Backstory:
Harmful Tomatoe was born in the gritty suburbs of Detroit in 2010. The band’s core members were a group of high school friends, Emerson Fox (vocals/guitar), Jules Bailey (bass), Max Turner (drums), and Bella Roy (keyboard). They started out covering punk classics in their parent’s garages, but soon began writing their own songs, fuelled by their shared disillusionment with society. They quickly gained a reputation for their electrifying performances and unique sound that combined the raw energy of punk rock with the nuanced sophistication of indie rock. They rose to prominence in the late 2010s, with their breakthrough album “Seeds of Contention”, which captured the imagination of a disenchanted youth, eager for a music scene that wasn’t afraid to question authority and challenge societal norms.

Genre:
Punk-Indie Rock

Title:
“Ketchup Stains”

Song Lyrics:

Verse 1: [Em]Ripened on the vine, [G]Fallen out of time, [D]Sweet with a sour line, [A]Just like a crime.
[Em]Blossoms in the sun, [G]Our journey’s just begun, [D]No place to run, [A]Our fate is spun.

Chorus: [C]We are the harmful tomatoes, [G]Leaving our ketchup stains,
[D]Rotten but we’re not hollow, [Em]Born out of the city’s pains.

Verse 2: [Em]Grown in the concrete city, [G]Under the neon rain,
[D]Life’s not always pretty, [A]In the fast lane.
[Em]We are the seeds of contention, [G]In the world’s disdain,
[D]Fighting the tension, [A]With our punk refrain.

Chorus: [C]We are the harmful tomatoes, [G]Leaving our ketchup stains,
[D]Rotten but we’re not hollow, [Em]Born out of the city’s pains.

Bridge: [F]Ripe with rebellion, [C]In our veins,
[G]We won’t be silent, [D]In these chains.

Chorus: [C]We are the harmful tomatoes, [G]Leaving our ketchup stains,
[D]Rotten but we’re not hollow, [Em]Born out of the city’s pains.

Outro: [Em]We are the harmful tomatoes, [G]And we’ll leave our stains,
[D]Rotten but we’re not hollow, [A]Singing in the city’s veins.

Band’s Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a balmy night owl named Luna. Luna is Harmful Tomatoe’s biggest fan because she says their music “speaks to her soul”. She discovered Harmful Tomatoe at a low point in her life and their song “Ketchup Stains” was a beacon of hope for her. Luna says, “Harmful Tomatoe is my favorite band because their music isn’t just sound, it’s an experience. It’s raw, real, and rebellious – just like life. It’s not afraid to question, to scream, and to push the boundaries. Their music has been a constant companion in my journey, helping me navigate the complexities of life and society. It’s more than just music – it’s a lifeline.”

Backstory:
Shabby Gate was formed in the quaint town of Bakersfield, California. The band’s three members, Jake (guitar and lead vocals), Riley (drums), and Austin (bass and backing vocals), had always been the best of friends since their high school days. On a lazy summer afternoon inside Jake’s shabby garden gate, where they frequently hung out, they decided to start making music together. The name “Shabby Gate” was born out of that very moment, symbolizing their humble beginnings and the gateway to their shared dream.

The band’s early days were filled with small gigs in local bars, private parties, and street performances. They practiced tirelessly in Jake’s garage, honing their skills and developing their unique sound. What started as a mere pastime soon turned into a devoted passion, as they found themselves writing and producing songs that resonated with their growing audiences.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Dusty Roads”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em
Down the dusty roads we rode,
G
Chasing dreams, tales untold.
C
Left our childhood homes behind,
D
Seeking what we’d yet to find.

(Chorus)
Em G
Underneath the Shabby Gate,
C D
Singing songs of love and fate.
Em G
Strumming chords of yesterday,
C D
On our journey, come what may.

(Verse 2)
Em
With guitars and drumsticks in our hands,
G
We spun stories of distant lands.
C
Underneath the twilight’s glow,
D
Our music began to flow.

(Chorus)
Em G
Underneath the Shabby Gate,
C D
Weaving dreams in notes so great.
Em G
In our hearts, the music stayed,
C D
In every song that we had played.

Favorite Fan:
Lily Thompson is Shabby Gate’s number one fan. She first stumbled upon the band during one of their street performances in Bakersfield. Moved by their raw talent and passionate performance, she’s been an ardent follower ever since.

Lily says, “There’s something incredibly authentic about Shabby Gate. They’re not just making music – they’re telling stories, sharing experiences, and creating a community. Their music speaks to me on a personal level and it’s something that I’ve not seen in any other band. They’ve got this unique blend of poignant lyrics and powerful melodies that just hits home. Shabby Gate is my favorite band because they’re real, they’re passionate, and they make music that matters.”

Backstory:

Sweet Mr. was born out of a chance meeting in a run-down coffee shop in the heart of London. In 2011, lead singer and songwriter, Jake Matthews, was playing an acoustic set in the corner, trying to distract himself from heartbreak. That night, resident barista and secret drummer, Tom Peterson, heard Jake’s raw talent and suggested they create something together. Soon after, they found guitarist Rachel Austin and bassist Chris Davis in the same coffee shop, both musicians escaping the monotony of their day jobs. The quartet immediately clicked, and Sweet Mr. was formed.

Their journey hasn’t been smooth sailing, they grappled with label rejections, financial struggles, and personal trials. But through their struggle they found their sound, a unique blend of evocative lyrics and infectious melodies that resonate with their fans. Their shared passion for music and friendship has kept them going, and they are now hitting their stride on the global stage.

Genre:
Indie Pop-Rock

Song Title:
“Coffee Shop Wonders”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am – Em – G – D
I saw you in that coffee shop, heart broken by the rain
In the corner, playing a song, to drown the pain
We were just strangers, on those wooden chairs
But something told me, we had stories to share

(Chorus)
C – G – D – Em
We’re the coffee shop wonders, the dreamers undercover
Lost in the grind, with the world to discover
With every sip, we’re writing a song
In this coffee shop, is where we belong

(Verse 2)
Am – Em – G – D
In the quiet whisper of the espresso machine
We found our rhythm, in the city’s unseen
Under the dim lights, we shared our dreams
And from that moment, we became a team

(Chorus)
C – G – D – Em
We’re the coffee shop wonders, the dreamers undercover
In the day’s hustle, we found each other
With every lyric, we’re weaving a tale
In this coffee shop, we will never fail

Bridge
F – C – G – Am
The world may not know us, but we’re okay
For we have our music, and it’s here to stay
In the warmth of this place, we found our sound
We’re the coffee shop wonders, and we’re homeward bound.

Testimonial:

Fan’s Name: Emma Hartley

“Sweet Mr. has been my favorite band for years now. The raw emotion and authenticity in their music take me to a different place. The song “Coffee Shop Wonders” especially resonates with me as it reminds me of my time working in a coffee shop and dreaming of bigger things. Their journey is inspiring, their music is uplifting, and their lyrics hit right where they should. I have always found solace and understood myself better through their songs. Sweet Mr. is not just a band for me, they are life’s soundtrack.”

Backstory:

Pure Plane is a band that formed in the heart of Portland, Oregon in 2010. The four members met in college, all attending for different majors but all sharing a love for music. They started playing music together in dorm rooms and quickly realized they had something special. The members, Jake Brock on vocals, Lisa Sanders on guitar, Gary Loomis on drums, and Kelsey Davis on bass, decided to take their passion for music to the next level and thus, Pure Plane was born.

In their early years, they played many local gigs, winning over fans with their unique sound and genuine passion for their music. Their big break came in 2013, when they were spotted by a talent scout at a music festival. Since then, Pure Plane has been living their dream, touring the world, and making music that speaks to the heart.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Mesmerize”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] It’s in your eyes [D] that I see my place,
[C] Beautiful lies, [Em] in your warm embrace.
[G] I’m floating high, [D] lost in your daze,
[C] You’re my sky, [Em] I’m in your space.

(Chorus)
[D] Mesmerize me with your love, [G] take me to the stars above.
[C] Our hearts beat in sync, [Em] on the brink of a perfect love.
[D] You’re the melody to my song, [G] with you is where I belong.
[C] Hold me close, [Em] in your arms, I’m strong.

(Verse 2)
[G] Through the chaos and the noise, [D] you’re my peace.
[C] In the crowd, your voice [Em] brings me release.
[G] You’re my north, [D] my guiding light,
[C] With you, everything [Em] feels right.

(Chorus)
[D] Mesmerize me with your love, [G] take me to the stars above.
[C] Our hearts beat in sync, [Em] on the brink of a perfect love.
[D] You’re the melody to my song, [G] with you is where I belong.
[C] Hold me close, [Em] in your arms, I’m strong.

(Fan’s Testimonial)
Name: Sarah Johnson

“I’ve been a fan of Pure Plane since I saw their first gig in a small pub in Portland. Their music has been a constant in my life ever since. The song ‘Mesmerize’ has a special place in my heart. It’s about love, but it’s also about finding peace and strength in someone else, which resonates deeply with me. Jake, Lisa, Gary, and Kelsey are not just musicians, they’re storytellers. They bring feelings to life through their songs, and that’s why they are my favorite band. Every performance is a journey, and I’m glad to be a part of it.”

Backstory:
Born from the vibrant Parisian music scene, French Storm is a unique fusion of four eclectic musicians hailing from different corners of France. They came together in 2015, and through a shared love for eclectic music and a desire to make something truly unique, the band was born. They quickly gained local fame through small underground concerts and soon broke into the mainstream music scene in France. Their blend of traditional French music elements with modern sounds and techniques has won them a dedicated fanbase not just in France but across the globe.

Genre:
French Storm’s music is an exciting mix of Pop Rock and Electronic Dance Music, with a dash of traditional French elements. Their music is known for its catchy hooks, energetic rhythms, and soul-stirring lyrics.

Title:
“Café in the Rain”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse1:
[Em] Sitting in a [G] café, as the [D] rain begins to [Am] pour
[Em] Watching through the [G] window, as the [D] crowd begins to [Am] roar

Chorus:
[C] In this French storm, [G] we find our [D] calm
[Em] Dancing in the [G] rain, [D] holding your [Am] arm

Verse2:
[Em] Sipping on my [G] coffee, [D] laughter fills the [Am] air
[Em] With every [G] drop that [D] falls, I feel your [Am] stare

Chorus:
[C] In this French storm, [G] we find our [D] peace
[Em] Lost in the [G] rhythm, [D] time seems to [Am] cease

Bridge:
[C] In this city of love, [G] under the stormy [D] sky
[Em] Our hearts beat [G] to the rhythm, [D] as the world passes [Am] by

Chorus:
[C] In this French storm, [G] we find our [D] joy
[Em] Dancing under the [G] rain, [D] free like a [Am] boy

Outro:
[Em] As the [G] storm slowly [D] fades, under the [Am] Parisian light
[Em] In your arms, [G] everything feels [D] right. [Am]

The band’s favorite fan’s name:
Camille Dufresne

Testimonial:
“French Storm isn’t just a band for me, it’s a way of life. Their music resonates with my soul and makes me experience emotions that I didn’t know existed. I remember the first song I heard from them, ‘Café in the Rain’, during a particularly hard time in my life. Their music has helped me through my darkest days and made my best days even better. To me, they are not just a band, they are my heart’s melody.”

Backstory:

Dutiful Bill was born from the ashes of an abandoned factory in the heart of Cleveland, Ohio. The band members, comprising of friends since high school- Billy Johnson, Jake Davis, Susie Williams, and Maxine Johnson, use their music as an escape from the mundane routine of their daily lives. Their name “Dutiful Bill” originated out of a combination of their lead vocalist, Billy Johnson’s childhood nickname and their collective desire to remain loyal to their roots and hometown. When they aren’t at their day jobs, they are in their makeshift studio, churning out one song after another, with the hope of making it big one day.

In their early days, they performed in local bars and small-time gigs. They captured the hearts of the locals with their raw energy and honest lyrics. Over time, their popularity began to grow, and they started receiving invites to perform at bigger venues, even opening for renowned acts. Their dream of making it big in the music industry seems to be slowly turning into a reality.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Song Title:

“Whiskey Lullaby”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Dm G C
Whiskey lullaby, under the moon’s cry,
Am Em F
Look how far we’ve come, ain’t it a surprise?
Dm G C
Trapped in the rhythm, lost in the night,
Am Em F
The music’s on, and baby we’re alright.

(Chorus)
Dm G C
Sing to me a whiskey lullaby,
Am Em F
Under starlight with teardrops in our eyes.
Dm G C
Through the pain, through the highs,
Am Em F
We’re dancing with a whiskey lullaby.

(Verse 2)
Dm G C
Through the smoke, through the crowd,
Am Em F
We sway, lost and found.
Dm G C
In the heat, in the chill,
Am Em F
With our hearts, we’ll fill.

(Chorus)
Dm G C
Sing to me a whiskey lullaby,
Am Em F
Under starlight with teardrops in our eyes.
Dm G C
Through the pain, through the highs,
Am Em F
We’re dancing with a whiskey lullaby.

The band’s favorite fan:

Dutiful Bill’s biggest fan is Sarah Thompson. Sarah has been following the band since their first gig in a local bar. She loves Dutiful Bill because their music resonates with her. Their lyrics, full of raw emotion and honesty, help her escape from her daily struggles. She says, “Dutiful Bill is not just a band for me, they are my solace. Their music is my sanctuary when the world gets too loud. Their authenticity and dedication to their craft are what sets them apart. They are my favorite band because they remind me to find beauty in the chaos and to never lose hope.”

Backstory:
Authorized Art was born out of a small art college in Seattle, Washington in 2012. Four young art students, Liam Baker (Lead vocals, guitar), Toby Hart (Drums), Rachel Jones (Bass) and Ethan Lewis (Keyboard, backup vocals), found their passion for music while experimenting with sounds during their sound art classes. They started off playing for college parties and local bars, but their unique sound and vibrant energy quickly gained a loyal fan base. Seeing an opportunity to combine their love for art and music, they named themselves ‘Authorized Art’, symbolizing their fusion of different mediums of art and their authorization to make music that challenged conventions.

After graduation, they moved to Los Angeles and started playing at bigger venues. Their breakthrough moment came in 2015 when they were spotted by a renowned record producer at a gig who signed them on immediately. Their debut album was an unexpected hit, making them one of the most promising indie bands of the year.

Genre: Indie Rock/Alternative Rock

Title: “Canvas in Chaos”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G]Painted dreams on a midnight sky, [Em] we’re just artists in disguise
[C] Chasing colors as we collide, [D] living in a twisted paradise
[G] Shadows dance on our canvas of life, [Em] creating chaos out of strife
[C] Every brush stroke cuts like a knife, [D] illustrating our fearless flight

(Chorus)
[G] We’re a canvas in chaos, [D] lost in the art
[Em] Drawing our story, [C] straight from the heart
[G] We won’t let the world tear us apart
[D] ‘Cause we are, we are, [Em] Authorized Art. [C] (repeat)

(Verse 2)
[G] Sketching dreams on the city streets, [Em] feeling the rhythm, moving our feet
[C] The world’s our stage, we won’t accept defeat, [D] every sound is a symphony so sweet

(Chorus)
[G] We’re a canvas in chaos, [D] lost in the art
[Em] Drawing our story, [C] straight from the heart
[G] We won’t let the world tear us apart
[D] ‘Cause we are, we are, [Em] Authorized Art. [C] (repeat)
(End with a slow version of the chorus)

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is named Grace Allen. Grace is a college student who has been following Authorized Art since their days playing at small gigs in Seattle. She sees them as a source of inspiration and their music has helped her through tough times. She says, “I love how their music blends with my love of art. Their lyrics speak to me on a different level and it’s like they’re painting a vivid picture with their words. I feel seen, heard, and understood when I listen to them. It’s like they’ve taken my thoughts, emotions, and turned them into these beautiful songs. They’re not just a band to me, they’re my lifeline.”

Backstory:

High Peace is a unique musical collaboration that hails from the vibrant neighborhoods of Brooklyn, New York. Founded in 2010, it was a chance meeting for the four members when they were all working as music teachers in the same school. They found common ground in their love for harmonious sounds and passion for spreading peace and unity through music. They soon started jamming together after school hours, creating a distinct blend from their varied musical backgrounds, and thus, High Peace was born.

The band rose to fame when a video of an impromptu performance in Central Park went viral. Their vibrant, soulful sound, combined with the uplifting messages in their lyrics, caught the attention of the public and the music industry. Ever since, High Peace has been creating waves in the music scene with their unique genre and inspiring performances.

Genre:
Fusion of Soul, Rock, and Reggae

Title:
“Unity in Diversity”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
G D Em C
In a world of black and white,
G D Em C
We see shades of hope and light,
G D Em C
Every color, every creed, together we bleed,
G D Em C
Unity in diversity, is all we need.

[Chorus]
Em C G D
We’re High Peace, we’re on a mission
Em C G D
To spread love and end division,
Em C G D
With our songs, our ambition,
Em C G D
Is a world with no condition.

[Verse 2]
G D Em C
In the heart of the city, or the rural scene,
G D Em C
Love is the language that we all mean,
G D Em C
With every beat, every rhythm we weave,
G D Em C
High Peace is the peace we believe.

(Repeat Chorus)

[Bridge]
Em D C G
Look beyond the lines, rise above the hate,
Em D C G
With High Peace, it’s never too late,
Em D C G
Unity in diversity, let’s seal our fate,
Em D C G
With High Peace, let’s create.

(Repeat Chorus)

End with:
G D Em C
High Peace, unity, we believe.

Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan’s name is Amy, a young woman from Connecticut who found our music during a tough time in her life. She has often mentioned how our song “Unity in Diversity” became her anthem during her recovery from a serious illness. With a heart full of gratitude and joy, Amy attends all our concerts and is a shining symbol of the power of music to heal and unite. Her favorite song is our biggest hit, “Unity in Diversity.” She says, “High Peace isn’t just a band for me, it’s a ray of hope, a beacon of positivity. Their music resonates with every fiber of my being, reminding me of the power of unity and peace. I’m forever grateful to them for creating such empowering music.”

Backstory:
Caring Attack emerged from the vibrant yet chaotic music scene of Brooklyn, New York in 2012. The band was formed by four close friends – lead vocalist/guitarist Max “Mad Max” Stevens, bassist Oliver “Ollie” Jones, drummer Vincent “Vinnie” Kelly, and keyboardist Patricia “Pat” Davis. These college friends with a shared passion for music were determined to create something that would fuse their diverse musical influences into a potent mix of sound and emotions. After countless jam sessions in basements and garage studios, they realized they could create a unique sonic blend, and so, Caring Attack was born.

The band gained a reputation for their lively performances and engaging storytelling approach to songwriting. Their music resonated with the listeners, and they quickly built a loyal following. They released their debut self-titled album, ‘Caring Attack’, in 2014, which received rave reviews and firmly established them as a force to be reckoned with in the indie music scene.

Genre:
Indie Rock/Alternative Pop

Title:
“Unseen Light”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1:
[G] I’ve been walking down this road all night
[D] Under the cover of an unseen light
[Em] Got a heart full of dreams, in my pocket a dime
[C] I’m just looking for a sign.

Chorus:
[G] Unseen light, [D] guide me right,
[Em] Through the shadows of the night,
[C] Oh unseen light, [G] out of sight,
[D] Lead me to the morning light.

Verse 2:
[G] On this journey, I’ve got no map,
[D] But the rhythm of the road, and the beat in my lap,
[Em] With every step, I leave behind a trace,
[C] Of love, fear, and grace.

Repeat Chorus:

[G] Unseen light, [D] guide me right,
[Em] Through the shadows of the night,
[C] Oh unseen light, [G] out of sight,
[D] Lead me to the morning light.

Favorite Fan Testimonial:
“My name is Sarah, and I am, without a doubt, Caring Attack’s biggest fan. I remember stumbling upon their debut album back in 2014 when I was going through a tough time. Their music, especially the song ‘Unseen Light’, spoke to me on a deep level. It was like they were narrating my own feelings and experiences. The lyrics are profound, the melody is infectious, and the band’s energy is just incredible. It feels like they genuinely care about their fans, and that’s so important. They have accompanied me on my journey, comforting me, encouraging me, and inspiring me. Caring Attack is more than just a band to me; they’re like a lifelong friend.”

Backstory:

Disloyal Period originated in the bustling city of Seattle, Washington, in 2008. The band was created by a quartet of friends trying to express their individuality and question the status quo. The members, lead singer and guitarist Henry ‘Hank’ Michaels, drummer Alex ‘Smash’ Henderson, bassist Simon ‘Bassman’ Williams, and keyboardist Rachel ‘Mystic’ Myers, found common ground in their shared disillusionment and need for self-expression. They began by performing in small clubs and basements, slowly gathering a loyal following of fans who appreciated their unique sound and message.

Over time, Disloyal Period has faced numerous challenges, including changing music trends and internal discord. Despite these hurdles, they have persevered, staying true to their roots and refusing to compromise their sound. Their music is a powerful testament to their journey, full of raw emotion and authentic lyrics that resonate with many listeners far and wide.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Against the Current”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em Am D G
You’re being pulled by the mainstream, can’t you see,
Em Am D G
Lost your soul to the corporate machine, just like me.
Em Am D G
But I found my way, in the shadows I play,
Em Am D G
Against the current, a bold precedent, I say.

(Chorus)
C D Em G
Wake up, break free, don’t follow the herd,
C D Em G
Find your voice, let it be heard.
C D Em G
Fight the fight, against the current we strive,
C D Em G
Swim upstream, keep the rebellion alive.

(Verse 2)
Em Am D G
In the face of conformity, we stand tall,
Em Am D G
With words as our weapons, we won’t fall.
Em Am D G
Against the current, we’ll continue to fight,
Em Am D G
With the rhythm of rebellion, we ignite the night.

(Chorus)
C D Em G
Wake up, break free, don’t follow the herd,
C D Em G
Find your voice, let it be heard.
C D Em G
Fight the fight, against the current we stride,
C D Em G
Swim upstream, keep the rebellion alive.

The band’s favorite fan:

Name: Emily ‘Em’ Dawson

Testimonial:

“Disloyal Period has been my favorite band since I first heard ‘Against the Current’ in a dingy club in Portland. Their music resonates with me on so many levels. It’s not just the unique sound, it’s their raw and genuine lyrics that really speak to me. They question the norms, they rebel against the mainstream, and they inspire listeners like me to find our own voices. Despite the challenges they’ve faced, they’ve remained true to their roots and that’s something I really admire. In my eyes, they’re not just a band, they’re a movement.”