Backstory:
Secondary Border is the brainchild of four college friends from the small town of Kenosha, Wisconsin. The group was formed in 2009 when Ben Elliot (guitar), Sarah McAllen (drums), Jake Thomas (bass), and Liam Hayes (vocals) decided to experiment with music in their dorm room. They started playing local gigs at bars and festivals, gradually gaining a loyal fanbase with their unique blend of sounds. After earning a record deal from a local indie label, the band moved to Los Angeles to chase their music dream.

Despite the challenges they faced in a new city, the group remained resilient and continued to write and produce music that resonated with their audience. Their lyrics often draw from their experiences of life transitions and adapting to new environments, hence the name ‘Secondary Border’. They hope that their music will serve as a source of comfort and empowerment to those who are also navigating through the uncertainties of life.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Interstate Lullaby”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am
Driving down the interstate, all I see is you,
C
In the rearview mirror of my old Subaru,
G
Past the secondary border, into something new,
D
The echoes of our laughter, in the rearview.

(Chorus)
Am
We’re just ghosts on the highway,
C
Chasing dreams past the borderline,
G
With the radio playing our interstate lullaby,
D
We’ll find ourselves, one mile at a time.

(Verse 2)
Am
Neon signs are passing, like fleeting thoughts,
C
In this journey of ours, we’ve learned a lot,
G
Beyond the secondary border, where hopes are sought,
D
In the rearview mirror, love is never lost.

(Chorus)
Am
We’re just ghosts on the highway,
C
Chasing dreams past the borderline,
G
With the radio playing our interstate lullaby,
D
We’ll find ourselves, one mile at a time.

(Outro)
Am
As our journey unfolds, under the starry night,
C
Beyond the secondary border, everything’s in sight,
G
With the radio playing our interstate lullaby,
D
We’ve found ourselves, beyond the city lights.

Fan’s Name:
The band’s favorite fan is Emily Mitchell.

Testimonial:
“I’ve been a fan of Secondary Border ever since I first heard them at a local festival in Kenosha. Their music has this raw, authentic feel that really resonates with me. The songs, especially ‘Interstate Lullaby’, have seen me through some tough times. It’s like they somehow capture the essence of life’s trials, transitions, and triumphs in their lyrics. Their music is my go-to whenever I need a boost of strength or even just a good jam. They’re not just a band to me; they’re like companions on this journey we call life.”

Backstory:

Masculine White originated in a small, nondescript town in the outskirts of New York, in the early 2000s. The band members, John Fergus (Lead Vocals), Andy Strauss (Guitarist), Conan O’Dell (Bassist), and Marcus Peet (Drummer), were childhood friends who relished their shared passion for music and the shared dream of making it big. Their commonalities, coupled with their formidable talent and determination, drove them to form Masculine White. The name was inspired by their infamous go-to hangout spot – the white, masculine-looking barn owned by John’s Uncle.

Over the years, through grueling practice sessions, makeshift gigs, and countless rejections, the band persevered. They built their sound – a fusion of their musical influences – and developed a loyal following. It wasn’t long before the indie music scene took notice, and Masculine White became the buzzword among music aficionados.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Shades of Love”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1: Am, G, F, C)
In these shades of love, we paint our world, (Am)
Heartbeats synchronize, words left untold. (G)
Your touch, my skin, electric bold, (F)
In your gaze, my future, love unfolds. (C)

(Chorus: F, G, Am, C)
In the shades of love, we find our way, (F)
Through the chaos and calm, night and day. (G)
In your arms, I lose myself, I pray, (Am)
In these shades of love, forever we may stay. (C)

(Verse 2: Am, G, F, C)
In these shades of love, we bare our souls, (Am)
Unspoken promises, love’s silent toll. (G)
Your lips, my desire, passion’s coal, (F)
In your arms, my heart, you stole. (C)

(Repeat Chorus: F, G, Am, C)

(Bridge: Em, F, G, D)
In the depths of your eyes, I see, (Em)
The shades of love, you and me. (F)
Bound by a force, wild and free, (G)
In these shades of love, we’ll forever be. (D)

(Repeat Chorus x2: F, G, Am, C)

Fan Testimonial:

Name: Sasha Williams

Sasha Williams, a fervent follower of Masculine White since their inception, has been the band’s most loyal and enthusiastic fan. Sasha says, “What initially drew me to Masculine White was their raw, honest, and soulful music. Their lyrics resonate with real experiences, and their sound is incredibly unique. But what’s kept me hooked is their unpretentious, down-to-earth nature. They’ve grown and evolved, but they’ve always stayed rooted and true to their original sound and essence. They are more than just a band to me—they’re a beacon of authenticity in an often superficial industry.”

Backstory:
Naughty Association was formed in 2005 when four college friends embarked on a journey to bring their passion for music to the masses. Chris “Rhythm” Anderson on drums, Jackson “Solo” Hendrix on guitar, Eddie “Bass” Daniels, and Barry “Vocal” Stevenson, the lead singer, met while attending the prestigious Juilliard School in New York City. The friends, who were known for their mischief and fun-loving antics, decided to form a band that would embody their free-spirited personalities and shared love for music.

The band initially began playing at local bars and house parties, quickly gaining a reputation for their high energy performances and catchy lyrics. After years of gigging, their breakthrough came in 2009 when their song “Rebel’s Call” caught the attention of a famous record producer. Since then, Naughty Association has released three successful albums and has continued to captivate audiences globally with their unique sound.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Whisky Eyes”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[C] Staring down the barrel of a [G] loaded night,
[Am] City lights flashing in your [E] whisky eyes,
[F] Got that devil-may-care [C] attitude,
[G] Living life like there’s nothing to [C] lose.

(Chorus)
[F] Whisky eyes, you’re [C] a rebel in disguise,
[G] Dancing in the fire, under [Am] neon skies,
[F] Whisky eyes, you’ve got [C] the world hypnotized,
[G] Keep on dreaming, ’cause [Am] dreamers never die.

(Verse 2)
[C] Riding on the backseat of a [G] stolen dream,
[Am] Dancing with danger, it’s your [E] favorite theme,
[F] With every beat of the [C] music loud,
[G] You’re standing out in the [C] faceless crowd.

(Chorus)
[F] Whisky eyes, painting [C] stories in the night,
[G] Got the moon and stars as your [Am] guiding light,
[F] Whisky eyes, with a [C] spirit so bright,
[G] You’re a shooting star in the [Am] endless night.

Fan Testimonial:
My name is Lily. I’ve been a fan of Naughty Association since their local gig days. I’ve watched them grow from unknowns in the local scene to worldwide rock stars. Their music resonates with me because it’s honest, it’s raw, and it’s real. Their song “Whisky Eyes” particularly speaks to me because it encapsulates the spirit of living life on your own terms, no matter the circumstances. Naughty Association isn’t just my favorite band because of their music, but because they inspire me to be myself and live my truth. They’re more than just a band; they’re a lifestyle.

Backstory:
‘Gruesome Afternoon’ was born out of the suburban angst of five high school friends who found solace in translating their rebellious spirit into music. They started out playing in their garages, school talent competitions, and small gigs at local venues in Louisville, Kentucky. The band members, led by vocalist Jason ‘Sparks’ McAlister, include lead guitarist Tom ‘Thrasher’ Thompson, bassist Ricky ‘Riff’ Anderson, drummer Chris ‘Crasher’ Collins, and keyboardist Eddie ‘Keys’ Kennedy. Their raw energy and hard-hitting lyrics quickly gained them a loyal fan base. After graduation, they all decided to pursue music full time, moving to the bustling city of Los Angeles to chase their dreams. Their dedication and unyielding passion for music have shaped them into a formidable force in the industry.

Genre:
Their music falls under the genre of Punk Rock with a tinge of Grunge.

Song Title:
“Bleeding Sunsets”

Full song lyrics:
(Intro: Em, G, D, A)
Verse 1:
Em G
Bleeding sunsets, fading dreams
D A
Broken hearts sewn with unseen seams
Em G
Dusk to dawn, we dance in the neon light
D A
Chasing ghosts in the dead of the night

(Chorus: C, G, D, Em)
C G
Under the crimson sky, our souls ignite
D Em
In this gruesome afternoon, we’ll take flight
C G
We’re just rebels with a cause, lost in sight
D Em
In the bleeding sunsets, we find our might

(Verse 2: Em, G, D, A)
Em G
Our echoes resonate, in the city’s maze
D A
Lost youth, in a wild, restless haze
Em G
Trapped in silence, our hearts scream
D A
Living nightmares, in a broken dream

(Chorus: C, G, D, Em)
C G
Under the crimson sky, our souls ignite
D Em
In this gruesome afternoon, we’ll take flight
C G
We’re just rebels with a cause, lost in sight
D Em
In the bleeding sunsets, we find our might

(Outro: Em)
Em
And in the end, as the sun sinks low
We find ourselves, in the afterglow

Fan Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan is Jenny ‘Jet’ Harrison, a die-hard Gruesome Afternoon follower from day one. Jenny has watched them grow from a local garage band in Kentucky to a well-known act on the LA music scene. She praises the band for their authenticity, passion, and the raw emotion they put in their music. “Gruesome Afternoon songs speak the truth that most of us shy away from. They’re an outlet for my frustrations, a solace in my darkest times. Their music is a reflection of their spirits, and I relate to it on a deep level. They aren’t just a band to me, they’re my voice,” Jenny testifies.

Backstory:

Bewitched Assembly was born out of the ashes of a high school band named “The Wizards” in the small town of Aylesbury, England. The band was composed of four friends – Adrian, the lead singer and guitarist; Thomas, the bass guitarist; Vincent, the drummer; and Ethel, the pianist and vocalist. They were known for their catchy tunes and high energy performances. After their high school graduation, they decided to take the band to the next level, renaming it as “Bewitched Assembly” and developing a more refined and mature sound.

The band gained popularity in their local town for their unique style and energetic performances. Their fame started to spread to nearby cities and eventually nationwide. The band recorded their first album in 2007, which was a major hit and helped them secure a record deal. Since then, Bewitched Assembly has released four more albums and has become one of the most successful bands in the UK.

Genre:
Rock/Pop

Title:
“Under The Mystic Moon”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Intro] G – D – Em – C

(Verse 1)
G D
Under the mystic moon,
Em C
We danced our hearts away,
G D
With the rhythm of the night,
Em C
And the melody that played.

(Chorus)
G D
Oh, we’re a bewitched assembly,
Em C
Lost in the music’s charm,
G D
Under the mystic moon,
Em C
You’re safe in my arms.

(Verse 2)
G D
Stars as our witness,
Em C
In the velvet night,
G D
Our shadows merged,
Em C
In the pale moonlight.

(Chorus)
G D
Oh, we’re a bewitched assembly,
Em C
Under the mystic moon’s glow,
G D
With the heartbeats syncing,
Em C
In the dance slow.

(Outro)
G D
Under the mystic moon,
Em C
A bewitched assembly we are,
G D
Lost in the melody,
Em C
Under the stars.

Fan’s Testimonial:

Fan’s Name: Grace Thompson
Grace Thompson is an ardent fan of Bewitched Assembly. She says, “I first stumbled upon Bewitched Assembly during a local gig in Aylesbury. I instantly fell in love with their sound – such a perfect blend of pop and rock! Their song ‘Under the Mystic Moon’ is my favorite and it’s like an anthem for me. Adrian’s voice is enchanting and the lyrics really speak to my soul. I’ve attended all their concerts since that day and their music just keeps getting better. Bewitched Assembly isn’t just a band for me, it’s my solace and my joy.”

Backstory:

Poised Gate was formed in the middle of the bustling Seattle music scene in 2005. Consisting of four members – Johnny ‘Rocket’ Breslin (lead vocals, guitar), Charles ‘Chuck’ Munroe (drums), Olivia ‘Liv’ Henderson (bass, backing vocals), and Arthur ‘Art’ Simmons (keyboard), they were all college friends who shared a common love for music. Each member brought in their unique influences, from classic rock and jazz fusion to electronic and blues, creating a rare blend that soon caught the attention of local music enthusiasts. The band name, Poised Gate, symbolized their anticipation and readiness to break into the mainstream music industry, carving their unique path.

Genre:

Alternative Rock with elements of Electronica and Blues.

Title:

“Through the Maze”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)

C#m A E B
Lost in a maze, don’t know where to turn,
Running out of time, still so much to learn.
Walking empty streets lit by the pale moonlight,
Hoping for a sign to end this endless night.

(Chorus)

G#m E B F#
Through the maze, I’m trying to find my way,
In this haze, I’m hoping for the break of day.
Through the maze, with every step I take,
I’m closer to the gates, no time for a break.

(Verse 2)

C#m A E B
Shadows dance on walls, like whispers in my ear,
The echo of your voice is all I long to hear.
In this labyrinth of lies, truth is hard to find,
But your memory is the compass of my mind.

(Chorus)

G#m E B F#
Through the maze, I’m searching for a sign,
In this daze, I’m reaching out for what was mine.
Through the maze, casting fears aside,
I’m poised at the gate, ready for the ride.

Fan Name and Testimonial:

Fan Name: Emily Parker

Testimonial: “Poised Gate has always had a special place in my heart. I’m drawn to their unique sound, the perfect blend of alternative rock, electronica, and blues. And their lyrics, they speak volumes. ‘Through the Maze’ is my absolute favorite. It’s like a beacon of hope in this chaotic world, encouraging us to keep moving despite the hurdles. I’ve followed Poised Gate since their early gigs in Seattle. Their passion and sincerity are infectious, and that’s why they’re my favorite band. They don’t just play music; they create an experience, a journey that I’m glad to be a part of.”

Backstory:

Meek Chance was formed in the small town of Hazelwood, Indiana. Best friends since childhood, lead singer/guitarist Lucas Chambers and drummer Benny Stevens had been jamming in their basements since they could hold their respective instruments. They were later joined by Jessa Fox on bass and her brother, Tony, on keyboards, turning their casual jam sessions into a full-fledged band. The foursome coined the name ‘Meek Chance,’ a subtle nod to their humble roots and the seemingly bleak odds of making it big in the music world from a small town. Despite the odds, their unique sound and raw talent garnered attention, and they began playing local gigs and eventually caught the attention of a music producer who helped elevate their career.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Song Title:

“Beneath The Hazel Eyes”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C
Down the streets of Hazelwood, we roamed,
G D
In the shadows of the willows, we called home.
Em C
Barefoot and wide-eyed, chasing dreams,
G D
In a town too small for our wild schemes.

(Chorus)
Em C
Beneath the hazel eyes, we found our beat,
G D
In the heart of the Midwest, we found our heat.
Em C
With each strum and beat, we took a stance,
G D
In the tune of dreams, we danced, oh Meek Chance.

(Verse 2)
Em C
With the moon as our spotlight and the stars our crowd,
G D
We played our hearts out, loud and proud.
Em C
Strung our hopes on every note,
G D
Sailed our dreams on every lyric we wrote.

(Chorus)
Em C
Beneath the hazel eyes, we found our beat,
G D
In the heart of the Midwest, we found our heat.
Em C
With each strum and beat, we took a dance,
G D
In the tune of dreams, we danced, oh Meek Chance.

Fan’s Name:

Oliver Freeman

Fan Testimonial:

“Meek Chance has been my favorite band since their early days in Hazelwood. I remember their very first gig at our local festival. Their sound was raw, genuine, and it resonated with my soul. The lyrics speak to my experiences and emotions, and the music just has a way of lifting me up, no matter how down I’m feeling. Lucas, Benny, Jessa, and Tony are not just musicians, they’re poets and storytellers. The love and passion they pour into their music is palpable. They make me feel seen, heard, and understood. They’ve come a long way since Hazelwood, and I couldn’t be prouder to be a fan. ‘Beneath The Hazel Eyes’ is my all-time favorite song. This band isn’t just a band to me, it’s a lifeline.”

Backstory:
Well-Lit Book was formed in the small college town of Redwood, California, where four friends found their shared love for music in the campus library. In between study sessions and endless cups of coffee, they began to form their sound, using the library’s quiet hours as a backdrop for their growing bond. The band’s name was inspired by a common sight in their study space: a book, left open under a shining lamp. They loved the idea that a book, well-lit, can be a source of endless inspiration, much like their music. The band includes lead vocalist and guitarist Quinn, bassist Riley, drummer Jamie, and keyboardist Morgan.

Genre:
Indie Folk

Title:
“Pages Yet Unwritten”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am G F C
Wandering through aisles of wisdom yet unseen,
Em Am G F
Echoes of scribes in our dreams,
Am G F C
Ink-stained hands, hearts unclean,
Em Am G F
Lost in the margins in between.

(Chorus)
C G Am Em
Pages yet unwritten, tales yet untold,
F C G
In the hands of the bold,
C G Am Em
Under the lamplight’s gentle hold,
F C G
Stories of love and gold.

(Verse 2)
Am G F C
Lines of life, etched in time,
Em Am G F
In the rhythm, in the rhyme,
Am G F C
In every chapter, every line,
Em Am G F
You and I, entwined divine.

(Chorus)
C G Am Em
Pages yet unwritten, tales yet untold,
F C G
In the hands of the bold,
C G Am Em
Under the lamplight’s gentle hold,
F C G
Stories of love and gold.

Bands Favorite Fan’s name:
Ellie

Testimonial:
I first found Well-Lit Book while studying for finals in college. Their music was the perfect soundtrack to long nights in the library. I fell in love with the gentle melodies and heartfelt lyrics, and they quickly became my favorite study companion. Their song “Pages Yet Unwritten” still takes me back to those quiet moments, pouring over books under the soft light. Well-Lit Book is my favorite because their music feels comforting and familiar, like a well-loved novel.

Backstory:
Humming Lumber was born from the combined passions of four childhood friends from the small logging town of Tillamook, Oregon. The band members – Mason, an amateur guitar player; Tommy, a gifted drummer; Penny, a magical keyboardist; and Noah, a charismatic lead vocalist, formed the band in the heart of their hometown’s lumber mill. Growing up amidst the constant hum of buzzing saws and the rhythmic thump of falling logs, their musical style was heavily influenced by their surroundings. They started playing music together as teenagers, using discarded materials as instruments. During a cold winter, they spent hours in Noah’s garage, writing music that echoed the rhythm of their hometown’s pulse.

After years of honing their craft, they decided to share their music with the wider world beyond their small town. Their unique sound quickly gained attention, and they were soon signed to an independent record label. Their music carries the essence of their hometown, the love for their roots and the dreams of a bigger world. They are Humming Lumber – always reminding you of the harmonious music that a working lumber mill can create.

Genre:
Indie Folk-Rock

Title:
“Humming Heartwood”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse)
Am C
Humming heartwood, singing saw,
G D
In our dreams, we saw what we saw.
Am C
Golden dust in the morning light,
G D
We found music in the still of the night.

(Chorus)
Am – C – G – D
Oh, Humming Heartwood, you’re our song,
Am – C – G – D
In the rhythm of the mill, we belong.

(Verse)
Am C
The echoes of the lumber’s cry,
G D
Beneath the vast, Oregon sky.
Am C
The resonance in the valley deep,
G D
In our hearts, these memories we keep.

(Chorus)
Am – C – G – D
Oh, Humming Heartwood, you’re our tune,
Am – C – G – D
Underneath the silver of the moon.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a man named Archie who hails from the very own town of Tillamook. Archie, a retired lumberjack, has been the band’s biggest supporter since their garage days. He saw the spark in them before they even knew they had it. Archie says, “Humming Lumber – their tunes echo the pulse of this town. The rhythm of their music takes me back to my days in the mill. They’re my favorite not just because they’re local, but because they capture the spirit of this place and its people in every song. Their music, it’s home.”

Backstory:
Thunderous Stretch is a charismatic quintet formed in the vibrant heart of New York, back in 2012. The members, all childhood friends, grew up on the same block, sharing their passion for music from a young age. Lead singer and bassist, Bronx Madden, brothers and guitarists, Flynn and Jesse O’Reilly, drummer, Ace Brannigan, and keyboardist, Leon “Keys” McGuire, have managed to fuse their individual styles and influences into a distinct sound that’s uniquely their own. Their journey from local gigs to sold-out arenas has been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride, filled with triumphs, trials, and their unswerving dedication to their craft.

Genre:
Thunderous Stretch’s music genre is a captivating blend of Alternative Rock with a hint of Blues, creating a raw, electric energy that resonates with fans of all ages. Their immersive sound, coupled with compelling lyrics and potent performances, has etched Thunderous Stretch a permanent place in the alternative music scene.

Title:
One of Thunderous Stretch’s popular songs is ‘Ride the Lightning.’

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am C
Driving down the highway, stars as my guide,
G D
Lost in the rhythm of the late-night tide.
Am C
Whispers of the city, echo in my ear,
G D
Found solace in the sound that I hold dear.

(Chorus)
Am C
Ride the lightning, feel the thunder,
G D
In this symphony of dreams, we’re living under.
Am C
Through the echoes of the night, let your spirit soar,
G D
With every beat, we’re shouting more and more.

(Verse 2)
Am C
Sunset in the mirror, chasing the dawn,
G D
In this endless road, we find what’s gone.
Am C
The rhythm of the engine, the melody of the night,
G D
In this thunderous stretch, everything feels right.

(Chorus)
Am C
Ride the lightning, feel the thunder,
G D
In this symphony of dreams, we’re living under.
Am C
Through the echoes of the night, let your spirit soar,
G D
With every beat, we’re shouting more and more.

Fan’s Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan is Emily “Em” Chambers, a music journalist from Michigan. She has been with Thunderous Stretch since their first gig, writing reviews and promoting them on her blog. For Em, Thunderous Stretch isn’t just a band; it’s a beacon of raw, untamed emotion and authenticity. “Their music is unfiltered, it’s real, and it speaks volumes about who they are as artists. They don’t shroud their music in pretenses; they wear their hearts on their sleeves, and that’s what resonates with me the most. Plus, their live performances are out of this world. The energy, the passion, it’s infectious. You can’t help but get lost in the rhythm and the experience,” Em shares.