Backstory:
Warm Zebra is an indie-pop band that originated from the heart of San Francisco in 2015. The band is composed of four members; Charlie, the lead vocalist, and pianist, James, the drummer, Lucy, the guitarist, and Matt, the bassist. Warm Zebra’s musical journey started in a quirky attic-turned-studio where they spent countless hours creating a unique sound that reflected their diverse musical influences and experiences. Their breakthrough came when they performed at a local music festival, where their infectious tunes and compelling performances caught the attention of an A&R scout from a prominent record label.

Warm Zebra’s music reflects the band’s love for vibrant melodies and heartfelt lyrics that resonate with their listeners. Their journey, from an attic to concert stages, has always been about sharing their music and stories – a part of themselves – with the world.

Genre: Indie Pop

Title: Dancing in Halcyon Days

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C[G]ome with me, let’s chase the s[D]un,
Em[Em]brace the day, let’s have some f[C]un.
Underneath the sapphire sk[D]y,
We’ll p[Em]aint our dreams and let them fl[C]y.

(Chorus)
We’re d[D]ancing in Halc[G]yon Days,
With our h[Em]earts ablaze, in this sun-kissed m[C]aze.
In this m[D]oment, everything’s o[G]kay,
We’re d[Em]ancing, d[C]ancing in Halc[D]yon Days.

(Verse 2)
We’re s[G]inging songs of sweet s[D]urrender,
Em[Em]bracing love in all its spl[C]endor.
We’ll r[D]ide the winds of destiny,
In this l[Em]and of endless possibil[C]ity.

(Chorus)
We’re d[D]ancing in Halc[G]yon Days,
With our h[Em]earts ablaze, in this sun-kissed m[C]aze.
In this m[D]oment, everything’s o[G]kay,
We’re d[Em]ancing, d[C]ancing in Halc[D]yon Days.

Testimonial – Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is a vibrant young woman named Sara. Sara describes Warm Zebra as her favorite band because their music became her comfort during her toughest times. She said, “Their songs are like a warm hug on my worst days. Their lyrics can make you cry, laugh, and dance all at once. Warm Zebra’s music is a safe place for me, where I can be myself and feel understood and loved. They have the power to touch hearts with their music, and that’s why they will always be my favorite.”

Backstory:
“Rich Focus” was formed in the vibrant city of Austin, Texas, in 2005. The four members – Jake on vocals and guitar, Dave on drums, Matthew on bass, and Sam on lead guitar – met studying music at the University of Texas and decided to form a band. Initially, they started as a local band playing in small bars and festivals around the city. After winning a local band competition, they were noticed by a talent scout and signed to an independent label. Their first album, “Focused and Fabulous,” released in 2010, established them as a fresh voice in the music industry.

Genre:
Rock with a blend of Blues

Title:
“Money and Melodies”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am Em G D
Money’s tight but that’s alright, I’ve got my guitar tonight
Am Em G D
Singing songs under the moonlight, with the stars so bright

(Chorus)
Am G D
Money and Melodies, that’s all we need
Am G D
Rich in our dreams, living life free

(Verse 2)
Am Em G D
Living our dreams, we’re not what we seem
Am Em G D
In our world, we’re kings and queens

(Chorus)
Am G D
Money and Melodies, the perfect harmony
Am G D
Living our dreams, won’t you sing with me?

(Outro)
Am Em G D
Money and Melodies, in our dreams, we’re free
Am Em G D
Living our dreams, just you and me, can’t you see?

Fan Testimonial:
“My name is Emily, and I am probably the biggest fan of ‘Rich Focus.’ Their music has this magic that takes me to a different world – a world where I am free from all the worries and stress. ‘Money and Melodies’ is my favorite song. It always reminds me that irrespective of materialistic wealth, the richness in our dreams and passions is what truly matters. Rich Focus is my favorite band, not just for their music, but for their ability to touch hearts and inspire people through their songs.”

Backstory:

Exalted Reality was formed in the heart of Seattle, Washington in 2015, when high school friends, lead vocalist Marcus “Mars” Wellington and drummer Zachary “Ziggy” Martinez, decided to take their garage jam sessions from hobby to serious pursuit. They enlisted the skills of guitarist, Lenny “Lenz” Taylor, and bassist, Oliver “Ollie” Jensen, both of whom they met at a local music festival, and Exalted Reality was born. The band name was inspired by their shared belief in the power of music to elevate the mundane to the extraordinary, to create a heightened, ‘exalted’ reality.

Over the years, the band has faced its fair share of adversities, from struggling to book gigs in their early days to dealing with personal issues. However, their bond and passion for music kept bringing them back together. The band’s journey, filled with highs and lows, has shaped their unique sound and lyrical content, resonating with fans all over the world.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Celestial Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Standing by the [Em] river’s edge,
[Am] Lost in thoughts, [G] on life’s ledge.
[C] Seeking solace in the [Em] night,
[Am] Underneath the [G] moon’s soft light.

(Chorus)
[F] Celestial Shadows, [C] dancing on the water,
[G] Illuminating dreams, [Am] of a world with no slaughter.
[F] In this Exalted Reality, [C] we find our peace,
[G] Underneath the stars, [Am] all our worries cease.

(Verse 2)
[C] In the rhythm of the [Em] night,
[Am] We find courage, [G] we find the fight.
[C] Together, we create [Em] a new dawn,
[Am] In this world where [G] we belong.

(Repeat Chorus)

Fan’s Name:

Emily Thompson

Testimonial:

“I’m Emily Thompson, a die-hard Exalted Reality fan since their early days. The music of Exalted Reality has been my solace during the most challenging times in my life. Their lyrics always seem to capture my emotions perfectly, giving me a sense of understanding and belonging. ‘Celestial Shadows,’ in particular, is my favorite. It reminds me that even in the darkness, there’s beauty and peace to be found. The band’s passion for their music shines through with each performance, making every show an unforgettable experience. They’re more than just my favorite band. They’re a beacon of hope and inspiration for me.”

Backstory:
Born out of the fusion of blues, jazz, and a hint of classic rock, Dapper Lad is a band conceived in the bustling city of Chicago. The band’s origins trace back to a small bar in the heart of the city where four friends: Max, Ricky, Theo, and Jake, decided to turn their jam sessions into something more serious. As their performances became a regular fixture in the bar, the patrons started adoring their unique music. Not long after, they were playing at local festivals and soon became a sensation in the city’s music scene. Their rise to fame was quick but well-deserved, and they never forgot their humble beginnings, often returning to their old haunt for surprise performances.

Genre:
Dapper Lad specializes in a unique blend of blues, jazz, and classic rock.

Title:
“Underneath the City Lights”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G] Underneath the city [C] lights,
[Em] Walking till the morning [D] light.
[G] Shadows dancing on the [C] walls,
[Em] Echoing the night’s sweet [D] calls.

(Chorus)
[G] We’re just lads from the [C] city,
[Em] Living life wild and [D] free.
[G] Underneath the city [C] lights,
[Em] We find our hearts’ [D] delight.

(Verse 2)
[G] The music’s loud, the spirits [C] high,
[Em] Underneath the starlit [D] sky.
[G] Strumming chords, we play our [C] part,
[Em] Singing songs from our [D] heart.

(Chorus)
[G] We’re just lads from the [C] city,
[Em] Living life wild and [D] free.
[G] Underneath the city [C] lights,
[Em] We find our hearts’ [D] delight.

(Outro)
[G] So here’s to the city [C] nights,
[Em] And the music that [D] ignites.
[G] Underneath the city [C] lights,
[Em] We’re just lads living [D] life.

Fan’s Name, Testimonial:
Dapper Lad’s favorite fan is Jenny Hartman. A dedicated follower from their early days at the bar, Jenny has attended every single one of their shows, often travelling across the state to be there. She proudly shares, “Dapper Lad isn’t just a band, it’s a feeling. Their music speaks directly to the soul. The way they blend blues, jazz and rock is like a musical journey. Every song tells a story, and ‘Underneath the City Lights’ is a testament to their journey. It mirrors their roots and their rise, and it’s why they’ll always be my favorite band.”

Backstory:

Immaculate Apparatus was born out of a late-night jam session in an old, dilapidated warehouse in downtown Seattle. The year was 2008, and the four members – lead vocalist and guitarist Danny “Dynamo” Turner, bassist Eddie “Echo” Harper, drummer Tommy “Tempo” Franklin, and keyboardist Richie “Reverb” Stone – were just four disillusioned college friends seeking an escape from the conventional grind. What started out as a hobby soon turned into a burning passion, as they discovered a shared love for creating music that was not just catchy but also deeply meaningful.

They began by performing at local bars and college events, gradually gaining recognition for their unique, raw sound and the emotional depth of their lyrics. Their big break came in 2011 when they won a local Battle of the Bands competition, which led to their signing with an indie record label. Since then, they’ve released three studio albums and toured extensively, earning a dedicated fan base along the way.

Genre:

Alternative Rock / Indie Pop

Title:

“Beyond the Echoes”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C G D
Wandering in the shadows, lost in the fray,
Em C G D
We’re searching for answers, making our way.
Em C G D
Looking for the light, through the echoes of the night,
Em C G D
We’ll rise, we’ll rise, into the day.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Beyond the echoes, we will find,
C G D Em
A love that binds, the ties that blind.
C G D Em
In the whispers of the wind,
C G D Em
We’ll find the strength to begin, again.

(Verse 2)
Em C G D
Through the chaos, the noise and the fear,
Em C G D
We’ll hold on to each other, keep each other near.
Em C G D
With every heartbeat, with every tear,
Em C G D
We’ll rise, we’ll rise, and conquer our fears.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Beyond the echoes, we will roam,
C G D Em
Find the place, we can call home.
C G D Em
In the heartache and the pain,
C G D Em
We’ll find the strength to remain, the same.

Fan testimonial:

Fan’s Name: Sarah Williams

Sarah has been following Immaculate Apparatus since their early days, never missing a show whenever they’re in town. She claims that their music speaks to her in ways no other band’s music has. “Their lyrics resonate with me on such a deep level, it’s as if they’ve managed to put into words the emotions I’ve been struggling to articulate. They’re not just a band to me, they’re like my personal therapists, helping me navigate the complexities of life with their music,” she shares. This undying love for Immaculate Apparatus and their music has made her their favorite fan.

Backstory:

“Another Feast” was conceived in the vibrant music scene of Nashville, Tennessee in 2005. The core members, Dave McFadden (lead vocals and guitar), Jenny Stirling (bass), and Sam Richards (drums), met in college and discovered their shared passion for music. Initially a cover band playing in local bars, they began writing their own material, the quality of which soon caught the attention of independent record label, “Deep Down Music”. With the addition of Luke Morrison (lead guitar) in 2008, the band’s sound solidified and they began to gain popularity in the local music scene and eventually nationwide.

Their breakthrough came in 2010 with their debut album, “A Side of Life”, which was lauded for its combination of soulful lyrics and energetic, infectious melodies. The band’s camaraderie is palpable both on and off stage, and their cohesive and interactive performances have made them a favorite at music festivals.

Genre:

Another Feast’s music is categorized as Alternative Rock with a unique blend of Indie Folk.

Title:

“Riverside Serenade”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Down by the [D] riverside, [C] under the [G] moonlight,
[G] You and I [D] danced through the [C] night.
[G] Your laughter [D] echoed, [C] our souls [G] connected,
[G] This is our [D] riverside [C] serenade.

(Chorus)
[G] Singing Oh, Oh, Oh, [D] under the undertow,
[C] Our love’s a [G] melody, a riverside serenade.
[G] Oh, Oh, Oh, in the [D] afterglow,
[C] We’ll dance forever to our [G] riverside serenade.

(Verse 2)
[G] Stars winking [D] above, [C] sealed with [G] love,
[G] This is our [D] moment, our [C] time.
[G] With your hand [D] in mine, [C] forever we’ll [G] shine,
[G] In our [D] riverside [C] serenade.

(Chorus)
[G] Singing Oh, Oh, Oh, [D] under the undertow,
[C] Our love’s a [G] melody, a riverside serenade.
[G] Oh, Oh, Oh, in the [D] afterglow,
[C] We’ll dance forever to our [G] riverside serenade.

Band’s Favorite Fan:

Mike Reynolds is a diehard fan of “Another Feast”. He discovered the band during their early days in Nashville. As a music enthusiast, Mike was drawn to the band’s originality, their honest lyrics, and the band’s dynamism on stage. He was quoted as saying, “Another Feast isn’t just a band for me; they’re a way of life. Their music has been there in my hardest times and most joyous moments. Their artistry hits you right in the heart and leaves you wanting more. They are truly a feast for the soul.”

Backstory:

Educated Corridor came together in the misty valleys of Lancashire, England. The band consists of four members: lead vocalist and guitarist Matt Brodie, bassist Pete Dawson, drummer Ben Davies, and keyboardist Sam Wilson. All four were childhood friends, sharing a deep passion for music and philosophy. As they matured, their distinct talents began to harmonise, and by their late teens, they were making music that reverberated with the heartbeat of their town. They named their band ‘Educated Corridor’ as a metaphor for their journey through the labyrinth of knowledge and life, using music as their guiding light.

Genre:

Educated Corridor’s sound is a blend of Indie Rock and Alternative Folk, with a strong emphasis on dynamic, thought-provoking lyrics and complex, emotive musical arrangements. Their music carries an inherent sense of nostalgia, often eliciting reflective and introspective moods in their listeners.

Title:

“Echoes of Autumn”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] As the autumn [D] leaves, they [Em] fall and [C] sigh,
[G] Whispering the [D] tales of summer [Em] sky. [C]
[G] Remembering the [D] warmth, now [Em] far behind, [C]
[G] In the echoes of [D] autumn, we [Em] find. [C]

(Chorus)
[G] Echoes of autumn, [D] sing to me,
[Em] Remind me of the love, [C] that used to be.
[G] In your golden hues, [D] I find my peace,
[Em] As the echoes of autumn, [C] cease.

(Verse 2)
[G] The winter’s chill [D] touches the [Em] ground, [C]
[G] Silence becomes the [D] only sound. [Em] [C]
[G] Your memory fades, [D] with each passing [Em] day, [C]
[G] In the echoes of [D] autumn, it [Em] lay. [C]

(Chorus)
[G] Echoes of autumn, [D] sing to me,
[Em] Tell me of the promises, [C] we couldn’t keep.
[G] In your fading light, [D] I find my release,
[Em] As the echoes of autumn, [C] decrease.

The band’s favorite fan:

Educated Corridor’s favourite fan is Emily Thompson. Emily, a literature teacher from their hometown, has been following the band since their initial pub gigs. She was drawn to the poetic depth of their lyrics, the complex emotional narratives in their songs, and the authenticity of their performances. She’s seen the band evolve and mature, and feels a deep personal connection to their music. As a testament to her devotion, Emily has attended nearly every concert the band has performed, often travelling great distances to do so.

Emily’s Testimonial:

“Educated Corridor isn’t just a band for me; they are storytellers, philosophers, and friends. Their music has been my companion through the highs and lows of my life. The depth of their lyrics, the emotion in their melodies, it all resonates within me. Their song ‘Echoes of Autumn’ particularly, has a special place in my heart. It’s a song that speaks to the changing seasons within us, reminding us of the beauty in loss and change. Their music is my refuge, and I am immensely proud to be their fan.”

Backstory:

Unkempt Blood was born out of the gritty underbelly of Memphis, Tennessee. The band members — Charlie “Chopper” Maddox (vocals/guitar), “Rusty” Russel (bass), and Nathan “Noose” Jones (drums) — were all long-time friends who had been involved in various music projects, but somehow, they never crossed paths musically until 2016. One evening, they found themselves jamming together in Rusty’s basement, and something just clicked. The chemistry was palpable and the music was raw, energetic, and unlike anything they’d ever played before. From that night onwards, Unkempt Blood began their journey, crafting music that would soon resonate with thousands across the country.

Genre:

Unkempt Blood is known for their unique blend of Southern rock and blues, with a touch of punk. Their gritty sound is characterized by raspy vocals, heavy bass lines, and powerful drum beats that command attention.

Title:

“Roadhouse Revolt”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] In the midst of a smoky night [G]
In a roadhouse, drenched in neon light [Am]
There was a ruckus, a wild sight [F]
[F] Old Jim was picking up a fight [C]

(Chorus)
[G] Roadhouse Revolt, it’s a hard-knock life [C]
[Am] Underneath the moon, we’re dancing in strife [F]
[F] Hell-bent on living, not thinking twice [C]
[G] Roadhouse Revolt, we’re keeping it alive [C]

(Verse 2)
[C] Whiskey flowing like a river wild [G]
In the corner, Susie’s with a child [Am]
Broken bottles, spirits reviled [F]
[F] In this Roadhouse Revolt, we’re reconciled [C]

(Chorus)
[G] Roadhouse Revolt, it’s a wild ride [C]
[Am] Underneath the stars, there’s no place to hide [F]
[F] With the rhythm of chaos, we abide [C]
[G] Roadhouse Revolt, we won’t be denied [C]

Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan is a 25-year-old electrician named Bobby Taylor. “Unkempt Blood, man, they’re the real deal,” says Bobby. “Their music, it just resonates with me. It’s gritty, it’s raw, and it’s honest. It reminds me of the kind of music my dad used to play when I was a kid. You know, the kind that just gets under your skin and stays there. Every time I listen to ‘Roadhouse Revolt’, I feel like I’m right there with them, living every note, every chord. Unkempt Blood is not just my favorite band. It’s part of who I am.”

Backstory:
Corrupt Tree isn’t just a band; it’s a state of mind, a revolution in music, birthed in the gritty underbelly of Detroit, Michigan. The band was formed in 2009 when lead vocalist and guitarist, Jake “Thorny” Thornfield met drummer, Marty “Root” Mitchell, at a local dive bar’s open mic night. Jake was belting out an original tune when Marty, moved by the raw emotion in his voice, decided to accompany him on the drums. The chemistry was undeniable, and the duo decided to join forces, later enlisting bassist, Lenny “Trunk” Turner, and keyboardist, Fiona “Leaf” Lawson, to complete their lineup. The band name was inspired by an old, gnarly tree outside Jake’s childhood home, which despite its corrupted appearance, bore the sweetest fruits. It symbolized their belief that even in decay and ruin, beauty could thrive.

Genre:
Corrupt Tree is primarily an alt-rock band with noticeable influences of grunge and punk, mixed with soulful lyrics that convey raw emotion.

Title:
One of their renowned hits is “Bitter Harvest.”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G]Late at night, under the [Am]Corrupt Tree, [Bm]
[Em]Minds lost in thoughts, hearts on a spree. [G]
[G]We tasted fruit, ripe and [Am]wild, [Bm]
[Em]Bitter truth, innocence defiled. [G]

(Chorus)
[C]Bitter harvest, [D] under the moonlight,
[Em]Is this love or just a [G]fright?
[C]Bitter harvest, [D] dreams entwined,
[Em]In the shadows, what do we [G]find?

(Verse 2)
[G]Promises etched in the [Am]bark, [Bm]
[Em]Love letters faded, left in the dark. [G]
[G]The echo of laughter, the [Am]scent of despair, [Bm]
[Em]Under the Corrupt Tree, secrets we share. [G]

(Chorus)
[C]Bitter harvest, [D] under the starlight,
[Em]Is this pain or pure [G]delight?
[C]Bitter harvest, [D] hearts collide,
[Em]In the echoes, where do we [G]hide?

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Jane “Jazzy” Jenkins. Jazzy has been supporting Corrupt Tree since they were playing in small bars. Her testimonial is as follows: “Corrupt Tree is more than just a band to me; it’s like a life anthem. Every song they write resonates with my soul. Their music has been my solace in times of despair. The raw emotions in their lyrics coupled with their powerful melodies are cathartic. They’re not just making music; they’re touching lives. Corrupt Tree, for me, is a symbol of resilience, hope, and unvarnished beauty.”

Backstory:

Weekly Tape was formed in the small, artsy town of Ashville, North Carolina, in 2010. The band consists of four members: lead vocalist and guitarist Jake, bassist Tim, drummer Alex, and keyboardist Sarah. Initially, the group played at local bars and small events, gaining a dedicated local fan base. Their big break came in 2013 when a talent scout for a major record label happened to hear one of their live performances and signed them on the spot. Since then, they’ve released three albums and toured nationwide, but the members of Weekly Tape always make sure to perform in their hometown, maintaining their connection to their roots.

Genre:

Weekly Tape’s genre is a fusion of indie rock and folk music, with a dash of electronic elements.

Song Title:

“River of Echoes”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Down the river of echoes I row, [A7]
[D] Seeking answers to questions unknown. [G]
[Em] My heart calls out, lost in the flow, [C]
[D] Drifting further from my comfortable home. [G]

(Chorus)
[C] Sailing on a river of echoes,
[G] I hear the whispers of my past. [D]
[Em] The current’s strong, I’m moving fast, [C]
[G] Hope the memories will last. [D]

(Verse 2)
[G] There’s a story in the water, a tale to be told, [A7]
[D] Of love lost and lessons learned, and a heart grown cold. [G]
[Em] But as I row, my spirit unfolds, [C]
[D] I find strength in the echoes of old. [G]

(Chorus)
[C] Sailing on a river of echoes,
[G] I see my reflection in the mast. [D]
[Em] The journey’s long, I’m holding fast, [C]
[G] Cherishing the echoes of the past. [D]

Band’s Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan’s name is Emily. Emily has been there from the start, attending every local gig, and even traveling to some of our out-of-town shows. She has this incredible energy and dedication. Emily says, “Weekly Tape’s music just speaks to me on a deeply personal level. Their lyrics, their melodies, they just… they get me. I’ve been through some tough times, and their music has been my comfort. It feels like they’re singing just for me. I can’t express how much I love them and their music. They’re not just my favorite band, they’re my favorite people.”