Backstory:

Born from the ashes of a failed high school science project, the enigmatic trio that forms ‘Astonishing Diagram’ comprises of Jake Matthews on vocals and guitar, Terry Leckner on bass and Andy Carr on drums. They were seniors at LakeView High School when the infamous chemistry lab explosion occurred. The accident, thankfully non-fatal, resulted in the trio being sidelined from the academic track. This allowed them to converge on their mutual passion for music. The name ‘Astonishing Diagram’ is a quirky nod to their explosive origin, reflecting their shared trajectory from science enthusiasts to rock musicians.

Genre:

‘Astonishing Diagram’ straddles the lines between alternative rock and indie pop, creating an interesting blend of grungy guitar riffs, melodic bass lines, and dynamic drumming. Their music often features introspective lyrics layered over upbeat music, creating a contrasting yet harmonious musical experience.

Title:

“Stratospheric Rose”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Under the cobalt blue, I found a [D] stratospheric rose
[Em] Dancing in the wind, where the [C] wild excitement flows
[G] With petals of dreams, it [D] sways with the unknown
[Em] A symbol of love, in the [C] chaos we’re thrown

(Chorus)
[G] Stratospheric rose, [D] a beacon in the storm
[Em] Amidst the cold space, your [C] love keeps me warm
[G] With you, I can withstand the [D] cosmic storm
[Em] Stratospheric rose, in your [C] light, I transform

(Verse 2)
[G] In the silent night, under the [D] star’s jovial glow
[Em] The stratospheric rose, spreads [C] peace in the shadow
[G] It hums a sweet melody, a [D] symphony of hope
[Em] Echoing through the void, helping [C] us to cope

(Repeat Chorus)

(Bridge)
[Em] The universe is vast, full of [C] mysteries untold
[G] But with the stratospheric rose, I’ve found [D] something to hold
[Em] In the cosmic garden, where [C] we write our own fate
[G] Stratospheric rose, with you, it’s [D] never too late

(Repeat Chorus)

Favorite Fan Testimonial:

‘Fan’s Name: Stefan Richards’

“I’ve been following ‘Astonishing Diagram’ ever since their first gig at our local pub. Their music, a perfect blend of indie pop and alternative rock, has this unexplainable charm that really speaks to me. Their song ‘Stratospheric Rose’ especially resonates with me due to its optimistic and introspective lyrics. The band’s story, their passion for music, and the way they’ve turned a setback into an opportunity, really inspires me. I’m proud to be a part of their journey and I can’t wait to see where they go next. ‘Astonishing Diagram’ is more than just a band to me, they are a symbol of resilience and creativity.”

Backstory:
Grave Cheese was born from the ashes of a failed late-night cook-off between childhood friends and aspiring musicians, Bob “Bones” Thompson and Tim “Cheddar” Waters. On one drunken night in their shared apartment in Austin, Texas, the duo tried to combine their love for music and cheese and inadvertently created a cheese dish so terrible, they thought it was “fit for a grave”. They both laughed so hard that night, they decided to start a band and christened it Grave Cheese. Joined by their sweet-voiced neighbor, Jenny “Mozzarella” Lane, and an enthusiastic drummer from the local music scene, Dave “Gorgonzola” Harrington, Grave Cheese started rocking the local music scene with their quirky yet heartfelt tunes.

Genre:
Indie Rock/Alternative

Title:
“Cheddar is Better”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1] (G, E, A, C)
G E
I met a girl, she was so sweet,
A C
Her eyes were blue, her smile so neat,
G E
She loved her Brie, she loved her Feta,
A C
But I wanted to tell her, Cheddar is better.

[Chorus] (D, B, E, G)
D B
I know it’s just cheese, not a love letter,
E G
But darling, believe me, Cheddar is better.

[Verse 2] (G, E, A, C)
G E
Went on a date, under the moon’s glow,
A C
She ordered Gouda, I said no,
G E
Got a block of Cheddar, felt like a go-getter,
A C
Looked in her eyes, said Cheddar is better.

[Chorus] (D, B, E, G)
D B
I know it’s just cheese, not a love letter,
E G
But darling, believe me, Cheddar is better.

[Bridge] (A, F, C, G)
A F
I don’t mean to be a trendsetter,
C G
But trust me, darling, Cheddar is better.

[Chorus] (D, B, E, G)
D B
I know it’s just cheese, not a love letter,
E G
But darling, believe me, Cheddar is better.

[Outro] (G, D)
G D
With you and Cheddar, life couldn’t be better.

Fan’s Testimonial:
My name is Sarah “Swiss” Mitchell, and I’m the biggest Grave Cheese fan out there! Why? Because they’re all about good tunes, good laughs, and good cheese! Their song “Cheddar is Better” is my anthem. Every time I hear it, I remember to enjoy life’s simple pleasures, like a block of Cheddar. It’s not just a band for me, it’s a way of life. Long live Grave Cheese!

Backstory:

Instructive Cycle formed in 2010, when four college friends – Ryan, Ben, Molly, and Sam – realized they shared a mutual passion for music. They started jamming together in their free time, creating a unique sound that blended their differing musical tastes. The band’s name, Instructive Cycle, came about when they acknowledged that their songs are like life lessons, presented in a cyclical format, to reflect the ups and downs of life.

Over the years, the band has managed to build a loyal fan base, touring across the country and releasing two studio albums. Known for their soulful lyrics and catchy tunes, Instructive Cycle continues to inspire and entertain fans with their music.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Song Title:

“Riding the Echoes”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1 – C, G, Am, F]
(C)
Tonight we’re riding the echoes,
(G)
In the depth of the night when nobody knows,
(Am)
We’re painting pictures with songs,
(F)
Caught in the rhythm where everyone belongs.

[Chorus – G, F, C, G]
(G)
Riding the echoes, it’s you and me,
(F)
In this spiral of melodies, we are free,
(C)
Each note is a story, each chord a plea,
(G)
In the music, we find our infinity.

[Verse 2 – C, G, Am, F]
(C)
Our dreams are like drumbeats,
(G)
In the quiet of the night where solitude meets,
(Am)
Our words are like guitar strings,
(F)
Resonating, telling of unseen things.

[Chorus – G, F, C, G]
(G)
Riding the echoes, caught in the flow,
(F)
Between the silence and the afterglow,
(C)
Every lyric is a promise, every rhythm a creed,
(G)
In the music, we find all that we need.

Fan Testimonial:

Fan’s Name – Jessica Lane

Jessica Lane, a devoted fan, has been following Instructive Cycle since their early days. Jessica shares, “I’ve been a huge fan of Instructive Cycle from the start. Their music speaks volumes about who they are and what they believe in. It’s not just about catchy tunes, but also about profound meanings, which adds depth to their songs. It’s like they’re sharing a part of their soul with us. Their song ‘Riding the Echoes’ is my personal favorite. It’s a perfect blend of melody and lyrics that touches the heart. Instructive Cycle isn’t just a band for me, it’s a lifeline.”

Backstory:
Shameless Women is an all-female band that emerged from the heart of Seattle in 2012. The band comprises four childhood friends – Sofia, Chloe, Jessica, and Megan – who started their musical journey in their high school garage. Their shared love for music and unwavering bond led them to the stage of local open mic nights, which eventually propelled them into the limelight of the alternative rock scene. The band’s name, Shameless Women, is an unapologetic tribute to their fearless persona and their desire to challenge the status quo.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Empire of Our Own”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
C G Am F
Beneath the stars, we share our dreams,
Dancing in the night, tearing at the seams.
Our heart beats loud, in the quiet town,
Rising from the ground, we wear our crown.

(Chorus)
C G Am F
We’re Shameless Women, strong and free,
Building an empire, for all to see.
Come join the rebellion, take a stand,
In unity, we’ll paint this land.

(Verse 2)
C G Am F
We sing our truth, against the tide,
Refusing to hide, with pride we collide.
Our voices loud, echoing the night,
In the darkness, we’re the light.

(Chorus)
C G Am F
We’re Shameless Women, daring and bold,
In our hands, we hold the world.
Join the sisterhood, break the mold,
Together we’ll watch the story unfold.

Fan Favorite:
Emily Johnson

Testimonial:
“I’ve been a fan of Shameless Women since their early days of performing at local bars in Seattle. Their energy, passion, and raw talent was always evident. They’re not just a band; they’re a symbol of empowerment and unity, especially for women. Their music is so relatable – it speaks to my soul. The first time I heard ‘Empire of Our Own’, I was moved to tears. They made me realize that we, women, are all powerful and capable of building our own empires. Shameless Women will always be my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Formed in the bustling heart of Brooklyn, New York, in 2008, Downright Justice emerged from the underground punk scene, fueled by a desire to shake up the status quo. The four members, lead vocalist and guitarist Rocco, bassist Dave, drummer Trace, and keyboardist Ash, were childhood friends who discovered their shared passion for music during their high school years. Their bond grew stronger as they began jamming in Rocco’s parents’ basement, using their music to voice their frustrations about societal injustices and political corruption. Driven to inspire change and raise awareness about these issues, they took their message to the streets, quickly gaining a loyal following for their raw, hard-hitting sound and thought-provoking lyrics.

Genre:
Punk Rock

Title:
“Voices in the Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[A] Crumbling walls, [E] broken dreams,
[D] Whispered tales of corrupt regimes.
[A] In the alleys where the [E] forgotten dwell,
[D] Their stories, we are [A] here to tell.

(Chorus)
[G] Rise up, stand tall, [D] don’t let them silence us,
[A] We are the voices in the shadows, [E] causing a fuss.
[G] Fight for the truth, [D] break through the lies,
[A] We’re Downright Justice, [E] hear our cries.

(Verse 2)
[A] Fear and lies, [E] power’s game,
[D] But we won’t be pawns in [A] their shame.
[A] With every chord and [E] every line,
[D] We’re shining light [A] on their crime.

(Chorus)
[G] Rise up, stand tall, [D] don’t let them break us down,
[A] We’re the voices from the shadows, [E] reclaiming our town.
[G] Fight for the truth, [D] expose their deceit,
[A] We’re Downright Justice, [E] we won’t be beat.

Fan’s Testimonial:
My name is Lily, and I am an unapologetic Downright Justice superfan. Their music is not just entertainment, it’s a call to action. They blend punk rock with profound, socially-aware lyrics that resonate with my very core. Every time I listen to “Voices in the Shadows”, I feel more aware, more rebellious, more alive. They don’t just make music for the sake of it; they use their platform to inspire change, and that’s what makes them my favorite band. They’re not afraid to question the system and advocate for justice. They remind me that my voice matters. That’s the power of Downright Justice.

Backstory:

Organic Route was born in the heart of Portland, Oregon, as a meeting point for four friends with a shared passion for music and the environment. They were all studying at the same college, each with a different major – botany, environmental science, philosophy, and music. They used to jam together in the common room of their dormitory, mixing their ideas and concepts to create a unique, harmony-infused sound. After they graduated, they decided to take their casual music sessions to a professional level. Thus, Organic Route was formed, their name reflecting their shared love for nature and organic living.

Their journey began with small gigs at local cafes and gradually, they started gaining recognition for their unique lyrics and sound. They got their big break when they were noticed by a talent scout at one of their performances at a local music festival. Since then, there’s been no looking back for Organic Route. Their aim remains to inspire people through their music to live a more sustainable and organic lifestyle and to respect Mother Nature.

Genre:

Folk Rock/Indie Pop

Song Title:

“Echoes from the Earth”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C]Underneath the canopies, [G]underneath the sun,
[A]We hear the whispers, the echoes have begun.
[C]Roots deeply grounded, [G]leaves start to sway,
[A]Organic Route’s playing, come on let’s play.

(Chorus)
[F]Echoes from the Earth, [G]sounding clear and loud,
[C]Calling us to listen, to stand up and be proud.
[F]Echoes from the Earth, [G] circling the sun,
[C]Our journey’s just starting, it’s far from done.

(Verse 2)
[C]In the heart of the city, [G]or in the country wide,
[A]Echoes are whispering, no place to hide.
[C]With each beat of the drum, [G] with each strum and note,
[A]Organic Route’s sailing, come on let’s float.

(Chorus)
[F]Echoes from the Earth, [G]by the river, by the sea,
[C]Living life organically, living life free.
[F]Echoes from the Earth, [G] in the wind and the rain,
[C]Our journey’s just starting, there’s so much to gain.

Favorite Fan Testimonial:

My name is Mindy and I am Organic Route’s biggest fan. I found their music during a difficult time in my life, and it provided a sense of solace and peace that I desperately needed. Their harmonious blend of folk and indie pop, topped with thoughtful lyrics about nature and sustainability, was like a breath of fresh air. The band’s love for the planet and their commitment to spreading awareness about sustainable living through their music has deeply inspired me. As a result, I’ve made significant changes in my lifestyle to be more eco-friendly. Organic Route isn’t just a band for me, they are my inspiration, my guiding star.

Backstory:
Magnificent Case is an ensemble of five talented musicians who met in the city of Boulder, Colorado. Originally, they were five different solo artists who often performed at the same local bar, entertaining the patrons. During one such performance, there was a sudden power outage, and to keep the crowd entertained, the five decided to perform together, improvising with their respective instruments. The resulting music was an enthralling blend of their individual talents that captivated everyone present. Witnessing their unexpected popularity, they decided to formally establish a band, naming it after the bar’s most ordered drink – the ‘Magnificent Case’.

Their journey was not without challenges. Each member came from a different musical background, and their diverse styles initially caused clashes. However, with time, they learned to appreciate their differences and blend their unique sounds into a harmonious fusion. They began performing at local festivals, charity concerts, and small-time gigs, eventually gaining a steady fan base. Now, they are renowned for their eclectic music and live performances and are a regular feature at local music festivals.

Genre:
Folk-Rock Fusion

Title:
“Starfall”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Am C G D
Walking down the road of solitude, under the light of the moon
Am C G D
The sky is a canvas painted with stars, singing a beautiful tune

(Chorus)
Am C G D
Starfall, Starfall, guide me through the night
Am C G D
Lead me to the dawn, with your silver light

(Verse 2)
Am C G D
The rustle of the wind, whispers stories untold
Am C G D
Of love, of loss, of courage, of the bold

(Chorus)
Am C G D
Starfall, Starfall, light up the sky
Am C G D
Illuminate the path, as the night goes by

Favorite fan’s name:
George Smith

Testimonial:
George Smith, a local music enthusiast and a staunch fan of Magnificent Case, shares his love for the band, “Magnificent Case, in my opinion, is a gift to music. Their sounds are a blend of unique styles that resonates with my soul. I love how their music tells stories, their lyrics are poetry, and the raw emotions their music evokes are truly remarkable. Their song ‘Starfall’ is on repeat on my playlist. It encapsulates the beauty of night, the magic of stars, the peace in solitude, and the alluring mystery of nature. I am proud to be a fan of Magnificent Case. Their music is my refuge, my joy, and my inspiration.”

Backstory:
Original Evening was born in the heart of the artsy neighborhood of Soho, New York in the late 1990s. The band was composed of four friends: frontman and guitarist, Jack O’Riley, bassist, Samantha Walker, drummer, Max “Thunder” Jackson, and keyboardist, Tim “Keys” Reynolds. They found their soul of music within the confines of their small garage, jamming out and creating a unique sound that was a combination of their diverse musical influences. What started as just friends hanging out, slowly morphed into something bigger than they could have ever imagined, as their music began to resonate with the eclectic, diverse crowd of Soho, setting them on a path of local fame and beyond.

Genre:
Indie Rock infused with elements of Neo-psychedelia and Post-punk revival

Song Title:
“Underneath the Neon Lights”

Full song lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Am G D
Walking down the boulevard, late at night
Am G D
Underneath the neon lights, feeling right
Am G D
Strangers passing by, lost in their own fight
Am G D
In this city of dreams, we take flight

[Chorus]
C G D
Underneath the neon lights, we find our way
C G D
Caught in the rhythm of the night, we sway
C G D
In the echoes of the city’s heartbeat, we play
C G D
Underneath the neon lights, we stay

[Verse 2]
Am G D
Graffiti walls tell stories untold
Am G D
In this city of silver and gold, we hold
Am G D
To the dreams, to the love, to the bold
Am G D
Underneath the neon lights, we unfold

[Chorus]
C G D
Underneath the neon lights, we find our way
C G D
Caught in the rhythm of the night, we sway
C G D
In the echoes of the city’s heartbeat, we play
C G D
Underneath the neon lights, we stay

Fan Testimonial:

Fan’s Name: Laura Sinclair

Why and How is this band her favorite:

Laura Sinclair, who is also known as ‘The Lady in Red’ by the band, is a diehard Original Evening fan. She’s been following them since their first gig in a small coffee shop in Soho. She says, “There’s something raw and real about Original Evening’s music that resonates with me. The way they blend different genres into a unique sound is something I’ve never heard before. Their song ‘Underneath the Neon Lights’ became my anthem—it talks about the city, about dreams, about life. It’s not just music, it’s a feeling. It’s like they’ve put my emotions into words and melodies. They might be named Original Evening, but for me, they light up every part of my day.”

Backstory:
Crushing Illustration is a band of dreamers who met in high school and found solace in music during their tumultuous teenage years. The members, vocalist/guitarist Jake Hartman, bassist Alex “Fender” Rowan, and drummer Neil Callaghan, were all outsiders who bonded over their shared passion for music and art. They began as a garage band, practicing after school and playing at local events. Through the years, their friendship and love for music only grew stronger. They named their band Crushing Illustration to reflect their belief in the powerful impact of music and art as a way of expressing deep emotions and depicting life’s myriad complexities.

Genre:
Crushing Illustration performs in the genre of Indie Rock, combining elements of alternative rock with the raw emotion of punk and the melodic richness of pop.

Song Title:
“Sonder”

Full song lyrics:

[Intro: G – D – Em – C]
Verse 1:
[G] Walking down the [D] streets of this [Em] old forgotten [C] town
[G] Faces pass by, [D] each with its own [Em] story to [C] tell
[G] Each one a [D] universe, [Em] each one a [C] labyrinth
[G] And in their [D] eyes, I see [Em] reflections of [C] myself

Chorus:
[G] Sonder, [D] the realization, [Em] deep within the [C] soul
[G] That each random [D] passerby is [Em] living a life as [C] vivid as my own
[G] Sonder, [D] the crushing weight, [Em] the beautiful [C] illustration
[G] Of the grand [D] tapestry that [Em] is the human [C] condition

Verse 2:
[G] I’m just a [D] speck in the [Em] grand scheme of [C] things
[G] Yet my heart [D] beats with [Em] stories yet [C] untold
[G] We’re all [D] connected, [Em] strangers and [C] kin
[G] In this [D] strange, beautiful [Em] dance that we [C] call life

Chorus:
[G] Sonder, [D] the realization, [Em] deep within the [C] soul
[G] That each random [D] passerby is [Em] living a life as [C] vivid as my own
[G] Sonder, [D] the crushing weight, [Em] the beautiful [C] illustration
[G] Of the grand [D] tapestry that [Em] is the human [C] condition

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a girl named Lily, who has been supporting them since their high school days. Lily fell in love with their music at first listen. She connected with their lyrics and was moved by their raw emotions. She admired the band’s dedication to their craft and their unwavering friendship. Each song, to her, felt like a personal message, a comforting voice during her own struggles. She has attended almost every one of their concerts and faithfully supports their music. In her own words, “Crushing Illustration’s music is like a mirror to my soul. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s incredibly comforting. Their songs have been my companion in both my darkest days and happiest moments. They make me feel understood, and for that, they will always be my favorite band.”

Backstory

Remorseful Distance was born in the quiet corners of Cambridge, Massachusetts. It all started when three high school friends – Jack Donovan (vocals and guitar), Kyle Thompson (bass), and Andy Foster (drums), found solace in their shared passion for music during a particularly challenging period in their lives. The band served as their escape from the chaos of their personal lives and their mutual understanding of the world. From the small garage of Thompson’s house, they penned their thoughts and emotions into melodies and rhythms, creating a musical narrative that people could connect with.

By the time they were in college, they had developed a distinct sound and a loyal local fanbase. They started getting gigs at local pubs and music festivals. It was during one of these performances that a talent scout from an indie record label spotted them, marking the beginning of their professional music journey. Despite the sudden fame and success, the trio remained grounded, pouring their hearts into their music, which revolves around themes of love, loss, and longing.

Genre

Alternative Rock

Title

“Distant Heartbeat”

Full Song Lyrics

(Verse 1)
[G] Down the memory [D] lane, I [C] walk alone,
[G] Heart filled with [D] sorrow, [Em] mind full of [C] tone.
[G] I grasp the [D] echo of your [C] laughter,
[G] In my dreams, I [D] chase you, [Em] faster and [C] faster.

(Chorus)
[G] Oh, the remorseful [D] distance,
[Em] Your love was my [C] existence,
[G] Between you and [D] me, the miles [Em] stretch,
[C] Still feel the warmth of your [G] touch in my [D] depth.

(Verse 2)
[G] As the stars [D] twinkle in the [C] night,
[G] I hold onto your [D] love, [Em] oh so [C] tight.
[G] Underneath the [D] veiled moon [C] light,
[G] I reminisce our [D] last kiss, [Em] oh so [C] right.

(Chorus)
[G] Oh, the remorseful [D] distance,
[Em] Your voice was my [C] guidance,
[G] Between you and [D] me, the lyrics [Em] clash,
[C] Still hear the rhythm of your [G] heartbeat in my [D] cash.

Favorite Fan’s Testimonial

“My name is Sarah Thompson, and Remorseful Distance is my absolute favorite band. I found their music during a difficult period in my life, and it became my refuge. Each song resonates with me personally and emotionally, as if they were written for me. I love how they weave personal experiences into beautiful melodies and heartfelt lyrics. Their music has been a constant companion and source of comfort for me. I am grateful for their existence and the way they put their souls into their music. It’s not just music; it’s therapeutic.”