Backstory:

Tall Paper was born out of a college dorm room in Berkeley, California in 2011. Founding members, Liam Moore (vocals, guitar) and Noah James (drums), were roommates with a shared passion for retro rock and roll. One day while studying for their mid-terms, they stumbled upon an abandoned piano in the campus “free to take” area. They wheeled it into their dorm room and it became the missing puzzle piece for their dream band. They were later joined by Melissa Hughes on bass and Sam Thompson on keys, two fellow students they met at a local open mic night. The name ‘Tall Paper’ was a nod to their student days, referencing the tall stacks of paper they had to study from, and their aspiration to stand tall in the music industry.

The band started out playing gigs in local bars and college events, their energetic performances and unique sound quickly gaining them a loyal following. In 2013, Tall Paper was spotted by a talent scout at an underground music festival. The rest, as they say, is history. Today, the band tours internationally and has released three successful albums, their music a unique blend of rock, pop, and indie.

Genre: Indie-Rock, Pop

Title: “Dorm Room Blues”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Dorm room walls closing in, [C] studying ’til the break of dawn
[G] Tired eyes and crumpled paper, [C] a dream of a band being born
[D] In a world of textbooks and theories, [C] we found music in the night
[D] Dreams scribbled on tall paper, [C] under the dim room light

(Chorus)
[G] We’ve got the dorm room blues, [D] no more time to lose
[C] Heart beating with the rhythm, got [G] nothing else to choose
[D] Our dreams penned on tall paper, [C] echo through the halls
[G] With every strum and drum beat, [D] we’re tearing down the walls

(Verse 2)
[G] Found a piano on the corner, [C] wheeled it through the campus gate
[G] Struck a chord, felt the magic, [C] knew it was worth the wait
[D] Late-night jamming, under the stars, [C] crafting our unique sound
[D] Tall paper full of dreams, [C] look at us now, we’re homeward bound

(Chorus)
[G] We’ve got the dorm room blues, [D] no more time to lose
[C] Heart beating with the rhythm, got [G] nothing else to choose
[D] Our dreams penned on tall paper, [C] echo through the halls
[G] With every strum and drum beat, [D] we’re tearing down the walls

(Bridge)
[G] Tall paper and dreams, [D] life’s not what it seems,
[C] With music, we soar, [G] with every beat, we explore

(Chorus)
[G] We’ve got the dorm room blues, [D] no more time to lose
[C] Heart beating with the rhythm, got [G] nothing else to choose
[D] Our dreams penned on tall paper, [C] we’re breaking the norms
[G] From our humble beginnings, [D] in a Berkeley dorm

Fan Testimonial:

Our band’s favorite fan is Timmy Parker. Timmy, a computer science graduate, has been with us since the beginning, attending our college gigs, and actively promoting us on social media. He says, “Tall Paper embodies the spirit of our generation. Their music resonates with the struggles we go through and their energy is infectious. They are a testament to the fact that dreams can be achieved if you have the courage to pursue them.

Backstory:

‘Venerated Learning’ came to life in the bustling music scene of Austin, Texas in 2012. The band was formed by a group of high school friends, who shared a common love for music and a unique perspective on life. The members include the charismatic lead vocalist, Ethan Wade, the dynamic guitarist, Liam O’Connell, the soulful bassist, Noah Sullivan, and the thrilling drummer, Mason Riley. Their bond doesn’t just revolve around their shared passion for music, but also their shared experience of being high school teachers. They often use their experiences in the classroom to inspire their music, hence the name ‘Venerated Learning’.

The band started off by performing in local bars and clubs, slowly building a loyal fan base with their distinctive sound and profound lyrics. Their big break came when their self-released album caught the attention of a prominent music producer. From there, they went on to sign a record deal and have been gaining popularity ever since. Their music is a testament to their deep love for education and the unique perspective it provides.

Genre:
Indie Folk-Rock

Title:
“The Lesson Unseen”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
G C G D
Walking down the halls, echoes of laughter behind closed doors,
G C G D
Every classroom a universe, each mind an unexplored shore.

(Chorus)
G D Em C
Teach me the language of stars, the calculus of the heart,
G D C
The Lesson Unseen, the truth in between.

(Verse 2)
G C G D
In every word and equation, a whisper of life’s rotation,
G C G D
In every face, a story unfolds, a testament of creation.

(Chorus)
G D Em C
Teach me the rhythm of the earth, the poetry that gives birth,
G D C
The Lesson Unseen, the truth in between.

(Bridge)
Em C G D
And as the bell rings, the learning lingers,
Em C G D
In the heart of every learner, the flame of knowledge flickers.

(Chorus)
G D Em C
Teach me the symphony of silence, the algebra of resilience,
G D C
The Lesson Unseen, the truth in between.

Fan’s Testimonial:

My name is Cassandra and I’m a huge fan of Venerated Learning. Being a teacher myself, their music deeply resonates with me. It’s not just about the melody or the beat, it’s about the profound message behind their lyrics. It’s like they’re singing the unsung stories of every teacher and student. Their music has become my daily anthem, and their song “The Lesson Unseen” is my absolute favorite. It beautifully captures the essence of teaching and learning. Venerated Learning is more than a band to me, they are the voice of the unspoken heroes in classrooms everywhere.

Backstory:
Humongous Measure was formed in the bustling heart of New York City, in 2010, as a group of friends sharing a common love for music. The band members, Charlie (vocals), Sam (drums), Alex (bass), and Ethan (lead guitar), were childhood friends who spent their high school years playing music in their garage, honing their skills, and dreaming of stardom. They wanted to create something unique, something that would make people feel and relate. They were passionate about blending their diverse influences, creating a sound that was unlike anything else. Their hard work and determination began to pay off when they started playing in local bars and, before they knew it, their unique style caught the attention of a local record label.

Genre:
Alternative Rock / Indie Pop

Title:
“Under the City Lights”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
Em C G D
Caught in the maze of this concrete jungle,
Em C G D
Chasing dreams under the city lights.
Em C G D
Broken hearts and faded memories,
Em C G D
Hold on tight, we’re taking flight.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
Under the City Lights, we find our way,
Em C G D
In the hum of the night, we start to sway.
Em C G D
With our hearts on fire, and souls burning bright,
Em C G D
Under the city lights, everything feels right.

Fan Testimonial:
Name: Lisa Miller

Testimonial:
“Humongous Measure is more than just my favorite band – they are like family to me. Their music has been there for me in my highs and lows, making me feel understood and connected. It’s not just the lyrics, but the emotion with which they play – it’s raw and genuine. I remember the first time I heard ‘Under the City Lights’, it was like they were speaking my story. Their music has helped me find my own way, just like they found theirs under the city lights. They are my favorite band because their music isn’t just a sound, it’s a feeling – a humongous measure of real, heartfelt emotions.”

Backstory: Grouchy Priest was formed in New Haven, Connecticut in the late 90s by the unlikely duo, Ethan and Jason. Ethan, a former altar boy turned disillusioned philosophy major and Jason, a music theory prodigy who quit Juilliard, bonded over their shared dissatisfaction with societal norms and their love for music. Ethan and Jason’s unorthodox story is reflected in their music, which often explores the interplay between religious iconography and modern society. The band’s name, Grouchy Priest, is a nod to their rebellion against traditional institutions.

Genre: Grouchy Priest is best known for their unique sound which is a blend of Indie Rock and Alternative Folk.

Title: “Sacred Cynicism”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1:
Am
In the shadow of the steeple, where the lost souls convene,
E
we trade our sacred hearts for something less serene.
F
In the prayer’s echo, I find no reprieve,
G
but in the sinner’s song, I begin to believe.

Chorus:
C
Sacred cynicism, my new religion,
G
no holy water, just the rain’s baptism.
Am
No confession booth can cleanse my truth,
E
in the church of the disillusioned, I find my proof.

Verse 2:
Am
The choir sings of salvation, but I hear a different tune,
E
one of shattered faith and a love that’s immune.
F
No more Hallelujahs, just the silence of the night,
G
in the whispers of the wind, I find my holy rite.

Chorus:
C
Sacred cynicism, my divine intervention,
G
no priest’s sermon, just my own reflection.
Am
No Sunday service can dictate my purpose,
E
in the cathedral of skepticism, I find my worship.

Fan Testimonial: A faithful fan, Dylan, from Boston, says, “Grouchy Priest’s music speaks to my soul. Their lyrics verbalize the internal struggle of faith and doubt in the modern world. They’re not afraid to question societal norms, and their music resonates with me in a way no other band’s does. I’ve followed them since their debut, and their growth as musicians is astounding. The raw honesty in their songs, especially ‘Sacred Cynicism’, is what makes them my favorite band. Their music helped me through some tough times, and for that, I’ll always be a devoted fan.”

Backstory:
Big Owl is a band hailing from the indie music scene of Austin, Texas. Formed in 2013 by high school friends, Travis Hill (vocals/keyboard), Fred Corbin (bass), Luke Jennings (drums), and Benji Green (guitar), they started out playing in basement parties, gradually gaining a loyal fanbase with their distinctive sound and passionate performances. Their music, deeply influenced by their shared love for folk music and rock ‘n’ roll, ultimately resulted in a unique sound that they proudly call their own. Despite starting out with humble beginnings, they have since made a name for themselves in the music industry, performing at various music festivals around the country.

Genre:
Indie Folk Rock

Song Title:
“Underneath the Whispering Pines”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Dm F
Underneath the whispering pines,
G C
We found our truth entwined,
Dm F
In a melody, in a rhyme,
G C
Our hearts beat in time.

(Chorus)
Dm F
Oh, under the pines,
G C
Underneath the moonlight’s design,
Dm F
We found love, we found life,
G C
Underneath the whispering pines.

(Verse 2)
Dm F
Beneath the canvas of stars,
G C
We strummed our old guitars,
Dm F
Sang of hope, sang of scars,
G C
In the quiet of the night, we found our spark.

(Chorus)
Dm F
Under the stars,
G C
With our guitars,
Dm F
We found hope, we found art,
G C
Beneath the canvas of stars.

(Outro)
Dm F
Oh, under the whispering pines,
G C Dm
We found love, we found life,
F G
We found all we sought,
C
Underneath the whispering pines.

Bands Favorite Fan:
Our favorite fan’s name is Lucy. She’s been with us since our basement days, and her energy and devotion to our music has been unparalleled. She said, “Big Owl’s music is like a healing balm for me. Their lyrics touch my soul, and their tunes make my heart dance. I’ve been through hard times, and their music has been my constant companion. Their song ‘Underneath the Whispering Pines’ is my favorite. It speaks of hope, love, life – all things that we need more of in this world. That’s why Big Owl is, and will always be, my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Formed in 2012 in the vibrant city of Seattle, Pale Ocean is an ensemble of five childhood friends who found their voice and identity through their shared passion for music. The band was birthed in the humble confines of a small garage where the members came together to explore their collective creative potential. As they grew older, their music evolved with them, maturing into a soundscape that captures their journey and experiences. Pale Ocean is a testament to friendship, growth, and the power of music.

Genre:
Pale Ocean is best known for their contribution to the Indie Folk genre, often blending it with elements of Alternative Rock for a rich, captivating sound that resonates with listeners.

Title:
One of their most popular songs is titled “Drifting Dreams”.

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
G C
Underneath a pale moonlight, we watch the waves crash,
Em D
Whispers of a distant past, echoing back.
G C
Our hearts tied to the masts, sailing the sea of the night,
Em D
Drifting dreams in our sight.

[Chorus]
G C
Drifting dreams, oh, like the ocean,
Em D
Washed up on the shore of our emotions,
G C
The sea is wide, but we are chosen,
Em D
To ride the waves of our own oceans.

[Verse 2]
G C
Against the tide, we navigate, guided by the stars,
Em D
Chasing dreams no matter how far.
G C
The wind whispers promises, the sea keeps the secrets,
Em D
Into the horizon, where our hopes meet.

[Repeat Chorus]

The Band’s Favorite Fan:
Their favorite fan is a woman named Lucy, from Portland. Lucy has been following the band since their inception, attending every live performance. She calls Pale Ocean her favorite band, stating, “Their music is enchanting. It’s like a soothing journey that takes me away from the chaos of everyday life. Their lyrics have a depth that resonates with my soul. I feel connected to each song. It’s as though they know my story and put it into music. Their song ‘Drifting Dreams’ is my personal anthem. I feel like I’m part of their journey. Pale Ocean is more than just a band to me; they’re a haven of solace in a turbulent world.”

Backstory:
Born in the heart of turkey farms in North Dakota, Extroverted Turkey began as a quartet of friends who were raised on country music and poultry farming. The unique name for the band was inspired by the particularly boisterous flock of turkeys in their backyard. This unconventional name was a perfect reflection of their nature – eccentric, exuberant, and full of life. The band was formed in 2007, when the friends were in high school and their shared love for music made them start jamming together in their backyard amidst the gobble of turkeys. Their unique upbringing and connection with their roots gave birth to a distinctive sound, which made them get noticed in the local music scene.

The band gained significant popularity in the local scene, and their quirky name and unique sound soon started to garner attention from outside North Dakota. As a bunch of farm boys with a love for music and an ambition to make it big, Extroverted Turkey decided to take their sound to the big cities. Despite their small-town origins, their music resonated with a wide audience, leading to sold-out concerts and a growing fan base.

Genre: Country Rock

Title: “Gobble up the Sunshine”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
[G]Every morning when the rooster crows,
[Em]We step out amidst the turkey rows.
[D]Pickin’ up the banjo, strummin’ some old-timey prose,
[C]Music in the air, as the country wind blows.

(Chorus)
[G]Gobble up the sunshine, sing in the rain,
[D]Livin’ life on the prairie, no room for pain.
[Em]With every strum, every beat, every refrain,
[C]We are Extroverted Turkey, born in the grain.

(Verse)
[G]We got the wide-open fields, as our concert stage,
[Em]Under the starry night, we unleash our rage.
[D]With the turkeys gobblin’, setting the pace,
[C]In this symphony of life, we have found our cage.

(Chorus)
[G]Gobble up the sunshine, bask in the moonlight,
[D]Strumming our stories from morning till night.
[Em]With every song, every note, we ignite,
[C]We are Extroverted Turkey, flying in the sky so bright.

Favorite Fan’s Testimonial:
Our favorite fan’s name is Lucy Hargrove. She was first drawn to Extroverted Turkey because of their intriguing name. “I’ll admit, the name ‘Extroverted Turkey’ is what first caught my attention,” she says. “But when I heard their music, I fell in love immediately. Their lyrics speak to me on a deep level. It’s like they’ve put my life into words and melodies. It’s not just their music, it’s their authenticity that resonates with me. They’re a bunch of guys from the country, singing their truth and sharing their experiences. They’ve never forgotten their roots and that’s what makes them special. They’re my favorite band because they’re real, they’re raw, and their music makes me feel alive.”

Backstory:

Personal Sake was formed in 2013, in the small town of Woodbridge, Virginia. The band was created by five childhood friends – Alex, Danny, Jacob, Mike, and Samuel – who all shared a keen interest in music and an insatiable desire to make it big in the industry. It all started in Samuel’s garage where their first jam session took place, and the boys immediately realized the chemistry and potential they had as a band. Over the years, they’ve had their share of struggles and disagreements, but their bond and passion for music have always managed to keep them together.

Genre:

Personal Sake’s music falls under the broad umbrella of Indie Rock with influences from pop and synth-rock. Their sound is characterized by energetic guitar riffs, powerful drum beats, and catchy, relatable lyrics that speak to the heart of their listeners.

Song Title:

“Only in Dreams”

Full Song Lyrics with Chord Progression:

(Verse 1 – Chord Progression: C G Am F)
Under the streetlight glow, we’d share secrets no one else would know,
(C G Am F)
Your laughter, our hopes, your every high and low.

(Chorus – Chord Progression: G Am F C)
Only in dreams do I see you again,
(G Am F C)
Only in dreams, where our story won’t end.

(Verse 2 – Chord Progression: C G Am F)
Through the crowded halls, your voice was the only call,
(C G Am F)
Now it’s just echoes, bouncing off the walls.

(Chorus – Chord Progression: G Am F C)
Only in dreams do I hold you close,
(G Am F C)
Only in dreams, where I need you the most.

(Outro – Chord Progression: Dm G C)
In my dreams we’re still laughing, still sharing the night,
(Dm G C)
In my dreams, you’re still here, and everything’s right.

Fan Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan, Emma Chambers, has been following their journey since they were playing in local bars. “Personal Sake is more than just a band to me. Their music has seen me through some really tough times in my life. Every song they write seems to speak directly to me. It’s as if they know what I’m going through and they’re there for me. Their song ‘Only in Dreams’ helped me cope with a difficult heartbreak and that’s when I knew that this band will always have a special place in my heart.”

Backstory:
Born in the heart of vibrant London, Peaceful Tutor came to existence in the mid-90s. The band formed as a group of close friends with a shared love for music and philosophy. Like most bands, they started performing in school talent shows and local pubs, eventually gaining a solid local fan base. Their name, Peaceful Tutor, comes from their belief that music can teach peace and harmony to the world. The band consists of four members: Lead vocalist and band leader Andrew “Drew” Patterson, guitarist Olivia “Liv” Harper, drummer Nathan “Nate” Jones, and bassist Harry “Haz” Benson.

Genre:
Indie Pop/Folk

Title:
“Reflections and Shadows”

Full song lyrics with chord progression:

Verse 1:
G C D G
In the mirror of my mind,
G C D G
I see reflections and shadows,
G C D G
Whispers of the past,
G C D G
Echoes of the battles.

Chorus:
G C D G
I am a peaceful tutor, don’t you see?
G C D G
Teaching lessons of love and unity,
G C D G
In the mirror of my mind, there’s you and me,
G C D G
In shadows and reflections, we are free.

Verse 2:
G C D G
In the river of time, there’s a flow,
G C D G
Of dreams and memories that glow,
G C D G
Listening to the wind’s soft blow,
G C D G
In the mirror, we reap what we sow.

Repeat Chorus

Favorite fan’s name:
Emma Thompson

Emma’s Testimonial:
“I have loved Peaceful Tutor since I first heard them in a local pub in London. Their genuine lyrics and soulful tunes serve as a sanctuary in this chaotic world. What I love about them is how they blend philosophy into their music, teaching lessons about life, love, and peace. Their song ‘Reflections and Shadows’ in particular speaks to me on a personal level—it’s like a mantra for self-reflection and acceptance. Their music resonates with my soul and I couldn’t ask for a better band to be a fan of.”

Backstory:

Pointless Fellow started as a quintet of college friends studying art and literature in the bustling city of Chicago. Each had a unique interest in different genres of music ranging from jazz to blues, to folk, to indie rock. United by their shared passion for music and fueled with the urge to challenge conventional norms, Pointless Fellow was born. Over the years, their music has evolved from mere jamming sessions in a cramped dorm room to rocking performances at local clubs and eventually nationwide tours. Their journey has been as spontaneous and unpredictable as the meaning behind their bizarre name—a tribute to their early days when they were “purposeless” college kids and were often referred to by their professor as ‘pointless fellows.’

Genre: Alternative Rock

Title: ‘Opaque Reflections’

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] When I look into the mirror, [D] what do I see?
[Em] An opaque reflection, [C] is it really me?
[G] I’ve been walking on a path, [D] lost in mystery,
[Em] Counting on tomorrow, [C] hoping to be free.

[Chorus]
[G] Opaque reflections, [D] a world unseen,
[Em] Shadows of the past, [C] in between.
[G] In every echo, [D] in every dream,
[Em] Lies a pointless fellow, [C] yet to be seen.

(Verse 2)
[G] Like a riddle in the wind, [D] my thoughts do swirl,
[Em] Chasing my shadow, [C] in this twisted world.
[G] Daylight fades and night unfurls, [D] stars so beautifully curled,
[Em] I’m just a pointless fellow, [C] in an oyster pearl.

(Chorus)
[G] Opaque reflections, [D] a world unseen,
[Em] Echoes of tomorrow, [C] a silent scream.
[G] In every echo, [D] in every dream,
[Em] Lies a pointless fellow, [C] behind the screen.

Fan’s Name: Lisa Matthews

Testimonial:

“There is something inexplicably captivating about Pointless Fellow’s music. The raw emotion, the poignant lyrics, and the electrifying melody blend into a soul-stirring symphony that lingers long after the song ends. ‘Opaque Reflections’ is my personal favorite—it’s more than just a song. It’s a journey into introspection, a narrative of self-discovery that resonates with anyone navigating through life’s maze. Pointless Fellow is not just my favorite band; they’re my solace, my muse, my escape from reality.”