night, oh [G]darlin’, we’re tryin’

(Verse 2)
[G]Frying pan to the fire, we’re [C]jumpin’
[D]Baking up dreams, while the [G]jukebox is thumpin’
[G]Serving up love, on a [C]platter of passion
[D]Spice it with a song, in our [G]own hearty fashion

(Chorus)
[G]Griddle love blues, [D]we’re sizzlin’
[C]Cookin’ up a storm, oh [G]baby, we’re drizzlin’
[G]Griddle love blues, [D]we’re fryin’
[C]In the heat of the night, oh [G]darlin’, we’re tryin’

Fan’s Name and Testimonial:

Fan’s name: Jolene Harris

“Tedious Kitchen is my absolute favorite band because they represent the heart and soul of our city. Their songs reflect our everyday experiences, making us laugh, cry, and dance all in one evening. I’ve never missed a show in town, and I feel connected to their music on a personal level. Their unique blend of blues and rock, coupled with their humorous lyrics about diner life, always leaves me craving more. They’re the comfort food of the music world and, in my opinion, the best thing to come out of Austin.”

Backstory:
Minty Cloud is an eclectic group of dreamers hailing from the bustling cityscape of Los Angeles, California. The band was formed in 2015 and is composed of lead vocalist and guitarist, Ben “Benny” Armstrong, bassist, Lola “Lo” Greene, and drummer, Jack “Jax” Taylor. Each member, originally solos working in the city’s rich music scene, were drawn together by their shared love for creating ethereal tunes that evoke emotion and transcend reality. They found common ground in their desire to take listeners on an auditory journey, a mission they named themselves ‘Minty Cloud’ after.

After playing in local dives and recording in cramped studios for years, Minty Cloud was discovered in 2018 by renowned music producer, Leo Larkins. Impressed by their unique sound and strong chemistry, Larkins signed the band to his independent label “LarkSongs”. Since then, Minty Cloud has gained a substantial following and continues to captivate audiences with their soulful and enchanting music.

Genre:
Indie Dream Pop

Title:
“Emerald Skies”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Em (Em/G) Am (Am/B) Em (Em/G) Am (Am/B)
In the land of emerald skies, where we once used to reside,
Em (Em/G) Am (Am/B) Em (Em/G) Am (Am/B)
Our dreams, they danced and twirled, in this minty cloud world.

[Chorus]
C (C/D) G (G/A) C (C/D) G (G/A)
Underneath the emerald skies, we found our paradise,
C (C/D) G (G/A) D (D/E) D (D/E)
A place where love never dies, in the land of emerald skies.

[Verse 2]
Em (Em/G) Am (Am/B) Em (Em/G) Am (Am/B)
A shimmering realm of light, where day meets with the night,
Em (Em/G) Am (Am/B) Em (Em/G) Am (Am/B)
Where the wind softly sighs, in the land of emerald skies.

[Chorus]
C (C/D) G (G/A) C (C/D) G (G/A)
Underneath the emerald skies, we found our paradise,
C (C/D) G (G/A) D (D/E) D (D/E)
A place where love never dies, in the land of emerald skies.

Fan’s Testimonial:
My name is Lucy Emerson, and I am a die-hard fan of Minty Cloud. Their music is like a breath of fresh air, always transporting me to a place of serenity and calm. Each song is a journey and the band’s unique dream pop sound is a bridge connecting reality to a world of dreams. They are my favorite band because of the authenticity in their music and the ethereal, yet grounding, experience they provide. Their song “Emerald Skies” in particular, always manages to touch my soul. Minty Cloud is a true gem in the music industry.