Backstory:

Jolly Leg is a three-piece band formed in the small coastal town of North Bay, Oregon. It all started in a local dive bar where Jake “JP” Patterson, Leroy “LJ” Jenkins, and Oscar “Oz” Zimmerman would gather on Friday nights. Each of them was an accomplished musician in their own right, but it was their shared love for music and a few rounds of brew that brought them together to form a band. Their name, Jolly Leg, came from a local legend about a pirate who used to roam the coasts, rumoured to be the cheeriest peg-legged rogue who ever lived.

The band started playing at local gigs, soon garnering a dedicated following. Their sound was unique, their chemistry undeniable, and their spirit infectious. They took their music on the road, touring all over the country and bringing a piece of North Bay with them wherever they went.

Genre:

Folk Rock

Title:

“Riding the Coastal Wind”

Lyrics:

Verse 1: (A, E, D, A)
(A) The wind in our sails and the (E) sun in our eyes,
(D) North Bay is where our (A) heart lies.
(A) The waves sing a song, and (E) we sing along,
(D) With our guitars and a (A) pirate’s song.

Chorus: (E, D, A, E)
(E) Riding the coastal wind, (D) under the moonlight thin,
(A) We are Jolly Leg, strumming the (E) rhythm of the sea.

Verse 2: (A, E, D, A)
(A) We left our town, but (E) took its spirit,
(D) In every song, you can (A) hear it.
(A) From roadside bars to (E) music halls,
(D) We carry the echo of (A) North Bay’s calls.

Chorus: (E, D, A, E)
(E) Riding the coastal wind, (D) under the moonlight thin,
(A) We are Jolly Leg, playing the (E) songs of the free.

Fan Testimonial:

Fan’s Name: Daisy Fletcher

“I’ve been with Jolly Leg since the beginning. I remember when they were just three guys with a dream, playing their hearts out at the local bar. Their music resonates with the spirit of North Bay, and no matter where I am, listening to their songs always brings me home. They might tour the country, even the world, but they never forget where they come from. Their song ‘Riding the Coastal Wind’ speaks to the heart of every North Bay native. That’s why Jolly Leg is, and always will be, my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Dry Justification originated from the idyllic suburbs of Austin, Texas. The band was formed in 2012 by long-time friends and music enthusiasts, lead vocalist Jared “Jazzy” Forsyth and drummer Mark “Rhythm” Reynolds. After their initial three years of performing in local gigs and small festivals, they added the talents of guitarist “Lenny” Leonard and bassist Jeremy “Bassman” Cox to complete the band. Dry Justification’s hard-hitting, thought-provoking lyrics combined with their raw, energetic performances quickly won them a loyal following, leading them to tour across the country and releasing three successful independent albums.

Their journey as a band wasn’t without its struggles, with clashes over musical directions and personal issues threatening to pull them apart. But their shared vision for creating music that resonates with the human experience tied them together, and over the years, Dry Justification has grown into a tight-knit musical family, delivering powerful performances that leave their fans wanting more.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Unseen Echoes”

Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Em G D A
I listen to the whispers in the wind,
Em G D A
Hearing echoes of a tale yet to begin,
Em G D A
Inside the darkness, our story unfolds,
Em G D A
Written in shadows, in words untold.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Unseen echoes, of love and of pain,
C G D Em
We’re dancing with ghosts in the rain,
C G D Em
Echoes unseen, in every beat of the heart,
C G D Em
In the silent cries when we’re apart.

(Verse 2)
Em G D A
Walking on shards of broken dreams,
Em G D A
Collecting tears in the seams,
Em G D A
We’re the poets painting on the skies,
Em G D A
Unseen echoes, reflections in our eyes.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Unseen echoes, in the silence of the night,
C G D Em
We’re the music in the fading light,
C G D Em
Echoes unseen, in every breath,
C G D Em
In the whispering shadows of death.

Favorite Fan Testimonial:
My name is Casey, and I’ve been a fan of Dry Justification since they first started playing in Austin. Their music is more than just beats and lyrics, it’s a journey, it’s raw emotion, it’s life. Jared, Mark, Lenny, and Jeremy are not just musicians, they’re storytellers. Every song is a story, every lyric is a feeling. “Unseen Echoes,” their latest release, is a testament to how their music has evolved over the years. The lyrics are powerful, the music is entrancing, and the entire song leaves you with a sense of profound understanding. Dry Justification isn’t just my favorite band, their music is a part of who I am.

Backstory:
Important Oxygen is an enigmatic ensemble that came together in the early 2000s, originating from the cluttered garage of a suburban neighborhood in Austin, Texas. Fueled by a shared love for music and a desire to make a difference, childhood friends Lucas McAllister (lead vocals and guitar) and Ryan “Ray” Jefferson (drums), along with Kathryn “Kitty” Simmons (bass and backup vocals), and Zachariah “Zack” Williams (lead guitar), formed the band in their high school years. The band members, despite their different backgrounds, found a common ground in their thirst for creating music that could energize the spirit, offer solace in trying times, and bring people together.

The name ‘Important Oxygen’ came from the idea that music, like oxygen, is vital for survival. It’s the band’s belief that their music should offer something as essential as oxygen, something that their listeners can’t live without. Over the years, they have braved countless local gigs, several lineup changes, and evolved their raw, youthful sound into a mature, compelling musical narrative that continues to captivate listeners worldwide.

Genre:
Alt-Pop/Rock

Title:
“Breathe in, Breathe Out”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] You’re standing on the edge, [Em] looking at the deep,
[C] Hand over your heart, [D] counting beats,
[G] In this chaos, [Em] you’ve lost your peace,
[C] Seeking answers, [D] begging on your knees.

(Chorus)
[G] Breathe in, breathe out, [Em] find your calm,
[C] We are the melody, [D] the healing balm,
[G] Like important oxygen, [Em] we’re in your veins,
[C] Through joys and sorrows, [D] through sun and rain.

(Verse 2)
[G] When the world gets too loud, [Em] when you’ve lost your way,
[C] When the night’s too dark, [D] when you can’t play,
[G] We’ll be the rhythm, [Em] the guiding light,
[C] With our music, [D] we’ll take flight.

(Chorus)
[G] Breathe in, breathe out, [Em] lose your fear,
[C] With every note, [D] we are near,
[G] Like important oxygen, [Em] we’ll ease your pain,
[C] Through highs and lows, [D] through loss and gain.

The band’s favorite fan’s name:
Emily Thompson

Why and how this band is their favorite:
Emily Thompson, a 23-year-old graphic designer from Austin, has been following Important Oxygen since their early days. Emily says, “I discovered Important Oxygen during a particularly challenging time in my life. Their music was like a lifeline, a source of strength that helped me navigate through my trials. The song ‘Breathe in, Breathe Out’ is my anthem, a reminder to keep going even when times are tough. It’s like they are singing my life’s story. There’s a sense of authenticity and depth in their music that’s hard to find these days. They aren’t just a band to me; they are my family, my tribe.” Emily’s dedication to the band has not gone unnoticed; she’s known for attending every gig she can and supporting the band relentlessly across social media platforms.

Backstory:
Cruel Squirrel is the brainchild of four small-town friends: lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Julian “Jules” Cooper, lead guitarist and vocalist Amelia “Amy” Ross, bassist Isaac “Ike” Peters, and drummer Simon “Sim” Taylor. The band formed in the quiet town of Eastwood, Ohio, where the vibrant arts scene and dense forests inspired their unique sound. Their bond formed over shared music tastes, local lore, and the enigmatic, slightly aggressive squirrels in their neighborhood.

In 2010, they started playing gigs at local bars and community events. Coming up with a band name proved challenging until they remembered the squirrels that would chase them during their childhood escapades. Thus, Cruel Squirrel was born. Their popularity grew as fans appreciated their unique blend of humor, nostalgia, and earthy tones. They released their first self-titled EP in 2013 and have been on a steady rise ever since.

Genre:
Indie Folk-Rock

Title:
“Echoes of Eastwood”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Down by the riverside in old Eastwood, [C]
[Em] Childhood memories, [D] where we stood,
[G] In the days when we were wild and free, [C]
[Em] Where we dreamt of what we might [D] be.

(Chorus)
[Am] Echoes of Eastwood, [G] under the old maple tree,
[C] Where the cruel squirrel chased us, [D] in our memory.
[Am] Echoes of Eastwood, [G] in our hearts they remain,
[C] With the songs of our youth, [D] like an old sweet refrain.

(Verse 2)
[G] Through the streets of this old town, [C]
[Em] We found love, lost and found, [D]
[G] Where the moonlight meets the morning dew, [C]
[Em] Eastwood’s echo calls us [D] through.

(Chorus repeats)

(Bridge)
[Em] By the riverside, under the old maple tree,
[C] Where our dreams were born, and we felt so free,
[G] Echoes of Eastwood, [D] ringing clear and true,
[Am] These are the roots, [D] from where we grew.

(Chorus repeats)

Fans’ Favorite:
The band’s most devoted fan is, without a doubt, Katie “Kat” Thompson. A native of Eastwood, Katie has followed Cruel Squirrel from their very first gig at their local bar. She’s attended every show and owns every piece of merchandise they’ve put out.

Kat says, “Cruel Squirrel’s music really resonates with me. The lyrics take me back to my own childhood in Eastwood, and their melodies are simply beautiful. They capture the essence of our town and our shared experiences in a way that’s both nostalgic and fresh. Plus, their energy on stage is infectious; it’s clear they love what they do. I’ve been a fan from day one, and I’ll support them till the end. Can’t wait for their next album!”

Backstory:

Studious Disease burst onto the music scene in the mid-2000s, a group of four college students bringing their infectious passion for music into the limelight. The band members – lead vocalist and guitarist, Michael ‘Mikey’ Scott, bassist Tom ‘Rusty’ Ruston, drummer Billy ‘Beats’ Harrington, and keyboardist Elizabeth ‘Lizzy’ Harper – first met in a music theory class at UCLA. United by their shared love for music and a desire to do something beyond the ordinary, they began creating tunes in their dorm rooms. Once the rough patches were smoothed out and the chemistry started to flow, they decided to take their work to the public, performing in local bars and cafes around campus. Their unique sound quickly captivated the attention of local music enthusiasts, leading to a record deal that catapulted Studious Disease into the mainstream.

Genre:

Studious Disease is best identified with the Alternative Rock genre, but they are known for their unique infusion of elements from psychedelic rock, funk, and blues, creating a hybrid that is both appealing and distinctive.

Title: “Jigsaw Soul”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Dm
Wandering through this maze of life,
C
I found a piece of my jigsaw soul.
Gm
In your eyes, I saw my strife,
A7
A puzzle piece that made me whole.

(Chorus)
Dm C Gm A7
Jigsaw soul, you complete my frame,
Dm C Gm A7
In your love, I found my name.
Dm C Gm A7
To the rhythm of your beating heart,
Dm C Gm A7
Our jigsaw pieces will never part.

(Verse 2)
Dm
In the midst of the crowd, I was lost,
C
In you, I found my jigsaw piece.
Gm
The connection was worth the cost,
A7
In your arms, I found my peace.

(Repeat Chorus)

(Bridge)
Dm C Gm A7
Between the gaps, our love unfolds,
Dm C Gm A7
In our jigsaw soul, our story is told.

(Repeat Chorus)

Fan’s Name: Jessica ‘Jess’ Sanders

Testimonial:

“I fell in love with Studious Disease when I heard them play in a small cafe near campus. I was instantly drawn to their unique sound, and ‘Jigsaw Soul’ just blew me away. It’s heartfelt, raw, and personal – like they’ve put a piece of their soul into the song. Studious Disease not only makes music; they tell stories and evoke emotions, and that’s what makes them my favorite band. Plus, they’re super cool and down-to-earth – they always make time for their fans, which I think is really special.”

Backstory:
Staid Crop began its journey on the sun-drenched plains of Oklahoma. The band was formed by childhood friends and farm brothers, Bill and Sam Goodwin. Their strong work ethic from the fields and their shared passion for music led them to create Staid Crop. They began by practicing in their barn, using homemade instruments and old family heirlooms. Over time, they realized that their unique sound was resonating not only within the confines of their farm, but also into the heartland of America. Inspired by the humble beginnings and the earthy integrity of their rural roots, they started writing songs that strike a chord with every hardworking individual who is deeply connected to the land.

Genre:
Folk Rock

Title:
“Hymn of the Heartland”

Full song lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G] Rolling fields of green, [C] under the sun’s sheen,
[D] The heartland sings a song, [Em] that to us belong.
[G] We toil in the dust, [C] in nature we trust,
[D] With sweat on our brow, [Em] we make our solemn vow.

(Chorus)
[C] Staid Crop, we stand, [G] rooted in this land,
[D] With our hearts ablaze, [Em] singing the heartland’s praise.
[C] Staid Crop, we rise, [G] under the open skies,
[D] With the sun in our eyes, [Em] this is our paradise.

(Verse 2)
[G] Through the grueling heat, [C] and the winter beat,
[D] We hold our heads high, [Em] under the vast sky.
[G] We sow, we reap, [C] promises to keep,
[D] With the heartland’s hymn, [Em] in every limb.

(Chorus)
[C] Staid Crop, we stand, [G] rooted in this land,
[D] With our hearts ablaze, [Em] singing the heartland’s praise.
[C] Staid Crop, we rise, [G] under the open skies,
[D] With the sun in our eyes, [Em] this is our paradise.

Favorite Fan Testimonial:
Name: Lucy Jensen

Testimonial: Staid Crop isn’t just a band to me, it’s a way of life. Their music resonates with me because it’s about hard work, the simple joy of living, and the charm of the rural life that I love so much. Their songs are like odes to the heartland and every time I listen to “Hymn of the Heartland,” I feel a connection to the land that’s inexplicable. To me, they aren’t just musicians, they’re poets of the soil, singing the song of every hardworking farmer.

Backstory:
Delectable Ray was formed in the coastal city of San Diego, California in the summer of 2010. The founding members, guitarist Jonah McKay and drummer Ryan Walker, had a shared love for surfing and making music. After a day of riding waves, they’d jam out on the beach, their sound carried by the salty ocean breeze. As their fan base began to grow, they decided to take their music to a more professional level. They added bassist Alex Cooper and singer Lizzy Monroe to the mix. Their shared passion for music and their connection as friends made a powerful combination that was reflected in their music.

Genre:
Delectable Ray’s music is best described as surf rock, with elements of indie and alternative. Their sound is characterized by jangly guitar riffs, rhythmic drumming, laid-back bass lines, and Lizzy’s soulful, powerful vocals.

Title:
“Summer Echoes”

Full song lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G] Catch the wave, [D] ride it high,
[Em] Sunshine in the [C] clear blue sky.
[G] Ocean breeze and [D] seagull’s cry,
[Em] We’re living our [C] dreams, you and I.

(Chorus)
[G] Summer echoes in [D] our hearts,
[Em] Painting memories, [C] creating art.
[G] When the day is [D] done, we’ll start,
[Em] Dancing under the [C] stars so bright.

(Verse 2)
[G] Sand in our toes, [D] salt in our hair,
[Em] Love and laughter [C] fill the air.
[G] With every wave, [D] we’re reminded,
[Em] Of the joy that [C] we have been gifted.

(Chorus)
[G] Summer echoes in [D] our hearts,
[Em] Painting memories, [C] creating art.
[G] When the night is [D] done, we’ll part,
[Em] But carry the [C] summer in our hearts.

(Bridge)
[G] The ocean’s rhythm, [D] our lullaby,
[Em] As we lay under the [C] starry sky.
[G] We’ll hold on to these [D] moments tight,
[Em] And replay them on [C] cold winter nights.

(Chorus)
[G] Summer echoes in [D] our hearts,
[Em] Painting memories, [C] creating art.
[G] When the season [D] is done, we’ll start,
[Em] Waiting for the [C] summer to restart.

Fan’s Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Sandy. Sandy has been with them from the start, often being the only audience at their beach jam sessions. She has supported them through their journey, from playing at local bars to landing their first record deal. Here is Sandy’s testimonial:

“I love Delectable Ray. Their music just has this uplifting, happy vibe that makes you want to dance and sing along. It’s the perfect soundtrack to my summer. Not only that, but they are incredibly sweet and humble. They always take the time to chat with fans, sign autographs, and take photos. They make you feel like you are part of their journey, not just a bystander. I can’t wait to see how far they go.”

Backstory:

Altruistic Balance was established in a small town in Michigan in the summer of 1998. The band consists of four childhood friends: Andy (lead vocals and guitar), Vince (drummer), Oliver (bass guitar), and Alice (keyboard and backup vocals). They grew up together, sharing a mutual passion for music, and decided to form a band in their senior year of high school. Initially, they played in local bars and college festivals, and their raw talent and unique sound won them a local following. As their popularity grew, they decided to take their music career seriously and moved to Nashville, Tennessee, to further their musical journey.

The band has a unique sound that blends their individual musical influences, ranging from classic rock and blues to indie folk. They define themselves not just by their music but also through their name, Altruistic Balance, derived from their collective belief in maintaining harmony and promoting goodwill. They use their music as a platform to voice concerns about social issues and inspire their listeners to strive for balance in their lives.

Genre:

Alternative Rock/Indie Folk

Title:

“Harmony in Chaos”

Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] It’s not just about the rhythm, [Em] it’s not just about the rhyme,
[F] In this world of disorder, [G] we are running out of time.
[C] Look beyond the horizon, [Em] see what we have done,
[F] In the name of progress, [G] what have we become?

(Chorus)
[C] Harmony in chaos, [Em] balance in the noise,
[F] Searching for serenity, [G] drowning out the voice.
[C] Try to find the rhythm, [Em] try to find the beat,
[F] In this world of disorder, [G] Stand tall, don’t accept defeat.

(Verse 2)
[C] We’re spinning out of control, [Em] lost in the crowd,
[F] Shouting for change, [G] but the noise is too loud.
[C] It’s time to slow down, [Em] find our own pace,
[F] Seek the altruistic balance, [G] in every moment’s grace.

(Chorus)
[C] Harmony in chaos, [Em] balance in the noise,
[F] Searching for serenity, [G] drowning out the voice.
[C] Try to find the rhythm, [Em] try to find the beat,
[F] In this world of disorder, [G] Stand tall, don’t accept defeat.

Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan’s name is Emily. Emily has been following Altruistic Balance since their early days. She loves their music because it’s not just catchy and melodious, but also meaningful. Emily shares, “Their music speaks to me on a personal level. It’s like they’ve put my thoughts and feelings into their lyrics. Every time I listen to their songs, I feel a sense of calm. They remind me of the importance of balance in life and inspire me to be a better person. Altruistic Balance isn’t just a band for me; they’re a guiding force.”

Backstory:

Competent Cracker was formed in the colorful city of San Francisco, California, in 1993 by childhood friends, Brad Johnson on lead vocals and guitar, and Luke Hemmings on drums. They were later joined by bassist, Mark Davis, and keyboardist, Aaron Lee. During their early years, they made a name for themselves performing at local bars and clubs, captivating audiences with their unique sound and electrifying performances. Their fame began to rise significantly after winning a local battle of the bands competition, which subsequently led to a recording contract with a major label in 1995.

The name ‘Competent Cracker’ reportedly originated from a joke about their ability to ‘crack’ any music genre with competence. They drew inspiration from a wide variety of music styles – from classic rock to punk and country – which eventually shaped their signature sound. The band has been known for their memorable lyrics, creative songwriting, and energetic stage performances.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Breaking Barriers”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G]There’s a road stretching out in the [D]distance,
[Em]In a world where nothing seems [C]right,
[G]We’re out here chasing our [D]dreams,
Through the [Em]darkness, towards the [C]light.

(Chorus)
[G]Breaking barriers, we’re [D]breaking barriers tonight,
[Em]Chasing shadows, running towards the [C]light,
[G]No more fear, no more [D]worries in sight,
We’re just [Em]dreamers, living our [C]dreams tonight.

(Verse 2)
[G]On the road, with the wind in our [D]hair,
[Em]We’re singing our hearts out, with [C]no one to care,
[G]Living life, with no [D]regrets,
[Em]We’re breaking barriers, we’re the [C]best.

(Repeat Chorus)

Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan is a lady named Sarah Johnson. Sarah has been with us since our early days in the San Francisco music scene. She has attended every concert we’ve played in the city and has an impressive collection of Competent Cracker memorabilia. Sarah told us that she resonates with our music because it speaks to her on a personal level. In her words, “Competent Cracker is not just a band to me, it’s a part of my life. Their music resonates with my soul and their lyrics often mirror my thoughts and feelings. They are authentic and unique, which is why I’ve been their fan for over two decades.”

Backstory:

Hailing from the sun-beaten streets of Los Angeles, Pretty Weekend embodies the quintessential charm of the city with a touch of gritty realism. The band was formed in late 2012 by lead vocalist, Lana Preston, and guitarist, Jake Matthews, initially as a duo. After experimenting and jamming in the local music scenes, they were joined by drummer, Alex Kinsley, and bassist, Sam Whitmore. Over the years, Pretty Weekend has created a distinctive sound that seamlessly merges different musical landscapes.

The band’s journey to fame wasn’t a straight path, but rather a series of detours, pit stops, and unexpected adventures. From garage jamming sessions to sold-out concerts, the band has stayed true to their roots, carrying their love for music and shared experiences into their songs. They quickly gained a loyal fan base with their relatable lyrics and electrifying performances, embodying the spirit of LA in their music.

Genre:

Indie Pop mixed with Folk Rock

Title:

“Sunrise Serenade”

Full song lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Am F C G
Walking on the Venice boardwalk, sun in our eyes
Am F C G
Stains of yesterday’s love, on the cotton candy skies
Am F C G
Shadows of our laughter still echo in the breeze
Am F C G
Floating on the Pacific dreams, sailing on the seas

[Chorus]
Am F C G
It’s a sunrise serenade, singing out our names
Am F C G
In the melody of the morning, love is the only game
Am F C G
It’s a sunrise serenade, in the city of angels,
Am F C G
Love is the music, we are the fables.

[Verse 2]
Am F C G
Footprints on the sandy shore, testaments of the night
Am F C G
Palm trees sway to the rhythm of our heartbeats, in the morning light
Am F C G
Traces of our whispers, linger in the air
Am F C G
With the sunrise, we serenade, without a single care.

(Repeat Chorus)

Favorite Fan’s Testimonial:

I’m Emily, arguably the biggest Pretty Weekend fan. The first time I heard them was at a small café in Santa Monica. Their music resonated with me – it was like they had put my thoughts and feelings into melodies. My favorite song is “Sunrise Serenade”; it beautifully captures the essence of LA mornings, and it’s this authenticity that makes them my favorite band. Their music is a comforting companion on lonely nights and a merry friend on joyous days. Pretty Weekend is more than just a band for me, they’re a part of my life’s soundtrack.