Backstory:
Awful Polytechnic formed in the bustling, artistic city of Portland, Oregon, in 2008. The band was born out of the shared frustration of four disillusioned engineering students at Portland State University. They were submerged knee-deep in the chaos of academia and sought refuge in the expansive world of music. The quartet—consisting of Julian ‘Jules’ McAllister on lead vocals and guitar, Bessie ‘Bess’ Holt on bass, Franklin ‘Frankie’ Jones on drums, and Ronald ‘Ronnie’ Smith on keyboard—decided to channel their academic frustrations into a form of artistic expression, resulting in the formation of Awful Polytechnic.
As the band members’ academic years neared their end, Awful Polytechnic slowly began to build a name for themselves in the Portland music scene. They became known for their intense, energetic performances and frank, complex lyrics that mirrored their experiences in the world of academia. Their unique sound and approach began to resonate with many young adults facing similar struggles, leading to a dedicated fan base that continues to grow.
Genre:
Indie Rock/Alternative
Title:
“Thermodynamic Heartbreak”
Full Song Lyrics:
(Chords: C, G, Am, F, Em, Dm)
(Verse 1: C, G, Am, F)
From the lecture halls to the dive bar stools,
We’ve been breaking all their precious rules.
With textbooks heavy and hearts so light,
We’ve been waiting for this all damn night.
(Chorus: Em, Am, Dm, G)
Thermodynamic heartbreak, it’s more than we can take,
This entropy of love that’s meant to break.
A chemical reaction, a classroom distraction,
We’re just awfully good at this thermodynamic heartbreak.
(Verse 2: C, G, Am, F)
In the swirl of equations and crumbling dreams,
We found a place where nothing’s as it seems.
With guitar strings and scribbled proofs,
We’ve woven truth beneath this roof.
(Chorus: Em, Am, Dm, G)
Thermodynamic heartbreak, it’s our favorite mistake,
This entropy of love that’s meant to shake.
A kinetic connection, seeking direction,
We’re just awfully good at this thermodynamic heartbreak.
(Bridge: F, C, G, Am)
Oh, the energy it takes to defy gravity,
Just to stay afloat in this academic sea.
But the melody and the math, they’ve carved a clear path,
And we’ll dance through this thermodynamic aftermath.
(Chorus: Em, Am, Dm, G)
Thermodynamic heartbreak, it’s more than we can take,
This entropy of love that’s meant to break.
A chemical reaction, a classroom distraction,
We’re just awfully good at this thermodynamic heartbreak.
Fan’s Name and Testimonial:
Fan Name: Amy Roberts
“Awful Polytechnic is my favorite band because they understand. They get the struggle of balancing school, work, life, and dreaming big. Their music speaks to those feelings in a way that’s raw, passionate, and deeply relatable. Every song feels like a direct conversation, a shared secret between me and the band. Being part of the Awful Polytechnic community means being part of a group that’s navigating the same chaotic, beautiful mess of youth and ambition. There’s no other band I’d rather have as the soundtrack to this period of my life.”