Backstory:
Acceptable Guy was the brainchild of lead vocalist and songwriter, Harry O’Donnell and drummer, Sammy “The Hammer” Orr. The pair met in a small town in Ohio during a Battle of the Bands competition. Despite not winning, their instant chemistry on stage and shared love for brooding, introspective lyrics gave birth to Acceptable Guy. The band later expanded to include guitarist, Tommy Riff and bassist, Mikey Bassman. The quartet initially played in local pubs and community events, slowly amassing a follower base that appreciated the raw honesty and authenticity of their craft. After three years of tireless gigging and honing their distinctive sound, Acceptable Guy finally broke into the mainstream with their hit single, “Average Day Blues.”

Genre:
Acceptable Guy’s music can be broadly classified as Indie Rock, with strains of Alternative and Blues Rock seeping into their soundscape.

Title:
“Ordinary Hero”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[C] There’s an ordinary hero, [Am] living down the lane,
[F] Carries all his burdens, [G] with a smile on his face.
[C] He’s not adorned in glory, [Am] doesn’t claim the fame,
[F] But he’s an acceptable guy, [G] lighting up the lane.

(Chorus)
[C] Oh, he’s an acceptable guy, [F] with an extraordinary heart,
[G] Dancing through the mundane, [C] playing his part.
[C] He’s an acceptable guy, [F] yet a star in someone’s sky,
[G] Embracing his ordinary, [C] with an extraordinary light.

(Verse 2)
[C] He takes the road less traveled, [Am] finds beauty in the gray,
[F] His laughter is the music, [G] that brightens up the day.
[C] He’s not chasing the spotlight, [Am] or the sparkly things,
[F] For he’s an acceptable guy, [G] with dreams that have wings.

(Chorus)
[C] Oh, he’s an acceptable guy, [F] with an extraordinary charm,
[G] Finding magic in the ordinary, [C] causing no harm.
[C] He’s an acceptable guy, [F] still a hero in disguise,
[G] Living his ordinary, [C] with an extraordinary life.

Favorite Fan Testimonial:
“My name is Lucy Carmichael, and Acceptable Guy is my favorite band. Their lyrics speak to me on a profound level, making me feel seen and understood. Their song “Ordinary Hero” helped me through a tough time in my life, reminding me that it’s okay to be ordinary and that extraordinary can be found in the simplest of things. The authenticity of their music is genuinely refreshing in today’s heavily produced music industry. I love Acceptable Guy because they’ve shown me that being just acceptable is more than enough, it’s real and it’s human.”

Backstory:

Formed in the heart of Nashville, Tennessee, in 2009, ‘Faithful Hearing’ initially started as a trio of good-hearted folks who loved nothing more than music and their faith. The group consisted of childhood friends, John “Harmony” Hawkes, Susanna “Sunny” Smith, and Rory “Rhyme” Reynolds. Sharing a mutual love for Gospel hymns and contemporary sounds, they decided to create music that would inspire, lift spirits, and share their faith with others. After a few gigs at local churches and charity events, their enchanting harmonies and meaningful lyrics began to attract a broader audience. The 2012 release of their debut album, ‘Echoes of Grace,’ catapulted them into the national spotlight, securing their reputation as a fresh and unique voice in the music industry.

Genre:

Contemporary Christian/Gospel

Title:

“His Love is the Light”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Walking through the shadows, lost in the night,
[D] Searching for answers, yearning for light.
[Em] Then I heard a whisper, soft and so clear,
[C] “Child, don’t you worry, for I am near.”

(Chorus)
[G] His Love is the light, in the darkest hour,
[D] His Love is the strength, when we lose our power.
[Em] His Love is the peace, in the stormy weather,
[C] His Love is the bond, that keeps us together.

(Verse 2)
[G] Tears may be falling, hearts may be breaking,
[D] But with His grace, there’s no forsaking.
[Em] In the sound of silence, in the midnight air,
[C] We find solace, in His loving care.

(Chorus)
[G] His Love is the light, in the darkest hour,
[D] His Love is the strength, when we lose our power.
[Em] His Love is the peace, in the stormy weather,
[C] His Love is the bond, that keeps us together.

(Bridge)
[Am] When the world around us, starts to crumble and shake,
[D] Remember His Love, is the road to take.

(Chorus)
[G] His Love is the light, in the darkest hour,
[D] His Love is the strength, when we lose our power.
[Em] His Love is the peace, in the stormy weather,
[C] His Love is the bond, that keeps us together.

Favorite Fan and Testimonial:

Maggie Thompson is an undeniably zealous fan of ‘Faithful Hearing.’ For Maggie, their music is not just a source of entertainment, it’s a spiritual experience that brings her closer to her faith. She said, “Their music has been my solace in times of despair and my joy in times of celebration. The melodious harmony, the soul-stirring lyrics, everything about ‘Faithful Hearing’ resonates with me. It aligns perfectly with my belief in love, unity, and faith. I’ve attended every one of their concerts that I could, and each time, I feel a profound connection with the divine. They are my favorite band because they sing for the soul, and they reach mine every time.”

Backstory:
Complicated Import was formed under unconventional circumstances. The five members, all of diverse backgrounds, met at a seedy international airport bar during an unexpected layover. Each of them was in possession of a musical instrument, and in the midst of frustration and boredom, they decided to pass the time by jamming out together. The result was a harmonious amalgamation of sounds and cultures that was impossible to ignore.

Upon returning to their respective home countries, they couldn’t shake the remarkable musical chemistry they’d discovered during that fateful layover. Hence, they decided to embrace the complexities of their geographical dispositions and came together virtually to continue making music. The band’s name, Complicated Import, is a nod to the remarkable circumstance of their formation.

Genre:
Alternative Rock with World Music influences

Title:
“Terminal Reverb”

Full song lyrics:

Verse:
[E] Boarded planes with my [A] baggage in tow.
[C] Delayed again, with [D] nowhere to go.
[G] Strangers around, we’re [A] all stuck in limbo,
[E] Let’s kill the hours with a [D] musical show.

Chorus:
[G] Terminal Reverb, [D] echoes in the air,
[A] We found our rhythm in the [E] airport’s glare.
[C] No stage, no lights, just [D] a motley crew,
[G] Complicated Import, [D] we’re coming through.

Verse:
[E] Terminal halls, [A] our impromptu stage,
[C] Soundcheck at Gate D, [D] amidst passenger rage.
[G] Timezones and borders, [A] can’t confine our sound,
[E] We found our harmony, [D] on this neutral ground.

Chorus:
[G] Terminal Reverb, [D] echoes in the night,
[A] We’re painting notes on the [E] flight board’s light.
[C] From layovers, lags, a [D] band was born,
[G] Complicated Import, [D] a new dawn’s sworn.

Fan Testimonial:

My name is Ruben, and I can confidently say that Complicated Import is my favorite band. Their music is innovative and refreshing, a mix of alternative rock with world music influences that bring a unique perspective to the music scene. From their extraordinary backstory to their compelling tunes, everything about this band is excitingly unpredictable. Their song ‘Terminal Reverb’ is my personal anthem. It’s a testament to the band’s ability to create beauty out of chaotic situations and the power of music to unite people from all walks of life. As a frequent traveler, their music resonates with my sense of adventure and the thrill of meeting new people and stumbling upon unforeseen situations. The band’s unique formation and their musical journey are as intriguing as their music. Here’s to Complicated Import, the embodiment of a musical adventure!

Backstory:
Wild Research was born in the heart of a small town in Pennsylvania, amid local gigs and backyard concerts. The band was initially a group of five friends, Danny, Mike, Jess, Rob, and Tess, all of whom had a shared passion for music and an unquenchable thirst for creating something that was their own. Each member brings a unique element to the band, with Danny on vocals, Mike on guitar, Jess on bass, Rob on drums, and Tess on keyboards. What started as a fun way to spend their free time quickly became a serious project when they realized the impact their music had on people.

Their journey began in 2010, playing covers at local bars and festivals, but it didn’t take long for them to start writing their own material. Their determination and dedication paid off when they won a local talent competition, earning them the opportunity to record their first EP. Despite the struggles and hurdles they had to overcome, Wild Research has managed to stick together and grow, turning their passion into a successful music career that continues to flourish.

Genre: Alternative Rock

Title: “Uncharted Constellations”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[E] Underneath the [A] starlight, [E] where the wild hearts [B] roam,
[C#m] We found our [A] freedom, [E] called the night our [B] home.
[E] Chasing shadows, [A] dancing [E] in the pale moon[B]light,
[C#m] Searching for [A] answers, [E] in the depth of [B] night.

(Chorus)
[E] Uncharted [B] constellations, [C#m] lighting up the [A] sky,
[E] We’re on a [B] journey, [C#m] on a cosmic [A] high.
[E] Through the [B] darkness, [C#m] we will find our [A] way,
[E] Wild [B] Research, [C#m] music is our [A] play.

(Verse 2)
[E] In the silence, [A] we found our [E] voice, [B]
[C#m] Filled the void with [A] melodies, [E] made a conscious [B] choice.
[E] In the wild, [A] we found our [E] soul, [B]
[C#m] Music is our [A] compass, [E] rock and roll our [B] goal.

(Chorus)
[E] Uncharted [B] constellations, [C#m] lighting up the [A] sky,
[E] We’re on a [B] journey, [C#m] on a cosmic [A] high.
[E] Through the [B] darkness, [C#m] we will find our [A] way,
[E] Wild [B] Research, [C#m] music is our [A] play.

Favorite Fan’s Name: Sarah Thompson

Testimonial:

“My name is Sarah Thompson, and I’ve been a fan of Wild Research since they first started playing at local bars. Their music resonates with me on a personal level. It’s both comforting and empowering. I’ve been through a lot over the years, and their songs have been a constant companion during those times. They have a way of addressing real-life experiences and emotions through their lyrics. There’s always a sense of hope and strength in their songs. It’s like they’re telling me that it’s okay to feel what I’m feeling, and that I’m not alone. That’s why Wild Research is my favorite band.”

Emergency Naked Bike Ride (Those Poor Bicycle Seats)

Key: G major
Tempo: ~100 bpm (laid-back festival feel)
Strumming: D-DU-UDU (folk-rock pattern)

---

[Verse 1]
G C G
Saturday morning, the sirens cry,
Em C D
Not a fire, not a flood, just a flash in the sky.
G C G
The city’s awake and the people all meet,
Em C D
Bare as the day they were born on the street.

---

[Chorus (Hook)]
G D Em
It’s an emergency naked bike ride, oh my word,
C G D
Rolling through Portland like a flock of birds.
G D Em
The crowd’s in stitches, the tourists can’t speak,
C G D G
But oh, those poor bicycle seats…
C G D G
Yeah, those poor bicycle seats!

---

[Verse 2]
G C G
The mayor’s in sandals, the DJ’s in socks,
Em C D
A brass band is playing while traffic is blocked.
G C G
No helmets, no jerseys, no padded spandex,
Em C D
Just tattoos and body paint, questionable reflex.

(Chorus)

---

[Bridge]
Em C G D
From Burnside to Hawthorne, the bridges all cheer,
Em C G D
Bell chimes and laughter float through the clear.
Em C G D
If freedom had spokes, if joy had two wheels,
Em C D
This is the strangest parade Portland reveals.

---

[Final Chorus]
G D Em
It’s an emergency naked bike ride, don’t be shy,
C G D
Moonlight and sunshine, nothing to hide.
G D Em
A city united in bare-hearted beats,
C G D G
But oh, those poor bicycle seats…
C G D G
Those poor, poor bicycle seats!

(End with a big, triumphant G chord, let it ring out)

Backstory:

Lustrous Thing was formed in the bustling city of Seattle in 2015. The band is made up of four college friends who shared a common love for music and the stage—lead vocalist and guitarist Jake Walker, bassist Dylan Roberts, keyboardist Liam Evans, and drummer Sarah James. Their journey began in small nightclubs and pubs, performing for a few college pals. However, their electrifying performances and unique sound quickly caught the attention of local radio stations and record labels, propelling them to the forefront of the indie music scene.

The band’s distinctive style is deeply rooted in their shared interest in various music genres, eclectic art, and their profound desire to express their feelings and experiences through music. Their journey so far has consisted of a continuous evolution of their sound and message, taking their fans on an auditory adventure that explores the depths of human emotion and the complexities of life.

Genre:

Indie/Alternative Rock

Song Title:

“Cracks in the Pavement”

Full Lyrics with Chord Progression:

(Verse 1)
[C] Walking down the [G] memory lane
[D] Found your picture in the [Em] pouring rain
[C] Sifting through the [G] cracks in the pavement
[D] I see your face and it’s [Em] still the same

(Chorus)
[G] We’re just like the [D] cracks in the pavement
[C] Trying to fill the [Em] void with colourful cement
[G] But no matter the [D] paint or the pavement
[C] Our hearts still bear the [Em] same lament

(Verse 2)
[C] Echoes of your [G] laughter fill the air
[D] Lost in time, it’s [Em] only fair
[C] The cracks deepen [G] with time and despair
[D] I miss you more, it’s [Em] hard to bear

(Chorus)
[G] We’re just like the [D] cracks in the pavement
[C] Trying to fill the [Em] void with colourful cement
[G] But no matter the [D] paint or the pavement
[C] Our hearts still bear the [Em] same lament

(Outro)
[C] I’ll keep walking [G] down this memory lane
[D] Until I find you [Em] in the rain
[C] Until then, I’ll [G] stare at the cracks in the pavement
[D] Holding onto your [Em] sweet refrain

Fan Testimonial:

Name: Samantha Perkins

“Samantha Perkins here! I’m proud to call myself the biggest fan of Lustrous Thing. The way their music resonates with my life’s experiences is something I’ve never felt before. Their songs, especially ‘Cracks in the Pavement,’ have become a soundtrack to my life, helping me navigate through my ups and downs. The raw emotions Jake’s voice invokes, combined with the soulful instrumentals, create a profound sense of understanding and empathy. To me, Lustrous Thing isn’t just a band – they’re my companions in this journey called life.”

Backstory:

Esteemed Edition found its root in the bustling, vibrant city of San Francisco, California, in 2013. Initially, the group was composed of four college friends, Liam, Jackson, Tyler, and Mike, who were passionate about their love for music. They started by playing in college parties and local gigs, quickly capturing the attention of indie music lovers with their unique sound and poignant lyrics. In 2015, Sarah, a classically trained violinist, joined the band. Her addition added a distinct layer to their sound and marked an evolution for Esteemed Edition. Their rise to fame was not meteoric but rather a steady climb, with each release gaining more traction than the last.

Genre:

Indie Pop

Title:

“Cosmic Carousel”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am Dm
Underneath the neon lights, we found our rhythm,
F E
Dancing to the beat of the silent anthem.
Am Dm
Lost in the crowd, we spun like a cosmic carousel,
F E
Fearless, wild, under the city’s spell.

(Chorus)
C G Am F
Oh, Cosmic Carousel, take us round again,
C G Am F
Under the star-kissed sky, let this night never end.
C G Am F
Our hearts aligned, in this moment we dwell,
C G Am F
Oh, Cosmic Carousel, in your magic, we fell.

(Verse 2)
Am Dm
Strangers in the night, now bound by this serenade,
F E
In this urban jungle, we found our private arcade.
Am Dm
As the city sleeps, we continue our carousel ride,
F E
In the whispers of the night, our secrets confide.

(Repeat Chorus)

Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Emily. Emily first discovered Esteemed Edition at a small gig in a local coffee shop in San Francisco. She was drawn to their unique blend of indie pop, the haunting melodies, and the powerful lyrics. Since then, she has attended every single one of their shows, travelling across the country to support them. Here is what she has to say:

“As a fan, there’s something incredibly captivating about Esteemed Edition. Their music resonates with me on a personal level, and I feel like they encapsulate the essence of every emotion I’ve ever experienced. Each song is a journey, and I feel like I’m a part of it. Their song “Cosmic Carousel” is my absolute favorite. It’s a song about freedom, love, and the magic of the night, and whenever I listen to it, I can’t help but get lost in the powerful lyrics and melody. There’s no other band like Esteemed Edition, and I feel so lucky to be a part of their journey.”

Backstory:

Heartfelt Desire took root in a small suburban garage, where high school friends Joey, Alex, and Mark used to spend their after-school hours obsessing over their favorite bands and dreaming of their own rock-star futures. Joey, the impassioned vocalist with a knack for songwriting, Alex, the dexterous drummer with a taste for rhythm and blues, and Mark, the virtuoso guitarist with a love for melodic solos, combined their disparate influences to create a sound that was uniquely their own. Through college and beyond, they stuck to their passion and transformed their garage band into a professional music act, eventually adding the talented bassist, Stella, to their lineup, whose deep grooves and jazz influences added a new dimension to their sound.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Dusk till Dawn”

Full song lyrics with chord progression:

(Verse 1 – Em, C, G, D)
Em C G D
Underneath the glow of the setting sun,
Em C G D
We found something we never had, oh.
Em C G D
A silent vow, unspoken, yet understood,
Em C G D
Your eyes mirroring my soul, dear.

(Chorus – G, D, Am, C)
G D Am C
In the dusk till dawn, love’s heartfelt desire,
G D Am C
Burning like a wild fire, oh.
G D Am C
Underneath the moon’s soft choir,
G D Am C
We dance with heart’s desire.

(Verse 2 – Em, C, G, D)
Em C G D
Your laughter echoed through the quiet night,
Em C G D
A symphony of joy and delight, oh.
Em C G D
In your arms, found my own sanctuary,
Em C G D
Your love, my sweetest memory.

(Repeat Chorus)

(Bridge – Am, C, G, D)
Am C G D
In this dance, we lose and we find,
Am C G D
In heartbeats synchronized, oh.
Am C G D
In your touch, I feel the divine,
Am C G D
In our love, eternity lies.

(Repeat Chorus)

End Fan’s Name & Testimonial:

My name is Jenny, and I’m a diehard fan of Heartfelt Desire. Their music resonates with me on a deeply emotional level. Joey’s soulful voice and compelling lyrics, Mark’s incredible guitar solos, Alex’s rhythmic drumming, and Stella’s groovy bass lines create a spectacular musical tapestry. Their song “Dusk till Dawn” is my absolute favorite. The lyrics are so profound, and the melody just tugs at my heartstrings. It’s like they’ve captured the essence of love, longing, and connection in this song. Every time I listen to it, I feel like I’m part of their journey. That’s why Heartfelt Desire is my favorite band. Their music isn’t just music for me; it’s a heartfelt experience.

Backstory:
Fortunate Discussion was formed in a small, sleepy town, Somerville, Ohio in the early 2000s. Childhood friends, lead vocalist and guitarist Jameson “Jay” Davis and drummer Oliver “Ollie” Watts, found solace in their shared passion for music as a way out of their mundane lives. As high school students, they began playing covers of their favorite songs in their parents’ garages, small local venues, and school events. It was at one of these events that they met the missing piece of their puzzle, bass player Isabella “Izzy” Rodriguez. Izzy, a newcomer to their high school, was an equally passionate musician who shared their dream. The three quickly bonded over music and Fortunate Discussion was born.

The band’s progression was steady, they not only began to write their own music but also developed a unique style that set them apart from other local bands. Their growth was nurtured by the support of their friends, families, and teachers, who encouraged them to take their talents to a larger platform. After graduation, the trio made a pact to fully commit to their band and their music, moving to New York City together to chase their dreams.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Dusty Dreams”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C G Am F
Dusty dreams in the back of my mind,
C G Am F
Memories of home, leaving it all behind,
C G Am F
Just three kids with music in our soul,
C G Am F
We packed our bags, chasing rock n’ roll.

(Chorus)
C G Am F
In this city of lights, we found our sound,
C G Am F
Fortunate Discussion, we’re New York bound.

(Verse 2)
C G Am F
Izzy on bass, Ollie on the drums,
C G Am F
Jay’s voice soars as the guitar hums,
C G Am F
We’re not just bandmates, we’re forever friends,
C G Am F
With a bond that the rhythm of music transcends.

(Chorus)
C G Am F
In this city of lights, we found our sound,
C G Am F
Fortunate Discussion, we’re New York bound.

Favorite Fan:
Our favorite fan has to be Anna Thompson. Anna was one of our first fans back in Ohio and has followed our journey since day one. Anna says, “Fortunate Discussion is my favorite band because their music resonates with me. The lyrics feel like pieces of my own life put into song. They never fail to deliver emotional, energetic performances and I love how they’ve maintained their authenticity even after moving to New York. They’re not just a band to me, they’re like my extended family.”

Backstory:

Massive Problem hails from the vibrant city of Toronto, Canada. The band was formed in 2005 by four high school friends who shared a passion for music and a rebellious spirit. Starting off by performing at local pubs and college fests, they were soon recognized for their unique sound blending alternative rock with emotive lyrics and edgy elements of punk. Their rise to fame was a slow burn, but a series of successful underground concerts and their raw, unfiltered music soon caught the attention of indie music lovers and record labels.

The four members, lead vocalist and guitarist Chase Davis, drummer Kaden Miller, bassist Leo James, and keyboardist Noah Wilson, have stayed true to their roots. Even after gaining mainstream success, they have retained their raw sound and fearless lyrical discourse. Massive Problem has become synonymous with a brand of music that is unafraid to challenge the status quo, constantly pushing boundaries with their innovative sound and thought-provoking lyrics.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Shards of Dawn”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am
Washed up on the shores of despair,
C
Trying to find a reason, trying to find a prayer.
G
With just a heart full of dreams and a soul that screams,
D
A voice lost in the echoes of life’s grand scheme.

(Chorus)
F
Shards of Dawn, break through the night,
C
Lead us on, in our darkest fight.
G
Shattered glass, a broken crown,
D
In the Shards of Dawn, we find our own light.

(Verse 2)
Am
Walking on the path less traveled,
C
Every step, a battle, every moment, a gamble.
G
With the weight of the world, heavy on our shoulder,
D
We cross the bridge to the land of the bolder.

(Chorus)
F
Shards of Dawn, break through the night,
C
Lead us on, in our darkest fight.
G
Shattered glass, a broken crown,
D
In the Shards of Dawn, we find our own light.

(Bridge)
Em
Shattered hearts, a broken dream,
C
Life ain’t always what it seems.
G
In the Shards of Dawn, we find our might,
D
In the Shards of Dawn, we ignite.

(Chorus)
F
Shards of Dawn, break through the night,
C
Lead us on, in our darkest fight.
G
Shattered glass, a broken crown,
D
In the Shards of Dawn, we find our own light.

Ends with:
D
In the Shards of Dawn, we ignite.

Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is a lady named Madeline, hailing from their hometown of Toronto. Madeline is a music teacher who saw the band when they were first starting out; she recognized their potential and talent, and has been their biggest cheerleader ever since. She’s been to nearly every concert, and says, “Massive Problem isn’t just a band to me, they are the embodiment of resilience and passion. Their lyrics resonate with my life’s experiences and their music is a balm to my soul. They have a way of making you feel seen and understood through their music. I am proud to be their fan, and I love seeing how far they’ve come. They are a beacon of hope, a Massive Solution to life’s problems, rather than a Massive Problem.”