Backstory:
Born in the heart of New England, the members of “Rural Lane” found their music roots in the picturesque beauty of their countryside surroundings. The Band was formed by three childhood friends: Jesse Dawson, Luke O’Brien, and Amy Thompson, who shared not only an undeniable bond but an indistinguishable passion for music as well. Jesse, the lead vocalist and guitarist, was the son of a local artist, while Luke, the drummer, grew up working on his family’s apple farm. On the other hand, Amy, the bassist, carried her love for music from her grandfather, who was a folk musician. They started making music together in their late teens, finding inspiration from their rural life, love, and the pure simplicity of their environment.

Genre:
Folk Rock

Title:
“Sunset on the Orchard”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1: (G-Em-C-D)
In the heart of the country, where the apple trees grow
(G Em C D)
Lived a boy with a dream and a heart full of hope
(G Em C D)
By the day, he’d pick apples, by the night, he’d strum chords
(G Em C D)
In the quiet of his barn, he found his voice heard.

Chorus: (C-G-D-Em)
His dreams were like the sunset on the orchard
(C G D Em)
Radiant, warm, and full of color
(C G D Em)
His love was like a song, ringing loud and clear
(C G D Em)
In the silence of the countryside, the only sound you’d hear.

Verse 2: (G-Em-C-D)
The town girl, she heard him, drawn by his tune
(G Em C D)
Their hearts found a rhythm in the light of the moon
(G Em C D)
Together they danced, their bodies swaying like trees
(G Em C D)
Their love story told in the lyrics and the breeze.

Chorus: (C-G-D-Em)
Their love was like the sunset on the orchard
(C G D Em)
Radiant, warm, and full of color
(C G D Em)
Their story was like a song, ringing loud and clear
(C G D Em)
In the silence of the countryside, the only sound you’d hear.

Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Rosie, a school teacher from their hometown. Rosie loved Rural Lane not just because they were her students once, but because their music resonated with her. She found their songs comforting, and the lyrics, deeply relatable. She believed that their music encapsulated the essence of their small town and the simple, unfiltered lives of its residents. Their music was a testament to their lived experiences, and to her, this raw honesty was what made Rural Lane special. In her words, “The music of Rural Lane is a song of home, reminding us of who we are and where we come from. It’s like a sunset on the orchard, warm, comforting, and always welcoming you back.”

Backstory:

‘Weary Crayon’ emerged in the vibrant alleys of Bristol, England in the early 2010s. Three friends, high school dropouts with a dream of making music, formed the band. The name ‘Weary Crayon’ came from their shared relatability to a worn-out crayon, constantly being used to create colorful masterpieces but eventually losing its shape and size. They aimed to channel their struggles, dreams, and desires into a musical journey that would resonate with listeners who felt the same.

Their journey has not always been smooth; they’ve faced numerous obstacles, from lineup changes to near breakups. What has remained constant, however, is their commitment to creating music that speaks to the heart. ‘Weary Crayon’ has matured over the years, but their essence of portraying life’s realities through their tunes remains the same.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Title:

“Colourless Canvas”

Full Song Lyrics with Chord Progression:

(Verse 1 – C G Am F)
C
I’m a weary crayon in a child’s hand
G
Drawing dreams on a colourless canvas
Am
Made up of hopes, made up of sand
F
In this world where nothing seems to last

(Chorus – G Am F C)
G
I splash colours, I paint the blues
Am
I fade away, I am old news
F
But in your heart, I am brand new
C
On your canvas, I am the hue

(Verse 2 – C G Am F)
C
Old and worn, I’ve lost my shape
G
But I’m still here, it’s never too late
Am
I’ll paint the dawn, I’ll sketch the gate
F
On this colourless canvas, I’ll draw our fate

(Chorus – G Am F C)
G
I splash colours, I paint the blues
Am
I fade away, I am yesterday’s news
F
But in your heart, I am brand new
C
On your canvas, I am the hue

(Bridge – Am F G C)
Am
A weary crayon, a timeless tale
F
In a world that’s often cold and stale
G
But with every stroke, every detail
C
I paint a story that will never pale

(Chorus – G Am F C)
G
I splash colours, I paint the blues
Am
I fade away, I am old news
F
But in your heart, I am brand new
C
On your canvas, I am the hue

Fan Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan, Jenny O’Brien, has been following them since their earliest days. Jenny, a painter herself, connects deeply with ‘Weary Crayon’s’ music’s rawness and the band’s journey. She says, “There’s a part of ‘Weary Crayon’ in every artist – the struggle, the passion, the drive to create something beautiful even when things are tough. Their music isn’t just tunes to me; it’s a kind of solace. Every song they make is like a brushstroke on my canvas. They’ve been my favorite band since the day I found them busking in a cold Bristol street, and they always will be.”

Backstory:

Sticky Jewel got its start in the bustling, music-rich city of Austin, Texas. The lead singer, Jake Morgan, and drummer, Liam Harper, were childhood friends who spent hours jamming in their parent’s garages. They were later joined by bassist, Molly Matthews, and lead guitarist, Benji Shaw, who they met at a local music festival. The name “Sticky Jewel” was birthed from their love of sweet southern BBQ and the gem of camaraderie they found in each other.

The band struggled initially, playing late-night shows in small bars and clubs around the state. Their big break came when they were discovered by a well-known record producer, who happened to hear their music at a local BBQ joint. He was captivated by their unique sound and immediately signed them to his label. This catapulted Sticky Jewel into the limelight, bringing them fans from around the world who loved their authentic, bluesy rock.

Genre: Blues Rock

Title: “Barbecue Blues”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1: E – A – D – G)
Sunday afternoon, the sun is high, (E – A – D – G)
Smoke curling up to the sapphire sky. (E – A – D – G)
Got my baby by my side, (E – A – D – G)
And a plate of ribs, smoked and fried. (E – A – D – G)

(Chorus: C – G – A – E)
Got the Barbecue Blues, (C – G – A – E)
Hot sauce and sticky honeydews. (C – G – A – E)
Guitars wailin’, as the meat’s a grilling, (C – G – A – E)
Oh, I got the Barbecue Blues; it’s a feeling. (C – G – A – E)

(Verse 2: E – A – D – G)
Mama’s potato salad, Grandma’s beans, (E – A – D – G)
Nothing finer than this southern cuisine. (E – A – D – G)
Cold beer in hand, as the record spins, (E – A – D – G)
These are the days I wish would never end. (E – A – D – G)

(Repeat Chorus)

Favorite Fan Testimonial:
My name is Daisy and I’ve been a die-hard fan of Sticky Jewel since their first gig at The Rusty Spur. Their music just speaks to my soul; it’s raw, energetic, and just feels like home. “Barbecue Blues” is my favorite track – it’s a sensory delight, taking me back to those lazy summer days, BBQing with family. They’re more than just a band for me, they’re a part of my life.

Backstory:
Unequaled Believe is a band that emerged from the heart of Appalachia, united by their shared passion for music and a belief in the power of sound to change lives. Each member comes from a different background, bringing their unique experiences and influences to the band. Mason, the lead vocalist, was raised by a blues musician father and a gospel singer mother, while the guitarist, Rory, was heavily influenced by the grunge era. The drummer, Jasper, fell in love with the beat of classic rock, and the bassist, Sam, grew up with a fondness for country music. Their differences have become their strength, combining to form a sound that’s truly unique and captivating.

The band came together after a chance meeting at a music festival. They instantly clicked and began jamming together, improvising and creating songs that drew crowds. With their unique blend of sounds and their passionate performances, Unequaled Believe quickly gained a loyal following. They’ve since toured all over the country, sharing their music and connecting with fans through their heartfelt lyrics and unmatched energy.

Genre:
Unequaled Believe’s music is a fusion of blues, grunge, classic rock, and country, creating a unique genre they like to call “Crossroad Rock.”

Title:
“One More Truth”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
G Em
Underneath a painted sky,
C D
Seeking solace in the night.
G Em
Find the strength to stand again,
C D
Turn the page, let it begin.

(Chorus)
G Em
One more truth, one more lie,
C D
In the darkness, learn to fly.
G Em
Break the chains, free your mind,
C D
With one more truth left to find.

(Verse 2)
G Em
Whispers of a broken past,
C D
Echoes of a love that’s meant to last.
G Em
A melody that heals the soul,
C D
Puts together what was once whole.

(Chorus)
G Em
One more truth, one more lie,
C D
In the silence, learn to cry.
G Em
Break the walls, cross the line,
C D
With one more truth left to define.

The band’s favorite fan’s name and testimonial:

Name: Lenny Thompson

“Lenny Thompson here. I’ve been a huge fan of Unequaled Believe since their first gig in my hometown. When they took the stage, something just clicked. I’ve never heard music quite like theirs – it’s like they’ve taken all the best parts of different genres and combined them into something magical. Their lyrics speak to me on a personal level, like they’ve seen into my soul and are singing about my own experiences. Every performance is an emotional journey. They’ve got a fan in me for life.”

Backstory:
Formed in the backdrop of the buzzing New York City music scene in 2012, Feminine Declaration began as a powerful collaboration between childhood friends Laura Stevens and Samantha Meyers. The duo, initially just dabbling in songwriting and casual jam sessions, soon found a unique chemistry that led to the creation of a sound that was distinctly their own. Their music quickly caught local attention, leading to the expansion of the band with the addition of bassist Michelle Chen and drummer Eliza Thompson. Despite the ups and downs faced by the band, including sliding popularity and changes in the music industry, the band’s commitment to producing music that inspires and empowers women around the world has never wavered.

Genre:
Indie Pop/Rock with a touch of Electronic

Title:
“Unchained Melody of the Brave”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am C G D
She walks in shadows, hidden from the dawn,
Am C G D
In the silence of her heart, a battle’s being fought.
Am C G D
Yet, she perseveres, with every beat, every breath,
Am C G D
Unfolding her story, defying her death.

(Chorus)
G D Am C
She is the melody, the unchained melody of the brave,
G D Am C
In the rhythm of her footsteps, she is paving her own way.
G D Am C
She is the melody, the unchained melody of the free,
G D Am C
In the echoes of her laughter, she is writing history.

(Verse 2)
Am C G D
Her spirit dances, on the rhythm of her dreams,
Am C G D
A symphony of courage, in the face of life’s extremes.
Am C G D
Silent no more, her voice rings loud and clear,
Am C G D
A declaration of strength, for all the world to hear.

Chorus repeats

Band’s favorite fan:
The band’s favorite fan is Rebecca Thompson, a school teacher from Chicago. Rebecca first heard Feminine Declaration during a difficult time in her life and their music became her solace. She says, “Their music isn’t just soothing, it’s empowering. There is something incredibly moving about the raw, unfiltered emotion in their songs. As a woman, their music resonates with me on a deeply personal level. Their song ‘Unchained Melody of the Brave’ became my personal anthem during a time I was fighting my own personal battles. I owe a lot to their music and can’t imagine a day without it. Feminine Declaration is my favorite, not just because of their amazing tunes, but also because of their inspiring message and the strong women they are.”

Backstory:
Everlasting Plaintiff came together in 2008, borne out of a restless youth, shared love for music, and the gritty heartbeat of their hometown Portland, Oregon. The four members, lead singer and guitarist Alex Turner, drummer Noah Johnson, bassist Eli Reed, and keyboardist Sarah White, were childhood friends who rediscovered each other’s passion for music in their late teens. Their raw talent and shared vision for a unique sound gathered them a loyal following, propelling them from basement gigs to the main stages of local music festivals.

Their journey has been a series of ups and downs, from years of struggling to make ends meet to the pressure of sudden popularity. Yet, they never lost sight of what brought them together – their shared love for music and the desire to give voice to the underrepresented. Their music speaks of resilience, love, heartbreak and the everyday struggle of life, winning them a dedicated fan base that resonates with their honest and raw narratives.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Shadows in the Rain”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse: (C – G – Am – F)
C G Am F
Look in the mirror, what do you see?
C G Am F
A faded reflection, a memory of me
C G Am F
Running in circles, lost in the pain
C G Am F
We’re just shadows dancing in the rain

Chorus: (Em – F – C – G)
Em F C G
The sun will rise, wash away the gray
Em F C G
But we’re still standing, come what may
Em F C G
Just hold on tight, through joy and pain
Em F C G
We’re everlasting, like shadows in the rain.

(Bridge and final verses continue with same progression)

Fan Testimonial:
Everlasting Plaintiff’s favorite fan, Jessica Martinez, has been following the band since their earliest shows. She’s seen them at their lowest and at their highest and remained loyal throughout. As a teenager struggling with her own demons, their music provided her with comfort and understanding. “Everlasting Plaintiff isn’t just a band, it’s a movement, a voice for those who feel unheard,” Jessica says. “Their music speaks the truth, raw and unfiltered. It’s not just the riffs and rhythms, it’s their soul-baring lyrics that connect me to them. They’ve been the soundtrack to my life, their music providing solace during my darkest times. I feel seen, I feel heard, and that’s why they’re my favorite.”

Backstory:
Ancient Doctor is an enigmatic rock band that was born amidst the smoky lounges and underground clubs of Seattle in the late ’80s. The band members, lead singer Simon “Mysterioso” Blake, guitarist Cameron “Thrasher” Giles, bassist Joey “Voodoo” Murphy, and drummer Alex “Timekeeper” Hughes, found each other in the music scene’s chaotic fray and bonded over a shared fascination with the mythical, the mystical, and the medicinal arts of ages past. They decided to channel these passions into their music, dubbing themselves the Ancient Doctor.

Their eclectic sound was born from a fusion of their diverse musical backgrounds. Simon came from a folk-rock pedigree, Cameron from grunge, Joey from jazz, and Alex from a punk background. Together, they managed to craft a unique sonic blend that seemed to transcend time and space, echoing the wisdom and mysteries of the ancients while still resonating with the modern spirit.

Genre: Alternative Rock

Title: “Chalice of Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1: (C-Em-D-G)
In the land of forgotten dreams, (C)
Where the sun never beams (Em)
I found a chalice of shadows, (D)
In the silence, it gleams. (G)

Chorus: (Am-C-Em-D)
Chalice of Shadows, (Am)
Ancient whispers it hews, (C)
Bathed in darkness, steeped in lore, (Em)
Sippin’ on the ancient brew. (D)

Verse 2: (C-Em-D-G)
In the echoes of time long past, (C)
The secrets eternal, so vast, (Em)
Chalice of Shadows, (D)
Quench my thirst at last. (G)

Chorus: (Am-C-Em-D)
Chalice of Shadows, (Am)
Ancient wisdom it spews, (C)
Drenched in mystery, steeped in truth, (Em)
Drinking from the cosmic flue. (D)

Outro: (C-Em-D-G)
Here in the realm of forgotten dreams, (C)
Where reality comes apart at the seams, (Em)
Chalice of Shadows, (D)
You are more than you seem. (G)

Fan Testimonial:
Fan’s name: Tabitha Rhys
“I’m a total Ancient Doctor fanatic! Their song ‘Chalice of Shadows’ literally blew me away. It’s like they’re weaving this magical story you can’t help but get lost in. The music itself is so powerful, so heavy but also so melodic. It’s like they’ve managed to capture the very essence of the ancient world and imbue it with a modern twist. I feel like I’m on a mystical journey every time I listen to their music. Plus, I’ve met them a couple of times after their shows and they are the coolest guys ever. So down to earth and genuine. I can’t wait for their next album.”

Backstory:
Equatorial Mask was formed in the vibrant music scene of Austin, Texas in 2011. The band’s four members, lead vocalist and guitarist Jake Armstrong, drummer Sam Quinlan, bassist Matt Bergman, and keyboardist Lily Hopkins met while studying music at the University of Texas. They started jamming in their spare time, experimenting with various styles and blending their different influences to create a unique sound.

While they initially struggled to find their footing in the highly competitive Austin music scene, they got their break in 2013 when they were spotted by music producer Danny Lovett at a local gig. Impressed by their talent and originality, Lovett signed them to his independent label, Bluebonnet Records, and they’ve been on the rise ever since.

Genre:
Equatorial Mask is best known for their eclectic sound which is a fusion of Indie Folk and World Music.

Title:
“Longitude of Love”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1:
Em G
Underneath the crescent moon,
D A
We danced to the equatorial tune,
Em G
Our shadows danced on the dunes,
D A
In the longitude of love.

Chorus:
C G
In the latitude of your smile,
D Em
I could walk a thousand miles,
C G
Cross the desert, swim the Nile,
D A
In the longitude of love.

Verse 2:
Em G
The stars were our guiding light,
D A
In the stillness of the African night,
Em G
Your eyes, they shone so bright,
D A
In the longitude of love.

Chorus:
C G
In the latitude of your touch,
D Em
I’ve never felt so much,
C G
Your love, it is my crutch,
D A
In the longitude of love.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Sophia. She has been a dedicated follower since their early days, attending their local shows, and has stayed supportive as they achieved bigger success. Here’s what she has to say about Equatorial Mask:

“Sophia’s Testimonial: From their soulful lyrics to their rhythmic melodies, Equatorial Mask has a sound that transports you to a different place and time. Their music is not just a fusion of genres; it’s a fusion of emotions, experiences, and cultures. It’s like taking a journey around the world while standing in your living room. The authenticity and passion they bring to their music make them my favorite band. There’s just no one else quite like Equatorial Mask.”

Backstory:
Yummy Cellar was formed in the small town of Buxton, Maine in 2007. Composed of high school friends Ethan “Rusty” Russell on guitar, Benjamin “Benny” Matthews on bass, Paul “P.J.” Johnson on drums, and the charismatic lead vocalist, Emily “Em” Harris. The band started off playing in local pubs and festivals, but their unique sound quickly garnered attention and soon they were selling out small venues across the state. Their meteoric rise was interrupted when Em needed to take an indefinite break due to health issues. However, in 2014, Yummy Cellar made a triumphant return with a new energy and a refined sound.

Their music is a reflection of their shared experiences, with the themes often revolving around the struggles of small-town life, personal turmoil, and the quest for positivity. They’re known for their lively performances, engaging the crowd with their raw energy and passion, and they believe in connecting with their fans on a personal level.

Genre:
Yummy Cellar’s music can be primarily classified as Indie Rock, but with a healthy influence of Alternative Country, characterized by Em’s soulful vocals and the band’s unique approach to storytelling.

Title:
“Echoes of the Sunflower”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Sunflowers on the road, [D] as far as eyes can see,
[Em] Memories of old, [C] it’s where we used to be.

[G] Laughter and the tears, [D] dancing in the rain,
[Em] Years turn into years, [C] echoes of the pain.

(Chorus)
[G] We are the echoes of the sunflower, [D] standing tall and free,
[Em] Bound by roots, bathed in power, [C] in the field of memory.

(Verse 2)
[G] Remember the moonlit nights, [D] the secrets we would share,
[Em] Underneath the starry lights, [C] floating in the air.

[G] Silence and the song, [D] whispers in the wind,
[Em] This is where we belong, [C] this is where we’ve been.

(Chorus)
[G] We are the echoes of the sunflower, [D] growing wild and free,
[Em] Captured in an endless hour, [C] in the heart of you and me.

The band’s favorite fan’s name and testimonial:
Name: Alice Martin

Testimonial: “Yummy Cellar isn’t just my favorite band because of their incredible music, but also for the way their songs resonate with my own life. Their lyrics are so genuine and relatable that it feels like they’re speaking directly to me. It’s like they’ve managed to put my thoughts and feelings into words, and that’s a truly special thing. ‘Echoes of the Sunflower’ speaks to my heart in a way no other song has. I’ve been following them since their early days and seeing their journey, their passion, and their love for their fans, it’s no wonder they’re my absolute favorite.”

Backstory:

Angelic Auditor is a four-piece band hailing from Liverpool, England, formed in 2002. Spencer Hardwick (lead vocals, guitar), Ryan Butler (bass), Leo Pearson (drums) and Mike Graham (keyboard) all attended the same high school, sharing a mutual love for music that transcended the classroom. They had a dream of bringing a unique sound to the music industry – a dream that led to countless lunch breaks and after-school hours spent in a make-shift garage studio. They gained a small local following performing at school talent shows and local pubs, which gradually grew to a substantial fan base.

After their graduation, they decided to put their collective passion to the test and committed to form Angelic Auditor. After years of struggling, crafting their signature sound, playing small-time gigs, and garnering a dedicated fan base, they finally got their big break in 2007 when they were signed to a major record label after their demo was passed onto a talent scout. Their music has since been noted for its compelling mix of existential themes and ethereal sounds.

Genre:
Indie Pop-Rock

Title: “Celestial Whispers”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[E] Underneath the [B] veil of night [C#m]
[A] Stars whispering [B] their celestial right
[E] No one else [B] can hear their plight [C#m]
[B] Except you and [E] me in the [A] pale moonlight

(Chorus)
[E] We are the [B] conduit of [C#m] their voice
[A] Our hearts interwoven [B] by invisible choice
[E] The Angelic Auditor, [B] we rejoice [C#m]
[B] In the silent symphony, [E] we hoist

(Verse 2)
[E] In the echoes of [B] the cosmic wheel [C#m]
[A] We find solace, [B] we start to heal
[E] In the canvas of [B] the night, we seal [C#m]
[B] Our anthem to the [E] starry [A] appeal

(Chorus)
[E] We are the [B] agents of [C#m] their wishes
[A] Translating silence, [B] breaking the leashes
[E] The Angelic Auditor, [B] the night’s dishes [C#m]
[B] A feast for the soul, [E] in starry [A] kisses

Fan:

Their favorite fan’s name is Emily. Emily first discovered Angelic Auditor during a particularly tough time in her life. She was drawn to the band’s profound lyrics and unique sound, which she found comforting and healing. The band’s dedication to their craft, their ethereal tunes, and their humble beginnings make them her favorite band. Emily’s testimonial: “Angelic Auditor’s music provides an escape, it’s like they’re speaking directly to my soul. Their music is a lighthouse during life’s storms, and I’m forever grateful for their existence.”