Backstory:
The roots of “Clever Player” can be traced back to a time when its members, Jack Oliver and Ben Matthews, were high school students in the small town of Fergus Falls, Minnesota. The duo, who were best friends, spent their afternoons and weekends improvising guitar riffs and drum rhythms in Jack’s garage. Jack’s dad was a local musician, and he nurtured their talent, teaching them to embrace music as a form of self-expression and a way to connect with people.

After high school, the duo moved to New York City, where they worked on refining their musical style. They played at various open mic nights and small gigs. Their breakthrough came in 2014 when they performed at the famous CBGB club and were spotted by a record label executive. The duo was immediately signed, and “Clever Player” was born.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
‘Dancing in the Moonlight’

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G]Underneath the silver sky, [D]holding hopes so high,
[Em]We were two young souls, [C]on a starry night.
[Am]Laughing at the world below, [D]with dreams only we know,
[Em]Lost in a rhythm, [C]in the moonlight’s glow.

(Chorus)
[G]We are dancing, [D]dancing in the moonlight,
[Em]Living our dreams, [C]on this starry night.
[Am]We are floating, [D]in a space so tight,
[Em]With our hearts beating, [C]under the moon’s light.

(Verse 2)
[G]Walking on the milky way, [D]with words we couldn’t say,
[Em]Finding our path, [C]in the moon’s soft ray.
[Am]Our shadows playing hide and seek, [D]with secrets we keep,
[Em]We shared a rhythm, [C]deep and steep.

(Chorus)
[G]We are dancing, [D]dancing in the moonlight,
[Em]Living our dreams, [C]on this starry night.
[Am]We are floating, [D]in a space so tight,
[Em]With our hearts beating, [C]under the moon’s light.

The band’s favorite fan’s name:
Katie Parker

Testimonial:
“Clever Player came into my life during a period of immense change and confusion. Their music spoke to me in a way no other band could. It was like they could articulate everything I was feeling so perfectly through their lyrics. I was drawn to the rawness and authenticity of their sound, it was refreshing and original. I remember hearing ‘Dancing in the Moonlight’ for the first time, it was spellbinding. Jack and Ben’s music has been a constant source of comfort and inspiration to me. There’s a Clever Player song for every mood and every moment. They’re not just my favorite band, they’re my favorite storytellers.”

Backstory:

Content Toe is an eccentric band originated from the bustling city of Chicago in 2010. The band is made up of four childhood friends – Bob, Mike, Jon, and Jimmy. They all shared a common love for music from a young age. The name ‘Content Toe’ was born from a joke between them. Jon, the drummer, broke his toe during a football match. Despite the pain, he showed up to practice and played entire songs with his injured foot. His commitment to their shared passion made them realize that they could face any challenge and still be content, hence the name Content Toe. Their infectious camaraderie and passion for music quickly gathered local attention and they soon found themselves performing on larger stages.

Genre:

Content Toe specializes in Indie Rock with a hint of Folk. Their music often features thought-provoking lyrics, catchy melodies, and raw, stripped-back instrumentation. Their unique sound is often described as refreshingly authentic, characterized by an eclectic mix of rock and folk elements that create a warm, energetic ambiance.

Title:

“Chasing Moonlight”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am Em G D
Under the starlit sky, I roam,
C Em Am C
Heart heavy, feet bare, all alone.
Am Em G D
Seeking solace in the dark,
C Em Am C
A lone wolf, leaving a mark.

(Chorus)
G D Am Em
Chasing moonlight, on this cold night,
C G D
Finding my way, guided by its light.
G D Am Em
Embracing the unknown, with all my might,
C G D
Chasing moonlight, into the twilight.

(Verse 2)
Am Em G D
In the silence, whispers of the wind,
C Em Am C
Echo of the stories, from within.
Am Em G D
Courage the compass, love the path,
C Em Am C
In the darkness, I found my aftermath.

(Chorus)
G D Am Em
Chasing moonlight, into the abyss,
C G D
My heart echoes, a silent bliss.
G D Am Em
In the shadow, I find my fight,
C G D
Chasing moonlight, into the maiden night.

Fan Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan is Sarah, a local music enthusiast. She has been following Content Toe since their early days of performing in small coffee houses.

“Content Toe is more than just a band to me, they narrate my life through their songs. There’s something about their raw, honest lyrics that resonates with me on a deep level. Each song is like a beautiful poem set to a soulful melody. Their music is my refuge, a source of comfort during tough times. They are my favorite band because they make me feel seen and heard. I can’t wait to see what they come up with next!”

Backstory:
Clear-Cut Fifth was formed in the heartland of Texas in 2015, originating as a trio of high school friends who shared a passion for music. The band consists of frontman Jake “Jax” Mitchell, lead guitarist Tyler “Ty” Henderson, and drummer Liam “Lee” Davis. They began practicing in Ty’s garage, initially bonding over a mutual love for country music and rock. As they honed their sound, they began infusing elements of blues and Americana, giving birth to a unique fusion that quickly gained local attention. After winning a battle of the bands competition, Clear-Cut Fifth started playing larger venues, and their fanbase exploded. They have since released three successful albums, earning them a faithful following both within and beyond Texas.

Genre:
Country-Rock, Blues, Americana

Title:
“Against The Grain”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
[G] I was born a roamer, [D] in the heart of Texas plain,
[C] Raised on dust and tumbleweeds, [G] under the pouring rain.
[G] Daddy was a gambler, [D] Mama was a saint,
[C] Taught me about love and loss, [G] painted life with no restraint.

(Chorus)
[D] Against the grain, [C] I staked my claim,
[G] On open roads, [D] in midnight’s frame,
[G] Underneath the star-dust, [D] against the pain,
[C] I found my heart, [G] in a Clear-Cut Fifth refrain.

(Verse)
[G] Met a girl in Austin, [D] with eyes of sapphire blue,
[C] She danced like a wild summer storm, [G] her spirit brave and true.
[G] She said, “Love’s a hard road, [D] Are you ready for the ride?”
[C] I held her close and whispered, [G] “Darlin’, I’ve nothing to hide.”

(Chorus)
[D] Against the grain, [C] I staked my claim,
[G] On open roads, [D] in midnight’s frame,
[G] Underneath the star-dust, [D] against the pain,
[C] I found my love, [G] in a Clear-Cut Fifth refrain.

The Band’s Favorite Fan:
Name: Sarah Johnson

Testimonial:
“I have been a die-hard fan of Clear-Cut Fifth since their first performance at the local county fair. Their music resonates with my deep Texas roots, and their lyrics tell stories that are universal, yet strikingly personal. The way they intertwine country and rock, with a touch of blues and Americana, is unlike anything I’ve experienced. Their song ‘Against The Grain’ particularly resonates with me, as it speaks to the individualistic spirit of Texans. Clear-Cut Fifth isn’t just my favorite band, they’re a part of my identity, and their music is the soundtrack to my life.”

Backstory:

Heavy Store was formed in 2008 in a small, nondescript warehouse in Brooklyn, New York. The original members, Jack Williams (vocals), Mike Davis (guitar), and Bob Carter (drums), were all working at a warehouse together, spending their breaks jamming out to rock classics on a small, beat-up radio. One day, they decided to start creating their own music, heavily inspired by the classic rock they had grown up loving. They named their band after the warehouse – it was their ‘heavy store’, a place full of heavy items but also a source of their heavy, rich inspiration and creativity.

Their rise to fame was steady rather than explosive. They began playing local shows and slowly gained a dedicated fanbase through word-of-mouth. They released their debut album ‘Cast Iron Echoes’ in 2011 and it was widely regarded as a solid introduction to their sound. They captured the energy of their live shows through their recorded tracks, effectively forging a bond between them and their listeners that was both intimate and powerful.

Genre: Rock/Alternative

Title: ‘Steel Bones’

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1 (Em/G/D/A):
Em G D A
Warehouse walls, they know my name,
Em G D A
Echoing our dreams, in every frame,
Em G D A
Grinding gears, under moon’s cold light,
Em G D A
We strum our hopes, into the night.

Chorus (C/G/D):
C G D
Steel bones and iron heart,
C G D
This is where we had our start,
C G D
Music’s flame, let it burn bright,
C G D
In this heavy store, we ignite.

Verse 2:
Em G D A
Copper wires, an electric hum,
Em G D A
In the rhythm’s beat, we find our home,
Em G D A
Bare hands on string, echo in our souls,
Em G D A
The heavy store, it’s rock and roll.

(Repeat Chorus)

Fan Name: Sarah Thompson

Sarah Thompson is a long-time fan of Heavy Store. As a native of Brooklyn, she grew up listening to the local bands and found something incredibly special in Heavy Store’s raw, honest music. She first saw them perform at a small club in the city and was immediately captivated by their energy and authenticity. Sarah has attended every concert and has every album. “Their music speaks to me on a personal level. It’s like they’re telling the story of my life through their songs. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s beautiful,” she says. Heavy Store remains her favorite band because they remind her of the grit and resilience of her city, and their music has accompanied her through every phase of her life.

Backstory: Quick-Witted Variation rose from the heart of Nashville, Tennessee, in the latter half of the 2000s. The band was founded by high school friends Maddox Grant and Levi Mitchell, who started off playing in Mitchell’s garage, their music echoing through the quiet suburban streets. Their shared passion for unique sound and their knack for witty, spontaneous lyrics became a trademark of the duo’s style. Joined by three more friends, Lisa Thompson on the guitar, her brother Greg on drums, and Emily Rose on bass, the band navigated its way through the local music scene, slowly gaining traction and carving out a distinctive niche for themselves.

Quick-Witted Variation’s music is an eclectic mix, a fusion of rock, country, and a dash of punk, reflecting the vibrant diversity of their backgrounds and musical influences. Despite their varying styles, their music is tied together by their shared love for quick-witted lyrics and unconventional sonic experimentations.

Genre: Rock/Country Fusion

Title: “Cottonwood Sighs”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Underneath the [C] cottonwood tree,
[Em] Where you whispered [D] secrets to me,
[G] Shadows dancing [C] in the breeze,
[Em] Our love as wild, [D] as free.

(Chorus)
[G] Cottonwood sighs, [C] darling close your eyes,
[Em] We got the moon, [D] and these starlit skies.
[G] Hold my hand, [C] through the highs and lows,
[Em] Underneath the [D] cottonwood, love grows.

(Verse 2)
[G] Stories told, [C] in the hush of the night,
[Em] Your laughter echoing, [D] oh so bright.
[G] Silhouettes against [C] the evening light,
[Em] This is where, [D] it all feels right.

(Chorus)
[G] Cottonwood sighs, [C] honey don’t you cry,
[Em] We got dreams, [D] reaching for the sky.
[G] Come what may, [C] in joys and woes,
[Em] Underneath the [D] cottonwood, love grows.

Band’s Favorite Fan: Their favorite fan is a woman named Sarah Thompson. Sarah is an elementary school teacher who, despite her busy schedule, makes time to catch every one of their concerts. “Quick-Witted Variation is my favorite band because they can turn any ordinary day into a special one with their music. The way they mix different genres is fascinating and their lyrics always manage to touch my heart. Attending their concerts is like a mini-vacation for me. I just can’t get enough of their sound!” says Sarah.

Backstory:

Costly Product started off as an ironic name for a band of high school friends, just trying to make some noise in their garage in the small town of Bakersville, Georgia. The five-piece ensemble was born out of a group of friends who had spent their entire childhoods together, playing and listening to music. They were all drawn together by their shared love of unconventional and progressive music. Their musical journey started off as a hobby, then gradually evolved into an emotional outlet, and finally, a full-blown career. The band comprises of lead vocalist, Ronnie, guitarist, Macy, bassist, Dave, drummer, Jay, and keyboardist, Olive. They’ve been through thick and thin, and have used their experiences to create music that resonates with their audience.

Genre:

Costly Product can best be categorized as a Progressive Rock band. Their music is known for its complex musical sequences, intricate lyrics, and innovative themes that break away from traditional rock norms. They combine elements of blues, jazz, and classical music to create a sound that’s distinct and captivating.

Title:

“Fabricated Freedom”

Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em – G – D – A
In the heart of the city, draped in lights so pretty,
We sell our dreams away.
We’re tired of the lies, the fabricated highs,
We’re breaking free today.

(Chorus)
C – G – D – Em
Fabricated freedom, we won’t believe ’em,
We’ve got our own way to fly,
Costs us our soul, this mindless control,
We’re breaking these chains tonight.

(Verse 2)
Em – G – D – A
Burned by the glamour, lost in the clamor,
Just pawns in a losing game.
But beneath the charade, our spirit’s unswayed,
We won’t be tamed, we won’t be blamed.

(Chorus)
C – G – D – Em
Fabricated freedom, we won’t believe ’em,
We’re marching to our own beat,
Costs us our pride, this pointless ride,
We’re taking control of the driver’s seat.

(Outro)
C – G – D – Em
Fabricated freedom, we’re more than they see ’em,
We are the costly product,
Our voices will rise, break through the skies,
We’re the truth, we’re the object.

Fan’s testimonial:

My name is Riley, and I am probably the biggest Costly Product fan out there. Their music speaks to me on a level no other band has managed to achieve. Their lyrics are raw and relatable. They’re not just another rock band, they stand for something – a rebellion against the norms, an uprising against the system. Costly Product is more than just a band to me, they’re a movement, a voice for the voiceless. Their song, “Fabricated Freedom,” is my anthem. It resonates with my own struggle against the societal expectations and norms. Costly Product isn’t just my favorite band, they’re my beacon of hope in a world that too often dismisses individuality.

Backstory:
Born in the bustling city of New York, Queasy Duration is a unique blend of five college friends who shared a love for music and a knack for pushing boundaries. The band members – Jessica (lead vocals), Tom (guitar), Brian (bass), Steve (drums), and Lily (keyboard) – met at a campus jam session and immediately felt an unexplainable synergy. They started out playing at college events and soon gained a loyal fanbase due to their experimental sounds and relatable lyrics. The name of the band, Queasy Duration, was inspired by the band’s early days when they would feel “queasy” before going on stage and the “duration” of their journey together.

Genre:
Queasy Duration falls under the indie rock genre with strong influences of progressive rock and punk.

Title:
“Our Battle Cry”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C G D
Treading on this lonely path,
Em C G D
Anxiety’s our aftermath.
Em C G D
Our hearts play a broken symphony,
Em C G D
At the mercy of life’s discrepancy.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
Our Battle Cry, high and strong,
Em C G D
Carries us when things go wrong.
Em C G D
With every beat, with every song,
Em C G D
Our Battle Cry, keeps us strong.

(Verse 2)
Em C G D
Underneath the city’s glow,
Em C G D
We face our fears, we grow.
Em C G D
Through the chaos, through the strife,
Em C G D
Music is our way of life.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
Our Battle Cry, high and strong,
Em C G D
Carries us when things go wrong.
Em C G D
With every beat, with every song,
Em C G D
Our Battle Cry, keeps us strong.

Fan Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan is a devoted follower named Rachel. She has been supporting Queasy Duration since their early days and has attended every single one of their concerts. Rachel says, “Queasy Duration is my favorite band because their music speaks to me. It’s raw, it’s real, and it tackles emotions that we often shy away from. Their lyrics are poetic and their sound perfectly encapsulates the chaos of life. I believe in their journey and their music, and I can’t wait to see what they do next.”

Backstory:
Well-Documented Impact came together in the college town of Lawrence, Kansas in 2008. Founding members, Jason Rogers (vocals/guitar) and Ben Mitchell (drums), were roommates with a shared passion for music and the environment. It wasn’t long before they added bassist, Sarah Williams, to the mix who was also an environmental science major. The trio began to mold their unique sound in the basement of their shared house, utilizing their collective passion for Mother Earth and their love for music. They started to play in local bars and clubs, and their sincere commitment to environmental causes quickly garnered attention. Their well-researched lyrics paired with catchy rock hooks quickly had the town humming along.

Genre: Environmental Rock

Title: “Ozone Layer Love”

Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
G C
Underneath the blue sky,
D Em
Where the greens and blues lie,
G C
Breathing in the fresh air,
D Em
Feeling like it’s so rare.

(Chorus)
G C
Ozone layer love, it’s a gift from above,
D Em
Clouds rolling by, under the endless sky,
G C
Ozone layer love, hold it like a dove,
D Em
Let’s make a pact, to make an impact.

(Verse 2)
G C
Sun is getting hotter,
D Em
Water’s going shorter,
G C
Earth is calling for help,
D Em
It’s more than just the ice melt.

(Chorus)
G C
Ozone layer love, it’s a gift from above,
D Em
Clouds rolling by, under the endless sky,
G C
Ozone layer love, hold it like a dove,
D Em
Let’s make a pact, to make an impact.

(Outro)
G
Let’s make a pact,
C
To save our impact,
D Em
Ozone layer love, let’s rise above.

Fan Testimonial:
Fan Name: Tim Jones

“Well-Documented Impact is my favorite band because their music speaks to me on a deep, personal level. As an environmentalist myself, I appreciate how they use their platform to address important issues while creating catchy, listenable rock music. Each song is a call to action, and it’s impossible not to feel moved by their commitment to our planet. Their song ‘Ozone Layer Love’ reminds me of the importance of our individual and collective roles in saving the environment. Plus, it’s just a great jam!”

Backstory:
Slushy Cupboard was born in a small suburban garage in the bustling city of Austin, Texas. It all started when childhood friends, Billy “Blitz” Smith on vocals and guitar, and Jerry “Jazz” Johnson on drums, discovered their shared love for music during a high school talent show. Their infectious energy and unique sound soon caught the attention of Angie “Angel” Martinez, an ethereal keyboard player and vocalist, and finally, Lorrie “Loco” Thompson, an eccentric bass guitarist who added a touch of madness to their music. Their journey started as a local hit in the underground music scene, quickly raising the band to unprecedented fame.

Genre:
Slushy Cupboard plays a vibrant mix of Indie Pop with a touch of Psychedelic Rock.

Title:
“Melting Rainbows”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse)
C G Am E
Woke up this morning, sun in my eyes,
C G Am E
Found a note by the bed, but it’s no surprise,
C G Am E
She’s gone again, leaving trails of light,
C G Am E
I’m staring at the ceiling, lost in the night.

(Chorus)
F C G Am
Melting Rainbows, in a slushy cupboard,
F C G Am
Dreams are fading, like the colors she adored,
F C G Am
Running rivers, down the canvas of my heart,
F C G Am
Melting Rainbows, oh we are falling apart.

(Verse)
C G Am E
Turn the key, step outside, feeling the breeze,
C G Am E
Her scent in the wind, whispering through the trees,
C G Am E
She’s a memory now, like a fading song,
C G Am E
Nights are colder, since my love has gone.

(Chorus)
F C G Am
Melting Rainbows, in a slushy cupboard,
F C G Am
Tears are shaping, the silhouette of our world,
F C G Am
Echoing laughter, the ghost of her art,
F C G Am
Melting Rainbows, oh we’re back at the start.

Favorite fan:
Their favorite fan is a quirky, energetic young woman named Emma Thompson, who claims to have attended every single one of their performances, even going as far as traveling across states to catch them live. Emma’s dedication and love for their music have made her an integral part of the Slushy Cupboard family.

Testimonial:
“Slushy Cupboard’s music has a way of resonating with your soul. From their upbeat Indie-pop rhythms to the deep emotive lyrics, they create a beautiful chaos that you can’t help but get lost in. Their song “Melting Rainbows” is a testament to their creative prowess. The way they blend melancholy with hope is just pure magic. Being a part of their journey, watching them evolve and grow, has been an incredible experience. Their music feels like home to me.” – Emma Thompson

Backstory:
Bumpy Roll was formed accidentally in the bustling city of Chicago in 2015. It all started when a group of friends decided to participate in an impromptu jam session at a local pub’s open mic night. To their surprise, the audience was thoroughly impressed and demanded more. Realizing their shared passion and potential for music, they decided to form a band. The name ‘Bumpy Roll’ was inspired by their shared love for sushi and the rollercoaster ride of life.

The core members of the band include frontman Jack ‘Bumpy’ Thompson on vocals and rhythm guitar, Larry ‘Roll’ Peterson on lead guitar, Sarah ‘Smooth’ Davis on bass, and Tim ‘Crash’ O’Connor on drums. Each member brings a unique flavor to the table, blending their various musical influences to create a sound that’s uniquely their own.

Genre:
Bumpy Roll’s music is best described as a fusion of Blues Rock and Funk.

Title:
“Riding the Waves”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Am F C G
Rolling down the highway, under the midday sun,
Am F C G
Life’s a bumpy ride, but we’re just out here having fun.
Am F C G
Trading stories, sharing laughs, as we watch the world go by,
Am F C G
Sailing the asphalt ocean, under the open sky.

[Chorus]
Dm C G
Riding the waves, we’re riding so high,
Dm C G
In our lives, under the open sky.

[Verse 2]
Am F C G
City lights behind us, the open road ahead,
Am F C G
With the wind in our hair, there’s no path that we dread.
Am F C G
Every bend, every turn, a new story to be told,
Am F C G
We’re living this bumpy ride, with hearts that are bold.

[Chorus]
Dm C G
Riding the waves, we’re riding so high,
Dm C G
In our lives, under the open sky.

Fan Testimonial:
Bumpy Roll’s biggest fan, Angie Martinez, has this to say about the band: “Bumpy Roll is more than just a band to me. Their music is like a friend that never fails to bring me comfort. The raw honesty in their lyrics, combined with the energetic blues-funk sound, speaks to my soul. I’ve been to every one of their concerts in the tri-state area and their performances are electrifying! They have this incredible ability to connect with the audience and make them feel part of the show. Bumpy Roll isn’t just my favorite band, it’s a way of life.”