Backstory:

Loud Riddle emerged from the bustling music scene of Manchester, England, in 2006. The band members – Ian Lister (lead vocals), Max Hartley (guitarist), Dave Cookson (bassist), and Albie Morris (drummer) – originally met at a local jam session in a rundown pub. They quickly found a shared love for music and a knack for crafting songs that are as puzzling as they are catchy. Their journey started from small gigs to sold-out concerts, with their unconventional sound and the enigmatic aura of their lyricism striking a chord with audiences across the globe.

Ian, the band’s lead singer, is a former literature professor with a penchant for cryptic lyrics and a voice that quickly becomes your favourite earworm. Max is the brains behind their unique sound, a self-taught guitarist with an affinity for challenging chords. Dave, the band’s backbone, provides depth with his bass, while Albie, the youngest of the lot, gives energy and rhythm with his dynamic drumming. Together, they form Loud Riddle, a band that’s as intriguing as their name suggests.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Echoed Whispers”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am Em Dm G
Here we stand, on the edge of time,
Am Em Dm G
In the labyrinth of thoughts, lost in echoed whispers.
Am Em Dm G
We search for truth, in a world of lies,
Am Em Dm G
Underneath the veneer, where reality simmers.

(Chorus)
C G Am F
We’re Loud Riddle, we’re the unsolved mystery,
C G Am F
Singing verses of our stories, in a melody of history.

(Verse 2)
Am Em Dm G
We trace the echoes, through the corridors of power,
Am Em Dm G
Through the smoke and mirrors, where secrets cower.
Am Em Dm G
We’re the bearers of truth, in a world gone sour,
Am Em Dm G
With our chords and words, we make deceit devour.

(Chorus)
C G Am F
We’re Loud Riddle, we’re the voice of the undiscovery,
C G Am F
Sailing in the sea of intrigue, with a song of recovery.

(Chorus)
C G Am F
We’re Loud Riddle, we’re the song of the unheard,
C G Am F
We rise above the noise, where our message is stirred.

The band’s favorite fan’s name:

Jessica Thompson

Testimonial:

“Loud Riddle isn’t just a band – it’s a revolution set to music. Their lyrics make you question, their music makes you feel, and the combination of both is a profound experience. As a literature student, I appreciate the depth in their songs, the layers hidden within each word and note. They’re my favourite band not only because of their unique sound but because they dare to challenge the status quo, in a way that’s as harmonious as it is unsettling. Loud Riddle is a band truly ahead of their time.”

Backstory:

Ornery Trick is a band that began as a fleeting idea in the humble basement of a Wisconsin suburb. Childhood friends, Greg Miles and Larry Williams, found solace in their shared love for music and embarked on a journey to form a band in their teenage years. Initially, they played covers of their favorite songs, but soon the duo started creating their own music. In pursuit of their dreams, they moved to New York, where they met Petra Collins, an accomplished bass guitarist. Together, they formed Ornery Trick and began to make waves in the indie music scene with their unique fusion of gritty rock and heartfelt folk music.

Genre:

Indie Folk/Rock

Title:

“Demystified Dreams”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Wandering lanes of [D] a painted town,
[Am] Lost in thoughts of [C] a merry go round,
[G] Memories of yesterday [D] still seem so profound,
[Am] We were kings and queens, [C] wearing plastic crowns.

(Chorus)
[D] Those were the times, [G] of demystified dreams,
[C] Chasing the sun, [Am] amidst the melodious screams,
[D] Now, we’re just echoes, [G] of what we had been,
[C] Lost in the rhythm, [Am] of a worn-out theme.

(Verse 2)
[G] Broken guitars and [D] tales of old,
[Am] Singing our hearts, [C] for stories untold,
[G] In the mirror of time, [D] we grow so cold,
[Am] Yet, our songs remain, [C] ever so bold.

(Chorus)
[D] Those were the times, [G] of demystified dreams,
[C] Running wild, [Am] tearing at the seams,
[D] We’re mere shadows, [G] in the moon’s soft beams,
[C] Lost in the echoes, [Am] of silent screams.

Bands Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan’s name is Toby. Toby came across Ornery Trick at a small bar in Brooklyn where we were performing. He immediately fell in love with our music. Toby has been to every single one of our shows since that night and has become a staple in our group.

Testimonial from Toby:

“Ornery Trick isn’t just a band for me; they symbolize my journey through life. Their music is the soundtrack to my triumphs and losses. What sets them apart is their ability to blend raw rock energy with the soulful honesty of folk music. Every song speaks directly to my soul. Their track, ‘Demystified Dreams,’ resonates with me on a personal level. It’s like they’ve put my life into words and composed a melody around it. I simply can not imagine a day without their music.”

Backstory:

Adolescent Bit, an electronic rock band, was formed in the bustling city of Baltimore in 2013. Its founding members, Jake Masterson (lead vocals and keyboards) and Tony Banks (guitar and programming), met in a tech shop where they discovered their shared passion for both music and technology. Combining their love of classic rock and electronic music, they started experimenting with synthesizers and computer-generated sounds, creating an unorthodox blend of music that led to the formation of Adolescent Bit.

Their initial years were marked by creating music in garages and performing at small local venues. However, it didn’t take long for their unconventional sound to catch the attention of music aficionados. As their popularity surged, they added drummer Rachel Goldsmith and bass player Danny Boone to their lineup, giving the band a fuller and more robust sound. Their journey has been a testimony to their innovation and passion for both music and technology.

Genre:
Electronic Rock

Title:
“Digital Dream”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am D G C
Caught in a digital dream,
Am D G C
Lost in the neon scream,
Am D G C
Reality fades to a pixel haze,
Am D G
And nothing is as it seems.

(Chorus)
G D Em C
We are the Adolescent Bit,
G D Em C
In a world that’s infinite,
G D Em C
We play our songs in binary code,
G D Em
And in our digital world, we roam.

(Verse 2)
Am D G C
In the heart of the machine,
Am D G C
We found our music scene,
Am D G C
Synthesizing sounds with electric frowns,
Am D G
In a world that’s unseen.

(Chorus)
G D Em C
We are the Adolescent Bit,
G D Em C
In a world that’s infinite,
G D Em C
We play our songs in binary code,
G D Em
And in our digital world, we roam.

Favorite fan:
The band’s favorite fan is Sarah Gibson. Sarah discovered Adolescent Bit at a small Baltimore club show and has been a stalwart supporter ever since. She has been to every single concert in her city and proudly owns each piece of their released music. Sarah says, “Adolescent Bit is my favorite band because their music is a perfect blend of the past and future. Their sound is reminiscent of classic rock but infused with a fresh electronic twist. Seeing them live is always an exhilarating experience. Their energy and passion are infectious, and their lyrics speak to my soul. They are truly a unique band in the music scene and always keep us, the fans, on our toes with their innovative sound.”

Backstory:

Fond Class is an underdog story. The band was formed in the backroom of an old, musty bookstore in Philadelphia in the winter of 2010. An unlikely trio – a calculus teacher (Nate), a librarian (Sam), and an out-of-work actor (Milo) – discovered they shared a mutual passion for music and storytelling. Nate’s mathematical mind lent itself to the precise timing necessary for drumming, Sam’s lyrical talents as a writer found expression through songwriting, and Milo’s acting background made him a charismatic frontman. Despite their diverse backgrounds, the band members connected on a deep level, and Fond Class was born.

The band started off playing small gigs at local bars, gradually gaining a loyal following. As their popularity increased, they recorded their first album in a friend’s garage. The raw, authentic sound of their music resonated with people all over the city. Word spread, and soon Fond Class was a well-known name in the indie music scene.

Genre: Indie Rock

Title: “Pages Unread”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C Am G F
On cobbled streets beneath the moon’s soft glow,
C Am G F
We found a love that only poets know.
C Am G F
In your eyes, a world of stories untold,
C Am G F
In my heart, a fire, burning and bold.

(Chorus)
Dm G C Am
Pages unread, words unsaid,
Dm G C Am
In the library of our love, we tread.
Dm G C Am
Every glance, every chance,
Dm G C Am
In this dance, we take the lead and advance.

(Verse 2)
C Am G F
By cafe corners, under neon lights,
C Am G F
We chased the music into the night.
C Am G F
Your laugh, a song that plays on repeat,
C Am G F
With every beat, our hearts meet.

(Chorus)
Dm G C Am
Pages unread, tears we’ve shed,
Dm G C Am
In the chapters of our love, we bled.
Dm G C Am
Every sigh, every lie,
Dm G C Am
In this story, we learn to fly.

(Bridge)
Em Am Dm G
Between the lines of our silent cries,
Em Am Dm G
In the margins, our love never dies.
Em Am Dm G
Through the pages, we live and learn,
Em Am Dm G
In the end, for your love, I yearn.

(Chorus)
Dm G C Am
Pages unread, love unsaid,
Dm G C Am
In the library of our hearts, we tread.
Dm G C Am
Every glance, every chance,
Dm G C Am
In this dance, we take the lead and advance.

End credits: An avid fan’s testimonial

Fan’s Name: Lila Thompson

Lila Thompson, a well-known Philadelphia book blogger, stumbled upon Fond Class at their very first gig. She instantly fell in love with their unique sound and heartfelt lyrics. Lila says, “Fond Class is more than just a band to me. Their music is like a novel–each song a chapter unfolding a beautiful, emotional story. From ‘Pages Unread’ to their other songs, there’s a depth and authenticity that always resonates with me. I’ve been to every one of their concerts and will continue to be their biggest fan. Their music has provided solace during tough times and joy in moments of celebration. Fond Class is, without a doubt, my favorite band.”

Backstory:

Salty Category emerged from the eclectic music scene of Austin, Texas, in the early 2010s. Originally comprised of high school friends Andy Sullivan (vocals/guitar), Sofia Hernandez (bass), and Leo Wallace (drums), the trio quickly garnered attention in their local scene, known for their energetic performances and progressive sound. They were soon joined by a gifted violinist, Mira Patel, injecting their music with a distinctive twist. The band got its name from a suggestion box they put out at their regular gigs – it was a phrase written on a scrap of paper that captivated them instantaneously.

The band’s diverse musical backgrounds led to a unique sound, blending elements of rock, folk, and indie, with a touch of the avant-garde. Their breakthrough came after a series of successful EPs and relentless touring, ultimately catching the attention of famed producer, Joey Brighton, who helped them craft their debut full-length album, ‘Waves of Rumination,’ which catapulted them into the national spotlight.

Genre:

Indie Folk Rock

Title:

Beneath the Azure

Full song lyrics:

[Intro: G – Em – C – D]

Verse 1:
(G)I sailed on paper boats, (Em)under the cotton candy sky,
(C)I painted the ocean blue, (D)on the canvas of my mind.
(G)We charted constellations, (Em)on our freckled summer skin,
(C)We were young and fearless, (D)underneath the azure thin.

Chorus:
(G)Beneath the azure, (Em)we danced and dreamt,
(C)In salty whispers, (D)our hearts were swept,
(G)Oh, fleeting moments, (Em)time couldn’t cage,
(C)Beneath the azure, (D)we wrote our age.

[Instrumental: G – Em – C – D]

Verse 2:
(G)Remember the old oak tree, (Em)where we etched our names?
(C)Just young hearts beating, (D)in love’s rhythmic games.
(G)We tasted the salty wind, (Em)on the cusp of the sea,
(C)Cast away our worries, (D)in the arms of liberty.

Chorus:
(G)Beneath the azure, (Em)we loved and lost,
(C)In tender echoes, (D)we counted the cost,
(G)Through the rearview mirror, (Em)we catch the haze,
(C)Beneath the azure, (D)we trace our days.

[Outro: G – Em – C – D]

Fan’s name, testimony:

My name is Rachel Thompson and I am an unabashed, die-hard fan of Salty Category. The way their music resonates with my soul is something I’ve never experienced before. The unique fusion of folk and rock, combined with the hauntingly beautiful violin, creates a sound that is so raw, so genuine. Their song ‘Beneath the Azure’ is my personal anthem. The lyrics are poetic, the melody is soothing, and it’s just a perfect song for any mood, any time of the day. The authenticity and passion that Salty Category pours into their music is what makes them my favorite band. They are, in every sense of the word, a category of their own.

Backstory:
Moral Satellite, a band that found its roots in a small Midwestern town in the early 2000s, was formed by childhood friends, Jacob “Jay” Harrington and Olivia “Liv” Barnes. Jay, a self-taught guitar enthusiast with a knack for songwriting, and Liv, a classically trained pianist with a hauntingly beautiful voice, discovered their shared love for making music during their high school years. Late-night jam sessions in Jay’s garage eventually led to a collection of original songs, and the pair decided to take the leap and form a band. After recruiting local drummer, Ryan “Ry” Gibson, and bassist, Mia “Mimi” Porter, Moral Satellite was born. The band quickly gained a local following and within the span of five years, they have ascended from their garage band status to a nationally recognized indie rock sensation.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Orbit of Love”

Full song lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[C] Floating in the [G] void, [Am] lost in your [Em] eyes
[F] Jupiter and [C] Mars, [G] beneath the starry [C] skies
[C] Feeling your [G] gravity, [Am] pulling me [Em] in
[F] We’re satellites in [C] orbit, [G] where love will [C] begin

(Chorus)
[C] Orbit of love, [G] round and round we [Am] go
[Em] Spinning in the [F] cosmos, [C] in a celestial [G] show
[C] Orbit of love, [G] you’re my sun, my [Am] star
[Em] Together we’re [F] unstoppable, [C] no matter [G] where we [C] are

(Verse 2)
[C] Across the [G] asteroid belt, [Am] dancing in the [Em] night
[F] Your love is the [C] comet, [G] in my lonely [C] flight
[C] Our hearts in [G] sync, [Am] like a cosmic [Em] rhyme
[F] In this orbit of [C] love, [G] we’re lost in [C] space and time

(Chorus)
[C] Orbit of love, [G] round and round we [Am] go
[Em] Spinning in the [F] cosmos, [C] in a celestial [G] show
[C] Orbit of love, [G] you’re my sun, my [Am] star
[Em] Together we’re [F] unstoppable, [C] no matter [G] where we [C] are

(Bridge)
[F] Stars align, [C] our hearts collide
[G] This is our [Am] universe, [Em] with you by my [F] side
[F] Through Milky Ways, [C] and meteor showers
[G] I’ll love you [Am] every second, [Em] of these cosmic [F] hours

(Chorus)
[C] Orbit of love, [G] round and round we [Am] go
[Em] Spinning in the [F] cosmos, [C] in a celestial [G] show
[C] Orbit of love, [G] you’re my sun, my [Am] star
[Em] Together we’re [F] unstoppable, [C] no matter [G] where we [C] are

Outro
[C] In this orbit of [G] love, [Am] you’re my shooting [Em] star
[F] We’re satellites in [C] love, [G] no matter [C] where we are

Fan’s Name & Testimonial:
My name is Sarah, and I can safely say that Moral Satellite is my favorite band

Backstory:

The birth of “Hopeful Actor” was a serendipitous encounter in a worn-out New York acting school back in 2011. Four struggling actors, Jonathon, Sam, Riley, and Karen, found solace not just in their shared dreams of Hollywood fame but in their mutual love for music. They began to break the monotony of auditions and rejections by jamming together in their tiny apartment. Soon, they realized that the songs they composed were heart-touching tales of their journey, embodying the resilience of every artist who dared to chase a dream.

Years later, the group gained recognition when their gig at a local club was recorded and went viral on social media. Their unique sound, a blend of their acting prowess and musical talent, became an overnight sensation. Despite their newfound fame in the music industry, they chose to call themselves “Hopeful Actor” as a tribute to their humble beginnings and to remind them of their love for acting.

Genre:
Progressive Indie Rock infused with Theatrical Pop

Song Title: “Fade In, Fade Out”

Verse:

Am C G D
“Living in the spotlight, dream of the silver screen,
Am C G D
Washing up in neon lights, in a world unseen.
Am C G D
Echoes of applause, but no one’s really there,
Am C G D
Chasing phantom fame, in a city that doesn’t care.”

Chorus:

Am C G D
“Fade in, fade out, life’s a movie no doubt,
Am C G D
Reels of our dreams, gleaming in sunbeams.
Am C G D
Rolling with the scene, lost in the routine,
Am C G D
Fade in, fade out, in the dreamer’s hideout.”

Fan Profile:

Name: Rebecca Grant
Testimonial:

“As an aspiring actress, ‘Hopeful Actor’ isn’t just my favorite band, it’s my lifeline. Their music is my comfort on tough days, my inspiration when I feel uninspired, and a reflection of my journey. Each song not only resonates with my own experiences but also reminds me of the beauty of resilience, of hope, of dreams. ‘Fade In, Fade Out’, especially, is the anthem of my life. It reassures me that I’m not alone in this journey and that every scene, every ‘fade in and fade out’, is a part of my beautiful narrative. This band has given a voice to every struggling artist out there, and for that, they will forever be my favorite.”

Backstory:

Reliable Princess is an eccentric group of musicians who began their journey in the vibrant city of Seattle, Washington in 2011. The band members – lead vocalist, Hannah, guitarist, Rick, drummer, Simon, and bassist, Rose – were all active in the local music scene. Their paths crossed during the renowned Seattle Music Festival, where they discovered their shared passion for music that defies conventions. They bonded over their love for unique melodies and decided to form a band that would make music that is both dynamic and nostalgic.

Their journey as Reliable Princess has been a rollercoaster of relentless perseverance, sweat, tears, and triumphant joy. They have seen their fair share of struggles, from not being able to afford new instruments to playing in empty bars. But their journey has taught them the true essence of their band’s name – being a princess is not about wearing a crown, but about staying reliable, strong, and resolute, even in the face of adversity.

Genre:
Reliable Princess falls into the Indie Pop genre with a touch of Synth-Pop. They are known for their energetic tunes, infectious hooks, and dreamy soundscapes paired with introspective lyrics.

Title:
One of their most popular songs is the catchy hit “Rebel in the Rain”.

Full Song Lyrics (Rebel in the Rain):

[Verse 1]
(Am) Walking down this (Em) empty street
(G) Wind whispers (D) secrets to my feet
(Am)Pictures of you (Em) in my mind
(G) Wishing for your (D) touch, one more time

[Chorus]
(C) I’m a rebel (G) in the rain,
(Am) Dancing with your (Em) ghost, stuck in pain
(C) But I’ve got your (G) love, it’s my chain
(Am) I’m a rebel but (Em) I won’t complain

[Verse 2]
(Am) Traces of you (Em) in this town
(G) Echoes of your (D) laugh, and your frown
(Am)Lost in the (Em) memories we made
(G) A love like ours (D) will never fade

[Chorus]
(C) I’m a rebel (G) in the rain,
(Am) Dancing with your (Em) ghost, stuck in pain
(C) But I’ve got your (G) love, it’s my chain
(Am) I’m a rebel but (Em) I won’t complain

Fan Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan is Emily, a 23-year-old college graduate from Portland. Emily discovered Reliable Princess during a challenging time in her life and their music provided solace and strength. She says, “Reliable Princess has a knack for putting my unexpressed feelings into beautiful melodies. Their music is like a comforting friend during tough times. Their song, ‘Rebel in the Rain’ is a masterpiece that never fails to empower me. I’ve seen them perform live thrice and their energy is just magical. Reliable Princess isn’t just my favorite band, they are my lifeline!”

Backstory:

Even Dose was formed in the small Midwestern town of Harmon, Nebraska. The four-member band, composed of childhood friends Jack ‘Riff’ Harper, Billy ‘Thump’ Thompson, Tommy ‘Tickler’ Wilkerson, and Lilly ‘Crooner’ Carruthers, began their musical journey in a dusty garage, covering classics from different rock’n’roll legends. They quickly realized that they had a unique chemistry and decided to create original music. Their humble beginnings and long-lasting friendship reflected in their music, making their songs relatable and touching.

Over the years, Even Dose has managed to carve a niche for themselves in the music industry. Their journey has been about more than just making music, it’s a testament to their bond, their love for music, and their desire to share their experiences with the world through their songs. Despite the ups and downs, the band stays united, infusing their music with honesty and passion that resonates deeply with their fans.

Genre: Alternative Rock

Title: “Heartstrings and Drumbeats”

Full Song Lyrics with Chord Progression:

Verse 1: (C G Am F)
“Under the neon lights, in the buzzing night,
We found our melody, in the rhythm of the heartbeat (C G Am F)
It’s the same old town, but with a different sound,
We’ve got our dreams bound, to our heartstrings and drumbeats (C G Am F)”

Chorus: (Am G C F)
“Heartstrings and drumbeats, in every note, and every repeat,
We pour our souls, in these worn-out streets, (Am G C F)
With every strum, every beat, we feel complete,
Our lives, our stories, in heartstrings and drumbeats (Am G C F)”

Verse 2: (C G Am F)
“In the echo of the guitar, under the same old stars,
We find our harmony, in the rhythm of the heartbeat (C G Am F)
It’s the same old road, but with a different load,
We’ve got our dreams sewed, to our heartstrings and drumbeats (C G Am F)”

Repeat Chorus: (Am G C F)

Favorite Fan’s Name: Emily Harper

Testimonial:

Emily Harper has been a fan of Even Dose since their first gig at the local fair. “Their music just resonates with me,” says Emily, “It’s raw, real, and full of passion, just like them. It feels like they’ve put their heart and soul into every song. The lyrics, the melody, everything is just so relatable. It’s like they’re speaking directly to me. They are my favorite because they make music that talks about real-life experiences, emotions, and struggles. Listening to them makes me feel understood and less alone.”

Backstory:

Admired Man was formed in the vibrant music scene of Austin, Texas, in 2012. The band is comprised of five childhood friends – Calvin, Bryan, Sam, Luke, and Michael, each bringing a unique sound and perspective to the group. They initially started as a garage band, jamming in their parents’ basements on the weekends. After winning a local Battle of the Bands competition, they decided to take things to the next level and began playing at local venues, steadily building a loyal fan base.

After releasing their debut album in 2015, they were quickly recognized by critics for their unique sound and lyricism. Their talent and hard work quickly paid off, and they were signed by a major record label. Despite their newfound fame, Admired Man has remained grounded and focused on their music, regularly interacting with their fans and maintaining their unique style.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Title:

“Shadows and Echoes”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am (x2), G (x2), F (x2), E (x2)
In the corners of the room where the light doesn’t reach,
I find shadows and echoes of what we used to be.
Every echo rings with laughter, every shadow holds a tear,
The remnants of our love, now just a ghostly smear.

(Chorus)
F (x2), G (x2), Am (x2), E (x2)
So I chase these shadows and echoes,
Hoping they can fill the hollow.
Trying to find what we lost, in the echoes and the frost,
Shadows and echoes, they’re all I’ve got.

(Verse 2)
Am (x2), G (x2), F (x2), E (x2)
The empty rooms echo your name, the shadows dance in your shape,
In every nook and corner, your absence I can’t escape.
As the sun goes down, these echoes grow louder,
Every shadow grows longer, the emptiness grows wider.

(Chorus)
F (x2), G (x2), Am (x2), E (x2)
So I chase these shadows and echoes,
Knowing it’s you, they cannot bestow.
In the silence of the night, in the absence of the light,
Shadows and echoes, are my only sight.

The band’s favorite fan:

Emily Thompson. Emily has been a fan of Admired Man since their first local gig and has never missed a concert. In her words “Admired Man is more than just a band to me. Their music has seen me through heartbreaks, triumphs, and everything in between. It’s like they somehow manage to put into words and melody, the unspoken feelings of my soul. I feel seen, heard and understood when I listen to their songs. Their music is raw, real and relatable. That’s why they are my favorite band.”