High Vessel

Backstory:
High Vessel was born in the sparkling city of Los Angeles, California, during the summer of 2015, when drummer Mike Hartley, bassist Jennifer Morgan, lead guitarist Troy McNally, and vocalist and rhythm guitarist, Lenny Martin, were all studying at the Musicians Institute in Hollywood. Their shared love for music and hunger for a fresh sound pulled them together. Often practicing and jamming together after classes, they found a unique chemistry among them that soon birthed High Vessel. They began playing at local bars and festivals, gradually gaining recognition for their distinctive style and sound.

After two years of relentless gigging, experimentation, and refinement, they caught the attention of a record label and won a contract. Their debut album, launched in 2018, catapulted them into the national spotlight, followed by a successful nationwide tour. Despite their rapid rise to fame, the members of High Vessel have remained grounded, attributing their success to their passion for music and their dedicated fans.

Genre:
Alternative Rock, with elements of Indie and Punk Rock

Title:
“Chasing Eternity”

Song Lyrics:
[Verse 1: G-Em-C-D]
(G) Underneath a neon sky, (Em) we found our dreams collide
(C) Running wild, we lost our way, (D) into the endless night
(G) Shadows dancing in the light, (Em) we were so full of life
(C) But time’s cruel trick, it played its hand, (D) left us in twilight

[Chorus: G-D-Em-C]
(G) We’re just chasing eternity, (D) in a world that’s fading so fast
(Em) Lost in our insanity, (C) trying to hold onto the past
(G) Chasing all we used to be, (D) in hopes that we might last
(Em) We’re just chasing eternity, (C) trying to outrun the past

[Verse 2: G-Em-C-D]
(G) Misty mornings and hazy days, (Em) we were invincible, unafraid
(C) Whispering secrets into the wind, (D) believing they’d never fade
(G) Bound by the music, we found our way, (Em) in melodies, we’d always stay
(C) But even songs can lose their words, (D) in the silence of the day

[Chorus: G-D-Em-C]
(G) We’re just chasing eternity, (D) in a world that’s fading so fast
(Em) Lost in our insanity, (C) trying to hold onto the past
(G) Chasing all we used to be, (D) in hopes that we might last
(Em) We’re just chasing eternity, (C) trying to outrun the past

Fan Testimonial:
“Hi, I am Amy Peterson, High Vessel’s biggest fan. I’ve been following them since their early days at Musicians Institute. Their music is more than just words and sounds; it’s raw and real. It’s about life, love, and everything in between. There’s an honesty in their lyrics that resonates with my own experiences. High Vessel isn’t just my favorite band because of their music, but also because of who they are as people. Humble, passionate, and real, they’re the kind of band that truly appreciates their fans, and I am proud to be one of them.”

Teeming Approval

Backstory:

Teeming Approval is a group of four friends from the small coastal town of Argyll, Scotland. The band was formed in high school when lead singer, Jillian, drummer, Angus, bassist, Fergus, and guitarist, Ewan, decided to amplify their garage jam sessions. After years of playing small gigs at local pubs and booking whatever venues they could, they caught the attention of a talent scout from a major record label. Their passion for music and their unique sound quickly earned them a record deal, and they have been living their dream ever since.

Their underdog story, humble origins, and unpretentious approach to music have helped Teeming Approval create a connection with their audience that goes beyond the simple pleasure of listening to good music. Their songs speak of common struggles, hopes, dreams, and the joys of simple everyday life, making them a band that their fans can easily relate to.

Genre:

Indie Folk Rock

Title:

“Rain on Cobblestones”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
G D
Rain on cobblestones, echoes of home
Em C
Hear the lighthouse call as the sea waves foam
G D Em C
Whispers of the wind, dancing with the leaves
G D Em C
We were just children playing in these streets

(Chorus)
G D Em C
Where the salt air meets the pine, that’s where you’ll find
G D Em C
A piece of my heart that I left behind

(Verse 2)
G D Em C
Old castle walls, standing tall and proud
G D Em C
The moonlight’s serenade, playing out loud
G D Em C
Secrets in the sand, tales of old and new
G D Em C
Memories of the summer skies, painted in hues

(Chorus)
G D Em C
Where the highland heathers bloom, under the moon
G D Em C
A piece of my heart still sings that tune

The band’s favorite fan:

Name: Sophie McTavish
Testimonial: “Teeming Approval is more than just a band to me, they’re like friends I’ve never met. Their songs speak to my heart and soul. Their melodies are the comforting echo of home and their lyrics are the stories of my life. Listening to “Rain on Cobblestones” always brings tears to my eyes. It’s like they wrote it just for me. Their music is real, raw and passionate, and I believe that’s why so many people, including myself, love them.”

Insidious Steel

Backstory:
In the smoky, steel factories of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, a group of blue-collar workers found solace in the rhythmic clank and grind of machinery. Each day, after their grueling shifts, they gathered in a derelict warehouse to weave those industrial sounds into a unique brand of music. Thus, ‘Insidious Steel’ was born. Over time, the band’s raw and rhythmic sound found a niche audience, and their local fame began to spread. Despite their growing popularity, the members of Insidious Steel stayed true to their roots, often performing impromptu concerts in the steel factory after hours.

Genre:
Industrial Rock

Title:
‘Chains of Iron’

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C#m E A G#7
In the belly of the beast, we sweat and toil,
C#m E A G#7
Underneath the steel sky, in our loyal soil.
C#m E A G#7
Our hands are black, our hearts ablaze,
C#m E A G#7
In the rhythmic dance of the industrial haze.

(Chorus)
C#m E A G#7
We are bound by chains of iron,
C#m E A G#7
Forged in the fires of our desire.
C#m E A G#7
We are the sons of steel and sinew,
C#m E A G#7
Our song, the hammer’s pyre.

(Verse 2)
C#m E A G#7
In the deafening silence of the night,
C#m E A G#7
Our voices rise, cleaving the quiet.
C#m E A G#7
In the echoes of our industrial prayer,
C#m E A G#7
The melody of insidious steel, we share.

(Chorus)
C#m E A G#7
We are bound by chains of iron,
C#m E A G#7
Forged in the fires of our desire.
C#m E A G#7
We are the sons of steel and sinew,
C#m E A G#7
Our song, the hammer’s pyre.

The band’s favorite fan’s name and why:
‘Insidious Steel’ has a dedicated fan base, but one stands above the rest – Margaret “Maggie” O’Sullivan, a retired steel factory worker herself. Maggie has been with the band since their inception, providing the moral support and unwavering belief they needed during their early days.

Testimonial:
“I’ve worked in the steel mills for 35 years, and never once did I think it could be the backdrop for such raw and powerful music. ‘Insidious Steel’ have managed to capture the soul of our city, our work, and our passion. Their songs aren’t merely tunes to me, they are the hard work, sweat, and love of our people set to music. They are our voice, and I couldn’t be a prouder fan.” – Margaret “Maggie” O’Sullivan.

Secondary Award

Backstory:
Secondary Award is a band that was formed in the heart of Detroit, Michigan’s punk rock scene. The members were high school friends – lead vocalist Trent, guitarist Mark, bassist Paul, and drummer Alex. They were always second in line for everything – sports, academics, and even in their love lives. They embraced this trend and hence, named their band, ‘Secondary Award’. After graduating from high school, they decided to pursue their passion for music and formed the band in their garage in 2010. They hustled, practiced, and played at small gigs until they were discovered by a talent scout at an underground rock concert in 2012.

Genre:
Punk Rock

Title:
“Second to None”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C]Living in the shadows, we were always number two,
[G]But tonight under the spotlight, we shine just for you.
[Am]We took every defeat, every fall and every hit,
[D]Turned them all into a tune, a song you’ll never forget.

(Chorus)
[G]We are Secondary Award,
[C]Always second, but we’re never bored.
[Am]Tonight we’re not second to none,
[D]Under the Detroit city lights, we have won.

(Verse 2)
[C]From our garage to this stage, it’s been quite a ride,
[G]The music’s in our veins, it’s something we can’t hide.
[Am]We took every loss, every frown, and every sigh,
[D]Turned them all into this moment, under the starry sky.

(Chorus)
[G]We are Secondary Award,
[C]Always second, but we’re never ignored.
[Am]Tonight we’re not second to none,
[D]Under the Detroit city lights, we play on.

Bridge:
[C]We’ve had our share of second chances,
[G]Of second looks and second dances,
[Am]But tonight, on this stage,
[D]We’re first in your hearts, and it’s worth the wage.

(Chorus)
[G]We are Secondary Award,
[C]Always second, but we’re not floored.
[Am]Tonight we’re not second to none,
[D]Under the Detroit city lights, we have won.
[Am]Under the Detroit city lights, we’ve just begun.

Bands Favorite Fan’s Name:
Emily Thompson

Testimonial:
“I’ve always been a fan of rock music, but Secondary Award hits differently. Their journey from being second in everything to owning their unique spot in the punk rock scene is inspiring. Their music, it speaks to me, it tells a story of resilience and determination. It’s not just about the loud guitars and energetic drum beats, it’s about the soul they bring to their songs. The raw emotions in their lyrics, it’s something I can relate to. They might be Secondary Award in name, but they’re first in my heart.”

Interesting Cook

Backstory:
Interesting Cook was formed in the heart of Austin, Texas, in the year 2011. The band members consisted of high school friends, namely Michael “Mike” Jackson and Charlie “Chef” Baldwin, both of whom shared a love for music and a peculiar interest in cooking, hence the name of the band. Michael, who worked part-time at a local restaurant as a cook, was an exceptional vocalist, and Charlie was a self-taught guitarist. The duo started by experimenting with different sounds in their garage, building a unique sound that resonated with their everyday experiences, and before they knew it, an exceptional band was born.

After years of producing music in their small garage, their breakthrough came when a demo tape of their work accidentally ended up with a popular disc jockey at a local radio station. Their unique sound was broadcasted across the city, and the rest, as they say, is history. Interesting Cook has since gained a considerable following and has become a prominent figure in the indie music scene.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Song Title:
“Pepper and Melodies”

Full Song Lyrics:
Verse 1:
[G] Wake up to the [C] sunrise, [Em] morning’s looking [D] bright
[G] Bacon on the [C] griddle, [Em] filling up the [D] night

Chorus:
[G] You are the [C] pepper in my [Em] melodies, [D] sweet and hot
[G] You are the [C] rhythm in my [Em] heartbeat, [D] never stop

Verse 2:
[G] Sunlight on the [C] counter, [Em] eggs over [D] easy
[G] Your smile in the [C] morning, [Em] makes my heart feel [D] breezy

Chorus:
[G] You are the [C] pepper in my [Em] melodies, [D] sweet and hot
[G] You are the [C] rhythm in my [Em] heartbeat, [D] never stop

Outro:
[G] In this kitchen, [C] we cook up [Em] love, [D] every day
[G] With you, it’s [C] always tasty, [Em] in every [D] single way

Band’s Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a young woman named Emily who has been following them since their garage band days. Emily’s favorite song is “Pepper and Melodies” because it takes her back to the memories of her childhood mornings, with her mother cooking breakfast in the kitchen. In her words, “Interesting Cook’s music has a soulful element that’s deeply touching. Their songs always manage to paint such vivid pictures – I can literally smell the bacon frying when I listen to ‘Pepper and Melodies’. They are my favorite because their music is real and it speaks to the heart.”

Pesky Deal

Backstory:

Pesky Deal was born in the heart of the vibrant city of Austin, Texas in the late noughties. The founder, Jack “Pesky” Hansen, was a regular performer at local open mics and dive bars, impressing patrons with his quirky lyrics and unforgettable melodies. On one such night, he met drummer Samantha “Sam” Deal, a fiery redhead with a passion for rhythm and blues. They had an instant musical connection; their unique sounds complimenting each other’s, producing a harmony that was unexpected yet welcomed. The duo decided to combine their talents, giving birth to the unforgettable band, Pesky Deal. Over the years, they’ve added bassist, Luke “Bassman” Stevens, and keyboardist, Zoe “Keys” Mendez, completing the dynamic quartet known for their memorable performances and devout fan base.

Genre:

Indie Rock with a blend of Blues

Title:

“Fickle Heart”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G]I met her at the corner of the [D]street,
[C]Underneath the neon glow, where the [G]lonely hearts meet.
She [G]smiled at me with those fickle [D]eyes,
[C]Promises and lies, wrapped in a sweet [G]disguise.

(Chorus)
[G]Oh, Fickle Heart, why’d you have to [D]stray?
[C]Running back to her, leaving me in [G]disarray.
[G]Oh, Fickle Heart, you’re a Pesky [D]Deal,
[C]Loving you is like spinning the roulette [G]wheel.

(Verse 2)
[G]She danced away with the [D]night,
[C]Leaving me alone in the morning [G]light.
[G]Her memory lingers like a summer [D]breeze,
[C]A phantom love, lost in the autumn [G]leaves.

(Repeat Chorus)

Testimonial:

Pesky Deal’s biggest fan, Jenny Simmons, shared her love for the band saying, “I’ve been following Pesky Deal from their early days, when they were just playing in local dive bars in Austin. Their blend of indie rock and blues is intoxicating, and their lyrics are so genuine and heartfelt, you can’t help but connect with them. Jack’s voice is raw and honest, and Sam’s drumming adds a depth to their sound that just resonates with me. Their song ‘Fickle Heart’ is my personal favorite. It’s a beautiful blend of melancholic melodies and sincere lyrics that capture the essence of a broken heart perfectly. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for Pesky Deal. They’re not just my favorite band, they’re a part of my life’s soundtrack.”

Happy-Go-Lucky Generation

Backstory:

Happy-Go-Lucky Generation, often referred to as HGLG, was formed in the vibrant music city of Austin, Texas in 2015. The band’s members – frontman Jared Black, drummer Lisa ‘Zephyr’ Zefferino, keyboardist Sam ‘Keys’ Klein, and bassist Nick ‘Low-note’ Lansing – all met at a local music festival. They found common ground in their love for music that was fun, uplifting, and full of life. They decided to form a band that would reflect their cheerful and carefree characters, hence the name Happy-Go-Lucky Generation.

Over the years, they have developed a strong fan base due to their infectious energy, tight performances, and a signature style that blends elements of classic pop with modern indie rock. Their concerts are a spectacle of high spirits, with the band often jumping into the crowd to dance alongside their fans. The band’s ethos is all about spreading positivity, love, and happiness through music.

Genre:

Pop/Indie Rock

Title:

“Sunshine in My Pocket”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse)
C G Am E
Wake up in the morning with a smile on my face,
C G Am E
I’ve got a special feeling, it’s gonna be a great day.
C G Am E
Put on my favorite record, the one that makes me sway,
C G Am E
Can’t wait to hit the city, let the music play.

(Chorus)
C G Am E
I’ve got sunshine in my pocket, and love in my heart,
C G Am E
With the rhythm in my soul, it’s time to make a start.
C G Am E
Spread the joy around, let’s light up the dark,
C G Am E
I’ve got sunshine in my pocket, and love in my heart.

(Verse)
C G Am E
The world is a beautiful place, let’s all dance around,
C G Am E
Feel the magic in the air, love the musical sound.
C G Am E
Move to the rhythm, let your spirits climb,
C G Am E
With the sunshine in my pocket, it’s a perfect time.

(Chorus)
C G Am E
I’ve got sunshine in my pocket, and love in my heart,
C G Am E
With the rhythm in my soul, it’s time to make a start.
C G Am E
Spread the joy around, let’s light up the dark,
C G Am E
I’ve got sunshine in my pocket, and love in my heart.

The band’s favorite fan:

Our favorite fan has to be Jenny ‘Joy’ Johnson. From the very first concert, she has been there, front and center, dancing along with us. Regardless of the weather, the venue, or the time, she brings her infectious energy. Her love for HGLG is obvious and her support never wavers.

Jenny’s Testimonial:

“Happy-Go-Lucky Generation is more than a band to me, they’re like a ray of sunshine on a cloudy day. Their music has a way of lifting my spirits no matter what. I’ve been to countless concerts and each time, I leave feeling happier and lighter. They spread love and positivity through their music, and for that, they’ll always be my favorite.”

Good-Natured Circle

Backstory:
Born in the vibrant, artistic heart of Portland, Oregon, Good-Natured Circle is a band that effortlessly blends the expressive, free-spirited vibe of the 70s with a touch of modern sophistication. The band comprises five members: lead vocalist and guitarist Finn, bassist Lyle, drummer Jax, keyboardist Marcy, and flautist and vocalist Harmony. The bandmates, who all met in high school, spent countless afternoons jamming in Finn’s garage. Their shared passion for music and a desire to create something fresh led to the formation of Good-Natured Circle, a name inspired by their strong bond and shared belief in kindness and positivity.

Their music, much like their friendship, evolved organically, shaped by their shared experiences and the ebb and flow of life. The band’s bond and unwavering commitment to spreading love and positivity through their music have only strengthened over the years. Good-Natured Circle prides itself on crafting songs that are not only melodically pleasing but also carry a message of unity, peace, and love.

Genre:
Psychedelic Folk Rock

Title:
“Ripples in the Stream”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Intro]
Am | C | G | D

[Verse 1]
Am C G
Life is but a dream, we’re ripples in the stream,
D Am
Dancing with the moonlight, everything’s serene.
C G
Days go by like whispers, even in our sleep,
D Am
Moments woven into the fabric, memories we keep.

[Chorus]
C G Am
We’re just ripples in the stream,
C G D
Floating on a sunbeam, carried by a dream.
Am C G D
Good-natured circle, spinning around, love is the sound,
Am C G D
We’re just ripples in the stream, let’s keep this love aground.

[Verse 2]
Am C G
Friendship is the tether, the anchor in our sea,
D Am
With laughter as our compass, we sail in harmony.
C G
We dance with the shadows, sing with the dawn,
D Am
The melody of our unity, the beat goes on.

[Chorus]
C G Am
We’re just ripples in the stream,
C G D
Floating on a sunbeam, carried by a dream.
Am C G D
Good-natured circle, spinning around, love is the sound,
Am C G D
We’re just ripples in the stream, let’s keep this love aground.

Band’s Favorite Fan:

Benny “The Hippie” Johnson

Testimonial:

“Good-Natured Circle embodies everything I love about music and life. Their songs are like universal anthems of love and unity. Every tune, every lyric resonates with my soul. Their genuine bond and the positive vibes they radiate are infectious. I’ve been following them since their debut gig at a local dive bar, and I’ve watched them evolve into a force of nature. With Good-Natured Circle, it’s not just about the music; it’s about the message, the emotion, and the experience. For me, they’re not just a band, they’re a way of life.”

Spiffy Milk

Backstory:
The band ‘Spiffy Milk’ started as a quartet of high school friends from the small town of Platteville, Wisconsin. Charismatic lead singer and guitarist, Jonny “Spiffy” Spafford, quirky bassist, Mike “Milkman” Milken, cool-headed drummer, Danny “Dairy” Derrik, and dynamic keyboardist, Pete “Pasteurize” Patterson, embarked on a journey of musical exploration after winning their school’s talent show. Following their graduation, the four friends decided to take their passion for music to the next level and formed ‘Spiffy Milk’. Since their founding in 2012, Spiffy Milk has built a dedicated fan base, igniting stages with their unique sound and infectious energy.

Genre:
Spiffy Milk is primarily an Indie Pop band, but they often infuse elements of Folk and new wave Punk into their melodies. Their music is known for its catchy hooks, layered harmonies, and thought-provoking lyrics that often touch on themes of nostalgia, self-discovery, and the ups and downs of life.

Title:
One of their most popular songs is “Chasing Shadows”.

Full Song lyrics:

(Verse 1, chords: Am, G, F, C)
In the pitch-black corner of my mind, (Am)
Chasing shadows, I’m running out of time. (G)
Wandering through the echoes of the past, (F)
Hoping to make these fleeting moments last. (C)

(Chorus, chords: F, C, G)
Chasing shadows, lost in the dark, (F)
Wandering aimlessly, leaving our mark. (C)
In the depths of the night, we seek the light, (G)
Chasing shadows till the morning light. (F, C, G)

(Verse 2, chords: Am, G, F, C)
In the hush of the night, under the moon’s glow, (Am)
We’re chasing shadows, where the wild winds blow. (G)
Yearning for a touch, aching for a sign, (F)
In the midst of chaos, searching for the divine. (C)

(Chorus, chords: F, C, G)
Chasing shadows, lost in the abyss, (F)
Hunting memories, the ones we miss. (C)
In the depth of despair, we find our might, (G)
Chasing shadows, till we ignite. (F, C, G)

Favorite Fan:
Their most dedicated fan is undoubtedly Lucy Thompson. She has attended every Spiffy Milk’s concert within a 200-mile radius of her home since 2014.

Testimonial:
Lucy says, “Spiffy Milk is more than just a band for me. Their music speaks directly to my soul. The melodies are enchanting, and the lyrics narrate my life experiences. Their unique sound is like a breath of fresh air in today’s music scene. From their earliest gigs to their recent sold-out concerts, I’ve seen them evolve and grow. Their passion for music is contagious, and their authenticity is heartwarming. Every performance is a new adventure with Spiffy Milk, and I can’t wait for what’s next!”

Occasional Flame

Backstory:
Occasional Flame was formed in 2012 in the heart of Austin, Texas. The five members – Andy, Ben, Charlie, Danny, and Ellie – met in a dusty old record store, each of them reaching for the same obscure vinyl. In that serendipitous moment, they discovered a shared passion for music that transcended the conventional. Their bond was instant, and they decided to channel this passion into creating their own unique sound.

In the early days, they juggled their day jobs and the band, often practicing in the dead hours of the night in Charlie’s garage. They started off playing in back-alley bars and at local events. The road to recognition was not easy, but they weathered through it, their shared love for music and each other’s company keeping them going.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Echoes in the Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse)
[G] Stars in the sky, they [D] speak to me,
[Em] Whispering tales of the [C] distant sea.
[G] Secrets unfolding in the [D] moonlit night,
[Em] Echoes in the shadows, [C] hidden from sight.

(Chorus)
[D] We’re just players in this [G] cosmic game,
[C] Chasing the wind, an [D] occasional flame.
[G] Lost in the abyss or [D] standing in the light,
[Em] We carry on, [C] far into the night.

(Verse)
[G] Dreams take flight on [D] silver wings,
[Em] Dancing to the tune that [C] destiny sings.
[G] Bound by threads of [D] time and space,
[Em] We find our home, [C] our saving grace.

(Chorus)
[D] We’re just players in this [G] cosmic game,
[C] Chasing the wind, an [D] occasional flame.
[G] Whether lost or found, [D] pain or delight,
[Em] We carry on, [C] far into the night.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Lucy. Lucy was there from the start, attending their first gig at a rundown bar, and she hasn’t missed a single show since. She has an unwavering belief in Occasional Flame and their music, and her infectious enthusiasm has brought them more fans.

Testimonial:
“I first stumbled upon Occasional Flame in a bar, and their music instantly struck a chord within me. Their lyrics tell stories that resonate deeply, and their melodies are both beautiful and haunting. They’ve got this raw energy that just draws you in. Every gig feels like an intimate conversation, a shared experience. They’re not just a band to me, they’re a beacon of light in the often dim world of music.”