Backstory:

Extroverted Friend was born out of the bustling underground music scene of Seattle, Washington in the late 2010s. The quintet, which includes lead vocalist Aaron Carter, guitarist Rafael Smith, bassist Charlie Diaz, drummer Kevin Anderson, and keyboardist Melanie Green, met as students at the University of Washington. They were drawn together by a shared love for music and a desire to create a sound that was unique, yet familiar. Struggling with the typical anxieties and insecurities of college life, they found solace and strength in each other, embracing their collective extroversion to form a bond that would go on to reflect in their music.

Despite their academic backgrounds ranging from Physics to Philosophy, they decided to follow their passion for music after graduation. Aaron’s charisma and infectious energy, Rafael and Charlie’s innovative guitar and bass riffs, Kevin’s rhythmic drum beats, and Melanie’s ethereal keyboard tones brought an undeniable chemistry to the band, leading them to quickly gain popularity in the local music scene. Extroverted Friend’s mission became clear – to create music that resonates with the youth, discussing mental health, relationships, and the joys and trials of navigating adulthood.

Genre:

Alternative Rock/Indie Pop

Title:

“Shadow in the Sunlight”

Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
G Em C D
In the heart of the city, where the shadows grow,
G Em C D
There’s a tale that’s been spinning, in whispers low.
G Em C D
Caught between the laughter and the endless fight,
G Em C D
I’m just a shadow in the sunlight, oh.

(Chorus)
G Em C D
But I won’t fade away, I won’t let the colors dim,
G Em C D
In the canvas of the chaos, I will learn to swim.
G Em C D
Though I feel like a shadow in the sunlight,
G Em C D
I won’t let the darkness win.

(Verse 2)
G Em C D
Through the crowd and the chatter, I find my voice,
G Em C D
In the echo of the silence, I make my choice.
G Em C D
Though I feel like a shadow in the sunlight,
G Em C D
I know I have the power to rejoice.

(Chorus)
G Em C D
So I won’t fade away, I won’t let the colors dim,
G Em C D
In the canvas of the chaos, I will learn to swim.
G Em C D
Though I feel like a shadow in the sunlight,
G Em C D
I’ll rise above, I won’t let the darkness win.

Favorite Fan:

Jennifer Marshal – “There’s something so raw and genuine about Extroverted Friend. Their music always finds a way to resonate with my own experiences, making me feel seen and understood. I’ve dealt with anxiety and self-doubt throughout my life, and their song ‘Shadow in the Sunlight’ became my anthem. It reassured me that it’s okay to feel lost or out of place sometimes, and that it’s possible to find strength in vulnerability. Extroverted Friend isn’t just my favorite band, they’re a beacon of hope amid the chaos of life.”

Backstory:

Spicy Collapse was birthed in the dimly lit basements of Houston, Texas, in the summer of 2007. Childhood friends, lead vocalist and guitarist, Jack “Jalapeno” Harris and drummer, “Cayenne” Carter Williams, found a common love for music and hot peppers, thus birthing the unique moniker. Joined later by bassist “Bell Pepper” Benny and keyboardist, “Habanero” Hank, the band started creating their unique sound, a fusion of rock and funk with a dash of blues, wrapping it up in a fiery, high-energy performance.

Their breakthrough came in 2012 when they won the “Battle of the Bands” competition at the Texas Music Festival, capturing the attention of record label executives. Since then, Spicy Collapse has released three studio albums, each one gaining more recognition and fame. They are known for their provocative lyrics, intricate musicianship, and unforgettable live shows, becoming a staple in the music industry.

Genre:
Rock/Funk Fusion

Title:
“Tabasco Tears”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
G|—————————|D|—————————|A|—————————|E|—————————|
You walked in wearing that red dress,
Emotions as hot as a chili pepper mess,
Your eyes, smoky like chipotle, oh dare I confess,
Spicy love, we’re playing a fiery game of chess.

(Chorus)
G|—————————|D|—————————|A|—————————|E|—————————|
Tabasco tears, baby, running down my face,
Our love’s hotter than a pepper mace,
Burning me up, leaving a trace,
Tabasco tears, oh darling, what a spicy chase.

(Verse 2)
G|—————————|D|—————————|A|—————————|E|—————————|
Your jalapeno kisses, set my lips ablaze,
Our habanero love, still in its craze,
We’re salsa dancing in the moon’s soft haze,
Just two spicy hearts in a passionate maze.

(Chorus)
G|—————————|D|—————————|A|—————————|E|—————————|
Tabasco tears, darling, stinging my eyes,
Caught in the heat of your cunning disguise,
Under the starry, hot sauce skies,
Tabasco tears, oh baby, love never lies.

Fan’s name, testimonial:

Sally Johnson – “I’ve been following Spicy Collapse since their formation back in ’07. Their unique fusion of rock and funk, with that kick of blues, it’s unlike anything else out there. The passion, the energy, the heat they bring to their performance is palpable. And their lyrics? Absolutely mesmerizing. “Tabasco Tears” is my all-time favorite, it’s got this infectious rhythm, and Jack’s voice is so raw, so real. I love every fiery bit of Spicy Collapse!”

Backstory:
Formed in the heart of Nashville, Tennessee, “Old-Fashioned Comfort” is a group of four childhood friends who found a common love for music during their high school years. Their story starts at an old barn, where they would gather after school to share, write, and play music. As the years passed, the barn became their sanctuary, and their shared experiences and love for music led to the creation of “Old-Fashioned Comfort”.

The band’s name was inspired by their musical style, which combines nostalgic elements of country, folk, and bluegrass music with modern influences, creating a sense of warmth and familiarity that they aim to share with their audience. Their journey took a significant turn when they won a local talent show, which led to their discovery and signing with a prominent record label.

Genre: Folk/Country

Title: “Beneath the Willow Tree”

Full song lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[C] In a small town, [G] beneath the willow tree,
[Am] We found love, as [F] pure as it can be.
[C] You held my hand, [G] and looked into my eyes,
[Am] Promised me forever, [F] under the starry skies.

(Chorus)
[G] Beneath the willow tree, [C] where our hearts became one,
[Am] Remembering the whispers, [F] in the setting of the sun.
[G] In our old-fashioned comfort, [C] love has set us free,
[Am] Forever we’ll be, [F] beneath the willow tree.

(Verse 2)
[C] Years have passed, [G] and seasons have changed,
[Am] But our love, [F] it still remains.
[C] Underneath the willow, [G] where we pledged our hearts,
[Am] In old-fashioned comfort, [F] we’ll never be apart.

(Repeat Chorus)
[G] Beneath the willow tree, [C] where our hearts became one,
[Am] Remembering the whispers, [F] in the setting of the sun.
[G] In our old-fashioned comfort, [C] love has set us free,
[Am] Forever we’ll be, [F] beneath the willow tree.

Fan Testimonial:
“I’m Lucy, a die-hard fan of Old-Fashioned Comfort. Their music feels like home. It’s a reminder of simpler times, and I think that’s why I’m so drawn to them. No matter where I am or what I’m going through, their music takes me back to my roots. It’s like a comforting embrace, reminding me of the warmth of family, the strength in friendships, and the beauty of love. As a big fan of country and folk music, their style is right up my alley. The lyrics, the music, the emotion… it all just speaks to my soul. They’re more than just a band to me, they’re like old friends singing about life, love, and everything in between. Old-Fashioned Comfort is my favorite because they bring comfort to my old-fashioned heart in a way that no other band can.”

Backstory:
Bold Insurance is an indie rock band that was formed in Seattle, Washington in 2010 by four high school friends who shared a passion for music and a talent for storytelling. The band’s unusual name sparked from a personal joke, referencing the confidence they had in their music, similar to the sense of security insured by an insurance company. With Leo Jenkins on lead vocals and guitar, Danny Ray on drums, Lisa Perry on bass and backing vocals, and Mike Sanders on keyboard, the band started performing at small local gigs and quickly gained a following due to their unique sound and engaging lyrics.

The band released their first album in 2012 which was critically praised for its fresh take on the indie rock genre. Fueled by this success, Bold Insurance spent the next few years touring and recording, solidifying their reputation as an innovative and energetic band. Despite the ups and downs of the music industry, the band members have remained close and committed to their original vision, focusing on creating music that resonates with their fans.

Genre: Indie Rock

Title: “Safeguard Symphony”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Staring at the [C] deep blue sky, [Am] just you and [D] I,
[G] Sharing stories [C] of the good old [Am] days, under the [D] sun’s warm blaze.
[G] We had dreams, [C] we had plans, [Am] we held the [D] future in our hands,
[G] But life, it [C] twists and turns, [Am] and the heart, it [D] yearns.

(Chorus)
[G] We are the [C] Bold Insurance, [Am] safeguarding [D] your romance,
[G] We are the [C] melody in your [Am] dance, [D] we are your second chance.
[G] We are the [C] Bold Insurance, [Am] protecting [D] your dreams,
[G] We are the [C] symphony of your [Am] life’s themes. [D]

(Verse 2)
[G] Time moves on, [C] and so do [Am] we, [D] in this grand reality.
[G] With every high and [C] every low, [Am] we find ways [D] to grow.
[G] We face the storm, [C] we feel the burn, [Am] but from it all, [D] we learn.
[G] In the end, [C] what matters most, [Am] is the love that we [D] host.

(Chorus)
[G] We are the [C] Bold Insurance, [Am] safeguarding [D] your romance,
[G] We are the [C] melody in your [Am] dance, [D] we are your second chance.
[G] We are the [C] Bold Insurance, [Am] protecting [D] your dreams,
[G] We are the [C] symphony of your [Am] life’s themes. [D]

Favorite fan’s name: Rachel Thompson

Testimonial:
Rachel Thompson, a loyal fan since the band’s formation, says, “Bold Insurance is more than just a band to me. Their music speaks to me on a deeply personal level, with lyrics that resonate with my life experiences. Every song is a journey that I feel privileged to be a part of. Through their music, they’ve provided a ‘bold insurance’ for my soul, a safe space where I can feel seen and heard. They are my favorite band because they radiate authenticity and create music that touches the heart. Their songs have been a constant companion through the ups and downs of my life.”

Backstory:
Formed in the basement of an old vinyl record store in SoHo, New York, Bogus Recording started as a band of misfits, led by charismatic vocalist and songwriter, Freddie Hoxton. Freddie, a former jazz-drummer and beat-poet, gathered his childhood friends, synth player Georgia Peach, guitarist Dexter Silva, bassist Eddie ‘Boom’ Brecker and drummer Ronnie ‘Rhythm’ Reed, to form a group that would ultimately challenge the status quo of the music industry. Rejected by major record labels for their eclectic sound and rebellious spirit, the band decided to record and distribute their music independently, hence, the name Bogus Recording.

Aiming to bring the soul back to music, Freddie and his bandmates meshed different elements from jazz, funk, hip-hop and alternative rock, creating an avant-garde sound that resonated with the underground music scene. Despite the challenges and struggles, Bogus Recording held on to their raw energy and authentic sound, quickly gaining a dedicated fanbase worldwide.

Genre:
Avant-garde Jazz Fusion

Title:
Mirror Reflections

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am7 F7
Mirror reflections in the quiet of night,
Dm7 E7
Watching us softly, as we take flight.
Am7 F7
Underneath the city’s neon light,
Dm7 E7
We’re just shadows chasing the light.

(Chorus)
Am7 F7
Don’t stop now, don’t let go,
Dm7 E7
We’re on a journey, don’t you know.
Am7 F7
Burning bright, we’re the last show,
Dm7 E7
Mirror reflections, in the glow.

(Verse 2)
Am7 F7
The music plays, the bass thumpin’ wild,
Dm7 E7
Lost in the rhythm, like a dreaming child.
Am7 F7
With every beat, our hearts compiled,
Dm7 E7
In this sonic world, we’re beguiled.

(Chorus)
Am7 F7
Don’t stop now, don’t let go,
Dm7 E7
We’re on a journey, don’t you know.
Am7 F7
Burning bright, we’re the last show,
Dm7 E7
Mirror reflections, in the glow.

Favorite Fan:
Our most dedicated fan, Tommy ‘Turntable’ Thompson, discovered us when he was scouring through new releases at a local record shop. He saw the word ‘Bogus’ and couldn’t resist picking up our debut album. He fell in love with our nonconformist spirit and contagiously energetic tunes.

Tommy’s Testimonial:
“Bogus Recording, man, they’re real musicians in a synthetic world. They’re not just making music, they’re telling stories, they’re breaking boundaries. It’s not just about the sound, it’s about the feeling, the emotion. They’re my favorite because they’re genuine, they’re honest, they’re raw, and that’s something you don’t get much in music these days.”

Backstory:
Annual Toothbrush was formed in the small town of Greenville, Ohio, in the summer of 2006. The band’s members, consisting of lead singer Chaz, drummer Lenny, guitarist Red, and bassist Ace, were high school friends who decided to embark on a musical journey together. The name ‘Annual Toothbrush’ came from an inside joke regarding their shared dentist who recommended changing toothbrushes once a year.

The band started out by playing at local pubs and house parties, before getting their big break when they won the local “Battle of the Bands” event. Their unique sound and charismatic performances earned them a loyal fanbase and a record deal. Since then, Annual Toothbrush has toured nationwide and released three studio albums, each one more successful than the last.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Song Title:
“Brush it Off”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[A] Woke up this morning, [D] feeling blue,
[E] Another day, another [A] thing to do.
[D] Looked in the mirror, [E] saw my reflection,
[A] Time for change, [D] new direction.

(Chorus)
[A] Brush it off, [D] let it go,
[E] Life’s a journey, [A] enjoy the show.
[D] Don’t dwell on the past, [E] look to the sky,
[A] With each sunrise, [D] let your spirit fly.

(Verse 2)
[A] Walking down the street, [D] feeling the breeze,
[E] Smiling at strangers, [A] feeling at ease.
[D] Remembering the times, [E] when things were tough,
[A] Look where we are now, [D] it’s enough.

(Chorus)
[A] Brush it off, [D] let it go,
[E] Life’s a journey, [A] enjoy the show.
[D] Don’t dwell on the past, [E] look to the sky,
[A] With each sunrise, [D] let your spirit fly.

(Bridge)
[F#m] When the world feels heavy, [D] got to rise above,
[E] Hold on to the good, [D] embrace the love.

(Chorus)
[A] Brush it off, [D] let it go,
[E] Life’s a journey, [A] enjoy the show.
[D] Don’t dwell on the past, [E] look to the sky,
[A] With each sunrise, [D] let your spirit fly.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a young woman named Tracy.

Tracy Testimonial:
“I’ve been following Annual Toothbrush since their early pub days. Their music is like a breath of fresh air in a world filled with recycled pop. Not only are their songs catchy, but they also have meaningful lyrics that resonate with me. I relate to their songs on a personal level, and they’ve helped me through some tough times. They aren’t just musicians, they’re storytellers, and their story is one of resilience and hope. For me, Annual Toothbrush isn’t just a band; they’re a beacon of positivity in a world that sometimes seems too dark. That’s why they will always be my favorite band.”

Backstory:
The Wrathful Angle started as a serendipitous collaboration in a local garage at the outskirts of Seattle, Washington in 1998. The founding members, vocalist Arlo Hastings and guitarist Luca Brisby, were high school buddies who bonded over their shared interest in music. They initially started out by covering grunge classics before deciding to create their own sound. Drummer Jenna Finch and bassist Owen McAllister joined later, completing the dynamic lineup. The band quickly gained local recognition for their unique music and explosive live performances, eventually landing a record deal with an indie label.

Genre:
Wrathful Angle is known for their genre-blending style, taking influences from grunge, hard rock, and alternative metal. Their music often features heavy guitar riffs, aggressive drumming, and raw, emotional vocals.

Title:
“Defiant Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Dancing in the [Am] dark, chasing [Em] fleeting sparks
[G] Whispering secrets, [C] under the stars
[Am] Fake smiles hide the [Em] scars, [G] lost in the usual bars

(Chorus)
[C] We are the [Am] Defiant Shadows, [Em] refusing to bow
[G] In the ruins we [C] find our vow
[Am] We stand tall in [Em] the aftermath, [G] charting our own path

(Verse 2)
[C] Burning bridges, [Am] embracing the night
[Em] No surrender, [G] fueled by the fight
[C] Our stories etched, [Am] in the city’s light

(Chorus)
[C] We are the [Am] Defiant Shadows, [Em] refusing to kneel
[G] In the chaos we [C] find what’s real
[Am] Unbroken, unswayed, [Em] armed with steel, [G] our destiny sealed

(Bridge)
[C] Rise, rise, [Am] in the dead of night
[Em] Roar, roar, [G] with all your might

(Chorus)
[C] We are the [Am] Defiant Shadows, [Em] refusing to fade
[G] In the storm we [C] find our crusade
[Am] Pioneers in [Em] the wasteland, [G] our legacy unmade

Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan is Emily Turner, a middle-aged librarian from their hometown. Emily claims her love for Wrathful Angle stems from their passionate lyrics and raw energy. She says, “Their music speaks to me on a deeply personal level. It’s not just about the rebellious spirit, but also about resilience and standing your ground, which I find incredibly empowering. Plus, I’ve been to every one of their concerts in town since ’98. They always put on the best shows!”

Backstory:
Oddball Inspector was formed in the eccentric city of Austin, Texas in 2012 by childhood friends, drummer Harry “Oddball” Owens and guitarist Lance “Inspector” Ingle. The two were known for their quirky personalities and affinity for the unusual, hence the name ‘Oddball Inspector’. They were later joined by bassist Vanessa “Vee” Vargas and lead vocalist, Daniel “Danny” DeMarco, solidifying their lineup. Oddball Inspector became known for their unconventional concerts which resembled more of an avant-garde theatre than a traditional rock show, combining elements of music, art, and performance in a way that captivated audiences.

Genre:
Psychedelic Rock

Title:
“Kaleidoscope Dreams”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
G Am Em C
Wandering through this place, a smile on my face
G Am Em C
Kaleidoscope dreams, nothing is what it seems
G Am Em C
Lost in a trance, caught in a dance

(Chorus)
D G D G
Living our lives in colors, in the realm of the others
D G D G
Kaleidoscope dreams, where reality screams

(Verse 2)
G Am Em C
Under the blue moon, we dance to our tune
G Am Em C
Spiraling in space, no need for the race
G Am Em C
Velvet and lace, time to embrace

(Chorus)
D G D G
Lost in the hues, of reds and blues
D G D G
Kaleidoscope dreams, where love always gleams

(Outro)
G Am Em C
Kaleidoscope dreams, nothing is what it seems
G Am Em C
In this colorful dream, we continue to gleam

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a man named Roger Whitney. A software engineer by day, Roger has attended every single Oddball Inspector concert, traveling across states just to catch a glimpse of their magical performances. Roger says, “Oddball Inspector is more than just music for me. They are a spectacle, a rollercoaster ride that takes me to a world of creativity and freedom. Their music, their performances, they are like a beacon of light in an otherwise mundane world. They are not just my favorite band, they are my escape, my kaleidoscope dreams.”

Backstory:
The story of Fake Crayon begins in a quaint, lively town of Longport, nestled in the heart of California. Four childhood friends, Gina Thompson on vocals and rhythm guitar, Rick Maynard on lead guitar, Benny “The Beat” Stephenson on drums, and Tim “Bassman” Jackson on Bass guitar, decided to channel their shared love for music and playful creativity into a full-fledged band during their senior year of high school. The name ‘Fake Crayon’ was inspired by a childhood memory when Gina pretended a piece of chalk was a multicolor crayon, leading to a day filled with vibrant chalk drawings and laughter. The band’s journey has been a testament to their shared passion for music, their undying friendship, and the whimsical spirit that has been the driving force behind their resonance with fans worldwide.

Genre:
Indie Pop/Alternative Rock

Title:
“Chalk Rainbows”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Em C G D
Oh, remember the day,
Em C G D
When we drew with chalk,
Em C G D
Laughter echoed, heart aflame,
Em C G D
Underneath the old oak.

[Chorus]
Am Em G D
Chalk rainbows, on the pavement,
Am Em G D
drizzle swept, yet we remained,
Am Em G D
hand in hand, under our haven,
Am Em G D
colored dreams, they never waned.

[Verse 2]
Em C G D
Blue and gold, red and green,
Em C G D
Time fades, but not these scenes,
Em C G D
Crayon hearts, drawn in between,
Em C G D
forever young, forever keen.

[Chorus]
Am Em G D
Chalk rainbows, in our memories,
Am Em G D
promise kept, in the sea of dreams,
Am Em G D
hand in hand, under our canopy,
Am Em G D
colored dreams, they forever gleam.

Fan’s Name and Testimonial:
Fan’s Name: Lucas Gallagher

“Fake Crayon isn’t just my favorite band because they create incredibly catchy and soul-stirring indie pop music, they are my favorite because their songs are a reflection of life itself. They’ve captured the essence of childhood, friendship, dreams, and love in their lyrics, and when coupled with their upbeat tunes, it’s an experience that is both nostalgic and refreshing. I discovered Fake Crayon when I was at my lowest and their music helped me find joy and hope again. It’s like they’re painting vibrant images with their songs, just like Gina did with her fake crayon. They’re more than a band to me, they’re storytellers, they’re artists, they’re friends. They’ve turned me into a forever fan.”

Backstory:

Upset Shop came to life in the bustling, music-filled streets of Nashville, Tennessee in 2012. The band was formed when two struggling musicians, lead vocalist and guitarist Jason Moore and drummer Pete Jameson, met at a local open mic night. They quickly bonded over their shared love for music and their dissatisfaction with the commercial music industry. Fueled by their desire to create something unique and meaningful, they decided to form their own band named ‘Upset Shop,’ symbolizing their intent to disrupt and challenge the status quo of the music industry.

Over time, bassist Lisa Hamilton and keyboardist Sam Lloyd joined them, adding new flavors to the band’s unique sound. This talented quartet infused their music with raw emotion and honest lyrics, quickly gaining a loyal fan base. Their brand of music presented a radical departure from the mainstream, catching the attention of independent record labels and gaining them a considerable following in the indie music scene.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Spinning Records”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C Am F G
Met you in a smoky dive, down the corner of 45
C Am F G
You, with your dreams and old blue jeans, and me, with my stubborn pride

(Chorus)
C Am F G
We’re just spinning records in a world that’s gone digital
C Am F G
Tryna find a rhythm in the static and the noise

(Verse 2)
C Am F G
Poured our heart in every chord, every word we ever wrote
C Am F G
Drowning in the sound, lost and found, in the songs that we both loved

(Chorus)
C Am F G
We’re just spinning records in a world that’s lost its magic
C Am F G
Hopeless romantics, playing in the noise

(Bridge)
F G C Am
We’re the Upset Shop, rocking out non-stop
F G C Am
In the age of robots, we’ll give all we’ve got

(Chorus)
C Am F G
We’re just spinning records, till the whole world starts to listen
C Am F G
To the beautiful chaos, the music of our voice

Fan’s Name and Testimonial:

Name: Tom Harrison

Tom Harrison, a loyal fan from the early days of Upset Shop, says, “I’ve been following Upset Shop ever since they played at the local dive bar in Nashville. Their music speaks to my soul in a way that commercial music can’t. They’re not just musicians—they’re storytellers, challenging the norm with every note they play. I’ve attended all their gigs within a hundred-mile radius! Their song, ‘Spinning Records’, is a testament to their love for classic rock and their determination to keep it alive in today’s digital world. I will forever be a fan of their raw, authentic sound.”