Backstory:
Formed in the early 2000s in a small town outside of Cincinnati, Gray Anniversary came together through a shared love of music and a desire to push boundaries. The band’s founding members, high school friends Bryan Jenkins (vocals and guitar) and Eric Morton (drums), began playing together in their parents’ garages and quickly found their unique sound. As the band grew over the years, new members joined, including Emily Swift on bass guitar and Kevin Hughes on keyboard. They all shared a common goal: to make music that resonated with their own experiences and touched the hearts of their listeners.

The group’s name, Gray Anniversary, came from a phrase found in a tattered old love letter Jenkins discovered in his grandmother’s attic. The phrase referred to the beautiful but melancholy nature of life’s milestones. This concept resonated deeply with the band and has remained a theme throughout their music.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Crimson Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
G Em C D
Underneath the crimson shadows, we used to dance,
G Em C D
In the eye of the storm, we found our chance.
G Em C D
Whispers of the past, echo in the night,
G Em C D
In this gray anniversary, we continue to fight.

(Chorus)
G Em C D
Through the twilight, we hold on,
G Em C D
With love’s might, till the break of dawn.
G Em C D
In the flames, we find our way,
G Em C D
In this gray anniversary, we choose to stay.

(Verse 2)
G Em C D
In the echoes of our laughter, we find our light,
G Em C D
In the maze of memories, we find our fight.
G Em C D
In this dance of life, we sway,
G Em C D
In this gray anniversary, we choose to play.

(Chorus)
G Em C D
Through the twilight, we hold on,
G Em C D
With love’s might, till the break of dawn.
G Em C D
In the flames, we find our way,
G Em C D
In this gray anniversary, we lose and gain.

(Bridge)
Em C D
In the light, in the dark,
Em C D
We make our mark.
Em C D
In this gray anniversary, we leave a spark.

(Chorus)
G Em C D
Through the twilight, we hold on,
G Em C D
With love’s might, till the break of dawn.
G Em C D
In the flames, we find our way,
G Em C D
In this gray anniversary, we stand tall and sway.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Sarah Thompson. Sarah has been a dedicated follower since their early days, never missing a show within a hundred miles of her home. Gray Anniversary is her favorite band because, in her own words, “Their music speaks directly to my soul. Whether I’m celebrating a victory or nursing a heartbreak, their songs provide a soundtrack to my life. I don’t just listen to Gray Anniversary; I live their music.”

Backstory:
Formed in the small town of Winchester, Idaho in 2010, ‘Paltry Cabbage’ is the brainchild of childhood friends, Ted Morton (vocals and guitar), Sara Kline (bass and backup vocals), and Mike Jennings (drums). The trio spent their high school years listening to an eclectic mix of rock, punk, folk, and blues, which eventually became the backbone of their own music. Each member brings their unique style to the group, creating an unconventional and distinct sound. Having been raised on a farm, Ted coined the band’s name, a humorous nod to the less fruitful times of their childhood when they had to make do with ‘paltry’ yields.

Genre:
Alternative Rock with a touch of folk

Title:
“Harvest Moon Blues”

Lyrics:
(Verse)
Dm A7
Underneath the harvest moon,
Gm Dm
We used to hum our favorite tune,
A7 Dm
Times were lean but hearts were full,
A7 Dm
Hopes sprouting from this muddy pool.

(Chorus)
Dm A7
Harvest moon, bring us some grace,
Gm Dm
A paltry cabbage in this wide-open space,
A7 Dm
Light our way through this winding maze,
A7 Dm
In your glow, set our hearts ablaze.

Fan Testimonial:
‘Paltry Cabbage’ number one fan is a gentleman by the name of Paul ‘The Cabbage King’ Bannister. A self-proclaimed music aficionado, Paul was drawn to the band’s soulful lyrics and unique sound after stumbling upon them in a local music festival. The band’s song “Harvest Moon Blues” struck a chord with him, reminding him of his own small-town upbringing. Paul admires the band’s authenticity and resilience, and their ability to make beautiful and meaningful music despite their humble beginnings. He’s been to every one of their concerts within a 500-mile radius, and proudly boasts a ‘Paltry Cabbage’ tattoo. In his words, “Their music isn’t just heard, it’s felt. It’s raw, pure, and it resonates with me on a level that no other band has ever managed to reach. They aren’t just a band, they’re a movement.”

Backstory

Violent Church was formed in the early 2000s in the gritty corners of Seattle’s music scene. The band was born out of a shared love for music that was raw, unfiltered, and powerful. Its members, lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Adam Vale, bassist Kurt “Rusty” Russel, drummer Mark “Sledge” Slater, and lead guitarist Lisa “LiLi” Reyes, came together after playing in various local groups. Their shared vision of creating music that could be both aggressive and melodic was the main driving force behind the formation of Violent Church. The band’s name is a nod to their rebellious spirit and love for paradoxes, reflecting their view that beauty can often be found in chaos.

Genre

Violent Church is best classified under the Alternative Metal genre with a touch of Punk Rock. Their music is characterized by heavy, distorted guitar riffs, intense drumming, and Vale’s distinct, growling vocals. They have often been compared to bands like Tool, Soundgarden, and The Distillers.

Title

A popular song from their discography is a track called “Sacred Destruction.”

Full Song Lyrics

(Verse 1)
Em – C – G – D
Em
Can you hear the bells ringing, echoing in the night?
C
They’re singing of our ending, under the neon light.
G
We built this holy temple, with hands so stained and scarred.
D
Now it’s time to tear it down, play our final card.

(Chorus)
Em – C – G – D
Em
Sacred destruction, we’re dancing in the flame.
C
Burn down the holy, no one left to blame.
G
Sacred destruction, love born from the pain.
D
In the ashes of the violent church, we’ll rise again.

(Verse 2)
Em – C – G – D
Em
In the pews of the charred cathedral, we find our solace, our reprieve.
C
In the choir of the broken-hearted, we find a place to grieve.
G
We built this sanctuary, from rubble and from stone.
D
Now let us see it fall, let the truth be known.

(Repeat Chorus)

(Bridge)
Em – G – D
Em
In the shadow of the spire, we found a love so fierce.
G
In the ruins of the violent church, our hearts were pierced.
D
Sacred destruction, a love we can’t deny,
Em
In the wreckage of the violent church, we learned to fly.

(Repeat Chorus)

Testimonial

The band’s favorite fan is 26-year-old Jamie Lawrence from Portland, Oregon. Jamie says, “Violent Church is my favorite band because they’re real, they’re raw, and they don’t shy away from the messiness of life. Their music speaks to me on a deep level, and it’s helped me through some of the toughest times in my life. ‘Sacred Destruction’ is like my personal anthem—it reminds me that it’s okay to break down, because that’s how we rebuild.”

Backstory: Bouncy Mint originated from the heart of London, England, in 2014. The band was formed by four college friends who shared an unyielding passion for music and a love for mint candies. One day, while bouncing mint candies off the table, the idea sparked to name their band ‘Bouncy Mint’. They had all previously played in different bands but felt the need to create something unique and refreshing, just like the flavor of their favorite candy. Their music journey has been full of highs and lows, but their commitment to creating music that resonates with their audience has never wavered.

Genre: Bouncy Mint fits comfortably in the Indie Pop genre, with a dash of synth and a sprinkle of soft rock.

Song Title: “Stolen Kisses on Summer Nights”

Verse I:
G D
Underneath the starry sky,
G C
We count the moments passing by,
G D C
Every stolen kiss, a sweet delight.

Chorus:
D G C
Oh, summer nights, why do you flee?
D G C
Hold on to these moments with me,
D G C
As we taste the stolen kisses of the night.

Verse II:
G D
In your eyes, I see the universe,
G C
Every glance, a new verse,
G D C
In our summer night’s poetic curse.

Chorus:
D G C
Oh, summer nights, why do you run?
D G C
Under the playful, teasing sun,
D G C
We share the stolen kisses of the dawn.

Fans Favorite: The band’s favorite fan is a vibrant woman named Ellie. As an art student, she has a deep appreciation for their music’s poetic and rhythmic elements. She’s been following Bouncy Mint since their early days, and her love for their music has only amplified over the years. In her words, “The songs of Bouncy Mint are more than just melodies to me. They’re a canvas where I paint my feelings and emotions. Their music is a beautiful blend of depth and simplicity that always captures my heart. There’s no other band like them, and that’s why they’re my favorite.”

Backstory:
Easy Peak was born in the sultry summer of 2008 in the heart of Brooklyn, New York. The group was formed by childhood friends, Jake Donovan (Lead vocalist, rhythm guitarist), Max Winchester (Lead guitarist, backing vocalist), Liam Steward (Bass guitarist), and Alfie Valentine (Drummer). The band started out as teenagers, playing in their parents’ garages and at local talent shows, where their unique sound quickly caught the attention of local music aficionados. They honed their craft on the streets of Brooklyn, playing everywhere from subways to park corners, gradually making their way to the vibrant local rock scene and then onto the national stage.

Easy Peak is not just a band, but a brotherhood that has weathered many storms together, both personally and professionally. Their music reflects their journey, filled with tales of heartbreak, triumph, friendship, and the struggle of chasing dreams. After gaining significant attention from their first EP in 2011, they’ve continued their journey upwards, living up to their name and making it look easy.

Genre:
Alternative Rock / Indie Rock

Title:
“Shades of Yesterday”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse)
[Em] Looking back at the [G] shades of yesterday,
[C] Old dreams and memories [D] fading to grey.
[Em] We rode the storm, without [G] any dismay,
[C] Built our fortress in the [D] midst of the fray.

(Chorus)
[Em] We’re caught in the [G] shades of yesterday,
[C] Remembering the journey, not just the [D] stay.
[Em] When the world turns [G] cold and the sky turns grey,
[C] We’ll find our sunshine in the [D] shades of yesterday.

(Verse)
[Em] Walking down the [G] familiar alleyway,
[C] The echoes of laughter, our [D] timeless play.
[Em] Faces changed, but the [G] bonds never fray,
[C] Living the moments, come what [D] may.

(Chorus)
[Em] We’re caught in the [G] shades of yesterday,
[C] Remembering the journey, not just the [D] stay.
[Em] When the world turns [G] cold and the sky turns grey,
[C] We’ll find our sunshine in the [D] shades of yesterday.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Grace Thompson. Grace, a Brooklyn native, first discovered Easy Peak during one of their subway performances. She was instantly drawn to their raw, authentic sound and the way their music resonated with her own personal journey. She’s been a dedicated fan ever since, attending every concert she can.

Testimonial:
“Easy Peak is more than just a band to me; they’re the soundtrack to my life. Their music has been there for me during my darkest times and my happiest moments. Their song ‘Shades of Yesterday’ not only reflects their journey but also resonates with my own. It reminds me that everyone has their own struggles, but it’s the journey that matters, not just where you end up. Every time I listen to that song, it feels like home. That’s why Easy Peak will always be my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Formed in 2018, Novel Mortgage is the brainchild of three college friends—Mick (vocals and guitar), Andy (drums), and Eve (keyboard and vocals) who, getting bogged down by their mundane nine-to-five jobs, decided to pursue their shared passion for music. The band took its unique name from a random newspaper headline the trio spotted during their first jamming session. They saw it as a metaphor for their music—offering something fresh and exhilarating, like the thrill of stepping into a new home for the first time. Novel Mortgage quickly gained a following in their hometown of Austin, Texas and began to make waves in the underground music scene.

Genre:
Novel Mortgage finds its roots in Indie Rock with a hint of Folk-Pop. Inspired by bands like Mumford & Sons and The Lumineers, their sound features energetic guitar riffs, catchy drum beats, and hauntingly beautiful harmonies.

Title:
“One-Way Street”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am Em G D
Walking down this one-way street,
Am Em G D
The pavement’s cold beneath my feet.
Am Em G D
Got my heart in my hand, and a dream in my head,
Am Em G D
In a city where lovers meet.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
One-way street, take me home,
C G D Em
Where the lost hearts and dreamers roam.
C G D Em
Echoes of laughter, tears, and cheers,
C G D Em
In a town that’s made of hopes and fears.

(Verse 2)
Am Em G D
The streetlight’s glow, the whispering wind,
Am Em G D
The echoes of a song that’s been.
Am Em G D
In the silence of the night, under the moon’s soft light,
Am Em G D
On this one-way street, we spin.

(Repeat Chorus)

Favorite Fan:
Their favorite fan is a woman named Lucy. Lucy discovered Novel Mortgage when they were still playing local bars in Austin and has been there for every big moment since. She is known for traveling to every one of their shows, no matter the distance. In her words, “Novel Mortgage is more than just a band to me. Their music speaks to my soul and has helped me through some of the toughest times in my life. The raw emotion they put into each song is palpable, and you can’t help but feel connected to them. They’re not just musicians; they’re storytellers, weaving narratives you can’t help but get lost in.”

Backstory:

Remorseful New originated in the bustling city of Los Angeles, California in 2010. The band was initially formed by four childhood friends – Mike Harrison (vocals), Johnny Rivers (guitar), Liam Stewart (bass), and David Brooks (drums) – who shared a mutual love for music. They spent their high school years writing songs and performing in local venues, gaining a respectable following for their distinctive sound. Their breakthrough came when a YouTube video of one of their performances caught the attention of a prominent music producer. He saw potential in their raw talent and heart-tugging lyrics and decided to take them under his wing. Today, Remorseful New has become renowned for their powerful, emotional performances and honest, relatable songwriting.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Endless Echoes”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C [Am] I was lost, in the [G] city of dreams
[F] Haunted by the ghosts of [C] memories
[Am] Walking down the streets, [G] under the neon lights
[F] Trying to escape, the [C] echoes of your voice

(Chorus)
[C] Endless echoes, [G] they remain
[Am] They whisper your name, in the [F] pouring rain
[C] Endless echoes, [G] they won’t fade
[Am] I still feel your warmth, in the [F] love we made

(Verse 2)
C [Am] I see your face, in the [G] city crowd
[F] Searching for you, in the [C] darkness, I’m proud
[Am] Trapped in the maze, of [G] what we had
[F] It’s the sound of your laughter, that [C] drives me mad

(Repeat Chorus)

(Outro)
C [Am] Endless echoes, [G] they remain
[F] They whisper your name, till I’m [C] going insane
[Am] Endless echoes, [G] they won’t fade
[F] Till I find a way, to [C] let go of this pain

Favorite Fan’s Name:
Amy Peterson

Testimonial:

“I’ve been a fan of Remorseful New since their early days. Their music has always had a raw, genuine quality that strikes a chord within me. The lyrics of their songs are so relatable that they feel like my own thoughts expressed in a beautiful melody. ‘Endless Echoes’, in particular, helped me through a painful breakup. I felt as if the band understood my pain and was there for me. Remorseful New is not just a band for me, they’re like friends who’ve been with me through thick and thin. Their music is a beautiful blend of uplifting and melancholic, a perfect mirror of life’s ups and downs. I can’t imagine my life without their music.”

Backstory:

Imaginary Medicine was formed in 2005 in the bustling heart of Austin, Texas, a city renowned for its vibrant music scene. The band includes lead singer and guitarist, Jack Sullivan, keyboardist Sarah Owen, bassist Bill Monroe, and drummer Alan Scott. Originally friends from high school, they found a common bond in their shared love for music and a desire to connect with people on a deeper level. Over lunch one day in their favorite local café, they formed Imaginary Medicine, a band dedicated to translating life’s experiences into soul-touching melodies.

The name ‘Imaginary Medicine’ was inspired by their firm belief that music has a healing power, a form of therapy that could soothe the troubled mind and soul. They started performing at local music festivals, and quickly gained a loyal fan base that appreciated their raw honesty and hauntingly beautiful soundscapes.

Genre:

Alternative Indie Rock

Title:

“Crescent Moon Healing”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G]Underneath the [D]crescent [Em]moon [C],
[G]I found a [D]bottle of [Em]wishes [C]
[G]Full of dreams, [D]that never [Em]took flight [C]
[G]Locked away by [D]memory’s [Em]kisses [C]

(Chorus)
[G]Tonight, under the [D]crescent moon’s [Em]light [C]
[G]We’ll uncork the [D]bottle and [Em]let dreams take [C]flight
[G]With the power of [D]imaginary [Em]medicine [C]
[G]We’ll heal, we’ll heal [D] in the [Em]night [C]

(Verse 2)
[G]Shadows dancing [D]on the [Em]walls [C]
[G]Reflections of [D]dreams that [Em]fall [C]
[G]In our hearts, [D]we’ve kept them [Em]all [C]
[G]Underneath the [D]crescent [Em]moon’s call [C]

(Chorus)
[G]Tonight, under the [D]crescent moon’s [Em]light [C]
[G]We’ll uncork the [D]bottle and [Em]let dreams take [C]flight
[G]With the power of [D]imaginary [Em]medicine [C]
[G]We’ll heal, we’ll heal [D] in the [Em]night [C]

Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Lisa Martin, hailing from Dallas, Texas. Lisa has been following Imaginary Medicine since their inception. She was initially drawn to their poignant lyrics and seamless melodies, but what solidified them as her favorite band was their unwavering dedication to their fans and their belief in music’s healing capabilities. She once shared in an interview, “Their music has been my companion in both my toughest and happiest moments. It feels like they are sharing a piece of their soul, and it’s their authenticity that resonates with me. That’s why they’re my favorite band.”

Backstory:

Willing Type was born in the heart of Nashville, in a small basement where four university friends started jamming, looking for an escape from their monotonous studies. The friends, namely, Jake Hanson on lead vocals and guitar, Liam Sullivan on Drums, Sophie Evans on Bass, and Sam Wills on Keyboard, bonded over their shared love for music and storytelling. Over countless late-night jam sessions, they discovered a unique style that was a fusion of old-school rock sounds with a flavor of blues, creating something both refreshing and nostalgic. In 2012, they played their first gig at a local university festival and the crowd’s response confirmed what they already felt deep within – they were meant for this.

In the subsequent years, Willing Type gained popularity through local gigs, music festivals, and online platforms, thanks to their catchy tunes and relatable lyrics. They released their debut album, “Whispers of the Heart” in 2015. The band’s music, raw and heartfelt, resonates with listeners, making them a popular choice amongst the younger generation who identify with their soulful melodies and lyrics.

Genre:

Rock/Blues Fusion

Title:

“Whiskey Dreams”

Full song lyrics:

Verse 1: (G, D, Am, C)
G D
Walking down this lonely road,
Am C
In the heart of the night.
G D
Sipping on my whiskey dreams,
Am C
Looking for some light.

Verse 2: (G, D, Am, C)
G D
Got your smile etched in my heart,
Am C
Your laughter in my ears.
G D
Sailing on my whiskey dreams,
Am C
Drowning all my fears.

Chorus: (Em, C, G, D)
Em C
Oh, whiskey dreams, take me home,
G D
To the place where I belong.
Em C
To the arms that feel so warm,
G D
And the voice that’s my favourite song.

(Repeat Verse and Chorus Chord Progression)

Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan is Lindsay Dawson. Lindsay has followed us from our first gig at the university festival, right through to our most recent concert tour. But it’s not just her loyalty that makes her stand out. Lindsay is a beacon of positivity and support, always encouraging us and rallying other fans. She says, “Willing Type isn’t just a band for me, they are my safe space. Their lyrics speak to me on a level that no other music has. They remind me that it’s okay to feel and show emotions and that through all the ups and downs, life still goes on. They are not just my favorite band; they are my anchor.”

Backstory:
Dazzling Heritage traces its origin back to the vibrant town of Cresthill, Nebraska. The band was formed by four high-school friends — lead singer and guitarist Marvin “Marv” Riley, drummer and backup vocalist Jimmy “Jim” Hopper, bass guitarist Timothy “Tim” Clark, and lead guitarist Jeffrey “Jeff” Russel. They were all passionate about music, sharing a common love for fusion sounds of classic rock and country. Drawing inspiration from their diverse heritage and the dazzling lights of their small-town fairs, they decided to name their eclectic quartet, Dazzling Heritage. Their musical journey began in Marv’s backyard, and they slowly gained momentum, playing at local gigs, festivals, and gradually ascending to national fame.

Genre: Country Rock

Title: “Crossroads of Yesterday”

Full song lyrics:

VERSE 1:
[G]Strolling down the [D]memory lane,
[G]Feeling the joy, the [C]love and the pain.
[G]In the crossroads of [D]yesterday,
[G]We found our [C]home, and we’re here to stay.

CHORUS:
[D]Dazzling lights, and [C]songs of delight,
[G]It’s our heritage, [D]it’s our fight.
[D]In the crossroads of [G]yesterday,
[C]We remember, and we [D]replay.

VERSE 2:
[G]We’ve walked under the [D]Nebraska moon,
[G]Sang our hearts out, [C]danced to our own tune.
[G]Through the crossroads of [D]yesterday,
[G]We found our [C]path, come what may.

CHORUS:
[D]Dazzling lights, and [C]songs of delight,
[G]It’s our heritage, [D]it’s our fight.
[D]In the crossroads of [G]yesterday,
[C]We remember, and we [D]replay.

Favorite Fan’s Testimonial:
Amy Thompson is a self-proclaimed number one fan of Dazzling Heritage. She describes her love for the band by sharing, “I’ve been in love with Dazzling Heritage since their first local gig in Cresthill. Their music resonates with the soul. ‘Crossroads of Yesterday’ speaks volumes about our shared heritage. It’s nostalgic, comforting, yet full of life. It’s like they’ve taken our small-town experiences and painted them on a larger canvas. They’ve made us proud of where we come from. Dazzling Heritage is not just our band, it’s our pride.”