Backstory:

Cumbersome Reign was first conceptualized in a dusty garage in Akron, Ohio, where four childhood friends realized their shared passion for music could be more than just a hobby. Tim Patterson, the charismatic frontman with a raspy voice, was the band’s driving force, alongside his best friends; guitarist Mark Sullivan with his bluesy riffs, bassist Andy Cohen with his unique punk-inspired style, and finally, the rhythmic powerhouse, drummer Ryan Williams. They initially started covering songs from their music heroes, but soon realized they had a talent for creating their unique sound, so they started to write their songs. Their humble beginnings were marked by small gigs at local bars and parties, but word quickly spread about their unique sound, and they found themselves on the local radio, then touring nationwide, and before they knew it, Cumbersome Reign hit the big stage.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Shattered Crowns”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am – E – G – D
Am – E – G – D
Running down the alleys, chasing our dreams
In a world full of chaos, or so it seems
Shadows of the past, haunting our minds
We were the rulers, lost in time

(Chorus)
Am – C – G – D
Am – C – G – D
We were Kings and Queens with shattered crowns
Lost in the noise, the uproarious sounds
Our reign was cumbersome, but we held on tight
In the darkness, we were the light

(Verse 2)
Am – E – G – D
Am – E – G – D
Blinded by ambition, our hearts in chains
When we ruled, it felt like rain
Every high and low, etched in stone
Silent rebels in a world unknown

(Chorus)
Am – C – G – D
Am – C – G – D
We were Kings and Queens with shattered crowns
Lost in the noise, the uproarious sounds
Our reign was cumbersome, but we held on tight
In the darkness, we were the light

(Bridge)
Am – F – C – G
Fallen kingdoms rise, destiny is nigh
In the face of despair, we learn to fly
Through the battles, the pain, the pride, the gain
We are the rulers of our Cumbersome Reign

(Chorus)
Am – C – G – D
Am – C – G – D
We were Kings and Queens with shattered crowns
Lost in the noise, the uproarious sounds
Our reign was cumbersome, but we held on tight
In the darkness, we were the light

Fan Testimonial:

Favorite Fan’s Name: Danny McCarthy

Why and How This Band Became His Favorite:

Danny McCarthy, an ardent music lover and avid concert goer, first encountered Cumbersome Reign at a local bar in Akron. He was immediately drawn to their raw energy and the unique blend of alternative rock with an undercurrent of blues and punk. He says, “There’s something about their music that resonates with me. The lyrics of their songs like ‘Shattered Crowns’ are so profound, they tell a story that you can relate to. And the way they perform, you can really feel the passion and emotion in every note. They’re not just a band to me, they’re storytellers who use music as their medium, and that’s what makes them my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Indolent Assessment was born out of a college dorm room in the snowy landscapes of Michigan. The founders, Alex “Thatch” Thatcher and Riley “Rye” Freeman, were roommates who had a shared passion for music and a knack for procrastinating on their coursework. One night, instead of studying for a crucial final, the duo decided to put their procrastination to good use and write a song. The result was a unique blend of rock and electronica, a sound that rang through the halls of their dormitory, earning them an unexpected following.

After college, Thatch and Rye moved to Chicago, pursuing their dreams in the city’s bustling music scene. They found additional members, drummer Jimmy “Styx” Sullivan and bassist Danni “D” Rodriguez, in a local bar during an open mic night. The four of them clicked almost instantly, and Indolent Assessment was officially formed. Their music, a statement against societal pressures and the valorization of laziness and free-thinking, resonated with listeners across the city and beyond.

Genre: Electronica Rock

Title: “Comatose Revolution”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em
Awake in the twilight, dreams caught in our sight
Am
No reason to fight, we sail on the night
Bm
Caught in the mundane, lost in the insane
C
Let’s start a comatose revolution, babe

(Chorus)
G D Em
Lazy days, hazy nights
C G D
In our minds, we take flight
G D Em
No more chains, no more fright
C G D
Let’s ignite, a comatose revolution

(Verse 2)
Em
Unravel the threads of societal dread
Am
Sleep under the stars instead, break the bread
Bm
Drown in the beats, surrender to the retreat
C
Let our hearts meet, in this comatose revolution, sweet

(Chorus)
G D Em
Lazy days, hazy nights
C G D
In our minds, we take flight
G D Em
No more chains, no more fright
C G D
Let’s ignite, a comatose revolution

(Outro)
Em C G D
Comatose revolution, we’re the solution
Em C G D
Free thinking evolution, in our institution.

Favorite Fan: Lucy “Lulu” Mitchell

Lucy “Lulu” Mitchell has been an ardent fan of Indolent Assessment since their early days. She was one of the first to stumble upon their music, playing in a small, underground bar in Chicago. Lucy, a graphic design student, appreciated their unconventional approach towards societal norms. She felt connected to their lyrics that spoke of defying pressures to fit into a mold. She has attended every concert, creating beautiful fan art and sharing it on her social media. As a testimonial, she says, “Indolent Assessment isn’t just a band to me, their music is a manifesto of my life. It’s a reassurance that it’s okay to take things slow, to take time for yourself, and not get swept away in the rat race. They’re not just musicians, they’re poets of the modern age.”

Backstory:

Traumatic Animal was born in the lively streets of Brooklyn, where vibrant music culture meets the hustle and bustle of city life. Its members, Jonny “Razor” Radcliffe and Aaron “DrumBeast” Mitchell, met at a local dive bar’s open mic night. Razor, an enigmatic singer and guitarist, was searching for a drummer who could match his passion and eccentricity. DrumBeast, a powerhouse on the drums, was looking for a project that could challenge him and push boundaries. Their meeting was serendipitous and marked the beginning of a wild journey that would take them to venues they never dreamed of performing in.

Despite their starkly different backgrounds, their shared love for pushing musical boundaries and creating something unique was a common thread that tied them together. They found their groove when they began to blend heavy rock with unexpected elements of funk, creating a genre-bending sound that took New York City by storm.

Genre:
Alternative Rock/Funk Fusion

Title:
“Bite of the Wild”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1:
(Am) Wandering through the (F) urban jungle, (C) concrete under my (G) feet,
(Am) Looking for a (F) thrill, a (C) rhythm that (G) meets my beat,
(Am) Shadows in the (F) alleyways, (C) echoes in the (G) night,
(Am) I’m a creature (F) of the city, (C) hunting for the (G) light.

Chorus:
(Am) Give me the bite of the (F) wild, the (C) roars of the crowd,
(G) Let the beat of the drums ring (Am) loud
Lost in the (F) music, I’m (C) free, I’m defiled,
(G) I need the bite, the bite of the (Am) wild.

Verse 2:
(Am) Neon lights are (F) flashing, (C) reflecting in my (G) eyes,
(Am) I feel the (F) bass pulsing, (C) reaching for the (G) skies,
(Am) This city is a (F) beast, it’s (C) heart is beating (G) fast,
(Am) With every strum, (F) I’m taming it, (C) making memories (G) last.

Chorus:
(Am) Give me the bite of the (F) wild, the (C) roars of the crowd,
(G) Let the beat of the drums ring (Am) loud
Lost in the (F) music, I’m (C) free, I’m defiled,
(G) I need the bite, the bite of the (Am) wild.

Favorite Fan:

Jesse, a local Brooklyn resident, is Traumatic Animal’s top fan. Jesse says, “There’s something special about Traumatic Animal. They’ve managed to capture the soul of this city in their music. It’s raw, it’s dynamic, and it’s unapologetically wild. It’s a reflection of the life we live here in Brooklyn. Every time I hear ‘Bite of the Wild,’ I feel like I’m walking these streets, feeling the pulse of the city all over again. For me, Traumatic Animal isn’t just a band, it’s a way of life.”

Backstory:

Unwitting Feet was formed in 2013 in the bustling college town of Lafayette, Indiana. The five-piece band formed in a whirlwind of youthful energy and a shared love of music. The members met in a local record shop, all reaching for the same limited edition vinyl. It was that chance moment that sparked the formation of Unwitting Feet. The band members – Jamie (vocals), Mike (guitar), Cassie (bass), Dave (drums), and Lily (keyboards) – were all in their early twenties and fresh out of school, eager to make a mark on the music world. They pooled their diverse musical tastes and influences, from blues to punk rock to create a sound that is as diverse as it is cohesive.

Genre:

Unwitting Feet’s music can best be described as Alternative Rock with a splash of Indie Pop. Their sound is layered and rich, with strong vocals, dynamic guitar riffs, and a rhythm section that is both solid and intricate. Their music is further characterized by its catchy hooks, thoughtful lyrics, and an infectious energy that resonates with their listeners.

Title: “Shifted Roads”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am [Am] I lost or just misplaced, G [G]
On this road I’ve failed to trace, D [D]
My heart beats with an alien pace, C [C]

(Chorus)
I’ve trod the shifted roads, G [G]
Chasing dreams that unfold, D [D]
In the echoes of the tales untold, C [C]
On the path of the brave and bold. G [G]

(Verse 2)
The stars above are my only guide, G [G]
On the roads where shadows hide, D [D]
With every step, I’ll confide, C [C]

(Chorus)
I’ve trod the shifted roads, G [G]
Chasing dreams that unfold, D [D]
In the echoes of the tales untold, C [C]
On the path of the brave and bold. G [G]

(Bridge)
In the still of the night, Em [Em]
Under the soft moonlight, D [D]
I find the strength to fight, C [C]
And chase the elusive light. G [G]

(Chorus)
I’ve trod the shifted roads, G [G]
Chasing dreams that unfold, D [D]
In the echoes of the tales untold, C [C]
On the path of the brave and bold. G [G]

Band’s Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is undoubtedly Sarah, a high school teacher from Wisconsin. Sarah has been following Unwitting Feet since their first EP. She loves the band’s energy, the way their music makes her feel alive and the depth of their lyrics. She stated, “The band has been the soundtrack to my life’s ups and downs. They’ve harnessed the power of music to convey genuine emotion and create a real connection with their listeners. It’s almost like they’ve been there with me in every pivotal moment of my life. That’s why Unwitting Feet is my favorite band. Their music is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a suite of life’s experiences.”

Backstory:
Which Humour is a Canadian-based band formed in 2011, born out of a deep love for music and a desire to challenge the status quo. The band members – Tim Flynn, Chris Dunham, Sarah Hughes, and Jeff Peterson – met in a college music class and bonded over their shared appreciation for diverse musical genres, from jazz to pop to progressive rock. They started jamming and composing songs in their dorm rooms, gradually making their way to local gigs and concerts. The name ‘Which Humour’ derived from the group’s penchant for a little sarcasm and humour in their lyrics and performances, coupled with their passion for addressing pressing issues.

Genre:
Progressive Rock with elements of Pop and Jazz

Title:
‘Don’t Fall Prey’

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am Em
In the land of the free, and home of the brave,
F C
Don’t let your dreams be someone else’s slave.
Am Em
Don’t let the world make you feel small,
F C
Stand tall, stand tall, You’ve got it all.

(Chorus)
G Em
Don’t fall prey, to the games they play,
Am C
Let your heart lead the way, don’t fall prey.

(Verse 2)
Am Em
In the space of your mind, let love unwind,
F C
Keep your spirit aligned, leave the hurt behind.
Am Em
Don’t let fear write your story,
F C
Reach for glory, reach for glory.

(Chorus)
G Em
Don’t fall prey, to the things they say,
Am C
In your soul is the ray, don’t fall prey.

The band’s favorite fan:

Name: Emily Clark

Testimonial: “I’ve followed Which Humour since their early days, before they even had an album to their name. Their music resonates deeply with my life experiences, and their lyrical prowess is unmatched. Each song is a journey, an exploration of various aspects of life. ‘Don’t Fall Prey’ became my personal anthem during a challenging period, reminding me of my strength and resilience. Which Humour isn’t just a band to me; they’re like my musical lifeline. They’re definitely my favourite, and their music has the power to touch souls and make a difference.”

Backstory:

Rapid Job, a high-energy, rock n’ roll band was formed in 1998 in a small garage in downtown Seattle. The four-piece band was composed of lead vocalist and guitarist Danny ‘Rapid’ Johnson, bassist Joey ‘Job’ Roberts, drummer Mike ‘The Machine’ Klein, and keyboardist Stevie ‘Smooth Keys’ Davis. They quickly gained a reputation for their powerful performances and raw, electrifying sound. The band’s name was inspired by their quick rise to fame in the local scene, something they attributed to their ‘rapid job’ of writing and performing music.

In 2002, they gained national attention with their debut album, ‘Velocity Thrills’, and their fanbase grew exponentially. Through ups and downs, including a brief breakup in 2005, Rapid Job has remained a staple in the rock scene, becoming known for their passion, creativity, and resilience.

Genre: Rock

Title: “Turbulent Times”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Woke up in the [D] morning
[Em] With a heavy [C] heart
[G] Life’s a puzzle [D]
[Em] I don’t know where to [C] start
[G] These turbulent [D] times
[Em] Are tearing me [C] apart

(Chorus)
[G] But I won’t [D] let it break me
[Em] I won’t let it [C] take me down
[G] These turbulent [D] times
[Em] I’ll keep my feet on the [C] ground

(Verse 2)
[G] It’s a struggle [D] every day
[Em] To keep the [C] demons at bay
[G] But I’ve got the [D] music
[Em] To help me [C] find my way
[G] Through these turbulent [D] times
[Em] I’ll light my own [C] way

(Chorus)
[G] I won’t [D] let it break me
[Em] I won’t let it [C] take me down
[G] These turbulent [D] times
[Em] I’ll keep my feet on the [C] ground

(Bridge)
[G] So here I [D] stand, my heart in my hand
[Em] Ready to take a [C] stand
[G] Against these turbulent [D] times
[Em] I’ll make my own [C] plans

(Chorus)
[G] I won’t [D] let it break me
[Em] I won’t let it [C] take me down
[G] These turbulent [D] times
[Em] I’ll keep my feet on the [C] ground
[G] Yeah, these turbulent [D] times
[Em] I’ll make my own [C] sound

Fan Testimonial:

Fan’s Name: Sarah ‘Rockin’ Robinson

“Rapid Job is my absolute favorite band because they are so much more than just their music. They’ve been through a lot but they’ve never given up. Their songs, like ‘Turbulent Times’, speak to me on a very personal level. I’ve been through some rough patches and their music has been like a friend in those moments. Their raw energy and passion is infectious and it’s impossible not to get caught up in it at their live shows. They’re not just a band to me, they’re a lifeline.”

Backstory:

Cute Phone, a quirky three-piece band from Portland, Oregon, was brewed into existence in the summer of 2015. The band’s members, vocalist and keyboardist Lucy Roberts, bassist Jake Benson, and drummer Micah Thompson, first met during an open mic night in a local coffee shop. Each was a solo artist, but after a spontaneous jam session, they discovered they had a unique chemistry and decided to join forces. After a few months of experimenting with different sounds and styles, they discovered their inimitable sound, combining playful synth-pop with elements of funk and jazz.

Genre:
Synth Pop/Funk

Song Title:
“Digital Love Lines”

Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1] (C, G, Am, F)
C G
In the glow of the screen light,
Am F
I see your smile shining bright.
C G
Through the miles, we’re connected,
Am F
Our hearts electronically reflected.

[Chorus] (F, G, Am, G)
F G
Digital love lines, crossing time,
Am G
In the space of a heartbeat, you’re mine.
F G
Pixelated joy, synthesized sigh,
Am G
In the realm of the Cute Phone, love’s the Wi-Fi.

[Verse 2] (C, G, Am, F)
C G
Through the static, I hear laughter,
Am F
Promises of a happily ever after.
C G
Binary codes forming our song,
Am F
In the Cute Phone world, we belong.

[Repeat Chorus] (F, G, Am, G)

[Bridge] (Am, G, F, G)
Am G
Touch screens apart, yet souls entwined,
F G
In this digital love, we’re designed.

[Repeat Chorus] (F, G, Am, G)

Fan Testimonial:

“My name is Samantha, or Sam as the band likes to call me. I’ve been a die-hard fan of Cute Phone since their initial days. Their music is a unique blend of playfulness and deep emotions, a rarity in the music scene today. Their songs, especially ‘Digital Love Lines’, resonates with me on so many levels. It captures the essence of love and connection in the digital age – something I associate with deeply. Their concerts are always full of positive energy and fun. It’s a joy to see them perform live, there’s never a dull moment. Cute Phone isn’t just my favourite band, they feel like friends who understand and articulate the emotions of our generation.”

Backstory:
Excited Feet emerged on the scene as an accidental success. The band was initially a group of four college friends: lead vocalist Jimmy Thompson, guitarist Mark Sullivan, drummer Alex Wright, and bassist Danny McCormick. They bonded over their shared love for music and dance, often caught in impromptu jamming sessions in their dorm rooms. Their passion for music led them to host a small gig at their college fest, where their catchy tunes and vibrant energy unexpectedly caught the attention of a local radio station DJ, who invited them to perform live on his show. It was the start of an enriching journey the group never expected to embark on. They adopted the name ‘Excited Feet’, inspired by their love for dance and energetic performances that often had audiences tapping their feet to the rhythm.

Genre:
Pop-Rock with a dash of Electronic Dance Music (EDM)

Title:
“Chasing Echoes”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
G Em7 Cadd9 D
Beneath the city lights, we’re chasing echoes,
Running wild through the night, underneath the willow.
Lost but never alone, amidst the shadows,
In the rhythm of our hearts, with our excited feet in tow.

(Chorus)
G Em7 Cadd9 D
We’re chasing echoes, echoes, echoes,
Dancing under the moonlit meadows,
Feeling the pulse, the highs, the lows,
With Excited Feet, where the wild wind blows.

(Verse)
G Em7 Cadd9 D
Splashed in neon lights, we taste the freedom,
Moving in synchrony, to our heart’s rhythm.
With graffiti walls as our kingdom,
Excited Feet’s story, a symphony seldom.

(Chorus)
G Em7 Cadd9 D
Chasing echoes, echoes, echoes,
In the labyrinth of city shadows.
Feeling the rush, the ebb, the flows,
With Excited Feet, where the adventure grows.

Fan Testimonial:
Favorite Fan’s Name – Lisa Carter

Lisa Carter, a high school English teacher hailing from New York, proudly holds the title of Excited Feet’s most devoted fan. “I remember hearing ‘Chasing Echoes’ on the radio for the first time. It was the perfect harmony of energy and emotion that I was drawn to. Their music is contagious – it literally makes your feet excited! These guys are more than just a band to me. They represent the freedom of expression and the joy of living in the moment. I’ve attended every single concert they’ve held in the city, and each time, I fall in love with their music all over again. Excited Feet is not just my favorite band – it’s a sentiment, a celebration of life!”

Backstory:

Motionless Bear is a band of four friends from the snowy landscapes of Anchorage, Alaska. They formed in high school with a shared love of music and a dream of performing under the northern lights. Since then, the band has been inseparable, celebrating the highs and standing together in the lows. They made their initial breakthrough in the local music scene, playing at small gigs and open mic nights, and quickly gained a loyal following for their distinctive sound and organic, raw lyrics that resonated with the Alaskan wilderness. With a name that’s a homage to the state’s iconic grizzly bear, Motionless Bear brings the same strength and untamed spirit to their music.

Genre:

Indie Rock/Alternative Folk

Title:

“Underneath the Aurora”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
E /A
Living under the northern lights,
D / G
With the stars as our guide,
E / A
In our hearts, Alaska’s wild spirit reside,
D / G
We’re Motionless Bear, taking you for a ride.

(Chorus)
C / Em
Underneath the Aurora, oh, the beauty we see,
D/ G
In this land of glaciers and the midnight sea,
C / Em
Here’s to the wilderness, where we are free,
D / G
Underneath the Aurora, in its magical spree.

(Verse 2)
E / A
With guitars echoing in the cold wind,
D / G
And drums that beat with the heart tamed,
E / A
We sing our song, with Alaska ingrained,
D / G
We’re Motionless Bear, our spirit untamed.

(Chorus)
C / Em
Underneath the Aurora, where we find our peace,
D/ G
In the rhythm of the wild, our souls release,
C / Em
In the land of the bear, where the echoes cease,
D / G
Underneath the Aurora, our symphony’s masterpiece.

Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Lily. Lily is a lifelong resident of Anchorage who first discovered Motionless Bear at a local fair. Since then, she’s followed the band, attending every gig, and sporting her worn and well-loved Motionless Bear band shirt at each show. She even has a tattoo of a bear standing still underneath an aurora, a clear nod to her favorite band and their hit song.

Testimonial:

“I’ve always felt a deep connection to Alaska’s wilderness and the tranquility it offers. When I heard Motionless Bear for the first time, it was like they took that tranquility and turned it into music. Their songs are more than just tunes to me; they are an anthem of our great state and the spirit we embody. ‘Underneath the Aurora’ is a song that resonates with my soul and makes me feel closer to home and the northern lights I so dearly love. I don’t just listen to Motionless Bear; I live their music.”

Backstory:
Deep in the heart of Brooklyn, New York, where hip-hop meets rock, a group of four friends found a common ground in their love for music. They were each from different corners of the world: a drummer from Scotland, a vocalist from Australia, a bassist from England, and a guitarist from Texas. They all met at a music school in the bustling city, and after late-night jamming sessions, they realized that their unique musical stylings meshed perfectly. This gave birth to Harsh Stranger, an emblem of their diverse backgrounds combined with the gritty, soulful spirit of Brooklyn.

Genre:
Alternative Rock with a touch of Blues

Title:
“Riding the Twisted Wind”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1:
[G] Riding on the twisted wind [C]
[D] Gazing at the stars so dim [Em]
[G] We’re no saints, we’re full of sin [C]
[D] In this game, will we win? [Em]

Chorus:
[C] Harsh Stranger in the night, [G]
[D] Bring us hope, bring us light [Em]
[C] We stand united, ready to fight [G]
[D] Riding the twisted wind, [Em] just feels right

Verse 2:
[G] Strangers in a foreign land [C]
[D] Trying to form a rock band [Em]
[G] Our dreams, as vast as the sand [C]
[D] As we journey, hand in hand [Em]

Chorus:
[C] Harsh Stranger in the night, [G]
[D] Bring us hope, bring us light [Em]
[C] We stand united, ready to fight [G]
[D] Riding the twisted wind, [Em] just feels right

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Sarah. Sarah is a music journalist and was the first to give them a chance when no one else would. She wrote the first review on their debut album, which helped them get recognized by a wider audience. Sarah has followed Harsh Stranger since their inception, attending every concert within her vicinity and promoting their music on her blog and social media platforms.

Sarah’s Testimonial:
“From the moment I heard Harsh Stranger, I knew they were different. Their music speaks to me on a deep and personal level. They are not just a band, they are storytellers. Each song is a new journey, a new adventure. Their unique blend of alternative rock and blues is a breath of fresh air in today’s music landscape. Harsh Stranger is, and will always be, my favorite band.”