Backstory:

Pale Cry was formed in the bustling city of Seattle, Washington in 2012, starting life as an unlikely alliance between lead vocalist, Jude Morrison, and drummer, Sam Bryant. They developed a unique chemistry during their time in university where they were roommates, diving deep into the world of music and finding solace and expression in it. Joined later by guitarist Leo Watts and bassist Nicky Mathis, they began creating a unique, resonant sound, transforming their shared experiences into music. Their name, Pale Cry, signifies a muted outcry, a silent scream against the various pressing issues of the world, a theme that carries through their lyrics.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Chasing Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Cruising down the [G] empty lanes,
[A] Heart heavy with [F] unspoken pains.
[C] Midnight whispers [G] in my head,
[A] Chasing shadows, [F] reality bled.

(Chorus)
[C] Oh, I’m just [G] chasing shadows,
[A] Lost in the [F] echoes of yesteryears.
[C] Amid these [G] city meadows,
[A] I’m finding [F] hope in my fears.

(Verse 2)
[C] Broken dreams [G] beneath my feet,
[A] On this road, [F] we’re destined to meet.
[C] Hopes colliding [G] in the night,
[A] Chasing shadows, [F] seeking light.

(Chorus)
[C] Oh, I’m just [G] chasing shadows,
[A] Dancing in the [F] echoes of forgotten tears.
[C] Amid these [G] city meadows,
[A] I’m finding [F] strength in my fears.

Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is a music enthusiast named Ava.

Testimonial:

“I’ve been a fan of Pale Cry since their first gig in a small bar in Seattle. Their music speaks to me on a level no other band has ever managed to reach. It’s raw, it’s real, and it resonates with the soul. ‘Chasing Shadows’ is my favorite track, the lyrics touch on themes of vulnerability, hope, and resilience, a testament to Pale Cry’s ability to transform complex emotions into beautiful music. Their songs have been a comfort and an inspiration throughout the years. I can’t wait to see what they come up with next!”

Backstory:
Medium Tournament began as a passion project for friends and fellow musicians, Tom Harding and Sara Manning, during their college years in the mid-2000s. Tom, an accomplished guitarist, and Sara, a classically trained vocalist, found themselves drawn together by their shared love for indie folk music and experimentation. After countless jam sessions and coffee house gigs, they decided to take their collaboration to the next level by officially forming Medium Tournament in 2006. They later expanded to include drummer Mike Davis and bassist Jenny Fields, completing the lineup that fans know and love today. Their journey is one of creative exploration and camaraderie, and through their music, they continue to push boundaries and make a connection with their audience.

Genre:
Indie Folk

Title:
“Coffee Shop Chronicles”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Cmaj7) Wandering through the city,
(G) Underneath the city lights,
(Am) Lost in the rhythm,
(D) Caught in the dead of night.

(Cmaj7) Heart full of melodies,
(G) Mind full of songs unsung,
(Am) We found our place,
(D) In a coffee shop, we were young.

Chorus:
(G) Coffee shop chronicles,
(D) Tales of love and pain,
(Em) Every song, a story,
(C) Echoing in the rain.

(G) Coffee shop chronicles,
(D) Music in our veins,
(Em) This is where we started,
(C) This is where we’ll remain.

Verse:
(Cmaj7) Strumming on borrowed guitars,
(G) Singing our souls away,
(Am) Finding our voices,
(D) As the night turned into day.

(Cmaj7) Lost in the noise and the laughter,
(G) Found in the silence and the song,
(Am) This is where we belong,
(D) This is where we’ve grown strong.

Chorus:
(G) Coffee shop chronicles,
(D) Tales of love and pain,
(Em) Every song, a story,
(C) Echoing in the rain.

(G) Coffee shop chronicles,
(D) Music in our veins,
(Em) This is where we started,
(C) This is where we’ll remain.

Fan Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Alice who has been a loyal follower since their coffee shop gig days. Alice claims, “I’ve seen Medium Tournament evolve from just being two friends making music to a full-fledged band that has such a unique and soulful sound. Their music has been a constant in my life, helping me through tough times. The raw honesty in their lyrics and the genuine love they have for music is contagious. For me, they’re not just a band, they’re a reminder that there’s beauty in vulnerability and strength in sticking to your roots. That’s why they’re my favorite.”

Backstory:
Born out of the bustling arts scene of Portland, Oregon, Shocking Communication is a band that made its mark with their unique blend of music and passion for social issues. The band was formed in 2010 by the talented duo, Steve “Riff” Mendoza (vocals and guitar) and Jenny “Vibes” Sullivan (drums), later joined by Mike “Bassman” O’Rourke (bass guitar) and Emma “Keys” Thornton (keyboard). Inspired by their shared love for music and a desire to voice their thoughts on societal issues, they started composing songs that resonated deeply with listeners. After years of local gigs and word-of-mouth publicity, they were signed by independent label, Rainy City Records, and gained a dedicated fanbase that transcends borders.

Genre: Alternative Rock

Song Title: “Electric Words”

Full Song Lyrics:
Verse:
[Em] Wires crossed, the message lost, [G] an echo in the static.
[Em] Silhouettes in TV sets, [G] we’re tangled in the attic.
[Am] The whispers in the radio, [B] the secrets we don’t know,
[Am] The silent cries, [B] the alibis, [C] hidden in the shadows.

Chorus:
[G] Electric words, [D] lightning in the silence,
[Am] Shaking up the world, [C] with our shocking communication.
[G] Broken chains, [D] freedom in the wire,
[Am] We won’t be tamed, [C] we’ll keep on sparking inspiration.

Verse:
[Em] Noise in the airwaves, [G] voices in the ether,
[Em] Distorted lines, [G] truth that neither,
[Am] The power nor the people, [B] can’t ignore for much longer,
[Am] It’s getting stronger, [B] it’s getting stronger, [C] it’s getting stronger.

(Chorus)

Fan Testimonial:
Fan’s name: Rebecca “Rebel” Johnson
Rebecca first discovered Shocking Communication during a low point in her life. Living in a small town, she felt stifled and unheard. The band’s songs, especially “Electric Words,” spoke to her, providing not only an escape but also a means to articulate her thoughts and feelings. In their music, she found companionship and courage. According to Rebecca, “Shocking Communication isn’t just a band to me, they’re the voice of every unheard soul out there. Their music has been my rock, my comfort, and my inspiration. No other band has connected with me on such a profound level. They are, and will always be, my favorite.”

Backstory:
Mediocre Reform is the brainchild of four childhood friends, Jake, Ryan, Matt, and Sam, who grew up together in a small town in Ohio. They all shared a passion for music from a young age. Each of them picked up different instruments, and eventually decided to form a band. They started as most bands do, practicing in their parents’ garage and performing at local events. Initially, they weren’t well received, but they powered through, vowing to reform their mediocre skill into something substantial.

Their journey was filled with ups and downs, and they faced rejections, infighting, and even band breakups. But their shared dream always brought them back together. After years of struggling, they broke into the scene with their unique sound and catchy lyrics, staying true to their name, Mediocre Reform. They symbolize the power of perseverance, a testament to all the mediocre bands out there, reforming and fighting for their place in the musical world.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Phoenix Rise”

Full song lyrics with chord progression:

Verse 1 (G – Em – C – D):
G Em
We were lost in the abyss,
C D
Chasing dreams in the darkness.
G Em
Our voices drowned in the noise,
C D
Strumming chords, with no real poise.

Pre-chorus (Am – Bm):
Am
But we never gave in,
Bm
Fought through the din.

Chorus (G – D – Em – C):
G D
Like the Phoenix, we rise,
Em C
From ashes to the skies.
G D
Mediocre, we may be,
Em C
But we’ll rewrite our decree.

Verse 2 (G – Em – C – D):
G Em
Nothing came on a silver platter,
C D
Every step, made us stronger.
G Em
Rejected, we were, time and again,
C D
But we found rhythm in our pain.

Pre-chorus( Am – Bm):
Am
And we never backed down,
Bm
Now, we’re wearing the crown.

Chorus (G – D – Em – C):
G D
Like the Phoenix, we rise,
Em C
From ashes to the skies.
G D
Mediocre, we may be,
Em C
But we’ve written our own decree.

Bands favorite fan:
The band’s favorite fan is Emma, a high school music teacher from their hometown. Emma loved the band from their inception, supporting them when no one else did. She saw their potential and valued their authenticity. “Mediocre Reform is my favorite band because they are real,” Emma says. “Their music isn’t about flashy production or trendy vibes. It’s about raw emotion, real experiences, and the struggles of everyday people. They’ve shown that it’s okay to be mediocre, as long as you’re true to yourself and keep pushing for your dreams.”

Backstory:
Occasional Background is a group of four friends from Charleston, South Carolina, who all share a unique bond over their love for music. The band was formed in 2009, right after they graduated from the College of Charleston. The friends used to play music after class hours, in the small basement of their dorm. They never thought of it more than a hobby until they started gaining local popularity with their distinctive style. The name Occasional Background came from the idea that their music was the perfect soundtrack for those occasional, significant moments in life that stay in the background of our minds and hearts.

Genre:
The band plays a unique blend of Indie Rock and Alternative Folk Music. Their music is characterized by their poetic lyrics, haunting melodies, and the rich, soulful voice of the lead singer, Jake.

Title:
“One Last Memory”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
C G Am Em
Underneath the midnight sky, we waved our dreams goodbye,
F C G
Hoping for one last memory, before we let this die.
C G Am Em
The echo of our laughter, the songs we used to sing,
F C G
Are now just occasional backgrounds, stirring up old things.

(Chorus)
C G Am Em
Can we go back to that place, where love was all we knew,
F C G
When every glance and every smile, felt exciting and new?
C G Am Em
Rediscover the magic, that once sparkled in our eyes,
F C G
In that occasional background, underneath the starry skies.

(Verse 2)
C G Am Em
Time, it moved so swiftly, seasons changed their hues,
F C G
And we became occasional backgrounds, in each other’s view.
C G Am Em
The promises we once made, got lost in the routine,
F C G
Now, all we have left is memories, and what could have been.

(Chorus)
C G Am Em
Can we go back to that time, when we could not be apart,
F C G
When every moment with you, meant a beat of my heart?
C G Am Em
Revive the passion, that once set our world on fire,
F C G
In that occasional background, filled with love and desire.

Fan Testimonial – Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Lily, a librarian from their hometown who has been with them right from their formation. Lily’s heartfelt testimonial reads, “Occasional Background’s music is like a warm blanket on a cold day. Their songs have seen me through the highs and lows of life. I’ve laughed, cried, hoped and dreamed with their music playing in the background. The raw emotion and depth in their lyrics resonate with me at a level, I can’t explain. They are not just my favorite band; their music is a part of my identity.”

Backstory:

Formed in the heart of Kansas City in 2010, the Original Outcome began as a project by four musicians who shared a common love for their heroes of classic rock, but with an aim to create something different, something original. The band is comprised of frontman and lead vocalist, Jesse Tanner, lead guitarist, Danny Ray, bassist, Sam ‘Bassman’ Collins, and drummer, Jack ‘Thunder’ Barker. Their musical chemistry was instantaneous, and within months they began crafting their unique sound, capturing their shared vision of classic rock and roll but through a 21st-century lens. Original Outcome’s success has been a testament not just to their music, but to their unyielding work ethic, touring relentlessly and delivering high energy shows that have gained a loyal and passionate fan base.

Genre:

Their music genre is a mix of Classic Rock and Contemporary Rock, with a blend of soulful melodies and vibrant energy, creating a unique, refreshing sound that pays homage to the past while carving its own path.

Title:

“Shadows in the Moonlight”.

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C G D
Darkness falls upon the empty streets,
Em C G D
Cold wind whispers tales of sweet defeats.
Em C G D
In the silence, echoes of our fight,
Em C G D
We’re just shadows dancing in the moonlight.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Shadows in the moonlight, oh can’t you see,
C G D Em
We’re soldiers of the night, in love with the mystery.
C G D Em
In the quiet, beneath the silver sky,
C G D Em
We’re all just shadows in the moonlight, learning how to fly.

(Verse 2)
Em C G D
Underneath the stars, we find our way,
Em C G D
Chasing dreams till the break of day.
Em C G D
In the darkness, we find our sight,
Em C G D
We’re just shadows dancing in the moonlight.

(Repeat Chorus)

Fan’s Name:

Rachel Miller

Testimonial:

“I have been a fan of Original Outcome since I first heard them at a local bar in Kansas City. Their music is a breath of fresh air, a perfect blend of nostalgia and newness. I love how they create a modern sound while still drawing from classic rock roots. Each concert is an experience in itself, the energy they bring is just incredible. The song ‘Shadows in the Moonlight’ is my personal favorite, it feels like a journey, and I feel a part of it every time I listen. Original Outcome is my favorite band because they take me back in time and forward into the future with every chord they strike.”

Backstory:
Born from the lush landscapes of Portland, Oregon, ‘High Drawer’ emerged from the underground music scene in 2014. The band comprises of four childhood friends – Max, Jake, Betty, and Sarah – who shared a passion for music. The quartet used to sneak into Max’s garage for jam sessions after school, their laughter and music echoing through the quiet suburban streets. As they grew up, they refined their skills, and their music evolved from playful jams to intricate compositions. Their music soon began to resonate with people who came across it, leading to the formation of ‘High Drawer.’

Genre:
High Drawer’s music style is a unique fusion of indie rock and folk-pop. Their music is known for its soulful melodies, meaningful lyrics and foot-tapping rhythm, creating a vibe that’s both nostalgic and fresh.

Title:
“One Last Echo”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am (C)
As the sun sets low, and the moon takes the throne,
Dm (F)
I sit by the river, strumming my bones,
G (Am)
We thought we knew it all, but we were so wrong,
C (Dm)
All that’s left now, is one last echo of our song.

(Chorus)
G (C)
Oh, it’s the One Last Echo, through the wind it goes,
Am (Dm)
A melody of yesterday, in a language the river knows,
F (G)
We danced in time, under the sycamore’s shadow,
C (Am)
Now, all I have, is this One Last Echo.

(Verse 2)
Am (C)
The stars peep out, like memories in the night,
Dm (F)
Reflecting our story, in their silver light,
G (Am)
We thought we had forever, but time proved us wrong,
C (Dm)
All I hear now, is the one last echo of our song.

(Chorus)
G (C)
Oh, it’s the One Last Echo, through the wind it goes,
Am (Dm)
A melody of yesterday, in a language the river knows,
F (G)
We danced in time, under the sycamore’s shadow,
C (Am)
Now, all I have, is this One Last Echo.

Fan’s Testimonial:
Meet Lucy Kellerman, High Drawer’s self-proclaimed biggest fan. “It’s hard to put into words how much I love High Drawer. Their music touches my soul. It’s like they’ve put words to feelings I never knew how to express,” she says. Lucy, who has been a fan since the band’s first gig, prides herself on having attended every one of their concerts. “Their authenticity, raw talent and passion make them my favorite band. They are not just creating music but emotions that resonate with me and many others. High Drawer isn’t just a band for me, they’re like a family.”

Backstory:

Well-Made Approval was formed in the sleepy university town of Ames, Iowa, in 2008. The bandmates, consisting of vocalist and guitarist Andrew Watson, drummer Liam Preston, and bassist Julian Knight, met during their undergrad studies in music. They started off playing at local bars and gatherings, gaining a small but loyal fanbase with their powerful lyrics and striking melodies.

In 2012, a chance encounter with a scout for an indie record label at one of their performances led to them getting signed. After months of relentless writing, recording, and producing, they launched their first album, “Approving the Unseen” in 2013. Since then, Well-Made Approval has toured several countries, never forgetting their roots, always improving their craft.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Song Title:

“Shades of Daylight”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C
Under the sycamore tree, we’d lay,
G D
Whispering secrets of the universe, hey,
Em C
Gazing at the stars, shades of daylight,
G D
We’d dream of flying so high, taking flight.

(Chorus)
Em C
But, shades of daylight,
G D
They fade into a darker sight,
Em C
And all that we could ever do,
G D
Was hold on tight to what we knew.

(Verse 2)
Em C
Under the sycamore tree, we’re older now,
G D
Still whispering secrets, but it’s different somehow,
Em C
The stars seem closer, yet so far away,
G D
Each passing moment, another shade of day.

(Chorus)
Em C
Oh, shades of daylight,
G D
They fade into a darker sight,
Em C
And all that we could ever do,
G D
Was hold on tight, to me and you.

(Outro)
Em C
Shades of daylight, a shifting shade,
G D
Of dreams that linger, and memories made,
Em C
We stand under our sycamore tree,
G D
As the day fades, so do we.

Band’s Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan is Sarah Thompson. She has been there since our very first bar gig and has never missed a single performance in Iowa. She even travelled across states to watch us perform at South by Southwest. Sarah says, “What I love about Well-Made Approval is not just their music – which is a phenomenal blend of indie rock and soulful lyricism – but also their humility. Despite their rising fame, they never forget their fans and always dedicate a song to us at every gig. Their song ‘Shades of Daylight’ literally saved me during my difficult times. Their music is my refuge, my solace.”

Backstory:
Electric Silk was born from the convergence of four solo artists, each bringing their unique sound and style to the table. The band first started jamming in the basement of their shared apartment during their university days in Boston. They had no intentions of forming a proper band, but their love for music and the electric energy they shared while playing together led to the inception of Electric Silk. They kept their day jobs while hustling to perform at local bars and events, eventually gaining a small but devoted following. Their breakthrough came when a well-known record producer happened to attend one of their performances, and he was so impressed that he immediately decided to sign them on.

Genre:
Electric Silk operates within the genre of Electro-Pop, effortlessly blending electronic music with pop rhythms to create a unique and infectious sound.

Title:
“Velvet Thunder”

Full song lyrics:

Verse 1: (Em – C – G – D)
Under the glow of the city lights, (Em)
She dances to the rhythm of the night. (C)
Velvet dress and hair cascading down, (G)
In her eyes, a storm is raging now. (D)

Chorus: (G – D – Em – C)
She is the Velvet Thunder, (G)
Echoes of her voice make my heart wonder, (D)
Amidst the lightning and the blunder, (Em)
She’s the melody that steals my slumber. (C)

Verse 2: (Em – C – G – D)
Across the room, our eyes collide, (Em)
Electric silk, on this ride. (C)
The music’s loud but her silence screams, (G)
I’m lost in her, and a million dreams. (D)

Chorus: (G – D – Em – C)
She is the Velvet Thunder, (G)
Her rhythm sets my world asunder, (D)
In her mystery, I blunder, (Em)
She’s the symphony to my silent wonder. (C)

Fan Testimonial:
Name: Sarah Stephens
“I absolutely love Electric Silk! Their music is like a breath of fresh air in the industry, blending electronic sounds with pop rhythms in a way that’s truly mesmerising. I first discovered them in a local bar in Boston and have followed their journey ever since. Their song, ‘Velvet Thunder’ is my absolute favorite and I listen to it on repeat. I connected to it on a deeper level. It’s as if they wrote it for me. Electric Silk has a unique ability to convey emotions through their music, and that’s what makes them my favorite band.”

Backstory:

Purple Clover is a high-energy indie rock band formed in Austin, Texas in the summer of 2013. The band consists of childhood friends Alex “Axel” Stevens (vocals), Tommy “T-Rex” Harris (guitarist), and siblings Lily and Jason Bell (bassist and drummer respectively). They were initially just four friends jamming out in their parents’ garages, dreaming of bigger things. Their unique sound quickly caught the attention of local music lovers, and their popularity skyrocketed after performing at a local music festival. Now, they’re taking the indie rock scene by storm with hits playing on local radio and gigs in respected venues around the country.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Title:

“Crimson Rain”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
G C Em D
Under the crimson rain, where our hearts first tangled,
G C Em D
In between the laughter and the pain, our love was kindled.
G C Em D
Every stolen kiss, every loving glance,
G C Em D
Underneath the neon lights, we dared to take that chance.

(Chorus)
Am C G D
Oh, the crimson rain, it soaked us to the bone,
Am C G D
In the echoes of the night, we found a love of our own.
Am C G D
In between the whispers and the loud, pulsating beat,
Am C G D
Under the crimson rain, our hearts skipped a beat.

(Verse 2)
G C Em D
From the dusty roads to the glittering city lights,
G C Em D
Our love story unfolded, under the starlit nights.
G C Em D
In every song, in every rhyme,
G C Em D
The crimson rain whispers, of a love that’s truly divine.

(Chorus)
Am C G D
Oh, the crimson rain, it tells our love’s tale,
Am C G D
In the silence of the night, our love will never fail.
Am C G D
From the quiet whispers to the loud, raging storm,
Am C G D
Under the crimson rain, our love was born.

Fan’s Testimonial:

“My name is Sarah, and I’m a big fan – probably Purple Clover’s biggest fan. I first saw them performing at a local festival, and it was love at first sound. Their music speaks to my soul and moves me in ways I never thought music could. Their song ‘Crimson Rain’ is my all-time favorite; it’s like the band wrote the lyrics of my life. The raw emotion in Axel’s voice, the passion in T-Rex’s guitar, the harmony between Lily and Jason, it all just fits together perfectly. I’ve been to every gig since then, and they never disappoint. Purple Clover isn’t just my favorite band, they’re an essential part of my life.”