Backstory:

Fond Dismissal is an indie rock band that originated in the heart of Minnesota, Saint Paul. This quartet met in high school and bonded over a shared interest in music, late-night jam sessions, and a mutual dream of creating something of their own. Each member brought a unique musical talent to the table – Max on lead guitar, Olivia on bass, Sam on drums, and Liam on vocals and rhythm guitar. Their shared love for alternative and indie rock music led them to form Fond Dismissal in 2015.

Over the years, Fond Dismissal has become known for their atmospheric soundscapes, poignant lyrics and riveting live performances. The band has released two critically acclaimed albums and several EPs, each one reflecting their growth and evolution as artists. They’ve toured extensively, playing at small clubs, music festivals, and even opening for some major acts.

Genre: Indie Rock

Title: Echoes of Yesterday

Lyrics:

[Verse]
Em C
Looking back on the days of old,
G D
Memories fade but the feelings hold.
Em C
Walking paths we used to roam,
G D
Now I find I’m walking alone.

[Chorus]
Am C
Echoes of yesterday calling my name,
G D
Reminding me of what used to be.
Am C
The laughter, the tears, the joy, the pain,
G D
Echoes of yesterday, set me free.

[Verse]
Em C
Glimpses of a love gone by,
G D
Underneath the endless sky.
Em C
Trying to catch a falling star,
G D
Wishing you weren’t so far.

[Chorus]
Am C
Echoes of yesterday calling my name,
G D
Reminding me of what used to be.
Am C
The laughter, the tears, the joy, the pain,
G D
Echoes of yesterday, set me free.

[Bridge]
F C
Perhaps we’ll meet again some day,
G D
In another time, another way.
F C
But until then, I’ll hold on,
G D
To the echoes of a song.

[Chorus]
Am C
Echoes of yesterday calling my name,
G D
Reminding me of what used to be.
Am C
The laughter, the tears, the joy, the pain,
G D
Echoes of yesterday, set me free.

Favorite Fan’s Name: Sophie Turner

Testimonial:

Sophie Turner, a dedicated fan, gushes about the band: “Fond Dismissal has been a constant source of inspiration and solace for me. Their music speaks volumes about life, love, and the human condition. The lyrics are raw and honest, and the melodies are hauntingly beautiful. Every song feels like it’s telling a unique story that I can relate to on a personal level. Fond Dismissal isn’t just a band to me; they’re an integral part of my life. Their music has become the soundtrack to my journey, and I can’t imagine a world without their sound.”

Backstory:

Lopsided Dog is a band born out of the vibrant and eclectic music scene of Austin, Texas. The group consists of four lifelong friends: Tyler on vocals and guitar, Jake on drums, Sarah on bass, and Ellie on keyboards and backing vocals. They were all raised in the same neighborhood, bonded over a shared love for all things music at a young age, and formed the band in their high school years. The name ‘Lopsided Dog’ was coined as a tribute to Tyler’s pet dog, Boomer, who had a distinctive lopsided run due to a childhood injury but was nonetheless the liveliest creature they knew.

Genre:

Their signature sound is a unique blend of Indie Rock and Alternative Country, with influences from Blues and Folk music.

Title:

“Whiskey on the Porch”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1):
[G] Down on a lonely road, [C] where the wildest flowers grow,
[G] I found my solace and [C] the secrets untold,
[D] Under a setting sun, [C] I felt my journey begun,
[G] With only a bottle and [C] a heart on the run.

(Chorus):
[D] Whiskey on the porch, [G] a world out of reach,
[C] Honey in my veins, I [G] am learning to preach,
[D] Dancing with the shadows, [G] beneath the silver torch,
[C] My heart beats with the rhythm, [G] Whiskey on the porch.

(Verse 2):
[G] The stars are my compass, [C] The moon is my guide,
[G] On this lonely porch, [C] my feelings can’t hide,
[D] I drink to the memories, [C] I drink to the pain,
[G] Whiskey on the porch, [C] in the pouring rain.

(Chorus):
[D] Whiskey on the porch, [G] a world out of reach,
[C] Honey in my veins, I [G] am learning to preach,
[D] Dancing with the shadows, [G] beneath the silver torch,
[C] My heart beats with the rhythm, [G] Whiskey on the porch.

Band’s Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Hazel. She has been there from the start, attending all their small gigs in local bars and cheering them on when they finally hit the big stage. Hazel says, “Lopsided Dog is more than just a band for me. Their music resonates with my soul and helps me navigate through life. Their lyrics are genuine, touching on real-life experiences and emotions. Every song feels like home. They aren’t just musicians; they’re storytellers weaving tales through their songs. That’s why they will always be my favorite.”

Backstory:
Born out of the gritty suburbs of Chicago, Functional Neck is a rock band that has taken the local music scene by storm. The band members – Joe Strummer (lead vocals and guitar), Marty Strings (lead guitar), Billy ‘The Beast’ Bass (Bass guitar) and Danny Drums (drums) – met during their college days, bonding over their shared passion for music and rebellion against the mainstream pop culture. The band’s name, Functional Neck, was chosen to represent their core belief that music should be a visceral, body shaking experience; the kind that makes you nod your head along without even realizing it.

Genre:
Functional Neck’s music genre can be best described as a fusion of Alternative Rock and Blues with a dash of Punk influence.

Song Title:
“Gravel Roads”

Song lyrics:

(Verse 1 – C G Am F)
Driving down these gravel roads, wind in my face
The city lights behind me, chasing a chase
Whiskey in the dashboard, blues on the radio
Got my heart on my sleeve, don’t know where to go

(Chorus – Em F C G)
Gravel roads, take me home
To the place, where I belong
Midnight skies, and lonesome cries
Gravel roads, under these city lights

(Verse 2 – C G Am F)
Broken hearts and broken strings, a story of my life
Gotta keep on strumming, through the hurt and strife
A guitar in my hands, dreams in my eyes
On these gravel roads, under the midnight skies

(Chorus – Em F C G)
Gravel roads, take me home
To the place, where I belong
Midnight skies, and lonesome cries
Gravel roads, under these city lights

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a girl named Lucy who lives in their hometown of Chicago. Lucy has been a fan of Functional Neck since their very first performance at a local bar. She has since attended almost all their shows in Chicago and even some in other states. Lucy says, “Functional Neck is my favorite band because their music speaks to my soul. It’s raw, powerful and honest. Their songs have accompanied me through my deepest lows and highest highs. They’ve inspired me, comforted me, and made me feel understood. It’s not just the music, it’s the connection I feel with their lyrics and their performances that make them my favorite. They truly are a band for the people.”

Backstory:
Suburban Sweater was formed in the quiet town of Northville, Michigan, where the only noise you’re likely to hear is the rumble of neighborhood lawn mowers. Best friends since childhood, lead singer and guitar player Mike “Mick” Stevens, bassist Rob “Bobby” Hughes, and drummer Sam “Bam” Thompson started the band in Mick’s parents’ garage during their sophomore year in high school. They joked that the band’s name was a nod to their suburban upbringing, and the sweaters their moms insisted they wear to school every day. As they honed their music skills and started to play local gigs, their unique sound caught the attention of indie music producer, Harry Lawson, who helped them record their first album, “Woolen Melodies”.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Porchlight Serenade”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
G C Am D
Underneath the porchlight, in the soft suburban glow,
G C Am D
I found my rhythm, I found my flow.
G C Am D
Our dreams were as big as the Midwestern sky,
G C Am D
In our suburban sweater hearts, we were ready to fly.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
Porchlight serenade, oh the music we made,
Em C G D
In this quiet town, we found our parade.
Em C G D
Suburban dreams in our sweater seams,
Em C G D
Porchlight serenade, it’s our teenage dream.

(Verse 2)
G C Am D
The beat of the drum, the strum of the strings,
G C Am D
In this quiet town, we learned to spread our wings.
G C Am D
Underneath the stars, in the cool night air,
G C Am D
We found our voices, and we didn’t care.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
Porchlight serenade, oh the music we made,
Em C G D
In this quiet town, we found our parade.
Em C G D
Suburban dreams in our sweater seams,
Em C G D
Porchlight serenade, it’s our teenage dream.

The Band’s Favourite Fan:
Name: Sarah “Sweater” Thompson

Testimonial:
“I’ve been a fan of Suburban Sweater since their first local gig, and they’re my absolute favorite! Their music captures the spirit of suburban life, in a way that’s sincere, relatable, and incredibly moving. Every time I listen to their song ‘Porchlight Serenade’, I am instantly transported back to my teenage years, sitting on my porch, dreaming of the world beyond my quiet town. The guys are incredibly talented and humble, and they’ve never lost that genuine, down-to-earth quality that first drew me to their music. Suburban Sweater isn’t just a band, it’s a testament to the dreams, hopes, and aspirations of every suburban kid out there.”

Backstory:

Disfigured Father emerged from the rainy streets and foggy nights of Seattle, Washington in 1998. The band was initially a cathartic outlet for lead singer, Hank Morgan; a place to channel his turbulent past, troubled relationships, and fraught relationship with his father. After meeting drummer, Jake Ritter, in a dingy dive bar, the pair soon found an affinity for creating raw and emotive music that reflected their shared realities. Joined by bassist, Lily Thomas, and guitarist, Jim ‘Crow’ Clayton, the band solidified their line-up and began their journey of music making.

Their first gig in a small, local bar was met with a surprisingly strong response, earning them a dedicated fan base that appreciated their honest and raw lyrics, combined with their grungy, post-punk sound. Since then, Disfigured Father has honed their sound, and with each new album, they continue to push the boundaries of their genre, forever forging a path into the unknown.

Genre:

Post-Punk Grunge

Title:

“Shattered Mirror”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C G D
A shattered mirror on the wall,
Em C G D
Reflects the pain, echoes the fall.
Em C G D
Inside the frame, a disfigured face,
Em C G D
A father’s love, now an empty space.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
In the shattered mirror, I see,
Em C G D
A disfigured father, looking back at me.
Em C G D
In the broken glass, the truth unfolds,
Em C G D
A story of love, never to be told.

(Verse 2)
Em C G D
From the shards, memories bleed,
Em C G D
Of a family torn, by a father’s need.
Em C G D
In the reflection, a painful past,
Em C G D
A shattered mirror, holding fast.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
In the shattered mirror, I see,
Em C G D
A disfigured father, staring back at me.
Em C G D
In the broken glass, our story’s told,
Em C G D
Of a love lost, in winter’s cold.

Favorite Fan and Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan is James Preston, a dedicated follower of the band for over 10 years. James was first introduced to their music during a difficult time in his life, and their lyrics resonated deeply with him. As a testimonial, James stated, “Disfigured Father has been there for me through my darkest days. Their music has a raw and genuine quality that speaks to the heart. There’s a brutal honesty in their lyrics that’s both comforting and challenging. It’s like they’re not afraid to face their demons, and it inspires me to face my own. I feel a deep connection to their music, and it’s helped me through some tough times.”

Backstory:
Born out of the heart of East London, Wan Music began as a trio of childhood friends who found a shared passion for vibrant rhythms and soulful melodies. Joshua (vocals/guitar), Amara (bass guitar), and Theo (drums) spent most of their summers during high school in Joshua’s parents’ garage, where they wrote songs and dreamed of making it big. Soon after they graduated, they decided to take a leap of faith and pursue music full time, adopting the name ‘Wan Music’, a nod to their humble beginnings in Wanstead. The band quickly gained a local following for their energetic performances and unique sound, and soon they were playing sold-out shows across London.

Genre:
Wan Music creates a unique blend of indie rock and pop, with elements of soul and funk. Their music draws inspiration from a range of artists, from The Beatles and Jimi Hendrix to Arctic Monkeys and The Black Keys. Their sound is characterized by catchy hooks, energetic guitar riffs, and Joshua’s soulful vocals.

Title of Song:
“London’s Lullaby”

Lyrics:
(Verse 1, D – A – G)
In the heart of the city where the Thames rivers flow,
Where the lights never sleep and the cold winds blow,
There’s a rhythm, a beat, like a heart’s gentle sigh,
It’s our love, our pain, it’s London’s lullaby.

(Chorus, G – D – A)
Oh, won’t you sing, sing with me tonight,
Underneath this city’s bright, neon light?
With every word, every strum, we’ll touch the sky,
In this town, we’ve found, in London’s lullaby.

(Verse 2, D – A – G)
In the quiet corners, in the bustling streets,
In every soul, every heart that beats,
There’s a melody, a harmony, a high and low,
In this city, we live, in this city, we grow.

(Chorus, G – D – A)
Oh, won’t you sing, sing with me tonight,
Underneath this city’s bright, neon light?
With every word, every strum, we’ll touch the sky,
In this town, we’ve found, in London’s lullaby.

(Bridge, Bm – G – D)
Through the highs and lows, through the tears and smiles,
This city’s song has echoed for miles.
In every note, every beat, we’re alive,
In this song, we belong, in London’s lullaby.

(Repeat Chorus)

End:
In this town, we’ve found, in London’s lullaby.

Fan’s name:
Lily

Testimonial:
“I first saw Wan Music at a small bar in Shoreditch and instantly fell in love with their sound. Their music has this unique blend of indie rock and pop that’s incredibly catchy, but it’s also deeply soulful, with lyrics that speak to your heart. Every song tells a story – about love, life, and the city they call home. And their energy on stage is just infectious; you can’t help but get caught up in it. For me, Wan Music isn’t just a band, they’re the soundtrack to my life in London.”

Backstory:
Knobby Prize was born out of the heart of London’s bustling music scene. The band’s original members, lead vocalist Jake Marlow, bassist Morris Turner, drummer Oscar Warner and guitarist Izzy Quinn, met at a local jam session in their hometown of Shoreditch in 2013. United by their love for experimental music and a desire to break free from mainstream music constraints, the quartet started experimenting with their own sound in the basement of Marlow’s family home. The band, after countless late-night jamming sessions, decided to move forward professionally, christening themselves ‘Knobby Prize’ as a reflection of their quirky, offbeat and unconventional approach to music.

Over the years, Knobby Prize has gained a cult following for their unique sound, introspective lyrics, and electrifying live performances. Their journey from basement jam sessions to sold-out venues around the UK and beyond represents their passion, dedication and the undeniable bond that holds them together.

Genre:
Psychedelic Rock

Title:
“Cosmic Circus”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am Em
Walking on the edge of the universe,
F C
Lost in a circus of starry burst,
Am Em
Gravity bends, and time is reversed,
F C
In this cosmic circus, we’re immersed.

(Chorus)
G D
Cosmic circus, spinning around,
Am C
In this stardust, we are found.
G D
In the silent void, there’s no sound,
Am C
Only cosmic circus, love unbound.

(Verse 2)
Am Em
In the nebula’s glow, we seek clarity,
F C
Eclipsing moons offer rare sincerity.
Am Em
Galactic trails sketch our journey,
F C
In the cosmic circus, we’re free.

(Chorus)
G D
Cosmic circus, in infinity’s ground,
Am C
In celestial rhythm, we are wound.
G D
In the cosmic ballet, we are crowned,
Am C
In the cosmic circus, we are profound.

Band’s Favorite Fan:
Our favorite fan is Lydia Riddle. Lydia has been with us since our first small gig in Shoreditch. She’s traveled all across the UK to see us play and has an infectious enthusiasm that really brightens up our performances.

Lydia’s Testimonial:
“Knobby Prize isn’t just a band, it’s an experience. Their music is an intriguing blend of psychedelia and raw emotion. From the first time I saw them at a small pub in Shoreditch, I was hooked. Their lyrics speak to my soul, their performances electrify my spirit, and their authenticity is refreshing in an industry that’s often too polished. Knobby Prize is my favorite band because they dare to be different, they dare to push boundaries, and they dare to create music that resonates, challenges, and inspires. They are a shining beacon in the world of Psychedelic Rock.”

Backstory:
Spotted Title is a band of four childhood friends who grew up together in Austin, Texas. The members, Jacob, Mike, Ethan, and Riley, shared a mutual passion for music from a young age; they would usually spend their free time jamming in Jacob’s garage. They had no idea that this passion would evolve into a serious career until a local radio station picked up one of their demo tapes in 2011. Overnight, Spotted Title had transitioned from a high school garage band to one of Austin’s rising stars. Despite their sudden fame, the members of Spotted Title remain down to earth, staying true to their roots and often gushing about the incredible journey they have embarked upon together.

Genre:
Spotted Title found their niche in Alternative Rock, combining vintage rock elements with modern influences to create a unique, dynamic sound. They’ve been known to infuse their tracks with elements of folk, punk, and even electronica, keeping their music fresh and unpredictable.

Song Title:
“Crimson Echo”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C G D
Wandering down this winding road,
Em C G D
Lost in the rhythm of your crimson echo.
Em C G D
In your absence, I find my sanity,
Em C G D
In your voice, I find my melody.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
Crimson Echo, carry me home,
Em C G D
Through the darkness, through the unknown.
Em C G D
Your voice, the sweetest symphony
Em C G D
In the silent corners of my memory.

(Verse 2)
Em C G D
Every whisper, every fading laugh,
Em C G D
Etched into my heart, like a signed photograph.
Em C G D
The echoes of the past, memories so vast,
Em C G D
Crimson Echo, hold me fast.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
Crimson Echo, guide me through,
Em C G D
In the darkness, I reach out to you.
Em C G D
Your voice, my beacon in the night,
Em C G D
Crimson Echo, you’re my light.

Favorite Fan:
Spotted Title’s favorite fan is probably a young woman named Lucy Morton. Lucy found their music during a particularly challenging time in her life, and she speaks highly of their music, saying, “Spotted Title’s music helped me through some of my darkest days. There’s something about their lyrics that just resonates with me on a deep level. Their songs make me feel seen, validated, and less alone in my struggles. I honestly don’t know where I’d be without their music.” Lucy’s genuine love for their music and her story of resilience and strength is truly inspiring to the band, making her their favorite fan.

Backstory:
Specific Car was formed in 2009 in the city of Seattle, Washington. The band started when four high school friends, Evan Shaw (lead vocals and guitar), Brian Miller (bass), Jack Peterson (drums) and Kevin Green (keyboard), decided to share their love for music. They started by playing in college events and local bars until they had their breakthrough in 2012 with their hit song, “Drive Again”. This led to performances in bigger venues and eventually a record deal. Their music is inspired by their love for vintage cars, their journey through life, and the city they were born and raised in.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Under The Neon Lights”

Full song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am G D F
Driving down the boulevard,
Am G D F
Underneath the neon lights,
Am G D F
Our hearts are racing, just like the cars,
Am G D F
On this wild Friday night.

(Chorus)
C G Am F
We’re young and free in our Specific Car,
C G Am F
Let’s chase the moon, and reach for the stars,
C G Am F
Let’s drive away, no matter how far,
C G Am F
In our Specific Car, we are who we are.

(Verse 2)
Am G D F
Lost in the rhythm of the city’s heartbeat,
Am G D F
Navigating through life’s winding street,
Am G D F
With the radio playing our favorite beat,
Am G D F
In our Specific Car, life’s so sweet.

(Chorus)
C G Am F
We’re young and free in our Specific Car,
C G Am F
Let’s chase the moon, and reach for the stars,
C G Am F
Let’s drive away, no matter how far,
C G Am F
In our Specific Car, we are who we are.

Favorite Fan:
Their favorite fan is Lisa Johnson. Lisa has been following Specific Car since their early days, attending almost all their local gigs. She says, “Listening to Specific Car is like a road trip through life’s emotions. Their songs have a way of speaking directly to my heart. The music, the lyrics, everything about them feels personal. They are more than just a band, they are the soundtrack of my life.” Lisa’s unwavering support and enthusiasm for their music has deeply touched the band.

Backstory:

Despite their explosive name, All Bomb came together in the serene landscapes of Washington state. The band’s formation was a bit of a fluke; four childhood friends – Jake, Emily, Matt, and Sam – who shared a mutual love for music, but pursued different paths in life, found themselves back in their hometown in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis. They started jamming as a way to deal with the turmoil and uncertainty of those times, and their shared emotional experience birthed the band. Their music is an exploration of their collective journey, highlighting the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:
“Last to Leave”

Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em G D A
Lost in the storm, we’re finding our way,
G D A Em
No compass to guide, no words to say.
Em G D A
Left a world behind, full of broken dreams,
G D A Em
Can’t drown the echoes, can’t silence the screams.

(Chorus)
G D A Em
We’re the last to leave, in the fading light,
G D A Em
Still dancing on the edge, of a never-ending night.

(Verse 2)
Em G D A
Redemption in chords, salvation in a song,
G D A Em
In the heart of the storm, we find where we belong.
Em G D A
Voices in harmony, in the silence we grieve,
G D A Em
In the wreckage we stand, we’re the last to leave.

(Chorus)
G D A Em
We’re the last to leave, in the fading light,
G D A Em
Still dancing on the edge, of a never-ending night.

Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan is Lisa Reynolds. Lisa has been with us right from our first gig in a dingy, barely-filled bar in downtown Seattle. Through all the highs and lows, her support has been unwavering. Here’s a testimonial from Lisa herself,

“I love All Bomb because their music resonates with me on a profound level. It’s raw, emotional, and honest. Whether I’m having a rough day or celebrating a win, their songs are always there, a comforting constant in my life. I’ve seen them evolve and grow as artists and individuals, and I feel like I’ve been on this journey with them. All Bomb isn’t just my favorite band, they’re like my chosen family.”