Backstory:

Formed in the heart of Seattle’s grunge scene in the late ’80s, Nasty Obligation emerged as a group of high school friends who shared a love for raw, emotional music. The founding members, lead singer Jace “Rabbit” Rabinowitz, guitarist Derek “Spider” Spence, bassist Phil “Pigeon” Pierson, and drummer Max “Moose” Montgomery, initially started playing together in their parents’ garages, producing heavy, crunchy sounds that resonated with their angst and existential dread. After years of playing underground gigs and refining their sound, they caught the attention of a local indie label, launching them to national acclaim.

Genre:
Grunge / Punk Rock

Title:
“Shackled Melancholy”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1:
[Em] Waking up to the [G] sound of rain, [D] falling down like my [A] bittersweet pain.
[Em] Shackled by my [G] melancholy, [D] lost in a world that’s [A] hollow and empty.

Chorus:
[C] Free me from my [G] nasty obligation,
[D] Trapped in my own [Em] mind’s desolation.
[C] Break these chains of [G] my own creation,
[D] Save me from this [Em] bound frustration.

Verse 2:
[Em] Walking through the [G] streets at night, [D] under the neon’s [A] flickering light.
[Em] Drowning in my [G] silent screams, [D] trapped in a world of [A] shattered dreams.

(Repeat Chorus)

Bridge:
[F] Tear down these walls, [C] let me breathe,
[G] I’m more than what you [Am] perceive.
[F] Feed me hope, not [C] despair,
[G] Show me that you [Am] care.

(Repeat Chorus)

Outro:
[Em] In this world of [G] nasty obligation,
[D] I’ll find my own [A] salvation.

Band’s Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan is none other than Sally “Sal” Thompson. Sal discovered our music during a tough period in her life and found solace in our gut-wrenching lyrics and raw, emotional sound.

Testimonial:

“I was at a low point when I stumbled across Nasty Obligation’s music. It was as if their lyrics were speaking directly to my soul. They made me feel seen and heard in a way I never had before. Every chord, every line was an echo of my inner turmoil. Nasty Obligation is more than a band to me; they’re my lifeline.” – Sally “Sal” Thompson

Backstory:
Born and bred in the urban jungle of Detroit, ‘Scary Coup’ came into being during a particularly rough period in the city’s history. The members, frontman Mason “Mace” Taylor, guitarist Scott “Spike” Rodgers, bassist Liam “Lee” O’Sullivan, and drummer Jake “Wrench” Peterson were all childhood friends who found solace in music amidst the chaos around them. They were brought together by their shared love for the raw energy of rock and roll and the poetic power of protest music. This unique combination led to the formation of ‘Scary Coup’ in 2010, a band that would use music as a medium to express their frustration and fight against sociopolitical disparities.

Scary Coup quickly gained recognition in the local music scene for their electrifying performances and provocative lyrics. They became the voice of the youth, stirring up the status quo with their fierce, uncompromising spirit. In a decade, they transformed from being an unknown garage band to a nationally recognized act, their music becoming a rallying cry for change and resistance.

Genre:
Alternative Rock / Protest Music

Title:
“Concrete Jungle Rhapsody”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Am [Em]idst the hustle of the city’s roar,
[G]Dodging bullets, we’re the urban poor.
[D]Scraping by, yet we’re wanting more,
[A]In this concrete jungle we adore.

(Chorus)
[Em]Concrete Jungle Rhapsody, [G]life’s cruel and hard tragedy,
[D]Beneath the towers, in shadows we dwell,
[A]In our hearts, rebellion swell.

(Verse 2)
[Em]Skyscrapers cast a long dark night,
[G]While the rich sleep tight, out of sight.
[D]But in the shadows, we find our might,
[A]Fueled by dreams, we’ll ignite.

(Chorus)
[Em]Concrete Jungle Rhapsody, [G]our anthem of anarchy,
[D]In the silence, crackling fires tell,
[A]Of a revolution, ringing its bell.

(Bridge)
[Em]Each alley, each corner, a stage,
[G]For this concrete jungle rhapsody we rage.
[D]Won’t be tamed, won’t be confined in a cage,
[A]We’re the story on every page.

(Chorus)
[Em]Concrete Jungle Rhapsody, [G]our song of solidarity,
[D]In the chaos, our voices will yell,
[A]Against the system, we’ll rebel.

Fan’s Testimonial:
My name is Sarah, and I’m probably Scary Coup’s biggest fan. Their songs are anthems for anyone who’s ever felt unheard and unseen by society. The way they blend raw rock energy with thought-provoking lyrics? It’s revolutionary. It’s not just music – it’s a war cry, a protest, a demand for change. They’re not just a band, they’re a movement, and I am proud to be a part of it. Scary Coup is not just my favourite band, they’re the voice of our generation.

Backstory:
Formed in the heart of Brooklyn, New York, in 2013, Bad Current is an amalgamation of four friends with a shared passion for music and a rebellious spirit. The band members, Ryan (vocals), Jake (guitar), Eli (bass), and Mike (drums), all hail from different musical backgrounds including punk, classic rock, blues, and indie. They found common ground in their shared disillusionment with society’s norms and their desire to express their feelings through their music. Bad Current was born out of a gritty basement jam session and quickly rose through the ranks, gaining a loyal following in the city’s underground music scene.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Through the Static”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1: [Am] I can see the truth [Em] buried in your eyes, [G] Lost in the [D] concrete jungle, under the [Am] neon lights.
[Am] Tired of the lies, [Em] tired of the fight, [G] Searching for the [D] real in the middle of the [Am] night.

Chorus: [Em] Through the static, [G] over the noise, [D] We’ll find our truth, [Am] we’ve got a choice.
[Em] Let the bad current [G] take us away, [D] To a place where [Am] we can truly stay.

Verse 2: [Am] The world’s a broken record, [Em] playing a twisted game, [G] We’re just pawns [D] in their hand, pawns with [Am] no name.
[Am] But we won’t conform, [Em] we won’t be the same, [G] We’ll break the chains, [D] we’ll break the [Am] frame.

Chorus: [Em] Through the static, [G] over the noise, [D] We’ll find our truth, [Am] we’ve got a choice.
[Em] Let the bad current [G] take us away, [D] To a place where [Am] we can truly stay.

Bridge: [Dm] We are the rebels, [Em] we are the free, [F] Riding the bad current, [G] into the sea.

Chorus: [Em] Through the static, [G] over the noise, [D] We’ll find our truth, [Am] we’ve got a choice.
[Em] Let the bad current [G] take us away, [D] To a place where [Am] we can truly stay.

The Favorite Fan:
Lila is the band’s favorite fan. She has been following them since their early days and has attended every single one of their gigs, rain or shine, without fail. Lila’s dedication is unparalleled, and she always wears a unique homemade t-shirt to each concert, inspiring the band’s official merchandise. “Bad Current is a breath of fresh air in the music scene. They are raw, they are real, and they aren’t afraid to speak their truth. Their music speaks to me on a personal level, reminding me to stay true to myself and to never conform. They’re more than a band, they’re a movement!” – Lila’s Testimonial.

Backstory:

Dual Drawing is a band that was originally formed in the coastal town of Brighton, England, in 2003. The founders, twin brothers Jack and Luke Adams, have always had a strong bond and share a passion for music. The two of them started out as street performers, captivating passersby with their unique blend of acoustic melodies and harmonizing vocals. After being discovered by a local record producer, they were offered a chance to record their first album and haven’t looked back since.

The band’s lineup has evolved over the years, but the core duo of Jack and Luke has remained intact. They’ve successfully merged their love for folk and indie rock, giving birth to a sound that’s uniquely theirs. Despite their rise in popularity, they’ve remained true to their roots, often returning to the streets of Brighton for impromptu performances, much to the delight of their loyal fan base.

Genre:
Indie Folk-Rock

Title:
“Shadows on the Shore”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
Em D
Beneath the setting sun, where our story begun,
G C
Two shadows dancing on the sandy shore.
Em D
With stars as our guide, and the moon on our side,
G C
We found a love worth fighting for.

(Chorus)
G D
Shadows on the shore, love etched in the sand,
Em C
Whispers of a time we knew before.
G D
With each wave that crashes, a memory flashes,
Em C
Our love story written on the shore.

(Verse)
Em D
Through the changing tide, we’ve stayed side by side,
G C
Two hearts bound by the rhythm of the sea.
Em D
In the dark of the night, under soft moonlight,
G C
We dance to our sweet melody.

(Chorus)
G D
Shadows on the shore, love etched in the sand,
Em C
Echoes of a song we’ve sung before.
G D
With each wave that dances, our love story advances,
Em C
Our love story, forever on the shore.

Fan’s Testimonial:

“My name is Emily Thompson, and I am a huge fan of Dual Drawing. I’ve loved their music since I first stumbled upon their street performance in Brighton. Their melodies are touching, their lyrics are heartfelt, and their performances are always filled with passion and energy. I’ve seen them perform in small bars, large concert halls, and even back on that same street where I first saw them. No matter where they play, they bring the same enthusiasm and love for their craft. Dual Drawing isn’t just my favorite band; they’re a source of inspiration and joy in my life.”

Backstory:
Knowing Nut is a vibrant Indie Pop band originating from the bustling streets of San Francisco. The band was formed in 2012 by four childhood friends – Jonny, lead vocals and rhythm guitar, Sam, the drummer, Charlie, the bassist, and Dave, who plays lead guitar. Their shared love for music and a unified vision of creating something unique and memorable led to the formation of Knowing Nut. They started by playing at local bars and clubs, and their unique Indie Pop sound, combined with Jonny’s poignant lyrics, quickly won the hearts of many. While their journey wasn’t always smooth, they’ve now got a loyal fanbase and a string of successful gigs to their name.

Genre: Indie Pop

Title: “Melody of the Stars”

Full Song Lyrics with Chord Progression:

(Verse 1)
[G] As I walk [D] down this lonely [Em] road,
[C] Looking at [G] the stars [D] so old,
[G] I hear a [D] blissful [Em] melody,
[C] A song of [G] love, [D] endless and free.

(Chorus)
[G] Melody of [D] the stars,
[Em] Lighting up [C] my world from afar,
[G] Your sweet tune [D] in the night,
[Em] Guides me [C] through, makes everything right.

(Verse 2)
[G] You twinkle [D] with a thousand [Em] dreams,
[C] Life’s so much [G] more than what it [D] seems,
[G] With your [D] music, [Em] my soul takes flight,
[C] In the [G] quiet [D] of the night.

(Chorus)
[G] Melody of [D] the stars,
[Em] Lighting up [C] my world from afar,
[G] Your sweet tune [D] in the night,
[Em] Guides me [C] through, makes everything right.

The band’s favorite fan’s name:

The band’s favorite fan is a girl named Amy. Amy fell in love with Knowing Nut when she first heard them at a local bar. The lyrics and sound resonated with her soul and have been her comfort through life’s ups and downs. As a testament to her love for the band, Amy has attended almost every one of their concerts and has a room full of their memorabilia. This band is her favorite because their music speaks to her, their lyrics often reflecting her own feelings and experiences. She fondly recalls how their song “Melody of the Stars” helped her through a tough time, and it has remained her go-to song ever since.

Backstory:
Rich Shock was formed in the bustling streets of New York City during a time of great musical innovation, the late 1970s. The band was composed of four college friends – lead vocalist Bobby “Blaze” Berwick, guitarist Eddie “Stringbender” Sterling, bassist Tommy “Thumper” Thompson, and drummer Ricky “Rhythm” Russo. The friends, who shared a common love for music, decided to form a band after witnessing a live performance of The Rolling Stones. Inspired by the band’s electrifying energy and stage presence, they started composing their own songs, performing at local bars and clubs, and soon gained a local following.

Their breakthrough came in 1981 after a talent scout from a major record label happened to catch one of their performances. Their candid lyrics, electrifying guitar riffs, and pulsating rhythms were a breath of fresh air in the music scene. The combination of Berwick’s gritty, soulful vocals, Sterling’s electrifying guitar solos, Thompson’s rhythmic bass lines, and Russo’s heart-pounding drum beats created a unique sound that was quintessential Rich Shock.

Genre:
Rock and Roll

Title:
“Vigilante Justice”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
Em
Running through the city streets, under the neon lights,
D
Living on the edge, in the dead of the night.
Em
A man on a mission, with justice in his sights,
D
A vigilante hero, in the city’s desperate plight.

(Chorus)
G
Vigilante justice, in the heart of the city,
D
Breaking the chains, showing no pity.
Em
No cape, no mask, just a man with a will,
C
Fighting the battle, climbing the hill.

(Verse)
Em
Outlaws and villains, they tremble with fear,
D
Knowing their time is up, whenever he’s near.
Em
Fighting for the weak, with his fists and his mind,
D
A vigilante justice, of the rarest kind.

(Chorus)
G
Vigilante justice, in the heart of the city,
D
Breaking the chains, showing no pity.
Em
No cape, no mask, just a man with a will,
C
Fighting the battle, climbing the hill.

Bands Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a young woman named Lila. Lila has been following Rich Shock since their early days performing in NYC clubs. Her passion for their music and dedication to the band is unmatched, often travelling across states to watch their live performances.

Testimonial:
“I’ve been a fan of Rich Shock since day one. Their music speaks to me on a personal level, and their electrifying performances never fail to lift my spirits. I have travelled far and wide to watch them perform, and each time it’s a different, exhilarating experience. The raw emotion in their music, and their authenticity both on and off stage, are what make them my favorite band!” – Lila Johnson

Backstory:

Born in the heart of New York City, ‘Weary Shame’ is an ensemble of five childhood friends who decided to mend their shared melancholy into something beautiful – music. The band consists of lead vocalist Sam Johnson, lead guitarist Leo Vincent, bass guitarist Alex McGregor, drummer Mike Reynolds, and keyboardist Peter Bell. From sharing a mutual fondness for music in their high school days to moving into a shared apartment together after graduation to concentrate on their music, their journey has been a rollercoaster of emotions, struggles, and triumphs. They have found unique ways to channel their shared experiences and the city’s gritty charm into their music, creating an enchanting blend of sounds that resonates with their listeners’ hearts.

Genre:

Weary Shame’s music is deeply rooted in Indie Folk, with a touch of blues and a hint of alternative rock. They are known for their introspective lyrics, intricate melodies, and profound harmonies that beautifully capture the essence of the human experience.

Title:

“Bound by the City Lights”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C G Am Em
Lost in the maze of towering dreams,
F C G
City lights, and whispered screams.
C G Am Em
Ink-stained hearts and the coffee grinds,
F C G
In our minds, we’re still confined.

(Chorus)
C G Am Em
Bound by the city lights, we roam,
F C G
Searching for a place called home.
C G Am Em
Through the nights, and the days,
F C G
In the haze, we find our ways.

(Verse 2)
C G Am Em
The melody of the rain on the streets,
F C G
Matches the rhythm of our heartbeats.
C G Am Em
The echo of dreams in the subway’s hum,
F C G
Sings of the places we’ve come from.

(Repeat Chorus)

The Band’s Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan is Sarah Thompson. She’s been with us from the very start, showing up at our earliest gigs when we were just another band in the crowd. Sarah connects with our music on a personal level, often sharing how our songs have helped her through challenging times. She says, “There’s a raw honesty in Weary Shame’s music that grips my soul. It’s like they’ve put words to emotions I’ve struggled to express. It’s cathartic, comforting, and inspiring all at once. They’re not just a band; they’re storytellers, healers, and friends. They’re my favorite because their music feels like home.”

Backstory:

Everlasting Judge, a band born within the confines of a tiny garage in downtown Pittsburgh, is the creation of four passionate friends who share a deep love for music. The founding members, Gary, Mike, Tom, and Alex, were once high school buddies who discovered their combined musical talents during a school talent show. Their performance that day was so electrifying that they decided to build their own band, which they named ‘Everlasting Judge’, a name inspired by their shared belief in music’s power to speak truth to power. Their journey from performing at local bars to selling out concert arenas nationwide is a testament to their raw talent, hard work, and unwavering dedication.

Genre:

Everlasting Judge is best known for their unique blend of Alternative Rock and Heavy Metal. They have a distinctive sound, featuring powerful vocals, heavy guitar riffs, and energetic drum beats that captivate their listeners.

Title:

“Chains of Freedom”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Walking down the [D] path of an [Em] old memory,
[C] Tears in my eyes, [G] shadows of [D] you and me.
[G] Whispering wind [D] carries the [Em] scent of our past,
[C] We were so [G] young, we [D] thought it would [Em] last.

(Chorus)
[G] Chains of Freedom [D] holding us tight,
[Em] Love was the lock, [C] you were my light.
[G] Bound in this [D] love, we were [Em] meant to be,
[C] Chains of Freedom, [G] set us [D] free.

Verse 2:
[G] Time went by, [D] we drifted [Em] apart,
[C] You’re a ghost now, [G] haunting my [D] broken heart.
[G] Nights are long, [D] filled with [Em] quiet dismay,
[C] In the Chains of [G] Freedom, [D] we lost our [Em] way.

(Chorus)
[G] Chains of Freedom [D] holding us tight,
[Em] Love was the lock, [C] you were my light.
[G] Bound in this [D] love, we were [Em] meant to be,
[C] Chains of Freedom, [G] set us [D] free.

Testimonial:

Fan’s name: Danny

“I’ve been a diehard fan of Everlasting Judge since their early days in Pittsburgh. Their music speaks to my soul. It’s raw and emotionally charged. Chains of Freedom is my all-time favorite – the lyrics echo my own experiences with love and heartbreak. I’ve been to all their concerts in the tri-state area and the energy they bring to the stage is just phenomenal. For me, no band compares to Everlasting Judge. They’re not just a band, they’re the soundtrack to my life.”

Backstory:

Tall List was formed in the bustling city of Seattle in 2008 by childhood friends Sam Wells, Billy Perkins, and Felix Carter. Having developed a love for music from a young age, they turned their shared passion into a reality by forming Tall List. The name of the band was inspired by Wells’ lanky stature and Carter’s obsession with making lists. Over the years, their bond grew stronger, and the trio developed a unique sound that caught the attention of local music lovers, leading to their rise in the Pacific Northwest’s indie music scene.

In 2012, they added a new member, Esther Green, a supremely talented violinist, who brought a new depth to their sound. With her arrival, Tall List’s music evolved, blending their raw rock sound with nuances of folk, influencing their songwriting and the way they perceived music. Their growth was evident in their debut album, “Shades of Dawn,” which was lauded by critics and fans alike.

Genre: Indie Folk Rock

Title: “Poster Child of Chaos”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Look in the mirror, [Em] tell me what you see,
[C] Poster child of chaos, [D] lost in our dreams.
[G] Craving for silence, [Em] in a world so loud,
[C] We’re shouting our hearts out, [D] just to drown the crowd.

(Chorus)
[G] We’re the tall list, [Em] on a lonely night,
[C] Searching for meaning, [D] under the city lights.
[G] We’re the tall list, [Em] in a restless sea,
[C] We’ll find our way, [D] in the melody.

(Verse 2)
[G] Runaway sentiments, [Em] in the pouring rain,
[C] We’re hitched to the rhythm, [D] and the growing pains.
[G] We’ve lost and found, [Em] in the echoes of the song,
[C] We’re fragile but fearless, [D] we’re weak but we’re strong.

(Chorus)
[G] We’re the tall list, [Em] on a stormy day,
[C] Walking the tightrope, [D] losing our way.
[G] We’re the tall list, [Em] in the silent screams,
[C] We’ll find our home, [D] in the land of dreams.

Favorite Fan: Rebecca Thompson

Rebecca Thompson has been a die-hard fan of Tall List since their early days. She fell in love with their raw energy and deeply emotional lyrics. “Tall List is more than just a band to me,” Rebecca shared. “Their music has been my solace during tough times and a companion during my happiest moments. The depth and sincerity in their songs resonate with me on a personal level, making them my favorite band. The best part is their continuous growth and evolution, which makes every new song a pleasant surprise. As a fan, I couldn’t ask for more!”

Backstory:
The “Illustrious Sound” was born in the heart of Austin, Texas, a city known for its vibrant music scene. The band members, Scott on vocals and guitar, Mia on bass, and Brandon on drums, were old school friends who reconnected after college and discovered a shared passion for music. They rented a small garage to create their unique sound, spending countless hours jamming and refining their musical style. Their chemistry was almost palpable, and their mutual music enthusiasm began to shape the foundation of what would soon become “Illustrious Sound”.

They were discovered at a local battle of the bands by Austin’s renowned producer Dan Matthews, who was captivated by their sound and offered them their first record deal. Their rise in the music industry was not meteoric, but their hard work and dedication paid off as their fan base steadily grew, winning over audiences with their relatable lyrics, rich harmonies, and infectious energy on stage.

Genre:
Indie Pop

Title:
“Chasing Echoes”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
C Em Am G
I walked alone, on crowded streets,
C Em Am G
Lost in echoes of what’s incomplete.
C Em Am G
Our love was once a melody,
C Em Am G
Now it’s just a distant memory.

[Chorus]
C Em Am G
Chasing echoes, in the night,
C Em Am G
Hoping to find, our lost delight.
C Em Am G
In the silence, of our song,
C Em Am G
I still believe, that we belong.

[Verse 2]
C Em Am G
The rhythm of us, rings so true,
C Em Am G
Embedded deep, in the heart’s tattoo.
C Em Am G
I search the stars, for your sweet voice,
C Em Am G
In the end, love is a choice.

[Chorus]
C Em Am G
Chasing echoes, in the dark,
C Em Am G
Hoping one day, we’ll make a spark.
C Em Am G
In the soundtrack, of my mind,
C Em Am G
It’s your love, I want to find.

Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan, Bryan, has been following their music journey from the start. Bryan says, “Illustrious Sound is not just another band to me, they are my escape from reality. Their music has helped me cope through some of the toughest times of my life. The raw emotions in their lyrics, the captivating melodies, and the passion they display on stage are like a balm to my soul. I’ve been attending every concert, and it’s not just entertaining, it’s a cathartic experience. They are, without a doubt, my all-time favorite band.”