Phony Pool

Backstory:

Phony Pool is the brainchild of childhood friends, Max Willis and Greg LaRoche, who grew up together in the heart of Austin, Texas. Sharing a mutual love for music, they started their journey by playing at local bars and small gigs around the city. Willis on vocals and guitar, and LaRoche on drums, they used their love for music as an escape from the mundanity of everyday life. In 2016, they added bassist Sarah Peterson to their lineup after meeting at a music festival, and Phony Pool was officially formed. Their infectious energy, raw talent, and a unique blend of sounds catapulted them into the limelight, garnering a significant following in the indie music scene.

Genre:

Indie Rock with elements of Punk and Alternative Rock.

Title:

“Broken Mirrors”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1) [Am, G, F, G]
In the shadows of the night, we find the light, [Am, G]
In the fragments of the broken mirrors on the floor. [F, G]
Lost in the echoes of our unspoken words, [Am, G]
We dance around the truth we can’t ignore. [F, G]

(Chorus) [C, G, Am, F]
We’re just broken mirrors, [C, G]
Reflecting the past, we can’t get nearer, [Am, F]
To the dreams that were meant to last. [C, G]

(Verse 2)
In the silence of the crowded room, [Am, G]
Our secrets whisper through the afternoon. [F, G]
Every glance is a memory, [Am, G]
In the broken mirrors, we can’t see. [F, G]

(Chorus)
We’re just broken mirrors, [C, G]
Reflecting the past, we can’t get nearer, [Am, F]
To the dreams that were meant to last. [C, G]

(Outro)
In the fragments of the past, [Am, G]
We find the truth at last, [F, G]
In the broken mirrors on the floor. [Am, G, F, G]

Favorite Fan:

Jenny Hudson, a college student from Dallas. Jenny says, “Phony Pool’s music speaks to me on a personal level. Their lyrics resonate with my everyday struggles and triumphs. Their music is raw and real and it feels like a friend comforting me during the hard times. The energy on their performances is infectious and their authenticity shines through. In a world filled with fabricated pop stars, Phony Pool’s genuine indie rock sound is refreshingly sincere and deeply moving. I can’t imagine a day without their music.”

Deep Rake

Backstory:
Formed in the bitter winter of 2012 in the heart of Philadelphia, Deep Rake began as a humble group of high school students who were eager to express their shared love of music. The band, consisting of frontman Travis Cope, lead guitarist Danny Miller, bassist Phillip ‘Phil’ Henderson, and drummer Alex Pierce, bonded over their shared appreciation of classic rock and their desire to add to the genre with their original music. They began performing at local bars and small concerts, which soon led to a devoted local fan base. Over the years, Deep Rake has matured, honing their sound and gaining national recognition.

Genre:
Classic Rock

Title:
“Burning Bridges”

Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Looking back on the [C] times we had,
[G] Can’t help but feeling [D] kind of sad.
[G] We used to be so [C] young and free,
[G] But now all that’s left are [D] memories.

(Chorus)
[G] Burning bridges, [C] breaking hearts,
[G] We knew it wasn’t right [D] from the start.
[G] But now I’m left here all [C] alone,
[G] Aching for the love [D] that’s gone.

(Verse 2)
[G] I think about you [C] every night,
[G] Wishing we could just [D] reignite.
[G] The flame that once [C] burned so bright,
[G] But now is just a [D] faint light.

(Chorus)
[G] Burning bridges, [C] tearing us apart,
[G] I should have known [D] from the start.
[G] Now I’m here with an [C] empty heart,
[G] Yearning for a fresh [D] start.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Samantha Doyle. Samantha has been following Deep Rake since their first performance at a small bar in Philadelphia. She has attended every one of their concerts, big or small, and always stays after the show to meet the band members. Samantha’s testimonial as to why Deep Rake is her favorite band is, “Deep Rake is not just a band; it’s an experience. Their music resonates deep within your soul and takes you on a journey. Every song tells a story, and the passion these guys have for their music is palpable. Their classic rock sound with a contemporary twist is a refreshing take on the genre. I have been a fan since day one and will continue to support them throughout their journey.”

Parched Resort

Backstory:
Parched Resort originated in the sunny valleys of southern California in 2010 when four childhood friends – Blake Stevens, Owen Baker, Toby Howard, and Dave Miller – decided to combine their unique musical skills. Inspired by the magnificent sunsets, long highways, and their shared passion for music, the group started recording songs in their garage, giving birth to a sound that would soon capture the hearts of thousands.

Their journey from a garage band to a well-recognized musical group wasn’t without its trials. They faced numerous rejections and setbacks, but their persistent spirit and strong bond kept them united. Their breakthrough came in 2013 when their demo tape caught the attention of a prominent music producer, and they were signed to a major record label. Since then, Parched Resort has been setting the music scene ablaze with their energetic performances and distinctive sound.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Song Title:
“Desert Mirage”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Driving down the broken [G] path
[Am] Feeling the sun’s merciless [E] wrath
[C] Dreaming of a cooling [G] oasis,
[Am] Lost in the desert’s harsh [E] embrace

(Chorus)
[F] Desert Mirage, [C] illusion divine,
[G] Guiding me through the [Am] sands of time,
[F] Quenching the longing, the [C] thirst within,
[G] In this Parched Resort, I [Am] find my peace.

(Verse 2)
[C] Painted skies and [G] endless dunes,
[Am] Underneath the silver [E] moon
[C] The whispering wind [G] carries a tale,
[Am] Of love found within the [E] desert veil.

(Chorus)
[F] Desert Mirage, [C] illusion divine,
[G] Guiding me through the [Am] sands of time,
[F] Quenching the longing, the [C] thirst within,
[G] In this Parched Resort, I [Am] find my solace.

Fan Testimonial:
“My name is Judy Cooper. Parched Resort has been my favorite band for years now. I was captivated by their unique indie rock sound and the raw emotion behind their lyrics. Their songs like ‘Desert Mirage’ resonate with me on a deep level. Their music feels like a journey, a voyage through a vast desert, and each song is a new adventure. It’s not just their music, but their story of resilience and friendship that inspires me. Parched Resort’s music feels like home, a place I can always return to, no matter where I am in life.”

Valuable Bat

Backstory:
Valuable Bat was formed in a small garage in Portland, Oregon, in 2008. The band’s five members, all childhood friends, found a shared passion in music after discovering a box of old records in one of their parents’ attics. From those dusty LPs, they found their calling, spending countless hours together refining their sound, writing songs, and dreaming of taking their music to the world.

In 2010, they played their first show at a local music festival, immediately catching attention due to their unique sound and contagious energy. Encouraged by the positive response, they doubled down on their efforts, releasing their first EP in 2012. Valuable Bat quickly became a staple in the Pacific Northwest music scene, and their reach has since expanded across the nation.

Genre:
Psychedelic Rock

Title:
Lunar Shadows

Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G] Once upon a midnight dreary [D]
[G] Underneath the lunar glow [C]
[G] I found my heart in pieces [D]
[G] Lost in the shadows below [C]

(Chorus)
[D] Lunar shadows, [C] take me home
[G] To the place where [D] my heart roams
[E] In the night, under [A] stars so bright
[D] Lunar shadows, [C] be my light

(Verse 2)
[G] Whispers of the wind so lonely [D]
[G] Carry secrets of the heart [C]
[G] In the silence of the night [D]
[G] I find my courage to start [C]

(Chorus)
[D] Lunar shadows, [C] guide my way
[G] Through the night and [D] into day
[E] With your light, [A] I’ll take flight
[D] Lunar shadows, [C] endless night

Fan Profile:
Name: Jenny Thompson

Testimonial: As a lifelong music enthusiast, I’ve listened to countless bands, but Valuable Bat holds a special place in my heart. Their sound is a unique blend of nostalgia and modernity, with a dreamy undertone that resonates with my soul. “Lunar Shadows” is my favorite song, not just for its beautiful lyrics and melody, but for the way it makes me feel – like I’m part of something bigger. There’s a depth to their music that’s both refreshing and comforting, a rare find in today’s music scene. Valuable Bat isn’t just my favorite band; they’re a constant companion on my life’s journey.

Frank Yard

Backstory:
Frank Yard was born out of a lively neighborhood in Brooklyn, New York, where four childhood friends found a common passion for music. These friends – Charlie Thompson on vocals, Bobby ‘Bassman’ Davis on bass guitar, Ronnie ‘Gonzo’ Gonzales on drums, and Jack ‘Shredder’ McAllister on lead guitar, named their band after the mysterious old man who lived on their street and played harmonica from his porch every evening, Frank Yard.

As teenagers, the boys grew up listening to Frank Yard’s bluesy tunes while they honed their own skills. Frank Yard, the man, recognized their passion for music and gave the boys their first gig – playing at his 80th birthday party. This event marked the beginning of their journey, and to honor the man who sparked their musical career, the band named themselves ‘Frank Yard’.

Genre:
Blues Rock

Title:
“Brooklyn Nights”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verses]
Am G D Am
On the streets of Brooklyn, under neon lights,
Am G D Am
We found our rhythm, in those late nights.
Am G D Am
From the heart of the city, rose a tale untold.
Am G D Am
Of four young souls, brave and bold.

[Chorus]
C G D Em
Brooklyn nights, under the city’s glow,
C G D Em
We played our hearts out, at every show.
C G D Em
Through the music, we found our way,
C G D Em
In the echoes of Frank Yard, we sway.

[Verses]
Am G D Am
We strummed our lives, to the city’s beat,
Am G D Am
In the shadow of skyscrapers, on the concrete.
Am G D Am
We were just kids, with a dream so big,
Am G D Am
Making music, our life’s gig.

[Chorus]
C G D Em
Brooklyn nights, under the city’s glow,
C G D Em
We played our hearts out, at every show.
C G D Em
Through the music, we found our way,
C G D Em
In the echoes of Frank Yard, we sway.

Favorite Fan:
Frank Yard’s favorite fan is a 25-year-old woman named Lucy who lives in their hometown of Brooklyn. Lucy has been a fan since their first gig at the old man Frank Yard’s birthday party. As a testimonial, Lucy says, “Frank Yard’s music is like a love letter to Brooklyn. Their song ‘Brooklyn Nights’ makes me feel a sense of pride and nostalgia, like I’m a part of their journey. Their music has this raw, bluesy honesty that’s so rare and precious. They’re my favorite band because they’re real, they’re home-grown, and they never forgot their roots.”

Standard Resolution

Backstory:

Standard Resolution began its journey in a college dorm room in the heart of New York City, where four unsuspecting students discovered their shared love for music. Alex, the charismatic lead vocalist, was studying design while playing the guitar in his free time. Charlie, the bass guitarist, was an English major with a knack for writing compelling lyrics. Ryan, the drummer, was studying computer science, and Emily, the keyboardist, was an up-and-coming architect. Despite their diverse backgrounds, they found common ground in music. They started jamming together, creating a unique sound that blended their personal styles and experiences. Their breakthrough came when they were invited to perform at the college’s annual music festival, where they won the hearts of all present with their beat-centric tunes and heartfelt lyrics.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Pixelated Dreams”

Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] I woke up in a [C] world of pixelated [D] dreams.
[Em] Memories blending with [C] digital streams.
[G] Our love feels [C] like a static [D] TV screen,
[Em] Fuzzy and distorted, [C] not what it seems.

(Chorus)
[G] In our standard resolution, [C] can we find a solution?
[D] To decode the noise, [Em] to find our voice,
[G] In a world that’s losing definition, [C] can we form a coalition?
[D] To restore the clarity, [Em] in this chaotic city.

(Verse 2)
[G] We live in a [C] world of low-resolution [D] dreams,
[Em] Struggling to keep up with [C] the changing themes.
[G] Our hearts beat [C] in a rhythmic [D] routine,
[Em] Lost in the noise, [C] unseen, obscene.

(Chorus)
[G] In our standard resolution, [C] can we find a solution?
[D] To decode the noise, [Em] to find our voice,
[G] In a world that’s losing definition, [C] can we form a coalition?
[D] To restore the clarity, [Em] in this chaotic city.

Favorite Fan:

Anna Thompson. Anna has been a fan of Standard Resolution since their first college performance. She was captivated by their unique sound and the depth of their lyrics. “Standard Resolution is not just a band; it’s an emotion that resonates with the current generation’s struggle,” says Anna. “Their music is a beautiful blend of contemporary issues and timeless emotions. ‘Pixelated Dreams’ speaks directly to my heart, reminding me that even in this chaotic, digital age, we can find clarity and voice our feelings. Standard Resolution isn’t just my favorite band; they’re my daily dose of inspiration.”

Parched Self

Backstory:

Born out of the sun-drenched plains of Southern Texas, Parched Self is a musical ensemble that has been making waves in the music scene since 2010. The band was formed by childhood friends, lead vocalist and songwriter, Jake Henderson, bass guitarist, Sean Gallagher, drummer, Billy ‘The Beast’ Greer, and guitar virtuoso, Liam ‘Lightning Fingers’ Foster. The quartet initially gained popularity with their soul-stirring performances at local clubs and bars, before being noticed by a local radio station. Their music, inspired by their personal experiences and the arid landscapes of their hometown, has been resonating with listeners far beyond the borders of Texas.

Genre:

Alternative Country

Title:

“Dust on My Boots”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Walking down this [C] dusty road, [D] with nothing but my [G] soul,
[G] The sun is high, and [C] my throat is dry, [D] but I’ve got miles to [G] go.
[G] I’ve got the desert [C] in my blood, [D] It’s in every note I [G] sing,
[G] And in my heart, it’s [C] a work of art, [D] This life’s a strange, wild [G] thing.

(Chorus)
[G] Oh, the dust on my [C] boots tells a [D] story,
[G] Of a life lived under [C] the vast prairie [D] sky,
[G] Through the heat and the [C] storms, and the [D] love and the worry,
[G] This is a parched self’s [C] lullaby, [D] This is a parched self’s [G] lullaby.

(Verse 2)

[G] I’ve known the pain, I’ve [C] known the joy, [D] I’ve known the desert’s [G] kiss,
[G] And every song, it [C] makes me strong, [D] It’s a life I wouldn’t [G] miss.
[G] I look at my reflection, [C] in the mirror of the [D] night,
[G] And I see a man, who [C] understands, [D] The desert’s harsh, sweet [G] fight.

(Chorus)
[G] Oh, the dust on my [C] boots tells a [D] story,
[G] Of a life lived under [C] the vast prairie [D] sky,
[G] Through the heat and the [C] storms, and the [D] love and the worry,
[G] This is a parched self’s [C] lullaby, [D] This is a parched self’s [G] lullaby.

Fan Testimonial:

One of their most passionate fans is a young woman named Amy Thompson from Houston. She fell in love with the band when she first heard them on a radio station. She says, “Parched Self’s music speaks to me on a personal level. It resonates with the life I’ve lived, growing up in the desert landscapes of Texas. Their music is like a soundtrack to my life. I can feel the heat of the sun, the grit of the sand, and the longing for rain in their songs. It’s raw and real, and that’s why they are my favorite band.”

Colorless Awareness

Backstory:

Founded in Seattle in the mid-1990s, Colorless Awareness is a symbol of the city’s rich indie rock scene. Growing up as childhood friends, the members of the band always had a deep connection with music. Lead vocalist, Marcus Dalton, guitarist, Tommy Gibson, bassist, Jake Roberts, and drummer, Lucas O’Leary stumbled upon their shared passion for music in their teenage years during a local talent show where they performed together for the first time. Fueled by their mutual understanding and shared dreams, they formed the band, Colorless Awareness, a group that would soon make its mark in the indie rock scene.

Colorless Awareness’ music is a blend of raw emotions and meaningful lyrics, aiming to inspire and provoke thought among listeners. Their name reflects their mission to highlight important societal issues that often go unnoticed, creating a colorless awareness among their audience.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Title:

“Whispers in the Rain”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Am F C G
Walking down the same old street,
Am F C G
Memories playing on repeat.
Am F C G
Whispers in the rain, I feel the pain,
Am F C G
Of a love never given, never gained.

[Chorus]
Am F C G
Shadows dancing, our silent song,
Am F C G
In the echo of a love gone wrong.
Am F C G
Whispers in the rain, it’s not in vain,
Am F C G
The colorless awareness, our only gain.

[Verse 2]
Am F C G
Silent cries in the falling rain,
Am F C G
Aching hearts bearing the strain.
Am F C G
Whispers in the rain, they sustain,
Am F C G
The echoes of a love, the unspoken pain.

[Chorus]
Am F C G
Shadows dancing, our silent song,
Am F C G
In the echo of a love gone wrong.
Am F C G
Whispers in the rain, it’s not in vain,
Am F C G
The colorless awareness, our only gain.

Favorite Fan and Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan is Emily Anderson, a Seattle local who has been following the band since their earliest local gigs. Emily is an avid supporter, crediting Colorless Awareness’s music for helping her through tough times. She says, “Colorless Awareness isn’t just a band, it’s a movement, a beacon of hope. Their music has a unique way of addressing complex emotions, making you feel heard and understood. They’re not just my favorite band, they’re an integral part of my life.”

Imperfect Bay

Backstory:
Imperfect Bay is an indie rock band formed by three long-standing friends: lead singer and guitarist Dan, bassist Max, and drummer Tim. The trio met in their early teen years in the sleepy coastal town of Bayfield, often referred to as “The Imperfect Bay” due to its untamed and unpredictable weather. They played together in high school, creating a unique sound influenced by the crashing waves and salty breeze of their hometown. After graduating, the trio decided to take their music to the next level and officially formed Imperfect Bay, a band dedicated to creating a fusion of sounds as diverse and intriguing as the bay that inspired them.

The journey from a garage band to a recognizable local name was not a smooth one. The band faced multiple obstacles: their original songs didn’t immediately resonate with most audiences, they struggled to find venues willing to give them a platform, and they even faced internal conflicts. However, like the bay that gave them their name, they weathered the storm. Their passion for music, coupled with an unwavering belief in their unique sound, eventually led them to local fame. Today, Imperfect Bay is a beloved feature of their town’s music scene, and their influence is slowly but surely spreading beyond the confines of Bayfield.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Stormy Silence”

Full song lyrics:

Verse 1:
Am F
Under the gray skies, where we laid our claim,
G Em
United by the whispers of the untamed,
Am F
Dreams dancing in the eyes, hearts ablaze,
G Em
In the Stormy Silence, we found our grace.

Chorus:
C G
In the Stormy Silence, beauty found her voice,
Am Em
In the echoing waves, we made our choice,
F C
To sing our song, in the rhythm of the rain,
G Em
In the Imperfect Bay, we found our name.

Verse 2:
Am F
Lost and found, in the heart of the sea,
G Em
Carved our story, on the aged tree,
Am F
Tales of the storm, and the sun’s warm gaze,
G Em
In the Stormy Silence, we found our days.

Chorus:
C G
In the Stormy Silence, amidst the tide,
Am Em
We found the harmony, deep inside,
F C
A melody born, under the moon’s soft haze,
G Em
In the Imperfect Bay, we found our ways.

The band’s favorite fan:
Their favorite fan is a woman named Sarah. She has been with the band since their earliest gig and has shown unwavering support through their highs and lows. Sarah is a local elementary school music teacher who recognized the band’s potential early on. She helped spread their music throughout the town, often playing their songs to her students.

Testimonial:
“I’ve seen a lot of musicians come and go, but there’s something special about Imperfect Bay. Their songs are raw, real, and they speak to the soul. The way they weave their love for Bayfield into their music adds a depth that’s unmatched. It’s music that makes you feel, and that’s why they’ve always been my favorite.” – Sarah.

Tough Van

Backstory:

Tough Van began their journey in the bustling city of Denver, Colorado in mid-2005. The band consists of four members: lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Jack “Jax” Donovan, lead guitarist and backing vocalist Max Williams, bassist and backing vocalist Kenny “K” McAnderson, and drummer Sam “S.T.” Trainor. They started out by playing in small bars and pubs, slowly gaining recognition for their unique brand of music. Their big break came when they played at Denver’s Underground Music Showcase, impressing a local record producer who offered them a contract. Since then, they have released three albums and toured extensively throughout the United States, carving a niche for themselves in the music industry.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Rumble Road”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am (C) G D
On the Rumble Road, where the wild winds blow,
Am (C) G D
We take our stand, we’re the Tough Van show.
Am (C) G D
Through city lights, under the moon’s soft glow,
Am (C) G D
We play our tunes, letting the rhythm flow.

(Chorus)
F C G
Hey, ho, it’s Tough Van on the go,
Am F C G
Driving through the night, with our music echoing so.
F C G
We’re the spirit of the street, the rhythm of the road,
Am F C G
On our endless journey, where the wild winds blow.

(Verse 2)
Am (C) G D
We’ve seen faces, we’ve heard cheers,
Am (C) G D
Felt the love, and wiped away tears.
Am (C) G D
In every city, every town, we leave a piece of our souls,
Am (C) G D
On the Rumble Road, where the music has its toll.

(Chorus)
F C G
Hey, ho, it’s Tough Van on the go,
Am F C G
With a beating heart, and a spirit that won’t lay low.
F C G
We’re the spirit of the street, the rhythm of the road,
Am F C G
On our endless journey, where the wild winds blow.

Testimonial – Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is Cindy “Rockin’ Cyn” Mitchell. A local Denverite, Cindy discovered Tough Van during their early bar gigs and has followed their journey ever since. She’s attended every local show and even followed them on several of their tours. In her words, “Tough Van isn’t just a band, they’re a force. Their energy on stage is unmatched and their lyrics touch the soul. They are the rhythm of the street, they define the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll. They’re my favorite band because their music makes me feel alive.”