Backstory:

Vibrant Layer was formed in the heart of San Francisco in early 2010. The band’s journey started as a quartet of high school friends who shared an immeasurable passion for music. Frontman and lead vocalist Alec Newman, guitarist Oliver Martin, bassist Ethan Riley, and drummer Isaac Foster decided to venture into music full time after their triumphant win at a local battle of the bands. The shared passion and desire to create something unique led to the birth of Vibrant Layer. Over the years, their music has evolved, mirroring their growth and experiences, while their bond has remained as vibrant as ever.

Genre:
Indie Pop/Rock

Title:
“Azure Reverie”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[E] Underneath the [A] canvas of the [E] sky,
[A] We let our [E] dreams take [A] flight.
[E] Like a silhouette [A] against the [E] moon,
[A] We dance away the [E] night. [A]

(Chorus)
[E] In this azure [A] reverie, [E]
[A] We find our freedom, [E] we find our [A] glee.
[E] Underneath the [A] starry sheen, [E]
[A] We live, we love, we [E] dream. [A]

(Verse 2)
[E] Between whispered [A] secrets and [E] shared laughter,
[A] We ink our [E] stories, chapter [A] after chapter.
[E] As the night unfurls its [A] sapphire screen, [E]
[A] We are caught in an [E] azure [A] dream.

(Chorus)
[E] In this azure [A] reverie, [E]
[A] We dance in shadows, [E] we dance in [A] glee.
[E] In the quiet [A] of the night, [E]
[A] We live, we love, we [E] write. [A]

Testimonial – Name of the Band’s Favorite Fan:
Lila Harper

Lila Harper, a veterinary student, has been following Vibrant Layer since their early days. She adores the band’s unique music style which she describes as, “a beautiful blend of soul-stirring lyrics and melodious tunes that resonate with the heart”. According to Lila, “Vibrant Layer’s music acts like an aural therapy. Their songs have been my constant companions during study sessions, road trips, and even heartbreaks. The heartfelt lyrics and soulful melodies have a way of reaching out and touching the listener’s heart. Their song ‘Azure Reverie’ is a personal favorite. It somehow manages to evoke a sense of tranquillity and nostalgia every time I listen to it. Vibrant Layer isn’t just a band to me, they’re like old friends whose voices comfort me in every phase of life.”

Backstory:
Simple Principle is a band that came together organically in the heart of Austin, Texas. The band members, John Parker (Vocals and Guitar), Ryan Thompson (Bass), and Tony Wolfs (Drums), were friends long before they started making music together. They shared a common love for music and each brought a unique flavor to their sound, combining a multitude of genres into their songs. After a few impromptu jamming sessions at backyard gatherings, they took a leap and decided to formally create a band in 2015. Their music journey started from playing at local bars and small-scale music festivals, and their unique sound quickly caught the attention of the Austin music scene.

Simple Principle’s musical style doesn’t stick to one genre. Their songs range from rock to blues, to indie and alternative, with a touch of folk here and there. Their lyrics often reflect a philosophical approach to life and its many layers, hence the name Simple Principle.

Genre: Alternative Rock/Indie Folk

Title: “Chasing Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Woke up this morning, [D] in the middle of a dream,
[Em] A world running backward, [C] or so it seemed,
[G] I started chasing shadows, [D] in the broad daylight,
[Em] Looking for answers, [C] hiding plain in sight.

(Chorus)
[Em] Chasing shadows, [G] running from the sun,
[D] A world in chaos, [C] can’t tell what we’ve begun,
[Em] Chasing shadows, [G] in a world gone blind,
[D] A simple principle, [C] that’s hard to find.

(Verse 2)
[G] I picked up my guitar, [D] and started to play,
[Em] A melody of hope, [C] to light up the day,
[G] Still chasing shadows, [D] but with a different tune,
[Em] The night will be over, [C] hope it’s someday soon.

(Chorus)
[Em] Chasing shadows, [G] under the moon’s glow,
[D] A world in silence, [C] waiting for the crow,
[Em] Chasing shadows, [G] in the heart of the night,
[D] A simple principle, [C] in the morning light.

Bands Favorite Fan: The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Lucy Sanders. A dedicated follower since their early beginnings, Lucy has attended almost all of their shows and owns all of their merchandise.

Lucy says, “Simple Principle is my favorite band because their music speaks to me on a level that no other band has. Their lyrics are profound, their melodies are hauntingly beautiful, and the energy they bring to their live performances is unmatched. Their song ‘Chasing Shadows’ in particular has helped me through some tough times. Their music reminds me that life is a journey with its ups and downs, and it’s okay to not have all the answers. I can’t wait to see what they come up with next.”

Backstory:

Formed in 2018, Idealistic Million is an ensemble of childhood friends turned bandmates. The group met in their school days and shared a common passion for music that developed into a serious pursuit over the years. Jessica (vocals), Mark (bass guitar), Luke (lead guitar), and Matt (drums) spent their high school years practicing in garages, performing at local pubs, and honing their craft. Their shared passion for music and the dream of making it big led to the birth of Idealistic Million.

Idealistic Million’s rise to stardom came after their breakthrough performance at a music festival in 2021. Their unique sound and genuine charm captured the hearts of the audience and caught the attention of a record label executive in the crowd. Since then, the band’s journey has been nothing short of a roller coaster ride, filled with performances, recording sessions, and an ever-growing fan base around the globe.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Song Title:

“Chasing Sunsets”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] I remember walking down the [G] empty street
[Am] Underneath the glow of the [Em] starlit sky
[C] Hand in hand, [G] hearts skipping beats
[Am] Dreaming of a future, [Em] you and I

(Chorus)
[F] Chasing sunsets, [C] under the crimson sky
[G] Living our dreams, [Am] letting the world slide by
[F] In the echoes of the night, [C] we found our delight
[G] Chasing sunsets, [Am] till the morning light

(Verse 2)
[C] We painted our dreams in [G] shades of love
[Am] High on hopes, in [Em] the twilight’s embrace
[C] Whispering promises, [G] under the stars above
[Am] Lost in the moment, [Em] lost in space

(Chorus)
[F] Chasing sunsets, [C] under the sapphire sky
[G] Sailing on dreams, [Am] letting the world drift by
[F] In the silence of the night, [C] we found our delight
[G] Chasing sunsets, [Am] till the morning light

Favorite Fan:

Idealistic Million’s favorite fan is a 22-year-old college student named Ellie. Ellie admired the band even before their breakthrough, having followed their journey since the early pub performances. She loved their personality, their relatability, and the way their music touched upon the complexities and beauty of everyday life.

In Ellie’s words, “Idealistic Million is more than just a band to me. Their music really speaks to me, and I can relate to their songs on a personal level. It’s like they understand exactly what I’m feeling, and their music has a way of bringing comfort and clarity to my life. They are genuine, down-to-earth, and incredibly talented. I am their number one fan, and I can’t wait to see what amazing things they do in the future!”

Backstory:
Sardonic Rod was born in the thriving music scene of Seattle, Washington, in 2012. Its five members initially met in a local coffee shop, bonding over their shared cynicism and love for music. Comprised of lead vocalist Charlie “Chaz” Malone, guitarist Russel “Rusty” Finch, bassist Liam “Lee” Preston, drummer Derek “Dee” Collins, and keyboardist Sarah “Saza” Thompson, Sardonic Rod quickly made a name for themselves with their unique sound and witty lyrics. Their breakthrough arrived in 2015 when their single “Washed Out” became a surprise hit on college radio stations across the country. Since then, the band has released three successful albums and continues to tour widely, gaining a loyal following with their electrifying performances.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Cynic’s Anthem”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[A] I’m not the type to sit and dream all day,
[D] I’ve seen the world, and it ain’t really my taste.
[G] But I’ll play along, scribble in another song,
[A] A fool’s parade, in a world gone wrong.

(Chorus)
[D] So here’s to the cynics, the critics, the realists,
[G] We’re misunderstood, but we wouldn’t want to change.
[A] We’re the voice of the voiceless, the restless, the dreamless,
[D] We’re Sardonic Rod, and we’re here to play the game.

(Verse 2)
[A] I’ve got a mind that’s full of sardonic thought,
[D] A world full of lessons that life has taught.
[G] I’ll strum my guitar, sing under the stars,
[A] A rebel’s hymn, from a heart that’s fought.

(Chorus)
[D] So here’s to the cynics, the critics, the realists,
[G] We’re misunderstood, but we wouldn’t want to change.
[A] We’re the voice of the voiceless, the restless, the dreamless,
[D] We’re Sardonic Rod, and we’re here to play the game.

(Outro)
[G] So raise your glass, let the music blast,
[A] We’re Sardonic Rod, and we’re not the last.

Fan’s Name:
Kenny

Testimonial:
I’ve been a super fan of Sardonic Rod since their first underground gigs. Their music speaks to me on a deep level, and their lyrics perfectly encapsulate the cynicism of this generation. Their authenticity is something you don’t often see in the music industry these days. I’ve seen them perform live multiple times, and each show is an unforgettable experience. They’re my favorite band because they’re not just playing music – they’re telling our stories. Sardonic Rod, you rock!

Backstory:
Sleepy Vessel was born on the campus of a small liberal arts college in the Midwest in the summer of 2005. Childhood friends, Adam Jones and Michael Forbes, bonded over their love for poetic lyrics and haunting melodies, went from playing at local coffee shops to captivating the entire campus with their soul-stirring music. Adam’s poignant lyrics, coupled with Michael’s experimental guitar riffs, began to garner serious attention. After graduating, they were joined by the incredibly talented drummer, Sophie Reid, and together, the trio embarked on a musical journey that would forever redefine their lives.

Genre:
Indie Folk

Title:
“Whispering Shadows”

Full song lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Em C
Beneath the moonlight, we stole a glance,
G D
Lost in a moment, caught in a dance.
Em C
Our hearts were pounding, in tune with the night,
G D
Whispering shadows, guiding us right.

(Chorus)
C G
We are dreamers under the stars,
D Em
Wandering aimlessly, bearing our scars.
C G
Through the darkness, we find our way,
D Em
Chasing the dawn, waiting for day.

(Verse 2)
Em C
In the silent echoes, we found our song,
G D
In the sleepy vessel, we truly belong.
Em C
With love as our compass, and hope as our sail,
G D
We ride the storm, we brave the gale.

(Chorus)
C G
We are dreamers under the stars,
D Em
Wandering aimlessly, bearing our scars.
C G
Through the darkness, we find our way,
D Em
Chasing the dawn, waiting for day.

Fan’s Name and Testimonial:
Name: Lucy Morgan

Testimonial:
“Sleepy Vessel’s music is like a comforting lullaby that transports you to another world. Their poetic lyrics and haunting melodies resonate deeply with me. I remember the first time I heard ‘Whispering Shadows’; I fell in love with its raw honesty and vulnerability. The way Adam and Michael harmonize and the rhythm that Sophie adds are nothing short of magical. I’ve been a huge fan ever since, and their music has become my solace in times of distress. Sleepy Vessel is my favorite band because they make music that touches souls and heals hearts!”

Backstory:
Elementary Exhibition originated at a small public school nestled within the heartland of the Midwest, where five high school friends found their shared passion for music and creativity. Tim Denver (vocals), Jake Allister (lead guitar), Monica Torres (drums), Sammy Hill (bass), and Amy Leeds (keyboard) formed the group on the spur of a moment, during one of their typical after-school jam sessions. The group derived their name from the humble beginnings of their musical journey, which started from the elementary school exhibitions where they used to perform. Their journey saw them transition from playing in school corridors to performing at local bars, eventually leading to a record deal that catapulted them to the national scene.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Echoes of Innocence”

Full song lyrics with chords progression:

Verse 1: [C] [G] [Am] [F]
(C) Back in the day (G) when the world was new,
(Am) We had dreams, (F) we had something to pursue.
(C) In that old schoolyard, (G) under the blue,
(Am) We played our song, (F) just for a chosen few.

Chorus: [G] [Am] [F] [C]
(G) Echoes of innocence, (Am) our symphony in the wind,
(F) Our melody of youth, (C) our anthem, we grinned.
(G) Through the pages of time, (Am) we may have thinned,
(F) But the echoes of innocence, (C) in our hearts, are pinned.

Verse 2: [C] [G] [Am] [F]
(C) With our beat-up guitars, (G) and a rusty old drum,
(Am) We strummed our dreams, (F) under the setting sun.
(C) In those echoing hallways, (G) where our journey begun,
(Am) We played our hearts out, (F) till the day was done.

Repeat Chorus: [G] [Am] [F] [C]

The Bands Favorite Fan:
Our favorite fan is undoubtedly Danny ‘D-Notes’ Johnson. Danny has been following our work since our high school days and has attended every single show we’ve performed. His dedication and affection towards our music have always motivated us to push our boundaries and strive for more. His testimonial is one we hold dear:

“Dudes, Elementary Exhibition is more than just a band to me. They’re like the soundtrack to my life. Every one of their songs resonates with a different phase of my life. Their raw energy, their authentic sound, and their real lyrics, man…they capture the essence of growing up, of dreams, of love and loss. They’re not just musicians, they’re poets, they’re storytellers. They truly are the echoes of innocence.”

Backstory:
Upbeat Milk was born in the vibrant heart of Austin, Texas, during the summer of 2009. The group was an eclectic gathering of four music-obsessed college students: Jamie, the charismatic frontman, was studying music technology, while Olivia, the band’s drummer, was deep into her environmental science degree. On bass was Ethan, a fine arts major, and rounding out the group was Lily, a classical guitar major, on lead guitar. They met during a campus jam session and instantly clicked, recognizing a shared passion for music that transcended boundaries and genres. They started playing together in their spare time, and soon their distinctive sound began to evolve.

After years of practice, basement gigs, and word-of-mouth promotion, the group released their debut album in 2016. Their unique merging of genres and captivating performances garnered the attention of music enthusiasts worldwide, transforming Upbeat Milk from a local sensation into a symbol of creative exploration and positive vibes.

Genre:
Upbeat Milk comfortably sit in the Alternative Indie Pop genre with a heavy influence of Funk and Soul.

Title:
Their hit song is titled “Groovin’ in the Gravy”.

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse]
Am C
Wake up, it’s a brand new day,
G F
Shake off the weight of yesterday,
Am C
Feeling the rhythm, feeling the flow,
G F
Ready to see where the day will go.

[Chorus]
C G
Groovin’ in the gravy,
Am F
Living in the now,
C G
Letting the music play,
Am F
And we don’t know how.

[Verse]
Am C
Sun shines, bright and high,
G F
We’re singing beneath the endless sky,
Am C
With every strum, every beat, every note,
G F
We’re sailing together in the music’s boat.

[Chorus]
C G
Groovin’ in the gravy,
Am F
Dancing in the sound,
C G
Letting the music play,
Am F
And we’re going round and round.

Favorite Fan:
Their favorite fan is a woman named Rachel, a dedicated follower since their college days.

Testimonial:
Rachel says, “I’ve been a fan of Upbeat Milk since they were playing at tiny college basement gigs. Their music is like a burst of sunshine – it’s uplifting, infectious, and always leaves me feeling better than before. They’ve always stayed true to their unique sound, and in a music landscape that can often feel repetitive, Upbeat Milk is like a breath of fresh air. They’re the perfect band for anyone who loves music that’s fun, funky, and full of heart.”

Backstory:

Sunny New is a dynamic and vibrant indie-rock band that originated in San Francisco, California. The band’s roots were established in a rundown garage, where childhood friends – lead vocalist, Benny, drummer, Mick, and bass player, Jamie, would jam every evening after school. Their shared love for music was evident and over the years they honed their skills, adding a fourth member, Lily, the enchanting keyboardist to their group. Their sound is a mix of euphoric melodies and poignant lyrics, blending the charm of the 90s with a modern twist.

Formed in 2013, Sunny New found their breakthrough in a local battle of the bands competition, where their unique and compelling sound left everyone stunned. Since then, they’ve been on a rollercoaster ride of music festivals and sold-out concerts, sharing their music with the world, building a passionate fanbase and captivating audiences everywhere with their vivacious energy.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Golden Rays”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Waking up [C] to the morning sun,
[G] Your smile’s brighter, [C] you’re the only one.
[D] Remembering the [Em] moments we shared,
[C] Felt so right, [D] I was never scared.

(Chorus)
[G] Golden rays [D] light our days,
[C] Love’s a maze, [D] but we found our ways.
[G] In your arms [D] is where I want to stay,
[Em] Under the golden [D] rays, [C] sunny new day.

(Verse 2)
[G] Walking down [C] the memory lane,
[G] Your laughter echoing, [C] easing all the pain.
[D] Dreaming of a [Em] future so bright,
[C] With you, [D] everything feels right.

(Chorus)
[G] Golden rays [D] light our days,
[C] Love’s a maze, [D] but we found our ways.
[G] In your arms [D] is where I want to stay,
[Em] Under the golden [D] rays, [C] sunny new day.

(Outro)
[G] As the sun [D] sets, and the stars play,
[C] I know we’ll [D] find our way.
[G] Hand in hand [D] under the moon’s gray,
[Em] Waiting for another [D] sunny new [C] day.

Fan Testimonial:

“I’m Sarah, and Sunny New is my favorite band! Their music has a way of reaching into my soul and making me feel alive. “Golden Rays” is my go-to song when I need a pick-me-up. Benny’s voice carries so much emotion, Mick’s rhythm sets my heart beating, Jamie’s bass is grounding, and Lily’s keys just pull it all together. They take me on a journey with their songs, and each tune feels like a ray of sunshine. Sunny New isn’t just a band, they’re a musical experience!”

Backstory:
Gifted Evaluation was born in the bustling metropolis of New York City, formed by four college friends who shared a love for music and a penchant for pushing boundaries. The band members, lead singer Jack Matthews, lead guitarist Ryan Wells, bassist Alex Chambers, and drummer Max Turner, all studied in differing fields, from philosophy to physics, yet found a common ground in their passion for music. Their unique educational backgrounds brought a fresh perspective to their songwriting, where they would tackle existential questions and societal observations within their rhythmically complex tunes.

Genre:
Gifted Evaluation is best known for their work in Progressive Rock, with elements of Jazz Fusion and Psychedelic Rock intertwined within their music.

Title:
“Fractals in the Sky”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] I look up to the [Am] sky, [C] endlessly wondering [D] why.
[G] Patterns unfold in the [Am] night, [C] fractals dancing in [D] flight.
[Am] Questions rise, [C] as stars align, [G] universe in [D] design.

(Chorus)
[G] Fractals in the sky, [Am] answers hidden high.
[C] Spiral out of sight, [D] in the quiet of the night.
[G] We’re mysteries [Am] in motion, [C] lost in this vast [D] ocean.

(Verse 2)
[G] Through the cosmic [Am] lens, [C] time and space [D] bends.
[G] We seek to [Am] understand, [C] hold the cosmos in our [D] hand.
[Am] In the fabric of [C] creation, [G] lies our gifted [D] evaluation.

(Chorus)
[G] Fractals in the sky, [Am] a universe to pry.
[C] Spirals of delight, [D] in the eternal night.
[G] We’re mysteries [Am] in motion, [C] swimming in this [D] cosmic ocean.

Fan Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Emily. Emily has been there from the beginning, even before they were known as Gifted Evaluation. She discovered the band at a small local gig, and was instantly captivated by their unique sound and thought-provoking lyrics. Emily is not only a fan, but a friend, who has supported the band through thick and thin, attending every concert and every release. Here’s what Emily has to say:
“Gifted Evaluation isn’t just a band to me; they’re a life-changing experience. Their music has not only been a source of entertainment but also of comfort and inspiration. The way they weave philosophy, science, and art into their sound is truly unique. They’re my favorite band because they’ve taught me to embrace the unknown, to question, and most importantly, to keep exploring. They’re more than just musicians, they’re storytellers and thinkers, and that’s why I love them.”

Backstory:
Grotesque Doctor is a power trio that first emerged from the basements of Cleveland, Ohio in 2014. The band members – lead vocalist and bassist Danny ‘Grim’ Miller, guitarist ‘Mad’ Max Lloyd, and drummer Jake ‘The Snake’ Stratton – were initially in separate bands, playing in various local venues. A chance meeting at a late-night party led to a spontaneous jam session and the realization that they shared a love for bold, hard-hitting music. They soon left their respective bands to form Grotesque Doctor, a group that would push boundaries and defy the status quo.

Grotesque Doctor quickly made a name for themselves in the local scene with their energetic live shows and distinctive sound. They have since gone on to play at various music festivals and opened for major acts, gaining a cult following along the way. Their music, a blend of rock, metal, and punk, resonates with fans who feel marginalized or unheard, a sentiment that Grotesque Doctor openly embraces and channels into their lyrics and performances.

Genre:
Alternative Rock/Metal

Title:
“Edge of Insanity”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am [C] I just a pawn in this grand scheme, [G]
A faceless figure in your twisted dream? [D]
In the [C] mirror all I see, [G]
Is a grotesque doctor staring back at me. [D]

(Chorus)
[C] On the edge of insanity, [G]
That’s where you’ll find me. [D]
In the [C] labyrinth of my mind, [G]
That’s where I’m confined. [D]

(Verse 2)
I’m the [C] patient and the doctor, [G]
Drowning in a sea of horror. [D]
In the [C] shadows, I see, [G]
A grotesque doctor, is that really me? [D]

(Chorus)
[C] On the edge of insanity, [G]
That’s where you’ll find me. [D]
In the [C] labyrinth of my mind, [G]
That’s where I’m confined. [D]

(Outro)
[C] I’m the grotesque doctor, [G]
On the edge of insanity, [D]
[C] In the labyrinth of my mind, [G]
That’s where you’ll find me. [D]

Favorite Fan Testimonial:
Name: Abby Mitchell

“I’ve been a fan of Grotesque Doctor since their underground days. Their music, especially ‘Edge of Insanity’, has always spoken to me. It’s raw, powerful, and unapologetically honest. The Grotesque Doctor has a way of articulating feelings of isolation, confusion, and desperation that’s both haunting and beautiful. Their music has helped me through some of the darkest times in my life. It’s like they understand what it’s like to feel lost and alone, and in a weird way, that makes me feel less alone. For me, their music is more than just entertainment; it’s a lifeline.”