Backstory:
Old Balloon is an alt-country band formed in the heartland of Oklahoma in 2009. The band consists of four childhood friends: Jason (vocals/guitar), Mark (drums), Becky (bass/vocals), and Sam (lead guitar). As they navigated their teen years, the four found solace, companionship, and joy in playing music together, finally deciding to give their hobby a name – Old Balloon. The name was inspired by a childhood memory of letting go of a balloon, which they saw as a symbol of their musical journey taking flight. Their shared passion for music, with rich country roots and modern indie influences, has helped them create a unique sound that resonates with people of all ages.

Genre:
Alt-Country/Indie

Title:
“Drifting Skies”

Full Song Lyrics:

(V1)
C G Am Em
Under the drifting skies, we lay,
F C G Am
Dreaming our little dreams away.
Em F C G
And as the sunset dies, we say,
Am G F Em
“This love ain’t going astray.”

(Chorus)
F C G Em
Oh, we’re like an old balloon, you and I,
Am F C G
Rising into a boundless twilight sky.
Em F C G
We may sway, but we won’t deny,
Am G F Em
This love’s worth every high and low tide.

(V2)
C G Am Em
Through the storms and the starry nights,
F C G Am
We’ve held on with all our might.
Em F C G
When it gets tough, we don’t hide,
Am G F Em
We’re an old balloon on an endless ride.

(Chorus)
F C G Em
Oh, we’re like an old balloon, you and I,
Am F C G
Rising into a boundless twilight sky.
Em F C G
We may sway, but we won’t deny,
Am G F Em
This love’s worth every high and low tide.

Ending
C G Am Em
So here’s to us, under drifting skies,
F C G Am
An old balloon, and love that never dies.

Bands Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is Georgia Thompson, a loyal enthusiast since their first gigs. She has attended every concert, even travelling out of state for shows. Georgia loves Old Balloon because their music and lyrics resonate with her, making her feel seen and understood. Providing a testimonial, she says, “Old Balloon is my favorite band because their music is raw and honest. It’s like they took pieces of my own life experiences, and transformed them into songs. Their music has seen me through highs and lows, and has always been a source of comfort and inspiration. They’re more than just a band to me, they’re like friends who’ve never left my side.”

Backstory:

Red Unit was formed in the small town of Lynchburg, Virginia, by long-time friends Jake Connor (lead vocals, guitar), Charlie Abbott (bass), and Leo Davis (drums). The three men, having grown up together, started their musical journey as a garage band playing at small gigs in their local community. After years of hard work and determination, they were discovered by a record producer at one of their performances at a local pub and were offered a record deal. Since then, they have been creating waves in the music industry with their unique sound and spellbinding performances.

Still, they have always stayed true to their roots – their lyrics often reflecting their experiences growing up in their hometown. Their intense loyalty to each other and their music has won them a dedicated fan base that continues to grow with every new single they release.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Shadows in the Sunlight”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G]In the corner of my [D]eyes, I see your [Em]face,
[C]But when I turn around, [G]you’re lost without a trace.
[G]I feel you in the [D]wind, I hear you in the [Em]night,
[C]Wish you were here, [G]wishing you were right.

(Chorus)
[G]Shadows in the sunlight, [D] echoes of your name,
[Em]Running through the fields, [C] it’s never the same.
[G]Looking for the morning, [D] in the heart of the night,
[Em]Shadows in the sunlight, [C]you’re forever in sight.

(Verse 2)
[G]Walking down the [D]path, that we used to [Em]roam,
[C]Every step I take, [G]feels like coming home.
[G]Your laughter in the [D]air, your voice in my [Em]head,
[C]Feeling you near, [G]with every word you’ve said.

(Chorus)
[G]Shadows in the sunlight, [D] echoes of your name,
[Em]Running through the fields, [C] it’s never the same.
[G]Looking for the morning, [D] in the heart of the night,
[Em]Shadows in the sunlight, [C]you’re forever in sight.

Fan’s Name: Kelly Jones

Testimonial:

“Red Unit has always been my favorite band ever since I first heard their music. Their lyrics speak to my soul and seem to perfectly capture the essence of life, love, and everything in between. Every song they release feels like a piece of their heart shared with the world. Their music has seen me through the toughest times of my life and has brought me joy in my happiest moments. I am proud to be a fan and will always cheer for them, no matter where their journey takes them next.”

Backstory:
Everlasting Rain is a group of four friends, Daniel (vocals), Mike (drums), Sam (guitar), and Lisa (bass), who met in high school in a small town in Oregon. Their shared love for music brought them together, and they began jamming in Sam’s garage. They initially played cover songs, but soon, they started creating original music, inspired by the rain and the beauty of the lush green landscapes surrounding them. Inspired by the constant rain in their hometown, they named their band ‘Everlasting Rain.’

After high school, they moved to Los Angeles to pursue their dreams. They played in local bars and recorded their songs in a small studio. Their big break came when a music producer heard their song in a bar and signed them to their record label. From then on, Everlasting Rain has been making waves in the music scene, their songs evoking the melancholy beauty of their rainy hometown.

Genre: Indie Rock

Title: “Droplets on the Window”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1: Cmaj, Gmaj, Fmaj, Cmaj)
Droplets on the window, the world’s a blur outside,
The melancholy wind echoes your goodbye.
The fireplace flickers, but the warmth seems to hide,
In the echoes of your laughter, in the corners of my mind.

(Chorus: Fmaj, Gmaj, Cmaj, Am)
Droplets on the window, like the tears in my eyes,
Echoing the love that we left behind.
But the rain will keep falling, and so will the time,
And in the rhythm of the drops, I will find my rhyme.

(Verse 2: Cmaj, Gmaj, Fmaj, Cmaj)
The rain beats a rhythm, a lullaby so soft,
The whispers of the silence, where your voice was often lost.
The city lights are twinkling, in the distance so wide,
In every drop, I see your face, in the memories we’ve tied.

(Chorus: Fmaj, Gmaj, Cmaj, Am)
Droplets on the window, like the tears in my eyes,
Echoing the love that we left behind.
But the rain will keep falling, and so will the time,
And in the rhythm of the drops, I will find my rhyme.

Fan’s Testimonial:
My name is Jenny, and I’m a diehard fan of Everlasting Rain. Their music speaks directly to my soul. As someone who moved away from home for college, their songs resonate with me. Their lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing that’s both comforting and heart-wrenching. Daniel’s soulful vocals, combined with Sam’s guitar, Mike’s drums, and Lisa’s bass, create a magical sound that takes me back to the rainy nights in my hometown. Every song brings me closer to home, which is why Everlasting Rain is my favorite band.

Backstory:
Long-Term Division was founded in 2012 in the bustling city of Chicago. The band consists of four members: lead vocalist and bassist Jake Sullivan, drummer Sam Harris, guitarist James Thompson, and keyboardist Evan Williams. They were high school friends who decided to form a band based on their shared love of music, a small garage, and the need to escape the monotony of their day-to-day jobs. Their journey started with playing in local bars and clubs, and after a few years of hard work and determination, they gained a dedicated fanbase and began producing their own music.

Initially, they faced numerous challenges, from finding the right sound to financial constraints. But their passion carried them through, and their unwavering dedication to their music and fans ultimately led them to sign with an indie record label. Today, Long-Term Division is known for their thought-provoking lyrics, powerful rhythms, and their unforgettable live performances.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Echoes of Change”

Full Song Lyrics:

(V1)
Am C G D
All we’ve known, in the rearview mirror,
Where we’ve grown, it couldn’t be clearer.
Yet the echoes of change, calling our names,
We move forward, embracing the game.

(Chorus)
Em G D A
Echoes of change, a beautiful strain,
In this long-term division, we find our provision.
Our hearts ablaze, in these shifting days,
Through the echoes of change, we find our way.

(V2)
Am C G D
Time is a river, we are the stone,
Carved and shaped, but never alone.
The echoes of change, the only constant,
In this journey of life, we’re just a moment.

(Chorus)
Em G D A
Echoes of change, a beautiful strain,
In this long-term division, we navigate the vision.
Fear and faith, in an endless waltz,
Through the echoes of change, we find our pulse.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a lady named Emma Harrison. She has been with them since the beginning, attending their very first gig and every single one since. She describes her love for Long-Term Division in this way: “Their music is raw and real, it speaks to me on a personal level. It’s like they’ve put my thoughts and feelings into words and melodies. It’s not just music to me, it’s therapy. Plus, their energy on stage is infectious. Long-Term Division isn’t just a band to me, they’re a lifeline.”

Backstory:
Plain Guitar is a band that was formed in the heart of Tennessee in 2012, by two childhood friends, Jason “Jay” Hall and Aaron “Ronnie” Johnson. Both shared a deep love for music and a passion for storytelling through it. Jay, a gifted rhythm guitarist, and Ronnie, an accomplished vocalist and lyricist, started their musical journey by performing at local bars and county fairs. Their raw talent and down-to-earth melodies quickly gained them a following. To complete their lineup, they brought in Emma “Emmy” Thompson on bass guitar and Tom “Sticks” Walter on drums, both of whom shared the same passion for music. The band was finally complete, and Plain Guitar was born.

Genre:
Country Rock

Title:
“Whiskey Lullaby”

Full song lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G]She danced in the moonlight, [D]underneath the stars,
[Em]Her laugh echoed in the wind, [C]as we played our guitars,
[G]She tasted like bourbon, [D]sweet as summer rain,
[Em]I knew I’d never forget her, [C]even through my pain.

(Chorus)
[G]Pour me a whiskey lullaby, [D]to drown these memories,
[Em]Of her smile, her touch, her scent, [C]carried by the breeze.
[G]I’ll drink till I forget her, [D]or till I see the day,
[Em]When she comes back to me, [C]and no longer does she stray.

(Verse 2)
[G]Her eyes sparkled like the river, [D]on a warm afternoon,
[Em]Her voice was like a melody, [C]to a haunting tune,
[G]She lived wild and free, [D]like a bird in the sky,
[Em]A spirit untamed, [C]and I was her guy.

(Repeat chorus)

Favorite fan:
Our favorite fan is Sarah Mitchell from Knoxville, Tennessee. She’s been with us since our first gig at the local county fair. “Plain Guitar isn’t just a band to me, they’re a family,” says Sarah. “Their songs resonate with real life experiences and emotions, making me feel connected to them in a way no other band has done before. ‘Whiskey Lullaby’ speaks to my soul and reminds me of a love lost. When I listen to their music, I feel seen, heard, and understood. They’re more than just musicians, they’re storytellers, and they’re the best at what they do.”

Backstory:

Gorgeous Shoe is a band that came together in a most unexpected way. The four band members, guitarist and vocalist Peter Cross, drummer Jake Matthews, bassist Harry Owens and keyboardist Tim Sanders, all worked at the same shoe store in a small town in Wisconsin. After hours, they would routinely jam in the backroom, using shoe boxes as drum kits and measuring tapes as guitar strings. One day, a customer heard them playing and instantly recognized their potential. This customer happened to be a successful music producer, who signed them on the spot.

After years of performing at local venues and fine-tuning their sound, Gorgeous Shoe has evolved into a well-respected name in the indie music scene. They’ve released three critically acclaimed albums and have a reputation for their energetic, intimate live performances. Their unique backstory continues to attract fans worldwide, and their relatable lyrics have connected with fans from all walks of life.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Velvet Laces”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Am] Tell me of your dreams, [G] under the silver moon,
[C] Walking down the street, [F] in your velvet shoes.
[Am] Your heart is on your sleeve, [G] painting the town blue,
[C] You walk a lonely mile, [F] in those velvet laces, too.

(Chorus)
[G] Velvet laces, [Am] walking down these places,
[C] Trying to erase the [F] echoes of those faces.
[G] Velvet laces, [Am] can’t you see the traces,
[C] Of lost love and [F] forgotten embraces.

(Verse 1)
[Am] Remember the days, [G] when we used to play,
[C] In the pouring rain, [F] we’d dance the day away.
[Am] Now you’re all alone, [G] in these cold stone alleys,
[C] Tracing the steps of love, [F] in your velvet reality.

(Chorus)
[G] Velvet laces, [Am] walking down these places,
[C] Trying to erase the [F] echoes of those faces.
[G] Velvet laces, [Am] can’t you see the traces,
[C] Of lost love and [F] forgotten embraces.

Fan Testimonial:

My name is Megan and I am possibly Gorgeous Shoe’s biggest fan. I first discovered them back in college when a friend played their debut album for me. I was instantly drawn to the raw emotion in their music and their unique perspective on life. Their music has been with me through ups and downs, break-ups and make-ups. It’s like they’re singing directly to me, their lyrics resonating with my experiences. The song “Velvet Laces” in particular, holds a special place in my heart. Gorgeous Shoe isn’t just my favorite band, it’s a part of me.

Backstory:

Back Risk was formed in 2003 in the bustling city of Chicago by childhood friends Ethan Blake and Jordan Mitchell. They were born on the same street and had shared a love for music from an early age. Ethan, with his passion for guitar, and Jordan, with his love for drumming and lyric writing, created a unique sound influenced by their shared love for classic rock. They spent countless hours in Jordan’s garage, jamming and creating a fusion of unique, yet familiar sounds. In 2005, they were joined by bassist Lucy Wyatt, who added her own element to the band’s music with her background in funk and soul.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Vanishing Streetlights”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Am F C G
Vanishing streetlights, fading away,
Am F C G
In the rear view, as we hit the highway.
Am F C G
Guitar on my back, dreams in our eyes,
Am F C G
We chase the dawn, under the starlit skies.

[Chorus]
F G Am C
We are the echoes, we are the night,
F G Am C
We are the dreams, set in neon light.
F G Am C
We are back risks, we are the drive,
F G Am C
We are alive, we are alive.

[Verse 2]
Am F C G
Cityscapes change, people come and go,
Am F C G
But the melody, it continues to flow.
Am F C G
Through every town, every blinking light,
Am F C G
We find our song, in the heart of the night.

[Chorus]
F G Am C
We are the echoes, we are the night,
F G Am C
We are the dreams, set in neon light.
F G Am C
We are back risks, we are the drive,
F G Am C
We are alive, we are alive.

Favorite Fan:

Name: Tommy Sullivan
Tommy Sullivan, their biggest fan, has followed Back Risk since their early days in Chicago. Tommy states, “The raw energy of Back Risk’s music resonated with me from the first chord. Their songs speak of the freedom, the dreams, and the risks we all take in life. I’ve been to every concert in my state. Back Risk isn’t just my favorite band because their music is extraordinary, it’s because they’re pure, real, and never afraid to take risks.”

Backstory:
Feminine Closure is a dynamite quartet hailing from the eclectic city of Austin, Texas. Legend has it that they came together during a spontaneous jam session at a local dive bar, where each member was performing solo. An unexpected connection was formed on stage, a chemistry so palpable that it sparked the birth of a distinctive new band. Their name, ‘Feminine Closure’, was inspired by their shared commitment to breaking the silence on women’s issues, closing a chapter of disregarding feminine perspectives in the music industry.

Genre:
Feminine Closure operates within the realm of Indie Rock with a touch of Alternative Pop, delivering poignant messages via their emotionally charged lyrics and melodically rich soundscape.

Title:
Their breakthrough single is entitled “Whispers in the Wind”.

Lyrics:
(Verse 1) [Cmaj7 – G – Am – F]
Laying here under the moonlit sky, (Cmaj7)
Can’t shake off your love, no matter how I try (G)
Painted dreams of us are fading to grey, (Am)
In the silence of the night, your ghost refuses to stay. (F)

(Chorus) [G – Em – Am – D]
Whispers in the Wind, your voice is calling, (G)
Lost in memories, I keep falling, (Em)
Is this love or just the echo of a sigh? (Am)
Whispers in the Wind, our love is stalling… (D)

(Verse 2)
Caught between the ruins of our past, (Cmaj7)
The shadow of your smile seems to be fading fast. (G)
In the echoes of the night, our love is just a sin, (Am)
All that’s left are whispering winds. (F)

(Chorus)
Whispers in the Wind, our hearts keep yearning, (G)
For a love that once was, now it’s burning. (Em)
In the echoes of the sighs, our love feels like a lie, (Am)
Just Whispers in the Wind, it’s our final goodbye. (D)

Testimonial:

Fan Name: Megan Thompson
Megan Thompson, an Austin-based graphic artist, is the band’s favorite fan. She has attended every concert, designed several of their gig posters, and even has a tattoo of their logo on her arm.

Megan says, “I fell in love with Feminine Closure the moment I heard the opening chords of ‘Whispers in the Wind’. Their music speaks to me on a deeply personal level, and their commitment to giving voice to women’s issues is awe-inspiring. I feel seen, heard, and validated every time I listen to their songs. They are more than just a band to me, they’re a movement.”

Backstory:
Granular Speculation is a band that was born in the vibrant music scene of Austin, Texas, in the late 2000s. The founding members, lead vocalist and guitarist Jake Simmons, drummer Max Collins, and keyboardist Sarah Thompson, were college friends who shared a mutual love for music and an adventurous spirit. The three started playing small gigs at local bars and open mic nights, quickly gaining a reputation for their unique sound and engaging performances. As their fan base grew, so did their ambition, leading to the release of their debut album in 2013.

The band’s distinct sound is a rich blend of Simmons’ heartfelt lyrics, Collins’ dynamic rhythms, and Thompson’s innovative synth arrangements. Their music has been known to explore a wide range of themes, often delving into philosophical and existential concepts, which provide a unique depth to their songs. Despite the complexity of their music, Granular Speculation has never lost sight of their roots in the music-filled bars of Austin, ensuring their tracks always carry a down-to-earth vibe.

Genre:
Granular Speculation is best described as an Experimental Indie Rock band.

Title:
“Particles of Possibility”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G]Looking at the stars, [Em]thinking about the future
[C]Wondering where we are, [D]caught up in the suture
[G]Spiraling thoughts, [Em]circles in the sand
[C]Endless possibilities, [D]yet nothing goes as planned

(Chorus)
[G]We are but [D]particles of possibility
[Em]Swimming in the [C]ocean of uncertainty
[G]In the grand scheme, [D]we are just a speculation
[Em]Yet within us lies the [C]essence of creation

(Verse 2)
[G]Wading through the noise, [Em]chasing after silence
[C]Caught up in the void, [D]resisting the violence
[G]Of time ticking by, [Em]like grains of sand
[C]Dancing on the edge, [D]the future in our hand

(Chorus)
[G]We are but [D]particles of possibility
[Em]Swimming in the [C]ocean of uncertainty
[G]In the grand scheme, [D]we are just a speculation
[Em]Yet within us lies the [C]essence of creation

Fan Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan is a dedicated follower named Emily Wilson. Emily has been a fan since she first heard Granular Speculation at a local Austin bar. For Emily, this band stands out because of their unique sound and thought-provoking lyrics. She says, “Granular Speculation is not just a band to me; they’re a journey. Their music challenges the listener to think deeper about themselves and the world around them. I’m always left in a contemplative mood after listening to their songs, which is a testament to their lyrical genius and musical prowess. They truly are my favorite band!”

Backstory:
Traumatic Fireman is a four-member rock band that was formed in 2010 in the heart of Austin, Texas. The players, all former firefighters, met during their service at the local fire department, bonding over the traumatizing experiences they sometimes encountered at work and their shared love for music. Their shared experiences soon turned into jamming sessions after shifts, and it was not long before they decided to form a band, choosing the name ‘Traumatic Fireman’ as a nod to their shared past.

The band’s music is deeply rooted in their experiences as firefighters, often touching on themes of heroism, community, loss, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit. Their raw, genuine, and emotional performances quickly gained them a loyal fanbase, making them one of the most sought-after local bands in Austin. In 2015, they released their first full-length album, which received an overwhelming response from critics and fans alike.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Smoke and Ashes”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Em G D A
Beneath the tower of smoke and flame,
Em G D A
We stand tall, in the pouring rain.
Em G D A
With fear in our hearts, courage in our veins,
Em G D A
Oh, the fireman’s game.

[Chorus]
C G D E
Through the smoke and ashes, we rise,
C G D E
In the face of danger, we don’t compromise.
C G D E
For we are the fireman, in the night,
C G D E
Burning through the darkness, with our light.

[Verse 2]
Em G D A
Scarred hands, hearts of gold,
Em G D A
We carry on, brave and bold.
Em G D A
Through the fire and the blazing heat,
Em G D A
We won’t admit defeat.

[Chorus]
C G D E
Through the smoke and ashes, we rise,
C G D E
In the face of danger, we don’t compromise.
C G D E
For we are the fireman, in the night,
C G D E
Burning through the darkness, with our light.

The band’s favorite fan’s name:
Testimonial – Mike Lawson

“Being a firefighter myself, I connect with Traumatic Fireman’s music on a deep, personal level. Their songs perfectly capture the triumphs, the challenges, and the sheer intensity of what we do. It’s as if they’ve taken our shared experiences and turned them into this raw, beautiful music that resonates with so many people. Their song, ‘Smoke and Ashes’, has become somewhat of an anthem for us at the firehouse. It’s a reminder of what we’ve been through and the strength we possess. Traumatic Fireman isn’t just my favorite band, they’re like my brothers in arms.”