Backstory:

Formed in the eclectic heart of London in 2014, Harsh Cream is a four-piece band known for their heady blend of rock, blues, and a touch of psychedelic whimsy. The band was created when childhood friends and passionate musicians, Ryan Kelter (vocalist/guitarist) and Martin Poe (drummer), met at a local vinyl shop, Harrison Breslin (bassist) and Emily Tint (keyboardist/vocalist). All four shared a similar vision of creating music that challenged the norm and offered listeners something simultaneously familiar and remarkably different. Harsh Cream became their outlet, an iconoclast of standard rock conventions, a clash of vintage and modern elements that create an aural spectacle, resonating with millions worldwide.

Genre:

Psychedelic Rock/Blues

Title:

“Pastel Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em
Pastel Shadows in the moonlight
G
Dancing on the street so bare
D
Silhouettes of the night,
A
Under the stars’ glare

(Chorus)
Em
We are the losing kind
G
Chasing the imperfect rhyme
D
In the realm of Pastel Shadows
A
Where dreams and reality intertwine

(Verse 2)
Em
Whispers of the ancients
G
Echoed in the midnight air
D
We’re playing our own requiem
A
In the realm where no one dares

(Chorus)
Em
We are the dreamers blind
G
Lost in the labyrinth of time
D
In the realm of Pastel Shadows
A
Where the sun forgets to shine

(Outro)
Em
So we dance in Pastel Shadows,
G
To the rhythm of despair,
D
In the world of painted sorrow,
A
We find solace, solace there.

Fan Testimonial:

Fan’s Name: Jessie Turner

“I’ve been a fan of Harsh Cream since their early days. There’s something magical about their music, it’s raw, it’s pure, it’s real. It’s like they’ve woven fragments of my own emotions into their lyrics and melodies. Every song feels like a journey, it takes me places I’ve never been, and makes me feel things I didn’t know I could. In particular, ‘Pastel Shadows’ became my personal anthem. It’s a masterful blend of sorrow and solace, a perfect depiction of the human spirit. Harsh Cream isn’t just my favorite band, they’re my emotional refuge.”

Backstory:

Extroverted Activity was born in the vibrant city of San Francisco in 2006. The band was formed by childhood friends, Adam Hightower and Benny Palmer, who decided to turn their mutual love for music into a shared dream. After a few years spent refining their sound and experimenting in Adam’s garage, they were joined by Emily Davis, a talented songwriter and vocalist, and later by drummer Charlie Scott to complete the band. They started performing at local bars and slowly gathered a devoted fan base through their vivacious and energetic performances.

Genre:

Indie Pop-Rock

Title:

“Coffee Shop Reverie”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
G D
In this coffee shop, we used to sit,
Em C
Talk about dreams and love we commit,
G D
Laughter echoes, but you’re not here,
Em C
Just an empty chair and a bitter beer.

(Chorus)
G D Em C
Coffee Shop Reverie, where are you now?
G D Em C
Washed away with the foam, like our vow.

(Verse 2)
G D
Memories linger like the coffee stain,
Em C
What we had, I can’t explain,
G D
I still hear your laughter in the rain,
Em C
In my Coffee Shop Reverie, you remain.

(Chorus)
G D Em C
Coffee Shop Reverie, I miss you so,
G D Em C
In the depths of my cup, where did we go?

Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan’s name is Sarah Mitchell. Sarah has been following Extroverted Activity since their first local bar gig and has attended every single concert since. She says, “Extroverted Activity isn’t just a band to me, it’s a piece of my heart. Their music resonates with me on a level that no other band has been able to reach. From the catchy beats to the heartfelt lyrics, there is a raw and palpable honesty in their songs that has helped me through some of the toughest times in my life. In many ways, they’ve been my lifeline, my beacon of hope. They’re more than just my favorite band, they’re my heroes.”

Backstory:
Hailing from the lively streets of Manchester, four ragtag musicians found themselves united by their shared love of rock and roll and vintage aesthetics. They were initially solo artists, each struggling to find their unique voice, until fate brought them together at a small charity gig in the heart of the city. Realizing that their talents blended seamlessly, they formed the band ‘Indolent Carriage’. The name, an ironic nod to their tireless work ethic and the relentless pace of the music industry, soon became a popular name in the local pub circuit. With their vintage flair and electrifying performances, the band quickly gained a cult following. Their music is a blend of old-school rock, with hints of modern folk, creating a unique sound that has captivated audiences.

Genre:
Rock/Folk

Title:
“Whiskey Dreams”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Am Em
In the heart of the city, under neon lights,
G D
I found my soul lost in whiskey dreams.
Am Em
Caught in the rhythm of the endless nights,
G D
Chasing echoes of forgotten themes.

[Chorus]
C G Am Em
Oh, whiskey dreams, take me away,
F C G Em
To a place where the music never ends.
C G Am Em
In your amber haze, let me sway,
F C G
Where the night is forever, my friends.

[Verse 2]
Am Em
The tales we tell, in smoky rooms,
G D
Are etched in the heart of these whiskey dreams.
Am Em
In the flickering light, love looms,
G D
And reality is not what it seems.

[Chorus]
C G Am Em
Oh, whiskey dreams, don’t fade away,
F C G Em
Keep the fires of the night ablaze.
C G Am Em
In your glowing warmth, let me stay,
F C G
Lost in your intoxicating maze.

Fan Testimonial:
“My name is Emily and I have been a die-hard fan of Indolent Carriage since their first gig at The Rovers Return. Their music, a blend of rock and folk, feels like a journey back in time. The raw emotion and energy they pour into each performance are simply awe-inspiring. “Whiskey Dreams” in particular, always sends shivers down my spine. It’s not just their music; it’s their story, their passion, and their connection with the audience that makes them my favorite. They aren’t just a band to me, they’re a part of my life.”

Backstory:

Legal Volume was formed in 2016 in the bustling city of Chicago, Illinois. The band is comprised of four law school friends: lead vocalist and bass guitarist, Peter ‘the Plaintiff’ Jones; drummer and vocals, Sammy ‘the Solicitor’ Brown; lead guitarist, Jimmy ‘the Judge’ Davis; and keyboardist, Annie ‘the Advocate’ Miller. The group started out as a fun diversion from their rigorous studies, playing at local bars and university events. Their unique blend of music and law-inspired lyrics resonated with audiences, and they quickly gained a following.

Despite their burgeoning legal careers, the band decided to pursue their musical passions full time. Their journey has been an exciting whirlwind of performances, tours, and album releases. Legal Volume’s music speaks to their experiences in the legal world, with a tongue-in-cheek approach that has won them fans across the globe.

Genre:

Legal Volume’s music can best be described as Law Rock – a fusion of classic rock and catchy pop, peppered with witty law-themed lyrics.

Title:

“Justice Jam”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am Dm G C
Legal jargon, us against the world,
Am Dm G C
Courtroom battles, secrets unfurled.
Am Dm G C
We’re fighting hard, in our black and white,
Am Dm G C
For every wrong, there must be a right.

(Chorus)
Am Dm G C
Justice Jam, we’re playing loud,
Am Dm G C
For the silenced, lost in the crowd.
Am Dm G C
Guitars wailing, like our souls,
Am Dm G C
Music is our ultimate goal.

(Verse 2)
Am Dm G C
Witness stands, evidence in hand,
Am Dm G C
Rock and roll, taking a stand.
Am Dm G C
From the gavel’s bang, to the crowd’s roar,
Am Dm G C
Legal Volume, forever we soar.

(Chorus)
Am Dm G C
Justice Jam, we’re playing loud,
Am Dm G C
For the silenced, lost in the crowd.
Am Dm G C
Guitars wailing, like our souls,
Am Dm G C
Music is our ultimate goal.

Favorite Fan:

Their favorite fan’s name is Jessica ‘the Jury’ Baxter. Jessica is a law student herself and has been a devoted follower of Legal Volume since their early days. She appreciates not only their music but also their unique take on the legal world. Jessica is their favorite fan because she organizes fan meet-ups and helps promote their music on social media.

Jessica Baxter’s Testimonial:

“Legal Volume has been my favorite band since law school. Their music is a perfect blend of rock, pop, and legal humor. It’s not just entertaining, but it also gives me a sense of camaraderie and motivation in my own legal journey. Plus, they’re all really down-to-earth and appreciate their fans. I can’t wait to see what they do next!”

Backstory:
Mixed Cigarette was born in the backstreets of New York City, where four college dropouts found solace in their shared love for music and the smoke-filled atmosphere of late-night jam sessions. The group initially came together in 2008, bonding over their love for grunge, garage rock, and the gritty underground music scene. The band includes frontman and lead guitarist Jesse “Jay” Reyes, drummer Felix “Fix” McKenzie, bassist Amy “Axe” Ridgeway, and keyboardist Leon “Keys” Broussard. Through their music, they channel their shared experiences of heartbreak, disillusionment, and the struggle to find meaning in a world that often seems senseless.

Genre:
Mixed Cigarette’s music can best be described as a fusion of garage rock and grunge, with a dash of blues and a hint of punk. Their raw, gritty sound is driven by Reyes’ gruff vocals, deeply personal lyrics, and his signature smoky guitar riffs, balanced by the rhythmic backbone provided by McKenzie’s drums, Ridgeway’s bass and Broussard’s keyboard. Their music is a reflection of life’s chaos and beauty, capturing the essence of the human experience in its purest form.

Title: “Burned Out”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Em) Down the alley of (G) broken dreams,
(D) I found my solace in a (Am) mixed cigarette.
(Em) The streetlights flicker, (G) shadows scream,
(D) I’m seeking comfort in a (Am) silhouette.

Chorus:
(C) Burned out, (G) like the end of a (Am) mixed cigarette.
(D) Lost in a maze of (Em) smoke and regret.
(C) Flicking ashes, (G) chasing silhouettes,
(D) Life’s a gamble, I (Am) lost the bet.

(Em) Neon graffiti on (G) city walls,
(D) I’m just a pawn in this (Am) endless game.
(Em) Life strikes hard, and (G) a dreamer falls,
(D) But I’ll rise again, like a (Am) phoenix flame.

Chorus:
(C) Burned out, (G) like the end of a (Am) mixed cigarette.
(D) Lost in a maze of (Em) smoke and regret.
(C) Flicking ashes, (G) chasing silhouettes,
(D) Life’s a gamble, I (Am) lost the bet.

Bridge:
(C)Love’s a smoke, and life’s a (G)mirage,
(D) We’re all trapped in a (Am) cosmic collage.

Chorus:
(C) Burned out, (G) like the end of a (Am) mixed cigarette.
(D) Lost in a maze of (Em) smoke and regret.
(C) Flicking ashes, (G) chasing silhouettes,
(D) Life’s a gamble, I (Am) lost the bet.

Outro:
(Em) As the dawn breaks, (G) I’m still a silhouette,
(D) Burned out, like a (Am) mixed cigarette.

Band’s Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a young woman named Lily. She discovered Mixed Cigarette during a particularly tough period in her life, and their music helped her find strength and courage. Lily says, “Mixed Cigarette is more than just a band to me. They’re like a companion on this rough road of life. Their music resonates with me on such a personal level. It’s raw, it’s real, and it gives me hope. Every time I listen to ‘Burned Out’, I feel understood and less alone. For me, Mixed Cigarette is a beacon of light in the dark.”

Backstory:
Adored Classification was born in the bustling city of Seattle, where college friends Andy, Damon, Robert, and Eddie came together over their shared love for music. Each of them, majoring in different subjects, brought a unique element to the group. Andy, a literature major, penned poignant lyrics while Damon’s engineering mind crafted their unique sound. Robert, a psychology student, tapped into the emotional depths of their songs with his soulful voice, and Eddie, a finance student, took care of the business side of the band. Together, they formed a band that was truly a class apart, thus gaining the name ‘Adored Classification’.

In their early days, they performed at local college fests, gaining a local fan base. Their unique sound quickly caught the attention of a popular record label, leading them to release their debut album ‘Categorically Adored’. Their music, a unique blend of deep lyrics and captivating tunes soon gained national fame, making them one of the noteworthy bands to emerge from Seattle’s thriving music scene.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Binary Star”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
G Em C D
G Em
In the vast cosmic bar,
C D
We’re a binary star.
G Em
Two beings, one soul,
C D
Making a harmonious whole.

(Chorus)
G Em
We’re a binary star,
C D
Shining near and far.
G Em
In the infinite night,
C D
We’re each other’s light.

(Verse 2)
G Em
In the celestial sphere,
C D
Our light is clear.
G Em
Together in strife,
C D
In death, and in life.

(Chorus)
G Em
We’re a binary star,
C D
Bound by a cosmic scar.
G Em
In the universe wide,
C D
We’re each other’s guide.

(Outro)
G Em
Binary star, we are,
C D
Burning both near and far.
G Em
In our cosmic play,
C D
We light up the Milky Way.

Fan Testimonial:
Amy, a linguistics student from Seattle University, is Adored Classification’s most ardent fan. For Amy, their music is more than just melodies and harmonies. She says, “Their lyrics speak to the soul; they’re deep and thought-provoking. As a literature enthusiast, Andy’s lyrics resonate with me and make me ponder the existential questions of life. Damon’s unique sound, Robert’s soulful voice, and Eddie’s smart business moves make them a complete package. They’re not just a band to me, they’re storytellers, and I am here for every story they want to tell.”

Backstory:
Thrifty Sleet is a group of four childhood friends who grew up in the vibrant streets of Austin, Texas. Being surrounded by music all their lives, they found their passion early, starting from jamming in garage bands, to performing at local music festivals. The band members – Jake, Charlie, Sam, and Nat were always innovative with their music, wanting to create a unique sound that pays homage to their Texan roots while pushing boundaries of traditional genres.

The name Thrifty Sleet is a symbol of their humble beginnings and their aspiration for growth. ‘Thrifty’ embodies their creative process of making the most out of limited resources, while ‘Sleet’ represents their desire to be a refreshing change in the music scene, much like a sudden sleet storm in a hot Texas summer.

Genre:
Thrifty Sleet identifies their music genre as Indie Folk Rock with a touch of Blues.

Title:
“Whiskey Lullaby”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am C G D
Down in the valley where the wild winds blow,
Am C G D
I found my solace in a whiskey glow.
Am C G D
My heart was aching, my soul felt so bleak,
Am C G D
I found my rhythm in a whiskey beat.

(Chorus)
F C G D
Oh, sweet whiskey lullaby,
F C G D
Sing me to sleep under the Texan sky.
F C G D
Kiss my pain goodbye, with your fiery high,
F C G D
Oh, sweet whiskey lullaby.

(Verse 2)
Am C G D
Underneath the stars, a lonely man’s plight,
Am C G D
I found my refuge in a whiskey night.
Am C G D
Through the darkness, a beacon so bright,
Am C G D
I found my solace in a whiskey light.

(Repeat Chorus)

(Bridge)
F C G D
Let the moonshine, let the heart pine,
Am C G D
In the arms of a whiskey rhyme,
F C G D
Soothe my soul, let the good times roll,
Am C G D
In the depths of a whiskey lullaby.

(Repeat Chorus)

Favorite Fan Testimonial:
“I’m Emily, 23-years-old, and a superfan of Thrifty Sleet. From the first time I heard ‘Whiskey Lullaby,’ I was hooked. Their music feels raw and real, like it’s a direct line from their souls into my ears. The lyrics resonate with me, painting vivid pictures of struggle, solace, and hope. The folk-rock vibes mixed with blues make me feel connected to their Texan roots. And their live performances are just electrifying! Thrifty Sleet is my favorite because their music moves me – it makes me dance, it makes me think, it makes me feel.”

Backstory:
Formed in the heart of Austin, Texas in 2015, Trivial Hospital is the brainchild of a group of high school friends who discovered a shared passion for music. The band members, consisting of lead singer/guitarist Jake Sanders, bassist Zach Davis, drummer Amy Turner, and keyboardist Ryan Mitchell, transformed their casual jam sessions into a full-blown musical endeavor. Their name, ‘Trivial Hospital’, emerged from a late-night conversation about the trivialities of life and their shared belief in music as a healing force. They became a sensation in the local music scene and soon gained a wider audience, establishing themselves as a band with a knack for introspective lyrics and catchy melodies.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Paper Plane Dreams”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am – C – G – F
In this city of paper plane dreams,
We’re all castaways, or so it seems.
Adrift on the currents of life’s extremes,
Chasing what’s real, discarding the schemes.

(Chorus)
C – G – Am – F
Paper plane dreams, take us high,
Let us touch the open sky.
Where we might stumble, let us fly,
For in dreams, we never die.

(Verse 2)
Am – C – G – F
Underneath the fluorescent streetlight’s gleam,
We’re painting stories on this urban theme,
Paper plane dreams, filled with starlight’s beam,
Hope is closer than it might seem.

(Chorus)
C – G – Am – F
Paper plane dreams, take us high,
Beyond the clouds and the city’s lie.
In the face of fear, we’ll defy,
For in dreams, we never lie.

The band’s favorite fan:

A fan named Emily Johnson has been following the band since their early days. Emily discovered Trivial Hospital during a difficult time in her life and their music became her solace. The band’s lyrical depth and emotional resonance struck a chord with her. In Emily’s words, “Trivial Hospital isn’t just a band for me, they’re a beacon of hope. Their music gives voice to feelings I couldn’t express. Their song ‘Paper Plane Dreams’ became my anthem, helping me believe in dreams again. For their music, and the therapy it proved to be, they’ll always be my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Born in the heartland of America, Big Grass is a group of four childhood friends who found their calling in the realm of music. Growing up in the vast expanse of the Midwest, their surroundings heavily influenced their musical style, with vast prairies and the simplicity of rural life becoming their aesthetic. The band members, John, Mark, Luke, and Matthew, were drawn together by their shared love for music. After many afternoons spent jamming in the Matthews’ family barn, they realized they had something special and decided to form their official band, ‘Big Grass’, named after the endless grasslands that surrounded them.

Genre:
Folk-Rock

Title:
“Under the Prairie Sky”

Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G]Under the prairie sky, [C]where the tall grass grows
[D]We found our freedom, [G]in the heartland we chose
[G]Strumming on our guitars, [C]in the fading light
[D]Dreaming of tomorrow, [G]underneath the night

(Chorus)
[G]Oh, under the prairie sky, [C]we found our song
[D]In the heart of America, [G]where we belong
[G]Here in the heartland, [C]with the big grass swaying
[D]We found a melody, [G]that keeps playing

(Verse 2)
[G]From the break of dawn, [C]to the setting sun
[D]Our music plays, [G]until the day is done
[G]Through the joy and pain, [C]the laughter and the tears
[D]Our songs tell our story, [G]through the years

(Chorus)
[G]Oh, under the prairie sky, [C]we found our song
[D]In the heart of America, [G]where we belong
[G]Here in the heartland, [C]with the big grass swaying
[D]We found a melody, [G]that keeps playing

Fan Testimonial:
Name: Amy Richardson
Amy discovered Big Grass during a tough phase in life and their music became her solace, a beacon of hope and comfort amidst her struggles. In their music, she found her own story unfolded in the form of beautiful, heartfelt lyrics and soulful tunes. As a native of the Midwest, she feels a deep connection with the band and their roots. “Big Grass’s music is a love letter to the heartland, a place I hold dear,” says Amy. “Their songs are like a warm, comforting blanket on a cold night. They remind me of home, of simpler times and that is why they are my favorite band.”

Backstory:

Confused Research is a charmingly eccentric band that assembled in the bustling streets of San Francisco in 2015. Its members crossed paths in a quirky record store, each of them drawn to the obscure vinyl section. Sharing their musical inspirations and aspirations, they found a common ground in their diverse backgrounds and decided to collaborate, swiftly forming a band. Their unity stemmed from their shared love for experimental sounds, leading them to name their band ‘Confused Research’ as an ode to their constant quest for reinventing and exploring new music.

Their evolution was gradual yet fascinating, as they discovered their unique sound. The band faced numerous challenges, from conflicts in musical direction to differences in personal tastes. But through this chaotic journey, they managed to create a blend of music that is uniquely theirs, resonating with both their eclectic influences and their shared vision. Despite the confusion, their collective research paid off, and they became a distinct voice in the music industry.

Genre:
Progressive Rock

Title:
“Twisted Perspectives”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
C G A F
Under the neon light, we weave our dreams
C G A F
In the silence of night, we hear the screams
C G A F
Lost in the rhythm, of our distorted perceptions
C G A F
We’re the creators, of twisted perspectives

(Chorus)
D G A F
We’re the confused researchers, lost in our own sound
D G A F
Finding melody in chaos, where harmony is found
D G A F
In the musical labyrinth, we wear the crown
D G A F
We’re the confused researchers, turning music around.

(Verse 2)
C G A F
Behind every note, lies a story untold
C G A F
In every beat, secrets unfold
C G A F
We’re the explorers, in the realm of sound
C G A F
Creating the unseen, in the underground.

(Chorus)
D G A F
We’re the confused researchers, lost in our own sound
D G A F
Finding melody in chaos, where harmony is found
D G A F
In the musical labyrinth, we wear the crown
D G A F
We’re the confused researchers, turning music around.

Fan’s Name:
Joe Harrison

Testimonial:
“As a longtime fan, it’s hard to pick just one reason why Confused Research is my favorite band. Their genre-defying sound constantly keeps me on my toes, and I love how they’re not afraid to experiment. Each song is a new journey, a new discovery. The lyrics always have a profound meaning, and the music is incredibly captivating. Whether I’m having a rough day or celebrating a victory, their music fits every mood and situation. The authenticity and passion Confused Research puts into their music are rare to find these days, making them a band truly worth following.”