Backstory:
Born and raised in the small town of Grafton, New Hampshire, the group of childhood friends turned bandmates that make up Ruddy Local have been inseparable since their early days. Originally brought together by their shared love of music, the band was formed in their local high school’s music room. After multiple local gigs and winning the heart of their hometown, they decided to take their music to the next level. They named the band Ruddy Local as an homage to their humble beginnings and their endearing local dialect.

Their journey from playing at high school events to becoming a mainstay on the local music scene has been nothing short of magical. Displaying a unique blend of musical abilities and a profound understanding of their craft, Ruddy Local is deeply committed to creating music that resonates with their audience, bridging the gap between the old and the new. They continue to share their sounds with their beloved hometown while dreaming of one day taking their music beyond the borders of Grafton.

Genre:
Alternative Folk

Title:
‘Beneath the Granite Sky’

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1:
[G]Underneath the granite sky, [D]in the heart of Grafton town,
[C]There’s a song that’s being sung, [G]a melody profound.
[G]Echoing through fields and hills, [D]across the break of dawn,
[C]It’s the rhythm of our heartbeats, [G]the tune we’re playing on.

Chorus:
[C]Beneath the granite sky, [G]we sing our dreams aloud,
[D]With every chord and lyric, [G]we make our hometown proud.
[C]Underneath the stars at night, [G]we serenade the moon,
[D]With music that will echo, [G]beyond the afternoon.

Verse 2:
[G]Through the winters and the springs, [D]underneath the autumn glow,
[C]We’ve been spinning our stories, [G]as the river continues to flow.
[G]In the heart of this small town, [D]we’ve found our perfect rhyme,
[C]In the rhythm of the seasons, [G]in the melody of time.

(Repeat Chorus)

Favorite fan:
The band’s favorite fan is local resident and longtime supporter, Emma Thompson. She has been following Ruddy Local since their high school days, attending every gig and promoting their music to anyone who would listen. Emma’s unwavering support and belief in the band have been a significant source of encouragement for them.

Testimonial:
“Ruddy Local isn’t just a band; they’re the heartbeat of our town. Their music is a beautiful amalgamation of our shared experiences, our joys, and sorrows. They’ve given us a unique sound that celebrates who we are and where we come from. There’s an indescribable magic in their lyrics and melodies that resonates with every Grafton resident. I can’t imagine my life without their music. They’re more than my favorite band; they’re our town’s pride.” – Emma Thompson.

Backstory:

Virtuous Mill was formed in the early 2000s in the bustling, mellow city of San Francisco, California by a group of friends who shared an unquenchable thirst for music. The band’s inception was a serendipitous event that took place during an impromptu garage jam session. In that moment, while playing and creating distinctive sounds, these college friends realized they had a unique chemistry that was too good to be limited to their garage. They decided to form Virtuous Mill, a name inspired by their desire to create music that was virtuous and timeless, like a well-crafted millwheel.

Initially, the band struggled to find their unique sound. However, after countless nights of jamming and experimenting in their garage turned studio, they found their niche in Progressive Rock with a blend of classical influences. Virtuous Mill’s music was a breath of fresh air in the Rock scene, and their unique blend of sounds quickly garnered them a dedicated fan base.

Genre: Progressive Rock

Title: “Eternal Odyssey”

Full song lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Em | Am | Dm | Em
Through the rites of time, we voyage on,
Dancing on the echoes of a forgotten song,
In the heart of the cosmos, where we belong,
Life’s an eternal odyssey, a relentless throng.

[Chorus]
C | G | Am | Em
Eternal odyssey, of love and dreams,
In the cosmic dance, as time redeems,
Chasing the stars, in the galaxy streams,
Life’s an eternal odyssey, or so it seems.

[Verse 2]
Em | Am | Dm | Em
Walking on the path of the brave and the bold,
Living the stories, that have never been told,
In the fabric of time, where destinies unfold,
Life’s an eternal odyssey, a marvel to behold.

[Chorus]
C | G | Am | Em
Eternal odyssey, in the cosmic sphere,
Echoing through time, loud and clear,
Guided by the stars, we have no fear,
Life’s an eternal odyssey, forever we steer.

Fan Testimonial:

My name is Lily Henderson, and I am without a doubt Virtuous Mill’s biggest fan. I’ve been following the band since their days of playing small gigs in San Francisco’s underground music scene. Their unique blend of progressive rock and classical influences was like nothing I’d ever heard, and it struck a chord deep within me. Their lyrics carry a profound message, and their music has a timeless quality that sets them apart from other bands in their genre. I’ve attended all their concerts in the Bay area and even traveled across the country to see them perform. The dedication they show toward their craft and their fans is truly inspiring. Virtuous Mill isn’t just my favorite band, they’re a part of my life.

Backstory:

Severe Host is an accidental creation that came to life when four childhood friends discovered their shared passion for music during a power outage in their small town of Carson, Colorado. They found solace and harmony in the dark, with nothing but an old guitar, a harmonica, a set of drums, and their voices. Originally, they started playing music just to kill time, but their enamoring sound quickly captured the attention of their tight-knit community, and they soon found themselves performing at local events and festivals. Always staying true to their roots, they adopted the name Severe Host, a term used to describe the tough weather conditions of their hometown.

Genre:
Indie Rock/Alternative Folk

Title:
“Whispers in the Wind”

Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G]Underneath the [D]Carson sky, [Em]lost in a [C]lullaby,
[G]Found the [D]melody in [Em]disarray, [C]began to play.
[G]Four lost boys [D]in the dark, [Em]strumming chords that [C]spark,
[G]Playing with [D]passion, not for [Em]fame, [C]just a simple game.

(Chorus)
[G]Whispers in the [D]wind, [Em]echoes of our [C]sin,
[G]Songs from our [D]hearts, [Em]this is where it [C]starts.
[G]Severe is our [D]host, [Em]but we love it [C]most,
[G]Under the [D]Carson sky, [Em]where dreams never [C]die.

(Verse 2)
[G]Through the storm and [D]the rain, [Em]music eased the [C]pain,
[G]A harmony [D]born in [Em]desolation, [C]found its station.
[G]From a power [D]outage’s night, [Em]came a beacon [C]bright,
[G]Severe Host’s [D]music took [Em]flight, [C]into the light.

(Chorus)
[G]Whispers in the [D]wind, [Em]echoes of our [C]sin,
[G]Songs from our [D]hearts, [Em]this is where it [C]starts.
[G]Severe is our [D]host, [Em]but we love it [C]most,
[G]Under the [D]Carson sky, [Em]where dreams never [C]die.

Fan Testimonial:
“Severe Host is more than just a band to me,” says Larry Gibson, the band’s most avid and devoted fan. “Their music has a raw, authentic quality that connects with the soul. The lyrics resonate with the ups and downs of life, and the melodies can make even the harshest realities seem beautiful. Each song is a journey that takes you to a different place. Through their music, I’ve learned to appreciate my own ‘severe host’, and have found a new perspective on life. They’re not just a favorite; they’re an inspiration.”

Backstory:

“Sane Graduate” was born from a shared passion for music and a mutual longing for the unraveled truths of life. The band members, all graduates of the same high school, found solace in music during their college years. They weathered through the turbulences of adulting, using their compositions as outlets for expression. The name ‘Sane Graduate’ was chosen to represent their journey and a testament to the sanity they managed to retain amidst the chaos of academia.

They began by performing at open mics in small, dimly lit coffee houses, eventually garnering attention from their soulful melodies and thought-provoking lyrics. Despite the challenges they faced, the band remained undeterred, honing their craft until a music producer discovered them. Since then, “Sane Graduate” has become a beacon of hope and inspiration for students and post-grads alike, aiming to make music that resonates with the common struggles of life.

Genre:

Sane Graduate’s music falls under the genre of Alternative Indie Rock, with a fusion of soulful melodies and introspective lyrics.

Title:

“One More Page”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em G
At the edge of another day,
D A
Under the weight of the world,
Em G
Turning another page,
D A
In the story yet to be told.

(Chorus)
C G
We are the sane graduates,
D A
In this mad world, we navigate,
C G
With every line we create,
D A
Turn one more page, it’s never too late.

(Verse 2)
Em G
In the labyrinth of our minds,
D A
We find solace in the chords,
Em G
Life’s a melody we unwind,
D A
Our stories etched in words.

(Repeat Chorus)
C G
We are the sane graduates,
D A
In this mad world, we navigate,
C G
With every line we create,
D A
Turn one more page, it’s never too late.

(Outro)
Em G
So here’s to the sane graduates,
D A
May we always create,
Em G
In this mad world we navigate,
D A
Turn one more page, don’t hesitate.

Fan Testimonial:

Name: Sarah Johnson

“Sane Graduate has been my all-time favorite band ever since I first heard their song “One More Page.” As a graduate student, their music resonates with me on a deep level. Their lyrics are often the only thing that keeps me sane during late-night study sessions. The band’s unique blend of alternative indie rock and relatable lyrics provide a kind of solace that I haven’t found elsewhere. They’re more than just a band to me; they’re a source of strength and solace amidst the chaos of my academic life.”

Backstory:

Sparkling Smile was born out of a college dorm room in Chicago, Illinois in the spring of 2011. Roommates Tara O’Brien and Sasha Lewis found themselves bonding over a shared love for music, frequently exchanging mixtapes and attending local concerts together. The duo began jamming out in their spare time, creating a unique blend of pop and rock infused with elements of electronic music. Their dorm room sessions quickly turned into open mic performances at local bars and gradually evolved into gigs at small music venues.

The band’s breakthrough came a year later when one of their performances was recorded and uploaded to YouTube by a devoted fan. The video went viral, drawing the attention of a local record label, who offered them a contract. Since then, Sparkling Smile has released three albums, toured across the country, and gained a loyal fanbase. Their music continues to radiate energy and positivity, much like their band name.

Genre: Pop/Rock with Electronic Infusion

Title: “Crystal Clear”

Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C]Walking down this lonesome road, [G] under the city lights, [Am] I see your face
[F] Through a window pane, it’s [C] crystal clear, [G] you’re my saving grace [Am]

[Am] Your love is like a sparkling smile, [G] lighting up the darkest night, [F] it’s true
[C] When I’m with you, [G] everything feels just right, [Am] nothing else I’d rather do

(Chorus)
[F] Crystal clear, [C] your love’s like a beacon in the night
[G] Sparkling smile, [Am] you make everything feel just right
[F] Through the highs and the lows, [C] your love it surely shows
[G] Crystal clear, [Am] your love’s the one thing I hold dear

(Verse 2)
[C] In the crowded room, [G] your laughter rings, [Am] like a melody so sweet
[F] You’re the rhythm to my heartbeat, [C] when our eyes meet, [G] I feel complete [Am]

[Am] Your touch is like a summer breeze, [G] soft and gentle, full of ease, [F] it’s true
[C] When I’m with you, [G] life’s a beautiful symphony, [Am] in every shade of blue

(Chorus)
[F] Crystal clear, [C] your love’s like a beacon in the night
[G] Sparkling smile, [Am] you make everything feel just right
[F] Through the highs and the lows, [C] your love it surely shows
[G] Crystal clear, [Am] your love’s the one thing I hold dear

Fan Name: Emily Hart

Testimonial:

“Sparkling Smile has been my favorite band since my first year of college. Their music has this upbeat, energetic vibe that just lifts your mood instantly. I love how their lyrics are so relatable – it’s like they’re singing about my own experiences. I remember going through a particularly tough breakup and their song ‘Crystal Clear’ really helped me get through it. It was like they were speaking directly to me, reassuring me that everything would be okay. Their music is not just songs, it’s an emotional journey!”

Backstory:
Black-And-White Rank, a four-piece band hailing from the diverse city of Toronto, Canada, was formed in 2010. Their name was inspired by the old-school black and white cinema reels, a nod to their love for the golden era of filmmaking. The band comprises lead vocalist, Jack Harper, guitarist, Nico Mitchell, bassist, Erin Gomez, and drummer, Lucas Matthews. They came together during their university years, each bringing an individual style and sound to the band. Over the years, they have garnered a significant fan base through their electrifying performances and unique sound.

They were initially a cover band, performing in local pubs and eventually graduated to writing original content. Their music often explores themes of love, societal issues, and introspection, aiming to make their listeners feel understood and heard. With a decade of music under their belt, Black-And-White Rank are not merely musicians in the traditional sense but storytellers, using their music to weave tales both personal and universal.

Genre:
Black-And-White Rank’s music is best described as a fusion of indie rock and folk, with a touch of blues. Their eclectic sound is characterized by powerful vocals, thought-provoking lyrics, and an unmistakable raw energy.

Title:
“Echoes of Yesterday”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Am] Wandering through the [C] silent streets,
[G] Shadows of the past at my [Em] feet.
[Am] Dreaming of what [C] used to be,
[G] The echoes of yesterday call to [Em] me.

(Chorus)
[F] Echoes of yesterday, [C] bringing the past to light,
[G] Familiar faces in the crowd, [Dm] fading into the night.
[F] Echoes of yesterday, [C] whispering in my ear,
[G] Reminding me of who I was, [Dm] and why I’m still here.

(Verse 2)
[Am] Tracing pathways of old [C] memories,
[G] In a town that never [Em] sleeps.
[Am] Lost in a moment that [C] never dies,
[G] The echoes of yesterday are my [Em] guide.

(Repeat Chorus)

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is Sarah Williams, a 28-year-old graphic designer from their hometown, Toronto. Sarah has been following Black-And-White Rank since their early days as a cover band. She resonates deeply with their music, particularly their song “Echoes of Yesterday,” as it reminds her of her own past, and gives her comfort in knowing she’s not alone in her feelings. Sarah has designed several of the band’s promotional materials, and her dedication and passion for their music is a constant source of motivation for them. In her words, “The music of Black-And-White Rank feels like a journey through my own life. Their songs are like chapters in my story, and that connection is something I’ve never felt with any other band. They’re not just making music, they’re making memories.”

Backstory:

“Cheery Skirt” was formed in the sun-soaked streets of Santa Monica, California in 2015. Brought together by a shared love of music, long summer days, and the magic of the golden hour, childhood friends, Lily Bennett (lead vocals, guitar) and Rose Howard (drums) began writing and performing songs that captured their free spirits and love for life. Later joined by Jack Sanders (bass) and Alex Reed (keyboard), their music evolved into a unique blend of sun-drenched vibes with a twist of nostalgia and a dash of melancholy. The band’s name, Cheery Skirt, was inspired by an old photograph of Lily’s grandmother, beaming in a bright yellow skirt – a symbol of joy and resilience that resonated deeply with the band’s ethos.

Genre: Indie Pop/Soft Rock

Song Title: “Bohemian Sundown”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Am G D
Underneath the palm trees, by the ocean breeze,
Am G D
We’d laugh and dance, caught in our summer trance.
C G D
Your eyes they’d gleam, like a bohemian dream,
Am G D
Underneath the sun, our story had begun.

[Chorus]
C G D
Oh, bohemian sundown, your light so profound,
Am G D
Shines on our dreams, as they come unwound.
C G D
Your glow feels so kind, as our hands intertwine,
Am G D
In this bohemian sundown, your love is mine.

[Verse 2]
Am G D
The sand beneath our feet, your smile so sweet,
Am G D
Carefree and young, under the setting sun.
C G D
In this golden light, everything feels so right,
Am G D
Bohemian sundown, you’re a beautiful sight.

[Chorus]
C G D
Oh, bohemian sundown, your light so profound,
Am G D
Shines on our dreams, as they come unwound.
C G D
Your glow feels so kind, as our hands intertwine,
Am G D
In this bohemian sundown, your love is mine.

Fan Testimonial:

The band’s biggest fan, Emily Thompson, admittedly fell in love with Cheery Skirt’s unique sound from the moment she heard their debut album. She says it perfectly encapsulates the essence of summer, youth, and nostalgia. “Their music transports me to a beautiful, endless summer. It’s like the sun setting on the beach, full of warmth, beauty, and a tinge of sadness for the day that’s ending. Cheery Skirt is my favorite band because their music is a reminder of happy days and the promise of more to come.” Emily shared these sentiments on her blog, which led to her forming close ties with the band, even being invited to sit in on some of their recording sessions.

Backstory:
Hailing from the heartland of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Stark Spread emerged from the student music scene in 2011. The band is formed by four childhood friends, Jake “Riff” McMillan (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Mark “Bass-man” Johnson (bass, backing vocals), Andy “Licks” Sanders (lead guitar), and Billy “Beats” Thompson (drums). United by their shared love for alternative rock music and gritty, meaningful lyrics, the band was born in a college dorm basement. Their chemistry was immediate and electric, and they found an enthusiastic audience that quickly extended beyond their small college town.

Stark Spread’s music reflects the blue-collar ethos of their home city, tackling themes of hardship, resilience, and redemption. Their popularity grew as they toured across the country, rocking stages of all sizes, and winning hearts with their raw energy and honest lyrics. Their riveting performances and authentic sound have built a dedicated fan base that follows them wherever they go.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Steel Heart, Iron Will”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am Em G D
Steel heart, iron will, in the city of bridges we dwell.
Am Em G D
Working our fingers to the bone, got no time to tell.
Am Em G D
Hard hats, dirty boots, worn out from the grind.
Am Em G D
But we never stop, we never fall behind.

(Chorus)
Am Em G D
With a steel heart, and an iron will,
Am Em G D
We rise above, from the valley we fill.
Am Em G D
Pittsburgh born, Pittsburgh bred,
Am Em G D
In the veins of the city, we’ve been led.

(Verse 2)
Am Em G D
Night shift, day shift, never seems to end.
Am Em G D
But we trudge on, around every bend.
Am Em G D
Smokestacks silhouette against the sky,
Am Em G D
In the city of steel, we live and die.

(Chorus)
Am Em G D
With a steel heart, and an iron will,
Am Em G D
We rise above, from the valley we fill.
Am Em G D
Pittsburgh born, Pittsburgh bred,
Am Em G D
In the veins of the city, we’ve been led.

Fan’s Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan is Tim “Tinman” Jacobs, a steelworker from Pittsburgh.

“I’ve been a fan of Stark Spread since their early days. I love their music because it speaks to me on a personal level. Their songs tell the story of our city, the struggle, the sweat, and the resilient spirit. It’s more than just music, it’s a tribute to Pittsburgh. They’ve played in dive bars and big festivals, but they never forget their roots. That’s why they’re my favorite band. They make music that resonates with our lives, they’re the real deal.”

Backstory:

Formed in a sleepy, coastal town of Maine in 2006, Nutritious Crate is a charming assemblage of childhood friends with a shared passion for music and storytelling. The band, consisting of lead vocalist Ben Jefferson, guitarist Tim Reynolds, bassist Sam Watson, and drummer Will Turner, met and bonded at a local farmers market, hence the unique name, Nutritious Crate. What started as a casual jamming session during their high school years soon turned into a soulful venture that resonated with the hearts of many, transcending boundaries and genres.

As their sound matured, Nutritious Crate began to perform at small gigs around town, busking in parks, serenading locals at the farmers market, and even playing at the annual county fair. Their music was a beacon of peace and unity, and it wasn’t long before they got their big break. When a passerby recorded their performance and posted it online, it went viral, catapulting them into the limelight. Despite their newfound fame, Nutritious Crate remains rooted in their humble beginnings and continues to create music that is known for its honesty and heartfelt lyrics.

Genre:
Folk-Rock

Title:
“Harvest Moon Dance”

Full song lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Em C
Under the canvas of the midnight sky,
G D
Our hearts beat to the rhythm, you and I.
Em C
In the glow of the harvest moon so bright,
G D
We dance like no tomorrow’s in sight.

[Chorus]
G D
Harvest moon dance, in this trance,
Em C
We sway as the night whispers romance.
G D
In the darkness, your light does enhance,
Em C
This sweet, sweet harvest moon dance.

[Verse 2]
Em C
The world sleeps, but we’re alive and free,
G D
In the music of silence, just you and me.
Em C
Moonbeams kiss the fields of gold,
G D
With you here, love’s tale will never grow old.

[Chorus]
G D
Harvest moon dance, in this trance,
Em C
We sway as the night whispers romance.
G D
In your arms, I’ve found my expanse,
Em C
In this sweet, sweet harvest moon dance.

Fan’s Name: Sarah Johnson

Testimonial:

“Being a fan of Nutritious Crate is more than just about their music. It’s about embracing a lifestyle of authenticity and deep-rooted emotion. I fell in love with their music at a time when I was struggling to find my own identity. ‘Harvest Moon Dance’ touched me deeply. The lyrics, the tune, the raw emotion in Ben’s voice… it all resonated with me. It’s hard to explain, but Nutritious Crate’s music has a healing effect. It’s like a comforting old quilt that wraps you up when you’re feeling cold. Their music has been my companion throughout my journey towards self-discovery and will continue to be so. That’s why Nutritious Crate is my favorite band.”

Backstory:

Serene Tissue was born out of a college dorm room, where roommates Jake Simms, Bella Daniels, and Toby Morrison would jam out for hours on end, their sounds reverberating through the halls of their university. The trio had an undeniable chemistry that was impossible to ignore. Jake, a seasoned pianist, Bella, a drummer with a pulse for rhythm, and Toby, a guitarist who could make his strings sing, had a unique symmetry that they decided to share with the world. They started performing at local bars, and their music quickly gained traction. Serene Tissue was thus officially formed in 2012, with their name being an inside joke about a peaceful piece of tissue paper that they found in their dorm room.

Genre:

Alternative Indie Pop

Song Title:

“Whispers in the Haze”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am E7
In the morning mist, I see your silhouette,
Fmaj7 C
Soft whispers carry forth, moments we can’t forget.
Am E7
You’re a mystery, lost in the twilight haze,
Fmaj7 C
A memory that grows, in the dawn’s golden blaze.

(Chorus)
G Am
Whispers in the haze, echoes in my mind,
F C
In the quiet maze, your love I find.
G Am
The silence weaves, in the fabric of the day,
F C
In whispers in the haze, you softly stay.

(Verse 2)
Am E7
Under starlit nights, dreams begin to dance,
Fmaj7 C
In hushed whispers, we find our trance.
Am E7
In the shadows cast, by the moon’s gentle gaze,
Fmaj7 C
Your whispers linger, in the swirling haze.

(Chorus)
G Am
Whispers in the haze, echoes in my mind,
F C
In the quiet maze, your love I find.
G Am
The silence weaves, in the fabric of the day,
F C
In whispers in the haze, you softly stay.

Fan’s Name:

Samuel “Sammy” Johnson

Testimonial:

“There’s no other band like Serene Tissue. They’ve created their own world of sound, blending melodies and rhythms in a way that’s both familiar and innovative. Every song tells a story echoed in my heart. It’s like they’ve managed to put words to my own thoughts and feelings. ‘Whispers in the Haze’ is my personal favorite. I’ve seen them perform live six times, and each time their music captures me in a way no other band has. Their love for their craft is palpable, and it’s infectious. Serene Tissue is not just a band to me, they’re the soundtrack to my life.”