Backstory:

Unwritten Help was formed in the small coastal town of Aberystwyth, Wales in 2012. Childhood friends Tim Owens (Vocals), Matt Stevens (Guitar), Alex Francis (Bass), and Jonny Williams (Drums) had always dreamed of making music but never had the means or opportunity until they all returned home after finishing university. Armed with degrees, but with no interest in traditional careers, they decided to give their childhood dream a chance. The band practices in Alex’s dad’s old mechanic shop, tweaking their sound and experimenting with different styles until they found their unique blend. Their name, Unwritten Help, came from an old proverb from their hometown, which states that the best help is often unwritten, it’s in actions.

Genre: Indie Rock

Title: “Echoes From Yesterday”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G]Hear the echoes from yester[D]day,
[A]They’re calling out in dis[G]array,
[G]Memories locked in a silver [D]cage,
[A]Hoping they’ll soon find their [G]way.

(Chorus)
[C]Echoes from yesterday, [G]don’t lead me astray,
[D]Show me the road that leads [A]to her doorway,
[C]Echoes from yesterday, [G]forever I’ll pray,
[D]To see her face in the [A]light of a new day.

(Verse 2)
[G]Shadows dancing in the [D]night,
[A]Beneath the moon’s soft [G]light,
[G]Searching for what was once so [D]right,
[A]In the echoes from yester[G]night.

(Chorus)
[C]Echoes from yesterday, [G]in my heart they stay,
[D]Whispering tales of our [A]love’s ballet,
[C]Echoes from yesterday, [G]they never betray,
[D]The feelings we had, they’ll [A]never decay.

(Bridge)
[F]And though we’ve moved apart,
[C]You’re still in every beat of my [G]heart,
[F]I’ll keep listening to the [C]past,
[G]In hopes our echoes will last.

(Chorus)
[C]Echoes from yesterday, [G]don’t fade away,
[D]Keep reminding me of her [A]lovely way,
[C]Echoes from yesterday, [G]in them I sway,
[D]Reliving our love every [A]single day.

Fan’s Name: Emily Johnson
Testimonial:
“Unwritten Help isn’t just a band for me; they’re a therapy, a friend, a voice that understands me. Their music resonates with my soul. As a person struggling with anxiety and depression, their song ‘Echoes From Yesterday’ especially hit home. It’s like they’ve taken my feelings and put them into words. Every chord progression, every lyric seems to be taken from my life. Unwritten Help makes me feel seen and heard, and for that, they will always be my favourite band.”

Backstory:

Bite-Sized Cab was formed in the heart of Brooklyn, New York, in 2014. Childhood friends Anthony “Ant” Russo, a prodigious bassist, and Joshua “J” Rios, a deft drummer, decided to combine their musical prowess while they were both working as cab drivers. They were joined by singer-songwriter, Lydia “Lyds” Reynolds, who had been busking in the subways of NYC when Ant and J heard her soulful voice and immediately knew she was the missing piece to their puzzle. The name ‘Bite-Sized Cab’ was coined during a late-night brainstorming session, a tribute to their past as cab drivers and a nod to the compact yet powerful nature of their music.

Genre:

Alternative Rock with a fusion of Indie Pop.

Title:

“Yellow Lights Flashing”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
E B
Driving through the city at night,
C#m A
Neon colors flashing bright.
E B
Looking through the rearview mirror,
C#m A
Seeing life getting a little clearer.

(Chorus)
E B
Yellow lights flashing,
C#m A
Our hearts are forever clashing.
E B
In our bite-sized cab,
C#m A
We’re chasing dreams, not cash.

(Verse 2)
E B
Lydia’s voice fills the air,
C#m A
Mixing with the city’s flare.
E B
Ant’s bass and J’s steady beat,
C#m A
Make our journey seem so sweet.

(Chorus)
E B
Yellow lights flashing,
C#m A
Our souls are fiercely dashing.
E B
In our bite-sized cab,
C#m A
We found a music lab.

Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan, without a doubt, is Maggie O’Reilly. She’s been with us from the very beginning, from the days when we played gigs in small, stuffy bars to now, when we’re performing on bigger stages. Maggie’s love for our music is infectious. She once said, “Bite-Sized Cab is my favorite band because they encapsulate the spirit of New York in their music. The combination of their raw talent and the way they uniquely blend Alternative Rock with Indie Pop, it’s like a breath of fresh air. Their music has seen me through some tough times. Listening to them, it feels like I’m on a journey with them in their bite-sized cab, making the ride a little less lonely.”

Backstory:
Spherical Cycle began as an experiment in a university music lab, when four graduate students decided to merge their distinct musical backgrounds into a unique blend. This band consisted of a classic rock enthusiast, a jazz prodigy, an electronic music guru, and a classically trained pianist. The members are Alexander (Alex) Brown, the lead vocalist and guitarist. Next is Lucas (Luke) Grey, the bassist. Then there’s Benjamin (Ben) Green, the drummer, and finally, Thomas (Tom) White, the keyboardist. The name ‘Spherical Cycle’ was inspired by their belief that music is a never-ending cycle of creativity and innovation that brings people together. It’s an experience that goes full circle, just like a sphere.

The band began performing at local pubs, their university, and at small music festivals. Their unique sound quickly gained them a loyal following. Their first breakthrough came when they won the “Up and Coming” award at a local music festival. This accolade gave them the exposure they needed and led to a record deal. They’ve since toured around the country, playing at various festivals and concerts, mesmerizing audiences with their unique sound.

Genre:
Spherical Cycle’s music can be best described as Progressive Rock with a touch of Jazz and Electronic elements, creating an eclectic, yet harmonious sound.

Title:
“Eternal Echoes”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[A]Caught in the cycle, [D]spinning round and round
[G]Lost in the rhythm, [D]an ever-changing sound
[A]In the sphere of life, [D]we’re all just passing through
[G]In eternal echoes, [D]our stories unfurl and renew.

(Chorus)
[C]We’re a spherical cycle, [G]we never end
[D]In the heart of the music, [A]old scars mend
[C]In the rhythm of life, [G]we all find our place
[D]Every note, every pause, in this [A]cosmic space.

(Verse 2)
[A]In the dance of the universe, [D]we’re all intertwined
[G]In the song of existence, [D]we’re all defined
[A]Through the melody of moments, [D]we learn to thrive
[G]In the spherical cycle, [D]we come alive.

(Chorus)
[C]We’re a spherical cycle, [G]we never end
[D]In the harmony of hearts, [A]old wounds mend
[C]In the cosmic symphony, [G]we all find our tune
[D]Under the same sky, under the [A]same moon.

Testimonial:

Favorite fan’s name: Emily Williams

“Why is Spherical Cycle my favorite band? It’s quite simple, really. Their music speaks to me in a way no other band has. It’s deeply profound and yet universally relatable. Their lyrics delve into the complexities of life while their music resonates with the ebbs and flows of human emotions. They masterfully blend different genres that create a unique sound that’s both refreshing and captivating. It’s not just their music that I admire, but also their humility and their dedication towards their fans. They’re the embodiment of true artists. I’ve been a fan since their university days and it’s been a joy seeing them evolve into the band they are today. In a world filled with pretentious music, Spherical Cycle is a breath of fresh air.”

Backstory:

Established in the gritty streets of Detroit, Villainous Worry was born from the ashes of a failed punk band, ‘Screaming Sirens’. The founding members, lead vocalist Jackson “Jacks” Morris and drummer Harrison “Hawk” Dickinson, found solace in their shared love for brooding melodies and thought-provoking lyrics. Forging a new path with guitarists Catherine “Cat” Jenson and bassist Leonard “Len” Cooper, they created a unique sound that resonates with their combined experiences of rebellion, love, and despair.

Villainous Worry quickly gained traction in the underground music scene, with their raw, emotive performances and distinctive songwriting. Their music, an expression of their struggle and triumph, resonated with audiences who found solace in their lyrics. Their journey hasn’t been without obstacles, but these have only served to strengthen their resolve and feed their creative process.

Genre:

Alternative Rock/Indie

Title:

“Shadows of Yesterday”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G]Looking back on those [D]days of old,
[Em]Dreams painted in [C]black and gold.
[G]Echoes of laughter, [D]tears that we shed,
[Em]Memories of you [C]still stuck in my head.

(Chorus)
[G]Shadows of [D]yesterday,
[Em]haunting me in every [C]way.
[G]Can’t seem to [D]shake them off,
[Em]our love is the [C]highest cost.

(Verse 2)
[G]Wandering through the [D]streets at night,
[Em]Underneath the city’s [C]neon light.
[G]Our story etched on [D]every wall,
[Em]Played out like a [C]tragic fall.

(Chorus)
[G]Shadows of [D]yesterday,
[Em]taunting me in every [C]way.
[G]Can’t seem to [D]let you go,
[Em]our love is the [C]deepest woe.

Fan Testimonial:

My name is Angela Martinez, and I am arguably the biggest Villainous Worry fan. Their music has become my solace, my escape. Each song is like a journey I’ve been on, a journey full of raw emotion and a sense of understanding that’s hard to find elsewhere. My favorite song has to be “Shadows of Yesterday”. It speaks of a love lost, a memory that haunts, which is something I personally resonate with. Villainous Worry’s music helps me process my feelings in a way nothing else can. Their lyrics, their sound – it heals, it breaks, it makes me feel alive. In my life, they’re not just a band, they’re a lifeline.

Backstory:
Quaint Success was formed by a group of childhood friends in the small, sleepy town of Marwell, Georgia. Comprising of four members, they initially started playing together in a garage, covering popular songs during high school. As they grew older, their passion for music remained a constant, leading them to quit their jobs and pursue their dream in 2010. Despite the financial struggles and initial setbacks, they continued to create music that resonated with their experiences, leading to their unique sound. Their breakthrough came in 2016 when their song “Grey Skies” went viral, catapulting them into the limelight.

Genre:
Quaint Success has forged a new path in the genre of Americana mixed with Indie Rock, with their soulful lyrics and harmonic undertones. Their music is characterized by layered harmonies, intricate guitar solos, and a unique blend of traditional and contemporary elements.

Title:
“One Last Sunrise”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
G C
In the sleepy town of Marwell, we were just boys,
Am D
Playing with dreams like they were toys.
G C
We had a dream, we had a desire,
Am D
To set this quiet town on fire.

[Chorus]
G C
One last sunrise, before we say goodbye,
Am D
To our old life, under the Georgia sky.
G C
One last sunrise, before we take the flight,
Am D
Chasing our dreams, into the endless night.

[Verse 2]
G C
From the garage to the big city lights,
Am D
We held onto our dreams, oh so tight.
G C
Believed in our sound, believed in our voice,
Am D
In a world that gave us no other choice.

[Chorus]
G C
One last sunrise, before we hit the road,
Am D
Carrying our dreams, a heavy load.
G C
One last sunrise, before the break of day,
Am D
Leaving our town, but our hearts will stay.

Testimonial:

Favorite Fan: Lucy Davidson

As a music enthusiast, Lucy Davidson appreciates the authenticity of Quaint Success. From their humble beginnings to their breakthrough, she has followed their journey closely. This band is her favorite due to their honest lyrics and soulful melodies that evoke a sense of nostalgia. She admires their dedication to their craft, their perseverance in the face of challenges, and their passion for music. She says, “Every time I listen to Quaint Success, I feel like I’m part of their journey. Their song ‘One Last Sunrise’ always brings tears to my eyes. It’s a beautiful narrative of their life journey, their commitment, and their love for their hometown. Their music speaks directly to my heart, and that’s why they are my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Personal Stranger was born in the throbbing heart of New York City in the early 2000s when a group of four unacquainted musicians met in a dingy basement beneath a local music store. The band consisted of lead singer and guitarist, Riley, drummer, Ethan, bassist, Sophie, and keyboardist, Alex. They all shared a common yearning for musical exploration and expression. Over the years, they have endured the rigors and challenges associated with band life with unrelenting passion and unwavering camaraderie, continuously evolving their musical style to reflect their collective and individual experiences. Their name, ‘Personal Stranger’, signifies the paradoxical nature of human existence, with each member of the band being both intimately familiar and alien to each other and themselves.

Genre:
Alternative Rock/Electronic

Title:
“Midnight Masquerade”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse Am – F – C – G)
In the heart of the city, where the lights blind our eyes,
We’re hiding in shadows, under midnight skies.
We’re strangers by day, but when the moon claims the night,
Underneath our masks, we surrender to the fight.

(Chorus Dm – Am – F – G)
Welcome to our Midnight Masquerade, where we’re all just players in this charade.
We dance with our demons, we laugh with our fears,
In the ballroom of shadows, where reality disappears.

(Verse Am – F – C – G)
In the silence, we’re screaming, in the chaos, we’re still,
We’re the kings and the paupers, dancing at our will.
We’re the dreamers, the sinners, the saints and the liars,
We’re the sparks in the darkness, setting the night on fire.

(Chorus Dm – Am – F – G)
Welcome to our Midnight Masquerade, where we’re all just players in this charade.
We dance with our demons, we laugh with our fears,
In the ballroom of shadows, where reality disappears.

(Bridge Em – F – C – G)
As the dawn breaks, we’ll shed our disguise,
Underneath the stars, we’ll say our goodbyes.
But until then, we’re caught in this beautiful cascade,
Lost in the magic of the Midnight Masquerade.

Fan Testimonial:
Fan’s Name: Madison

“Personal Stranger has been my favorite band for over a decade now. Their music has been the soundtrack to my life – from my high school years to adulthood. Their lyrics speak to me on a personal level, making me feel seen and understood. ‘Midnight Masquerade’, in particular, is a song that has gotten me through some of my toughest times. It’s like the band understands the dichotomy of my existence and has given it a rhythm and a melody. The raw emotion in their music is tangible, and their live performances are nothing short of electrifying. To me, there’s no other band quite like Personal Stranger.”

Backstory:

Cumbersome Reign was first conceptualized in a dusty garage in Akron, Ohio, where four childhood friends realized their shared passion for music could be more than just a hobby. Tim Patterson, the charismatic frontman with a raspy voice, was the band’s driving force, alongside his best friends; guitarist Mark Sullivan with his bluesy riffs, bassist Andy Cohen with his unique punk-inspired style, and finally, the rhythmic powerhouse, drummer Ryan Williams. They initially started covering songs from their music heroes, but soon realized they had a talent for creating their unique sound, so they started to write their songs. Their humble beginnings were marked by small gigs at local bars and parties, but word quickly spread about their unique sound, and they found themselves on the local radio, then touring nationwide, and before they knew it, Cumbersome Reign hit the big stage.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Shattered Crowns”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am – E – G – D
Am – E – G – D
Running down the alleys, chasing our dreams
In a world full of chaos, or so it seems
Shadows of the past, haunting our minds
We were the rulers, lost in time

(Chorus)
Am – C – G – D
Am – C – G – D
We were Kings and Queens with shattered crowns
Lost in the noise, the uproarious sounds
Our reign was cumbersome, but we held on tight
In the darkness, we were the light

(Verse 2)
Am – E – G – D
Am – E – G – D
Blinded by ambition, our hearts in chains
When we ruled, it felt like rain
Every high and low, etched in stone
Silent rebels in a world unknown

(Chorus)
Am – C – G – D
Am – C – G – D
We were Kings and Queens with shattered crowns
Lost in the noise, the uproarious sounds
Our reign was cumbersome, but we held on tight
In the darkness, we were the light

(Bridge)
Am – F – C – G
Fallen kingdoms rise, destiny is nigh
In the face of despair, we learn to fly
Through the battles, the pain, the pride, the gain
We are the rulers of our Cumbersome Reign

(Chorus)
Am – C – G – D
Am – C – G – D
We were Kings and Queens with shattered crowns
Lost in the noise, the uproarious sounds
Our reign was cumbersome, but we held on tight
In the darkness, we were the light

Fan Testimonial:

Favorite Fan’s Name: Danny McCarthy

Why and How This Band Became His Favorite:

Danny McCarthy, an ardent music lover and avid concert goer, first encountered Cumbersome Reign at a local bar in Akron. He was immediately drawn to their raw energy and the unique blend of alternative rock with an undercurrent of blues and punk. He says, “There’s something about their music that resonates with me. The lyrics of their songs like ‘Shattered Crowns’ are so profound, they tell a story that you can relate to. And the way they perform, you can really feel the passion and emotion in every note. They’re not just a band to me, they’re storytellers who use music as their medium, and that’s what makes them my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Indolent Assessment was born out of a college dorm room in the snowy landscapes of Michigan. The founders, Alex “Thatch” Thatcher and Riley “Rye” Freeman, were roommates who had a shared passion for music and a knack for procrastinating on their coursework. One night, instead of studying for a crucial final, the duo decided to put their procrastination to good use and write a song. The result was a unique blend of rock and electronica, a sound that rang through the halls of their dormitory, earning them an unexpected following.

After college, Thatch and Rye moved to Chicago, pursuing their dreams in the city’s bustling music scene. They found additional members, drummer Jimmy “Styx” Sullivan and bassist Danni “D” Rodriguez, in a local bar during an open mic night. The four of them clicked almost instantly, and Indolent Assessment was officially formed. Their music, a statement against societal pressures and the valorization of laziness and free-thinking, resonated with listeners across the city and beyond.

Genre: Electronica Rock

Title: “Comatose Revolution”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em
Awake in the twilight, dreams caught in our sight
Am
No reason to fight, we sail on the night
Bm
Caught in the mundane, lost in the insane
C
Let’s start a comatose revolution, babe

(Chorus)
G D Em
Lazy days, hazy nights
C G D
In our minds, we take flight
G D Em
No more chains, no more fright
C G D
Let’s ignite, a comatose revolution

(Verse 2)
Em
Unravel the threads of societal dread
Am
Sleep under the stars instead, break the bread
Bm
Drown in the beats, surrender to the retreat
C
Let our hearts meet, in this comatose revolution, sweet

(Chorus)
G D Em
Lazy days, hazy nights
C G D
In our minds, we take flight
G D Em
No more chains, no more fright
C G D
Let’s ignite, a comatose revolution

(Outro)
Em C G D
Comatose revolution, we’re the solution
Em C G D
Free thinking evolution, in our institution.

Favorite Fan: Lucy “Lulu” Mitchell

Lucy “Lulu” Mitchell has been an ardent fan of Indolent Assessment since their early days. She was one of the first to stumble upon their music, playing in a small, underground bar in Chicago. Lucy, a graphic design student, appreciated their unconventional approach towards societal norms. She felt connected to their lyrics that spoke of defying pressures to fit into a mold. She has attended every concert, creating beautiful fan art and sharing it on her social media. As a testimonial, she says, “Indolent Assessment isn’t just a band to me, their music is a manifesto of my life. It’s a reassurance that it’s okay to take things slow, to take time for yourself, and not get swept away in the rat race. They’re not just musicians, they’re poets of the modern age.”

Backstory:

Traumatic Animal was born in the lively streets of Brooklyn, where vibrant music culture meets the hustle and bustle of city life. Its members, Jonny “Razor” Radcliffe and Aaron “DrumBeast” Mitchell, met at a local dive bar’s open mic night. Razor, an enigmatic singer and guitarist, was searching for a drummer who could match his passion and eccentricity. DrumBeast, a powerhouse on the drums, was looking for a project that could challenge him and push boundaries. Their meeting was serendipitous and marked the beginning of a wild journey that would take them to venues they never dreamed of performing in.

Despite their starkly different backgrounds, their shared love for pushing musical boundaries and creating something unique was a common thread that tied them together. They found their groove when they began to blend heavy rock with unexpected elements of funk, creating a genre-bending sound that took New York City by storm.

Genre:
Alternative Rock/Funk Fusion

Title:
“Bite of the Wild”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1:
(Am) Wandering through the (F) urban jungle, (C) concrete under my (G) feet,
(Am) Looking for a (F) thrill, a (C) rhythm that (G) meets my beat,
(Am) Shadows in the (F) alleyways, (C) echoes in the (G) night,
(Am) I’m a creature (F) of the city, (C) hunting for the (G) light.

Chorus:
(Am) Give me the bite of the (F) wild, the (C) roars of the crowd,
(G) Let the beat of the drums ring (Am) loud
Lost in the (F) music, I’m (C) free, I’m defiled,
(G) I need the bite, the bite of the (Am) wild.

Verse 2:
(Am) Neon lights are (F) flashing, (C) reflecting in my (G) eyes,
(Am) I feel the (F) bass pulsing, (C) reaching for the (G) skies,
(Am) This city is a (F) beast, it’s (C) heart is beating (G) fast,
(Am) With every strum, (F) I’m taming it, (C) making memories (G) last.

Chorus:
(Am) Give me the bite of the (F) wild, the (C) roars of the crowd,
(G) Let the beat of the drums ring (Am) loud
Lost in the (F) music, I’m (C) free, I’m defiled,
(G) I need the bite, the bite of the (Am) wild.

Favorite Fan:

Jesse, a local Brooklyn resident, is Traumatic Animal’s top fan. Jesse says, “There’s something special about Traumatic Animal. They’ve managed to capture the soul of this city in their music. It’s raw, it’s dynamic, and it’s unapologetically wild. It’s a reflection of the life we live here in Brooklyn. Every time I hear ‘Bite of the Wild,’ I feel like I’m walking these streets, feeling the pulse of the city all over again. For me, Traumatic Animal isn’t just a band, it’s a way of life.”

Backstory:

Unwitting Feet was formed in 2013 in the bustling college town of Lafayette, Indiana. The five-piece band formed in a whirlwind of youthful energy and a shared love of music. The members met in a local record shop, all reaching for the same limited edition vinyl. It was that chance moment that sparked the formation of Unwitting Feet. The band members – Jamie (vocals), Mike (guitar), Cassie (bass), Dave (drums), and Lily (keyboards) – were all in their early twenties and fresh out of school, eager to make a mark on the music world. They pooled their diverse musical tastes and influences, from blues to punk rock to create a sound that is as diverse as it is cohesive.

Genre:

Unwitting Feet’s music can best be described as Alternative Rock with a splash of Indie Pop. Their sound is layered and rich, with strong vocals, dynamic guitar riffs, and a rhythm section that is both solid and intricate. Their music is further characterized by its catchy hooks, thoughtful lyrics, and an infectious energy that resonates with their listeners.

Title: “Shifted Roads”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am [Am] I lost or just misplaced, G [G]
On this road I’ve failed to trace, D [D]
My heart beats with an alien pace, C [C]

(Chorus)
I’ve trod the shifted roads, G [G]
Chasing dreams that unfold, D [D]
In the echoes of the tales untold, C [C]
On the path of the brave and bold. G [G]

(Verse 2)
The stars above are my only guide, G [G]
On the roads where shadows hide, D [D]
With every step, I’ll confide, C [C]

(Chorus)
I’ve trod the shifted roads, G [G]
Chasing dreams that unfold, D [D]
In the echoes of the tales untold, C [C]
On the path of the brave and bold. G [G]

(Bridge)
In the still of the night, Em [Em]
Under the soft moonlight, D [D]
I find the strength to fight, C [C]
And chase the elusive light. G [G]

(Chorus)
I’ve trod the shifted roads, G [G]
Chasing dreams that unfold, D [D]
In the echoes of the tales untold, C [C]
On the path of the brave and bold. G [G]

Band’s Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is undoubtedly Sarah, a high school teacher from Wisconsin. Sarah has been following Unwitting Feet since their first EP. She loves the band’s energy, the way their music makes her feel alive and the depth of their lyrics. She stated, “The band has been the soundtrack to my life’s ups and downs. They’ve harnessed the power of music to convey genuine emotion and create a real connection with their listeners. It’s almost like they’ve been there with me in every pivotal moment of my life. That’s why Unwitting Feet is my favorite band. Their music is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a suite of life’s experiences.”