Backstory:

Useless Survey is a group of four college dropouts – Max (lead vocalist), Ollie (bass guitarist), Jake (drummer) and Theo (lead guitarist). They met at a university in a statistics class where they were all failing, hence the name “Useless Survey”. The professor used to say their group work was as effective as a useless survey. Instead of being offended, they embraced it, laughing off their academic shortcomings while finding solace in their combined love for music. They started jamming in their dorm rooms and slowly, Useless Survey turned from a sarcastic joke into a creative outlet none of them had ever dreamed of. After dropping out of college, they moved into a dingy apartment, surviving on noodles and dreams, and forging an unconventional path to their strange yet compelling musical journey.

Genre:

Useless Survey falls under the umbrella of Alternative Rock with a unique blend of Grunge and Punk Rock elements.

Title:

“One More Statistic”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] I’m just a number, [Em] in your eyes
[A] Another failure, [D] another disguise
[G] I’m not your experiment, [C] not your guinea pig
[F] I’m more than your [G] useless survey, my friend, my friend

(Chorus)
[C] We are more than [D] One More Statistic
[G] Not just numbers, [C] we’re strategic
[F] We are dreams that [G] won’t be dismissed
[D] We are more, we are more than this

(Verse 2)
[C] Freedom’s our hypothesis, [Em] we test it every day
[A] Sampling life, [D] in every possible way
[G] We reject your null, [C] we’re significant
[F] We’re more than your [G] useless survey, my friend, my friend

(Chorus)
[C] We are more than [D] One More Statistic
[G] Not just numbers, [C] we’re strategic
[F] We are dreams that [G] won’t be dismissed
[D] We are more, we are more than this

Fan Testimonial:

Name: Natalie “Nat” Baker

Natalie, a die-hard fan of Useless Survey, loves the band for their raw, unfiltered approach to music that echoes her own life. “Useless Survey is my favorite band because their music speaks to me on a personal level. It’s like they have translated my feelings into lyrics. Their song ‘One More Statistic’ particularly resonates with me. It’s a powerful anthem for anyone who is tired of being just another number in the system. Their music, for me, is a liberation and a rebellion against the norms, inspiring me to be more than what society expects of me.”

Backstory:

Grandiose Potato was born from the minds of four college friends – Vincent Williams on lead vocals and guitar, Rachel Smith on keyboards, and the dynamic duo of Jake and Tommy Howard on bass and drums respectively. These creative minds found unity while studying at The University of Colorado Boulder, where they bonded over their shared love for music and their unique ability to find humor in even the simplest of things. Inspired by their shared dorm room’s perpetually stocked pile of instant mashed potatoes, they named their band Grandiose Potato, a name that perfectly represents their down-to-earth nature and grand ambitions.

In their early days, the band honed their unique sound by playing at local pubs, weddings, and university events. Their infectious energy and quirky lyrics quickly earned them a loyal following. As they matured, they developed a knack for infusing humor into their profound lyrics and catchy melodies, encapsulating their fans’ experience of life’s grandiosity in the simplest things, like a potato.

Genre:

Alternative Indie Rock

Song Title:

“Spuds Unearthed”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C]Underneath the soil, [G]hidden from view,
[Dm]A spud grows strong, [Am]bold and true,
[C]It’s not a king or a [G]queen, [Dm]just a simple being,
[Am]It’s life’s grandiosity [C]unseen.

(Chorus)
[C]Oh, Grandiose Potato, [G]you’re a sight to behold,
[Dm]Your story’s untold, [Am]as your layers unfold,
[C]In your earthy heart, [G]beats a rhythm so bold,
[Dm]Spuds Unearthed, [Am]our song is told.

(Verse 2)
[C]In the farmer’s hand, [G]you’re just a meal,
[Dm]But in our band, [Am]you make us feel,
[C]Humble roots, [G]simple truth, [Dm]you are our muse,
[Am]In life’s symphony, [C]we refuse to lose.

(Repeat Chorus)
[C]Oh, Grandiose Potato, [G]you’re a sight to behold,
[Dm]Your story’s untold, [Am]as your layers unfold,
[C]In your earthy heart, [G]beats a rhythm so bold,
[Dm]Spuds Unearthed, [Am]our song is told.

Fan’s Testimonial:

My name is Sandy Collins, and Grandiose Potato has been my favorite band since their early days. Their unique blend of humor, profound lyrics, and catchy melodies resonate with my own experiences. The song “Spuds Unearthed” particularly speaks to me. It’s a reminder that grand things often have humble beginnings, just like a potato. It’s like they’ve looked into my life and put it into song. Their music brings joy to my life, and I can’t go a day without listening to them.

Backstory:
Insecure Ingredient was born in the back alleys of the bustling New York City. The members of the band met in 2011 while working at a struggling restaurant, where they were either waitstaff or kitchen crew. The three members, lead vocalist and guitarist Adam “A.J.” Johnson, bassist and backup vocalist Carlos “C.V.” Vega, and drummer Maggie “Mag” Reid connected over their shared love of music and bonded through the tough shifts and long hours. Their shared experiences of insecurity and struggles became the raw ingredient for their unique sound and quirky lyrics. After winning a local Battle of the Bands competition, Insecure Ingredient caught the attention of indie record label, “Urban Underscores”.

Genre:
Indie Rock/Alternative

Title:
“No Recipe for Love”

Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Em C G D
Broken hearts are like an old recipe,
Em C G D
Tossed around in a kitchen full of dreams,
Em C G D
A pinch of salt, a dash of bittersweet,
Em C G D
That’s what they say love’s supposed to be.

[Chorus]
Em C G D
But I’ve got no recipe for love,
Em C G D
Just a heart that’s been beaten up,
Em C G D
If love’s a dish best served cold,
Em C G D
Why does mine feel so old?

[Verse 2]
Em C G D
Stirred in the pot of endless tries,
Em C G D
Simmered in the flame of countless lies,
Em C G D
My heart’s a dish that’s been overdone,
Em C G D
In the kitchen of love, I’m always on the run.

[Chorus]
Em C G D
But I’ve got no recipe for love,
Em C G D
Just a heart that’s been beaten up,
Em C G D
If love’s a dish best served cold,
Em C G D
Why does mine feel so old?

Fan’s Testimonial:
My name is Tim Hopper, and I’ve been a fan of Insecure Ingredient since their humble beginnings in NYC’s local music scene. Their gritty, raw, and authentic sound resonated with me and many others who’ve had their share of struggles and insecurities. Their song “No Recipe for Love” is a heart-wrenching lyrical masterpiece that beautifully encapsulates the pain and struggle that comes with love and loss. It’s the kind of music that understands you, and for that, Insecure Ingredient will always be my favorite band.

Backstory:
Self-Assured Maker is a band that was formed by a group of four childhood friends in a small town in Ohio. Bonded by their common love for music, the friends – James, Brian, Zachary, and Michael – initially started off as a garage band, playing covers of their favorite songs and occasionally experimenting with their own sound. As they grew older and their music tastes evolved, so did their passion for creating original compositions. Through years of tireless work, they eventually found a sound that was uniquely their own, leading to the formation of Self-Assured Maker.

The band had their big break when their demo was picked up by a local radio station in Ohio. Their music, characterized by its authentic and relatable lyrics, quickly resonated with listeners and they soon gained popularity throughout the state. Today, Self-Assured Maker is known for their energetic live performances and deeply personal yet relatable songs, resonating with fans across the globe.

Genre: Indie Rock

Title: “Dusk till Dawn”

Full song lyrics:

[Verse 1]
G C
The road is long, the night is dark
Em D
But we keep moving, guided by a spark
G C
Chasing dreams, under the moon’s arch
Em D
With the spirit of the lark

[Chorus]
G C
From dusk till dawn, we keep pushing on
Em D
Through the darkness, through the storm
G C
With hope in our hearts, we sing our song
Em D
From dusk till dawn

[Verse 2]
G C
Paths may twist, and winds may blow
Em D
But in our hearts, the seeds of courage grow
G C
We march ahead, with a steady glow
Em D
Into the unknown, we willingly go

[Chorus]
G C
From dusk till dawn, we keep pushing on
Em D
Through the darkness, through the storm
G C
With hope in our hearts, we sing our song
Em D
From dusk till dawn

[Bridge]
Am Em
We may stumble, we may fall
C D
But together, we stand tall

[Chorus]
G C
From dusk till dawn, we keep pushing on
Em D
Through the darkness, through the storm
G C
With hope in our hearts, we sing our song
Em D
From dusk till dawn

[Outro]
G C Em D
From dusk till dawn, we keep pushing on

Fan’s Name: Sarah Thompson

Testimonial:
“I fell in love with Self-Assured Maker’s music from the moment I heard their track ‘Dusk till Dawn’ on the radio. Their lyrics speak to me on a personal level; it’s like they’ve managed to capture my own thoughts and feelings and express them through their songs. They’re my favorite band because they are authentic, their music is beautiful and they make me feel understood. Every time I listen to their tracks, it’s like they’re saying, ‘We’re with you, we understand, and we’re here to share your journey.’ Their music gives me the strength to keep going, even when times are tough.”

Backstory:
Self-Assured Part was birthed in the rainy corners of Seattle, Washington, in 2006. The band was formed by childhood friends, frontman and lead guitarist Kyle Stevens and bassist Josh Murphy, who shared a mutual love for music and a dream of making it big. Over time, they were joined by drummer Laura Stevens, Kyle’s younger sister, and keyboardist Charlie Benson, a college acquaintance. Self-Assured Part began with small gigs at local pubs and coffee houses, slowly gaining recognition for their soulful lyrics and intriguing sound. Their journey has been a roller coaster ride, from overcoming creative differences to celebrating their breakthrough album’s success, reinforcing their bond and commitment to their music.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Rain on the Asphalt”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[A] I’m walking down the streets, [D] drenched in memories,
[G] The rain on the asphalt, [E] whispers your symphony.
[A] Beneath the city lights, [D] shadows start to dance,
[G] The rhythm of the night, [E] plays our last romance.

(Chorus)
[D] Rain on the asphalt, [G] you’re a melody,
[A] Echoing through time, [E] the song of our history.
[D] In every drop I see, [G] traces of your love,
[A] It’s a dance, it’s a trance, [E] it’s never enough.

(Verse 2)
[A] Underneath the moonlight, [D] time begins to freeze,
[G] Your phantom in my heart, [E] brings me to my knees.
[A] The echoes of your laugh, [D] in the rustling leaves,
[G] Rain on the asphalt, [E] is all that I perceive.

(Chorus)
[D] Rain on the asphalt, [G] you’re a harmony,
[A] Echoing through time, [E] painting our symphony.
[D] In every drop I see, [G] fragments of your soul,
[A] It’s a dance, it’s a trance, [E] you make me whole.

Band’s favorite fan:
The band’s favorite fan is Emily Thompson. Emily shared her story with the band at a Meet & Greet after a concert in Portland, Oregon. She explained how their music had helped her through a difficult period of her life, providing comfort and strength. The band was moved by Emily’s resilience and her emotional connection to their songs. Emily’s testimonial: “Self-Assured Part is more than just a band for me. Their music is a sanctuary, a place where I can lose and find myself all at once. Their songs resonate deeply, each lyric touching a part of my soul. They are my favorite because their music feels like home, a safe haven amidst life’s chaos. Their song ‘Rain on the Asphalt’ is my constant companion, a lighthouse in my darkest storms.”

Backstory:

Unfit Bed emerged from the boisterous back alleys of New York City, formed in 2010 by childhood friends, lead vocalist and guitarist Sam Turner and bassist Joshua Reed. Sam, a former bookshop employee and Joshua, a part-time bartender, found solace in their shared passion for music amidst the city’s chaos. They were later joined by drummer Alex Marshall and keyboardist Sylvia Martinez, who brought a new dynamism to their sound. The band earned their name from their first unofficial studio – a dilapidated loft with a broken down bed that they deemed “unfit” but nevertheless served as their creative haven.

Genre: Indie Rock

Title: “Sleepless Lullaby”

Full song lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Em G
In the city’s graying shadows, under neon skies,
C D
We found our notes and rhythm, our silent cries.

Em G
Beneath the weight of dreams, on a broken bed,
C D
We built our world of music, where love was bred.

[Chorus]
Em G
Oh, it’s our sleepless lullaby,
C D
In the heart of the endless night.
Em G
Lost in this urban lullaby,
C D
We found our dreams taking flight.

[Verse 2]
Em G
Strumming strings and beating drums, our hearts awake,
C D
In the rhythm of the city, for our own sake.

Em G
Through the noise and the silence, we found our song,
C D
In this unfit bed, where we truly belong.

[Chorus]
Em G
Oh, it’s our sleepless lullaby,
C D
In the heart of the endless night.
Em G
Lost in this urban lullaby,
C D
We found our dreams taking flight.

Fan’s Name: Jenny McCarthy

Testimonial:

“I’ve been an avid fan of Unfit Bed since their first gig in a local bar. Their music, steeped in raw emotion and an intrinsic connection to the city, speaks volumes to me. ‘Sleepless Lullaby’ is particularly special. Its lyrics resonate with my own experience of finding beauty in the chaos of city life. The melody seeps into your soul, and the words echo long after the song ends. Unfit Bed isn’t just my favorite band; they’re an essential part of my life.”

Backstory:
Bruised Cherry, originally founded in 2014, is a unique assortment of musicians originating from various parts of the United States. The band members met in a small city in Ohio at a local music festival. The original members, lead vocalist Malcolm “Mack” Jones, bassist Lila Rose, and drummer Alex “Ajax” Johnson, found an immediate connection through their shared interest in creating new, experimental sounds and challenging traditional music norms. The band was later expanded to include guitarist and backing vocalist Sara Donovan. The name “Bruised Cherry” was coined after the band’s experimental first gig, where they played under the cherry trees until they were bruised and battered.

Genre: Alternative Rock/ Indie

Title: “Bitter Sweet Symphony”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[A] Living in the [D] sideways, broken dreams, [G] bruised heart, [E] shattered seams,
[A] Trying to find the [D] upside in a world that [G] only screams. [E]

(Chorus)
[A] We are the [D] Bitter Sweet Symphony,
[G] Dancing on [E] life’s tricky symphony,
[A] In the darkest [D] hour, we find [G] our power,
That’s the [E] heart of our [A] melody.

(Verse 2)
[A] Tears like [D] rain, they fall and [G] cleanse,
In this [E] world, making no [A] sense.
[D] But we keep on [G] marching, not on [E] defense.

(Chorus)
[A] We are the [D] Bitter Sweet Symphony,
[G] In pain and [E] joy, we find our harmony,
[A] In the lost paradise, [D] finding our device,
That’s the [E] heart of our [A] melody.

Band’s Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a 25-year-old woman named Emily. Emily, a radiology technician by day and a dedicated music enthusiast by night, stumbled upon Bruised Cherry’s music during a challenging time in her life. She found comfort and strength in their lyrics and the raw emotion they conveyed through their music. As a testimony, Emily says, “Bruised Cherry’s music is healing. It’s raw, real, and it speaks to the soul. Their songs are stories that resonate with everyone, no matter where they are in life. They are not just a band; they are storytellers painting pictures with their music.” Emily has attended every concert within a 100-mile radius of her home and has an impressive collection of band merchandise. Her unwavering support, dedication, and love for the band make her a favorite in the Bruised Cherry community.

Backstory:
Unrealistic Mixture was originally a duo formed in 2013 by lead vocalist and guitarist, Jason Wells, and drummer, Lucas Adams, in the small town of Pinnacles, North Carolina. When Jason and Lucas were sophomores in high school, they discovered a mutual love for music and began jamming together in Jason’s garage. The addition of charismatic bassist, Sarah Martinez, in 2016, completed the line-up, and the band started to create a distinctive sound that resonated with the local community. After winning a local battle of the bands, they quickly gained popularity and began touring regionally. Their diverse influences have helped them create a unique sound, earning them a dedicated fanbase that continues to grow.

Genre: Indie Rock

Title: “Eclipse of the Heart”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Staring at the [D] moonlight, lost in the [Em] dark,
[C] Waiting for a sign, for a [G] spark.
[G] Memories of you [D] play in my mind,
[Em] Love like ours, [C] is hard to find.

(Chorus)
[G] Eclipse of the heart, [D] shadows on the floor,
[Em] You’re still the one that I [C] adore.
[G] Light up the darkness, [D] bring back the day,
[Em] Don’t let our love just [C] fade away.

(Verse 2)
[G] Nights are cold and [D] days are long,
[Em] Without you here, everything feels [C] wrong.
[G] Underneath the stars, [D] alone and blue,
[Em] Every lyric and chord, [C] still reminds me of you.

(Chorus)
[G] Eclipse of the heart, [D] shadows on the floor,
[Em] You’re still the one that I [C] adore.
[G] Light up the darkness, [D] bring back the day,
[Em] Don’t let our love just [C] fade away.

(Bridge)
[D] We danced and laughed, [Em] under the moon so bright,
[C] But now it’s just an [G] echo of the night.
[D] I’m holding on, [Em] to the memories we shared,
[C] Hoping one day, [G] you’ll remember how much we cared.

(Outro)
[G] Eclipse of the heart, [D] the end of our tale,
[Em] A love so strong, [C] it was destined to fail.
[G] Light up the darkness, [D] bring back the day,
[Em] I remember you, [C] as you slowly fade away.

Fan Testimonial:
My name is Jenny Thompson, and I am possibly the biggest Unrealistic Mixture fan out there! Their unique indie rock sound resonates with me on a personal level. Their lyrics, especially in “Eclipse of the Heart,” tell stories that feel incredibly real and relatable. I’ve been attending their shows since their garage days, and I can truly say they’ve never lost their authenticity. They have a raw, emotive power that draws you in and makes you feel part of a shared experience. This band is my favorite because they’ve maintained their down-to-earth nature while creating some genuinely unforgettable music. The relationship they have with their fans, like me, is genuine, and it makes me feel connected to something bigger. Their music is the soundtrack to my life!

Backstory:
Guilty Queen was formed in 2019, in the heartland of Chicago’s blues and rock scene. The band initially started as a group of friends who would get together for jamming sessions, but their shared passion for music soon took them beyond the confines of their garage. The band’s members include the charismatic frontman, Luke “Lucifer” Daniels, who brings raw energy to the stage, the ever-cool bassist, Jeffrey “Jazz” O’Sullivan, who keeps the band grounded with his steady rhythms, the enigmatic drummer, Maya “Mad Dog” Turner, who delivers complex percussive patterns, and the eccentric lead guitarist, Oscar “The Oracle” Fitzgerald, who weaves intricate solos.

Their chemistry on stage and the unique harmony between their diverse influences soon caught the attention of the local music community. Guilty Queen began to play in local bars, clubs, and music festivals, leaving audiences in awe of their powerful performances. Their rise to fame was meteoric and they quickly gained a dedicated fan base.

Genre:
Alternative Rock/Blues

Title:
“Crystal Tears”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am C G
She walks on, like a midnight sun,
Dm Am
Her eyes like crystal tears.
Am C G
Underneath the neon lights,
Dm Am
She hides her secret fears.

(Chorus)
F C G
Guilty Queen, in her high heeled dreams,
Am Dm F
Running wild, in the city night.
F C G
Guilty Queen, nothing’s what it seems,
Am Dm F
In the shadows of the pale moonlight.

(Verse 2)
Am C G
Through the smoke, and the bustling crowd,
Dm Am
She’s dancing with her fears.
Am C G
In the heart of the city’s roar,
Dm Am
She’s drowned out the jeers.

(Chorus)
F C G
Guilty Queen, in her high heeled dreams,
Am Dm F
Running wild, in the city night.
F C G
Guilty Queen, nothing’s what it seems,
Am Dm F
In the shadows of the pale moonlight.

Fan’s Name: Rosie Thompson

Rosie’s Testimonial:
“Ever since I first heard Guilty Queen at a local festival, I have been completely smitten. Their energy, their raw emotion, and their passion is infectious. Each song tells a story and speaks to my soul. The lyrics of “Crystal Tears” especially resonate with me, as it describes a struggle that I think many of us can relate to. It’s their authenticity that sets them apart, and that’s why they are my absolute favorite band.”

Backstory:
Born out of the vibrant and eclectic music scene of the Pacific Northwest, Hearty Cloud brings together four highly creative and passionate musicians. The band’s adventure started in a small coastal town of Oregon, where members- Benjamin “Benny” Stein (lead vocals, guitar), Cynthia “Cindy” Taylor (bass, backing vocals), Jeremy “Jerry” Peters (drums), and Mabel “Mae” Madison (keyboards, backing vocals) found common ground in their shared love for music. Benny, a former solo folk artist, met Cindy at a local jam session. Jerry, a former band member of a punk rock band, crossed paths with them at a vinyl store. Mae, a classically trained pianist, was a childhood friend of Benny and readily accepted the invitation to join. The band started their journey playing at local gigs, crafting their unique sound that soon gained the attention of a music label, leading to their rise in the indie music scene.

Genre:
Indie Pop/ Rock

Title:
”Winds of Change”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
C G Am
The sun sets on the crimson horizon,
F C G
Reflecting dreams in our eyes,
C G Am
With every heartbeat, we breathe in the rhythm,
F C G
Embracing the winds of change.

(Chorus)
F C G
Look up, the hearty cloud is dancing,
Am F C
In the endless canvas of blue,
F C G
We’re not just surviving, we’re thriving,
Am F C
Carried by the winds of change.

(Verse 2)
C G Am
Through the storm, the hearty cloud is sailing,
F C G
Guiding us to a brand-new day,
C G Am
With faith in our hearts, we’re creating,
F C G
A melody that echoes in the winds of change.

(Chorus)
F C G
Look up, the hearty cloud is singing,
Am F C
A song that whispers of hope,
F C G
We’re not just living, we’re dreaming,
Am F C
Riding on the winds of change.

Fan’s Testimonial:
“Hi, I’m Lucy Grant, the self-proclaimed biggest fan of Hearty Cloud! I fell in love with their music the first time I heard them at a local gig in our town. It was the authenticity of their lyrics and the soulful melody that captivated me. Their song ‘Winds of Change’ speaks to me on a personal level, about resilience, hope, and the strength to embrace change. Every time I listen to it, I feel uplifted and inspired. Their music is like a hearty cloud in my life, bringing me comfort and joy. Their unique blend of indie pop/rock, combined with relatable lyrics and mesmerizing performances, is why Hearty Cloud is my favorite band.”