Backstory:
Sandy Death, an ironically named band, originated on the sun-soaked shores of San Diego back in 2009. The members, Tommy (vocals and guitar), Kyle (drums), Lisa (bass), and Dave (keyboard) were all surf buddies who decided to jam together in between surfing sessions. The band started writing songs, fueling their music with their shared love for surfing, sunsets, and a surprising twist – their passion for 70s inspired heavy metal.

Their unique sound, a fusion of beach vibes and heavy metal, quickly caught the attention of the local community, which led to a self-produced EP that was well-received by the indie music scene. Their journey took a leap from there, they started touring and gained a steady following, adding a fresh flavor to the heavy metal genre.

Genre:
Beach Metal

Title:
“Surfing the Shadows”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em-D-A-E
Out in the sun, where the waves crash and burn,
Em-D-A-E
Find us riding high, with the tide, we turn,
Em-D-A-E
The salty air, the sand in our hair,
Em-D-A-E
With the rhythm of the sea, we lose all our cares.

(Chorus)
C-G-D
Surfing the Shadows, where the sun meets the sea,
A-E
When daylight fades, it’s where we want to be,
C-G-D
Riding the moonlight, under the starry night,
A-E
In the echoing darkness, we find our light.

(Verse 2)
Em-D-A-E
As the sun dips low, we get ready to roll,
Em-D-A-E
With our heavy chords, we’re on a sandy patrol,
Em-D-A-E
Under the stars, guitars in our hands,
Em-D-A-E
Playing our hearts out, on these golden lands.

(Chorus)
C-G-D
Surfing the Shadows, under the moon’s silver gleam,
A-E
Where the sky meets the ocean, we’re living the dream,
C-G-D
With the rustling palm trees, and the cool night breeze,
A-E
In the dance of the shadows, we find our ease.

Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a high-school teacher named Rita. Rita discovered Sandy Death at a local music festival and instantly fell in love with their unique sound. She says, “Their music is like a wave of energy that makes you want to headbang but also relax at the same time. It’s a strange yet wonderful combination that makes them my favorite band. Plus, they’re super friendly and really appreciate their fans. They always take the time to chat, sign autographs, and make every fan feel special. That’s Sandy Death, pure sunshine with a heavy metal core.”

Backstory:
The story of Lumbering Basket starts in the rural outskirts of Portland, Oregon in late 2012. It was there that four childhood friends, all with a shared love for music, started to realize that the late-night jam sessions they had in their parents’ basements were becoming more than just a hobby. The members include lead vocalist, Ben ‘Rusty’ Ruston, drummer, Sam ‘Bricks’ Brickson, bassist, Mike ‘Pine’ Pinefield, and guitarist, Jack ‘Bark’ Barkley. Their shared love for music and their unbreakable bond as friends inspired them to form the band, taking inspiration from their humble beginnings, hence the unique name, ‘Lumbering Basket’.

Their journey from playing in small town pubs to selling out concert venues started with their first EP, ‘The Woodsplitter’s Lament’, which was released in 2014. This EP caught the attention of local radio stations, and before they knew it, their raw, authentic sound had them playing at music festivals, and opening for bigger bands. The members of Lumbering Basket relate their success to their friendship and shared passion for music, crediting it for their seamless collaboration and undeniable chemistry.

Genre:
Folk Rock

Title:
‘Beneath the Firs’

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
G C
Beneath the firs, where we used to play,
Em D
Our dreams were born on summer days.
G C
We found a sound that could convey,
Em D
The tales we told in the light of May.

(Chorus)
C G
We’re the Lumbering Basket,
D Em
Weaving tales of the sunset,
C G
Our music is our amulet,
D Em
In the woods, we’re the quartet.

(Verse 2)
G C
The night’s fall brings a quiet hush,
Em D
Our songs echo, in the softening dusk.
G C
With every strum and every brush,
Em D
We’re painting dreams with a tender touch.

(Chorus)
C G
We’re the Lumbering Basket,
D Em
Weaving tales of the moonset,
C G
Our music, an unwavering asset,
D Em
In the woods, we’re the silhouette.

The Bands Favorite Fan’s Name:
Amy Collins

Testimonial:
“As a lifelong resident of Portland, I have always had an affinity for the local music scene. Lumbering Basket, however, holds a special place in my heart. Their music perfectly encapsulates the raw, untamed beauty of our town. Their songs transport me back to simpler times when my friends and I would explore the wilderness, venturing beneath the firs. Every single note resonates with me on a deeply personal level, making them my favorite band. Their authenticity and genuine love for music shine through every performance, and I feel incredibly lucky to have witnessed their journey from small-town band to international sensations.”

Backstory:

Far Orange was conceived in the bustling yet creative streets of Seattle in 2015, when a group of four college friends decided to channel their shared passion for music into something tangible. The band members, Andy, a self-taught guitarist, Charlie, a pianist with classical training, Sam, an indie drummer, and Maddie, a singer with an ethereal voice, were initially united by their love for artistic expression and desire to explore the depth of human emotions through their music. After many late-night jamming sessions in their college dorms, the group decided to venture out and perform at local gigs, gradually building respect and admiration from an increasing fanbase. They named themselves ‘Far Orange’, a symbolic representation of their musical journey, always reaching out for the warm, bright and luscious—yet elusive and distant—colors of success and recognition in the music industry.

Genre:
Indie Rock/pop mixed with some elements of Folk music

Title:
“Distant Shores”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C D G
I’m walking these streets, under the midnight blue,
Em C D G
Searching for a piece, a piece of me in you,
Em C D G
The light in the distance, a far orange hue,
Em C D G
Brings back the existence, of a love we once knew.

(Chorus)
C D G Em
Distant shores, oh how they glow,
C D G Em
In your eyes, a fire, a show,
C D G Em
The waves crash, the winds blow,
C D G Em
On distant shores, our love will grow.

(Verse 2)
Em C D G
Under the starlight, by the dancing sea,
Em C D G
We promised to fight, for a love that’s free.
Em C D G
In the silence of the night, whispers the spree,
Em C D G
Of a far orange light, a beacon of glee.

(Chorus)
C D G Em
Distant shores, oh how they yearn,
C D G Em
For a love that will eternally burn,
C D G Em
The fire within, the lessons we learn,
C D G Em
On distant shores, we always return.

Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Olivia. Olivia has been following Far Orange since their early days, and her support and enthusiasm have never waned. As a devoted fan, Olivia travels to as many gigs as possible, always stands in the front row, sings along to every song, and has even started a fan club for the band. When asked why Far Orange is her favorite band, Olivia says, “Their music speaks to my soul. Every chord, every lyric, every melody resonates with me on a deep level. I feel seen and understood when I listen to their music. Far Orange isn’t just a band to me, they’re a lifeline.”

Backstory:
Straight Steam came together in the bustling city of New York in 2015. The band members, lead vocalist Cole, guitarist Declan, bassist Jamie, and drummer Adam, met in a music shop and discovered they shared a love for powerful, melodic music. Each band member brought diverse influences to the mix, creating a unique sound that was both nostalgic and fresh. They spent countless hours in a basement, refining their sound and developing their signature style. Their breakthrough came when they performed at a local indie music festival that led them to sign a record deal.

Genre:
Straight Steam’s music genre is an innovative fusion of alternative rock and indie pop, known for its high-energy performances, catchy riffs, and deep lyrics.

Title:
“A Million Miles Away”

Full song lyrics:

Verse:
Em C
Painted skies, with dreams untold,
D G
in your eyes, I find my home.
Em C
Wandering through, the city’s maze,
D G
feeling like, a million miles away.

Chorus:
C G D Em
A million miles away, in our hearts we will stay,
C G D
Underneath the stars, strumming our guitars.
C G D Em
A million miles away, in our songs we will sway,
C G D
With every single beat, we won’t accept defeat.

Verse:
Em C
Through the smoke, and city lights,
D G
We find hope, in starry nights.
Em C
We may be, a million miles away,
D G
But in our hearts, we find a way.

(Repeat Chorus)

Band’s Favorite Fan:
Our favorite fan is Emily Hart. Emily has been with us since our first gig at the local indie music festival. She has attended every show since then, making banners, cheering us on, and sharing our music far and wide. Emily says, “Straight Steam’s music has been a comforting presence in my life. Their lyrics resonate with my own experiences, and their energetic performances always lift my spirits. I’ve seen them grow and evolve as a band, and their passion for music is infectious. I will forever be their number one fan!”

Backstory:
Melodic District is an indie pop-rock band hailing from the heart of New York’s lively music scene. The band was formed in 2015 when lead vocalist and guitarist, Sam Harper, met drummer, Daniel Preston, at a music open-mic night and decided to merge their individual talents. Over the years, they added Kyle Mason on bass and Lisa Sinclair on keyboards, completing the quartet. Their journey has been a rollercoaster of hard work, camaraderie, and a relentless pursuit of their passion: creating music that resonates with their listeners on a deeper level.

Genre:
Indie Pop-Rock

Song Title:
“Dancing Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am G F C
Underneath the city lights, we found a place to hide
Am G F C
With the dancing shadows, we let our secrets collide
Am G F C
Lost in the rhythm, we forgot about time
Am G F C
In the Melodic District, we discovered our prime

(Chorus)
G C Am F
Dancing shadows, you and I
G C Am F
In the rhythm, we found our high
G C Am F
In the shadows, we let ourselves free
G C Am F
Underneath the city lights, just you and me

(Verse 2)
Am G F C
We danced through the night, under the moon’s silver glow
Am G F C
With every beat, our bond started to grow
Am G F C
In the Melodic District, we found our home
Am G F C
In the dancing shadows, we were never alone

(Chorus)
G C Am F
Dancing shadows, across the skyline
G C Am F
In the rhythm, we were intertwined
G C Am F
In the shadows, we found our melody
G C Am F
Underneath the city lights, our symphony

The band’s favorite fan:
The band’s favorite fan is Emily Johnson. Emily has been following Melodic District since their very first gig, their music has been a constant in her life. She says, “Melodic District’s music has a way of making me feel understood, even in my darkest times. Their songs aren’t just melodies and beats to me, they’re the soundtrack to my life. Every song tells a story that I can relate to on a personal level and it feels like they’re singing just for me. I’ve seen them play countless times and each time it’s a unique experience. They make their fans feel like family, and I’m lucky to be a part of it.”

Backstory:
Instructive Fabric is a sensational indie band that formed in the heart of the bustling city of New York in 2013. The band members, Adrian, Luna, and Oscar, initially started as three college friends with a shared love for music. They met in a campus jam session and felt an instant connection that transcended into a deep bond. They began by performing gigs in small clubs and bars around the city, eventually earning recognition for their unique sound and profound lyrics. The band’s name, Instructive Fabric, was coined from their belief in music as an instructive medium and fabric that weaves people’s experiences into a tapestry of resonating sound and emotion.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Kaleidoscope Dreams”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1 (Em, G, D, A)
(Em)In the vast sea of the city lights, (G)we roam,
(D)Chasing the echoes of our forgotten (A)home.
(Em)The roads are painted with stories untold,
(G)In our hearts, (D)kaleidoscope dreams we (A)hold.

Chorus (C, G, D, Em)
(C)Through the noise, (G)we hear the silent cry,
(D)In the chaos, (Em)we learn to fly,
(C)In the mirror of the world, (G)we find our theme,
(D)Living and breathing in our (Em)kaleidoscope dreams.

Verse 2 (Em, G, D, A)
(Em)We dance on the edges of the twilight, (G)unseen,
(D)Writing sonnets in the spaces (A)in-between.
(Em)Our canvas is the cosmos, our brush a shooting star,
(G)We paint (D)our love in the constellations (A)far.

Chorus (C, G, D, Em)
(C)Through the noise, (G)we hear the silent cry,
(D)In the chaos, (Em)we learn to fly,
(C)In the mirror of the world, (G)we find our theme,
(D)In the rhythm of our pulsating (Em)kaleidoscope dreams.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a girl named Sophie. Sophie has been a fan of Instructive Fabric since she first heard them in a tiny bar in Brooklyn. She says, “Instructive Fabric is my favorite band because their music is a reflection of life’s complexities, and yet it’s so comforting. It’s like they’re soundtracking my life, and they always know what to say when words fail me. Their song ‘Kaleidoscope Dreams’ is my personal anthem. It’s about seeing beauty in the chaos of life, and that message resonates with me deeply.”

Backstory:
Excitable Money was formed in a bustling college dorm room in 2011 when Tim ‘Tin’ Jenkins, a finance major, started jamming with his philosophy major roommate, Sam ‘Solace’ Thompson. Their shared love for music and unique perspectives on life and society gave them a different kind of synergy that translated into their music. After recruiting Laura ‘Loud’ Williams, a literature major with a powerful voice and a knack for lyrics, and Dave ‘Driftwood’ Hanson, an art major with a rhythm in his soul, the band was complete. Together, they started producing music that was a mix of their academic influences and personal beliefs, attracting a wide audience on campus and soon, across the country.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Paper Chase Anthem”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1 – Em, G, D, A)
Em G D A
Look around, what do you see? Bound by invisible chains
Em G D A
Trapped in the rat race, running for the paper chase
Em G D A
Take a step back, do you like the view? Is it worth the cost?
Em G D A
Sold our dreams but at what loss?

(Chorus – C, G, D, Em)
C G D Em
We’re Excitable Money, here to sing our truth
C G D Em
We won’t sell our souls, in this money booth.

(Verse 2 – Em, G, D, A)
Em G D A
Financial freedom, what a strange concept
Em G D A
In a world where everyone’s a subject
Em G D A
Our hearts are beating, but for what end?
Em G D A
In the pursuit of money, have we lost a friend?

(Chorus – C, G, D, Em)
C G D Em
We’re Excitable Money, here to play our tune
C G D Em
Against the consumerist moon, on this afternoon.

Fan Testimonial:
Excitable Money’s biggest fan is a vibrant woman named Marcy Allen. She says, “I first saw them perform at a small gig in our college and was instantly captivated. Their music felt like a mirror to my own thoughts and struggles. I respect how they use their music as a platform to tackle relevant societal issues, especially the unhealthy obsession with material wealth. Their song ‘Paper Chase Anthem’ is my personal favorite – it’s like a wake-up call set to an infectious beat. Their music has the power to inspire and the courage to question, and that’s why Excitable Money is my all-time favorite band.”

Backstory:

Cylindrical Beach was born in the eclectic city of Austin, Texas in 2012. Five friends, who shared a mutual love for music and beach holidays, decided to bring their diverse musical backgrounds together, resulting in a unique blend of rhythms and melodies. The name of the band was derived from their favorite spot to hang out in Austin, a small sandy beach near a cylindrical-shaped lighthouse. The band’s story is one of friendship, shared dreams, and a relentless pursuit of creating music that resonates with people from all walks of life.

Genre:
Indie Pop

Song Title:
“Dance on the Sand”

Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am – C – G – F
Dancing under the starlight, you and me,
In the silence of the night, we’re free,
Heart beats to the rhythm of the sea,
As the waves wash away our cares, so gently.

(Chorus)
F – C – G – Am
Dance on the sand, hand in hand,
Under the moonlight, isn’t it grand?
In our beach paradise, we’ve got no plans,
Just dance on the sand, till the break of dawn’s band.

(Verse 2)
Am – C – G – F
With a guitar strumming, and the heat’s humming,
Our dreams are woven with the salty breeze,
With the lighthouse glowing, and the tide’s ebbing,
We’re lost in this moment of perfect ease.

(Chorus)
F – C – G – Am
Dance on the sand, in this magical land,
With the music playing, isn’t it grand?
In our beach paradise, under the star’s band,
Just dance on the sand, till we can’t stand.

Fan:

Cylindrical Beach’s favorite fan is named Abby Turner. Abby came across their band during a particularly hard phase in her life. The unique mixture of their music, coupled with meaningful lyrics, provided solace to Abby. She found the band’s music uplifting and cathartic, helping her navigate through her challenges. In a testimonial, Abby shared, “Cylindrical Beach’s music is like a ray of sunshine on a gloomy day. Their songs make you believe in the beauty of life and love. They are my favorite band because their music speaks to my soul. I can’t imagine a day without their tunes. I believe they are not just creating music; they are creating magic.”

Backstory:
In the vibrant music scene of Seattle, Washington, “Opulent Hen” was hatched in the early 2000s. The band was comprised of three childhood friends: Jeremy “Jay” Whitman on vocals and guitar, Tom “T.J” Jameson on bass, and Lauren “Laurie” Henderson on drums. Their love for music was ignited during their high school years when they would assemble in Jay’s garage and experiment with different sounds and melodies. After high school, they continued their band, drawing inspiration from their experiences and the eclectic music culture of Seattle.

The trio officially introduced themselves as “Opulent Hen” in 2004, a name that reflected their luxurious and rich sound and their quirky sense of humor. Although they all had day jobs, they devoted their free time to their music. The tireless rehearsals in Jay’s garage started paying off when they won a local Battle of the Bands competition. The win gave them the confidence and exposure they needed, and their journey as Opulent Hen officially began.

Genre:
Indie Folk Rock

Title:
“Rustic Shadows”

Song Lyrics:

Verse [C – G – Am – F]
[C] Underneath the [G] moonlit sky, [Am] where rustic [F] shadows lie,
[C] We found a [G] place to [Am] hide, in echoes [F] of goodbye.
[C] Dancing in the [G] silver light, [Am] weaving dreams [F] of endless night,
[C] With whispered [G] tales and [Am] silent cries, [F] beneath the rustic [C] shadows.

Chorus [G – Am – F – C]
[G] We’re just [Am] actors in this [F] play, [C] lost in moments, cast away,
[G] Chasing [Am] echoes of [F] yesterday, [C] in the rustic shadows.

Verse [C – G – Am – F]
[C] Twilight’s brush [G] paints us gray, [Am] as we slowly [F] lose our way,
[C] But in our hearts, [G] there’s a song [Am] that will always [F] stay.
[C] A melody of [G] love and pain, [Am] dancing in this [F] quiet rain,
[C] It echoes [G] in the [Am] rustic shadows, [F] where we used to [C] play.

Chorus [G – Am – F – C]
[G] We’re just [Am] actors in this [F] play, [C] lost in moments, cast away,
[G] Chasing [Am] echoes of [F] yesterday, [C] in the rustic shadows.

Fan Testimonial:
“My name is Sarah McMillan, and I’m Opulent Hen’s number one fan. Their music just speaks to my soul in a way no other band has been able to. Their lyrics paint a picture of the human experience, so vivid and raw. It’s like they’ve put to music the highs and lows of my own life. That’s why Opulent Hen is my favorite band. Their music isn’t just something you listen to, it’s something you feel and experience.”

Backstory:
Hailing from the rain-soaked streets of Seattle, the band “Bitter Other” came into existence in the early 2000s. The four members: lead vocalist and bassist, Max Freeman, guitarist, Jake Harrison, drummer, Sam Coleman, and keyboardist, Lucy Malone were all childhood friends who shared a common love for music. They started playing in local bars and clubs, eventually gaining a solid fan base due to their unique sound and relatable lyrics. Their name, Bitter Other, symbolizes their shared experiences of heartbreak, loss, and the hardships of life which they pour into their music, creating an emotional connection with their listeners.

Genre:
Alternative Rock/ Indie Pop

Title:
“Shadows of Yesterday”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Am] She said I’m just a [G] mirror,
[Am] Reflecting all your [G] fears,
[F] Shadows of yesterday, [G] pierce like a spear,
[Am] Is this what we’ve [G] become, my dear?

(Chorus)
[C] Shadows of yesterday, [G] haunting our today,
[Am] Lost in a dead-end maze, [F] love’s gone astray,
[C] Shadows of yesterday, [G] in us they lay,
[Am] Whispering the words, [F] we dared not to say.

(Verse 2)
[Am] Fading in the twilight, [G] love’s dying ember,
[Am] The cold winds of December, [G] do you remember?
[F] How we promised, [G] never to surrender,
[Am] Now we’re just shadows, [G] of what we were.

(Chorus)
[C] Shadows of yesterday, [G] blurring our view,
[Am] Broken hearts, broken promises, [F] love’s residue,
[C] Shadows of yesterday, [G] a bitter brew,
[Am] Echoing the sorrow, [F] of love we once knew.

Favorite Fan:
Their biggest fan is Violet Miller, a college student from Portland who discovered Bitter Other during a summer music festival. She says, “Their music speaks to me on a level I can’t explain. The raw emotions they put into their lyrics, their soulful music, it’s helped me through some really tough times. It’s as if they know exactly what I’m feeling, and they’ve turned it into a song. Bitter Other isn’t just my favorite band, it’s my emotional support, my source of strength, my safe haven. Their music is my emotional home.”