Backstory:
Illegal Director is the brainchild of former film school dropouts, Jimmy “Flash” Gordon and Keith “Lens” Williams. Meeting at a late-night, impromptu film viewing in their shared dorm room, the duo soon discovered a shared passion for not only movies, but music as well. They began crafting songs inspired by the films they loved, from cult classics to modern blockbusters. Dubbed Illegal Director, their band name is a nod to their initial dream of becoming filmmakers and the fact that they both left film school before graduating.

Genre:
Blending elements of indie rock with new wave elements and a cinematic flair, they crafted a distinct, exciting sound that can only be described as Cinematic Indie Rock.

Title:
“Behind the Screen”

Full song lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[Am] Behind the silver screen, there lies a [G] world unseen,
[Dm] Filled with love, filled with pain, [Am] under the celluloid rain.
[Am] We’re heroes in the night, under the [G] projector’s light,
[Dm] Lost in a world of pretend, [Am] until the credits end.

(Chorus)
[F] We are the Illegal [C] Directors, crafting our [G] own life’s sectors,
[Am] Behind the screen, we [F] find our dream, lost in a [G] world unseen.
[F] Here in the flickering [C] light, we find our [G] strength to fight,
[Am] Behind the screen, in our [F] dream, we are the [G] kings and queens.

(Verse 2)
[Am] In this cinematic space, we find a [G] saving grace,
[Dm] Drawing tales of joy and sorrow, [Am] dreaming of tomorrow.
[Am] We’re spinning tales in sound, while the [G] world keeps spinning round,
[Dm] And when the lights go down, [Am] we’re lost and we’re found.

(Chorus)
[F] We are the Illegal [C] Directors, ignoring all the [G] defectors,
[Am] Behind the screen, we [F] live our dream, nothing is as [G] it seems.
[F] Here in the flickering [C] light, we find our [G] right to write,
[Am] Behind the screen, in our [F] dream, we are the [G] unseen.

Band’s Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is Clark Thompson, a die-hard cinephile and music enthusiast from Brooklyn, New York. Clark discovered Illegal Director during their early gigs in small venues around the city. As a fan, Clark says, “Illegal Director’s music feels like the perfect mash-up of my two loves: cinema and rock. Their songs are not just music for me; they’re narratives, stories, emotions- everything that makes a great film. Plus, their live shows are like stepping into a movie itself. It’s an experience like no other.”

Backstory:
Formed in the heart of the eclectic music scene in Austin, Texas in 2012, Obese Priest started off as a group of close-knit friends with the shared passion for music. The band members include lead singer and drummer, Danny “Heavy” Grillo, guitarist and vocalist, Tommy “Fat” Harris, and bassist, Jimmy “Monk” Martin. Known for their eccentric personalities as much as their music, their band name, Obese Priest, came from a shared inside joke about a childhood priest who was ironically a fitness enthusiast. Over the years, Obese Priest has built a reputation for their energetic performances and bold, in-your-face style.

Genre:
Alternative Rock/Punk Fusion

Title:
“Burning Pews”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Walking down the aisle, the [G] smell of old guilt,
[Am] In the air, in the robes, in the [F] filth.
[C] Stained glass windows, the [G] light it bends,
[Am] In the eyes of the savior, the [F] story ends.

(Chorus)
[C] Burning pews, [G] fading faith,
[Am] Loud prayers in a [F] silent wraith.
[C] We’re the Obese Priest, [G] with no repent,
[Am] Singing songs of the [F] lives we’ve spent.

(Verse 2)
[C] Shadows of the cross, on [G] the dusty floor,
[Am] Echoes of a promise, a [F] half-open door.
[C] Rings of the bell, sounds [G] like a cry,
[Am] We’re the Obese Priest, [F] ready to fly.

(Chorus)
[C] Burning pews, [G] fading faith,
[Am] Loud prayers in a [F] silent wraith.
[C] We’re the Obese Priest, [G] with no repent,
[Am] Singing songs of the [F] lives we’ve spent.

Bands Favourite Fan Testimonial:
Our favorite fan is a 60-year-old woman named Betty. She’s been following us since our early days in Austin, never missing a single gig. To quote her, “Obese Priest isn’t just a band to me, they’re a source of joy, rebellion, and most importantly, freedom. I love their raw passion and the way their music makes me feel – young, alive, and ready to defy norms. They might be irreverent and loud, but they speak to the rebel in each of us. They’re my favorite, not because they’re perfect, but because they’re real.”

Backstory:
Entire Riddle is a band that originated from four high school friends who used to engage in basement jamming sessions. The band consists of lead singer and rhythm guitarist, Ethan Walker, lead guitarist, Nick Rhodes, bassist, Alex Turner, and drummer, Ian Cooper. The band officially formed in 2012 when they realized they possessed a shared passion for making music that was distinctive and thought-provoking. Their name, Entire Riddle, reflects their collective love for puzzles and mysteries, and the idea that their music serves as a riddle to be solved by their listeners.

The band started playing gigs at local bars and clubs, gradually building a fanbase with their unique sound. They were noticed by a music producer during one of their performances and got an opportunity to record their first album, which was a massive hit and garnered them recognition in the music scene. Despite their success, the band continues to stay true to their indie roots, creating music that is raw and relatable.

Genre:
Entire Riddle’s music can be best described as Indie Rock with a blend of Alternative Pop. Their sound features a mix of catchy guitar riffs, melodic bass lines, punchy drum beats, and thought-provoking lyrics.

Title:
One of their most famous songs is “Echoes of Silence.”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Em [Em] I walked the roads where we used to roam, [D]
D [D] Your voice, a whisper in the wind, it [Em] blows.
Em [Em] The echoes of silence, they tell a [D] tale,
D [D] Of love lost, of dreams that turned so [Em] stale.

(Chorus)
C [C] Echoes of silence, in the [Em] night,
D [D] Keep reminding me of your [G] light,
G [G] I keep on walking, in the [Em] rain,
D [D] Trying to forget, those echoes of [Em] pain.

(Verse 2)
Em [Em] The empty streets, they hold our [D] ghosts,
D [D] Of laughter, of love, of times we [Em] boast.
Em [Em] Now all that’s left are echoes [D] so loud,
D [D] In the silence, I’m lost in the [Em] crowd.

(Chorus)
C [C] Echoes of silence, in the [Em] night,
D [D] Keep reminding me of your [G] light,
G [G] I keep on walking, in the [Em] rain,
D [D] Trying to forget, those echoes of [Em] pain.

Band’s Favorite Fan:
Their most ardent fan is Sarah Thompson, a college student who claims, “Entire Riddle is not just a band, they’re storytellers. Their music has helped me through some tough times. The way their lyrics articulate emotions is simply beautiful. They make you think, make you feel, and that’s what real music is about. The song ‘Echoes of Silence’ particularly resonates with me because it’s about loss and coping, something we all go through. I have seen them live multiple times, and their energy is infectious. For me, Entire Riddle is not just my favorite band; it’s a part of my life.”

Backstory:
Formed in 2005 in the bustling streets of Seattle, Washington, Descriptive Pipe is a quartet consisting of frontman, Stephen Mckinley, bassist, Amanda Peters, drummer, Eric Nichols, and lead guitarist, Patrick O’Brien. The initial meeting between Stephen and Amanda at a local coffee shop sparked the beginning of a musical journey that soon roped in Eric and Patrick. Their common love for music and the desire to tell stories through their songs culminated in the formation of Descriptive Pipe, with the name representing their goal to paint vivid, descriptive pictures with their music.

Descriptive Pipe spent the initial years in the Seattle underground scene, playing in various clubs and honing their sound. Their debut album, “A Turn of the Valve,” brought them into the limelight, leading to a steady and growing fan base. The band has since released six albums, each exploring different themes and refining the band’s distinctive sound.

Genre:
The band’s genre is best described as Indie Rock with a hint of Alternative Folk.

Song Title:
“Rusty Echoes”

Full Song Lyrics:

C#m A E
[Verse 1]
C#m
Underneath the hollow sky
A
I hear your voice, a rusty echo
E
Piercing through the silent night
C#m
It’s your love, it’s a crescendo

[Chorus]
A E
Rusty echoes, carry me home
C#m
I’ve been lost, in my own dome
A E
Beneath the stars, where we used to roam
C#m
Rusty echoes, carry me home

[Verse 2]
C#m
Beneath the city’s burning lights
A
I found solace in your shadow
E
Vanishing in the twilight
C#m
Now all I have are these rusty echoes

[Chorus]
A E
Rusty echoes, carry me home
C#m
I’m a ship, lost in the foam
A E
Whispering winds, through the catacomb
C#m
Rusty echoes, carry me home…

Favorite Fan:
Descriptive Pipe’s favorite fan is a young woman named Lucy. Her testimony reads: “Descriptive Pipe isn’t just a band to me, they’re more like companions for my journey. Their lyrics resonate deeply with my experiences, making me feel seen and understood. Whether I’m dealing with heartbreak, joy, fear, or hope, there’s always a Descriptive Pipe song that captures my emotions perfectly. The sincerity in their music and the undeniable passion they bring to each performance make them my all-time favorite band.”

Backstory:

Hungry Reputation was formed in the small town of Vardon, Ohio in 2012 when four high school friends discovered their shared passion for music. The band consists of frontman Jake Branson on vocals and guitar, Sarah Bliss on drums, Toby Martin on bass, and Rick Dawson on keyboard. The group started by playing covers in Jake’s garage, but quickly found that they had a flair for writing original material. Their shared experiences growing up in a tight-knit community, their struggles, dreams, and ambitions gave birth to songs filled with emotional depth and authenticity. They spent their early years playing local gigs and building a dedicated fan base before they were discovered by a talent scout in 2015.

Genre:

Indie Rock/Pop

Title:

“Echoes in the Hallway”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Sitting at the [D] edge of the [Em] world
[C] Dreaming about the [G] days past
[D] Wondering where time [Em] flew
[C] And how long this feeling will [G] last.

(Chorus)
[G] Echoes in the [D] hallway, [Em] whispers in the night,
[C] Memories of [G] laughter, [D] fading in the light.
[Em] We’re caught in the [C] rhythm of a [G] time that’s moving [D] fast
[Em] With our [C] hungry reputation [G] built to [D] last.

(Verse 2)
[G] Shadows from our [D] yesterdays, [Em] lingering in the dawn,
[C] Trying to hold [G] on, but it [D] feels like it’s all [Em] gone.
[C] Heartbeats tell a [G] story, [D] in this quiet small [Em] town,
[C] Of a love that [G] started burning, [D] and never did burn [G] down.

(Chorus)
[G] Echoes in the [D] hallway, [Em] whispers in the night,
[C] Memories of [G] laughter, [D] fading in the light.
[Em] We’re caught in the [C] rhythm of a [G] time that’s moving [D] fast
[Em] With our [C] hungry reputation [G] built to [D] last.

Favorite Fan:

Their favorite fan is a woman named Lucy Adams. Lucy has been supporting Hungry Reputation since their garage band days. Her testimony shows the depth of her devotion: “I’ve watched Hungry Reputation since their first gig at Vardon’s town fair. Their music resonates with me on a deep level. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s unapologetically them. I’ve been lucky to see them grow as musicians and individuals. Their music has been a constant in my life, through good times and bad. I can’t imagine a world without their music. They are more than a band to me, they’re like family. I guess that’s why I always make sure to catch their shows, buy their merchandise, and spread the word about their music. They’ve got a sound that’s worth sharing.”

Backstory: Thick Direction arose from the bustling music scene of Manchester, England, in 2007. It began as a group of five friends, Paul Martin, Chris Evans, Max Rivers, Rick Lewis, and Gary Moore, who shared a common passion for music and an ambitious dream. They all met in college, bonding over late-night jam sessions and a shared affinity for the classic rock of the ’70s. Thick Direction took a major step in their career when they won a local battle of the bands competition, catching the attention of a renowned music producer who offered them a record deal. Their journey since has been a rollercoaster ride, facing several obstacles but always coming out on top, with their music and camaraderie holding them together and propelling them forward.

Genre: Classic Rock

Title: “Chasing Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G]Wandering down the [D]old town streets,
[Em]Lost in memories, [C]feeling the beats.
[G]Riding on dreams, and [D]chasing the sun,
[Em]Back when we were young, [C]having our fun.

(Chorus)
[G]Chasing shadows, [D]in the dark,
[Em]Playing our music, [C]leaving a mark.
[G]Running wild, [D]under the stars,
[Em]Living on the edge, [C]playing our guitars.

(Verse 2)
[G]Those were the days, [D]of truth and dare,
[Em]Walking on the edge, [C]without a care.
[G]Broke but happy, [D]high on life,
[Em]Bleeding passion, [C]cut like a knife.

(Chorus)
[G]Chasing shadows, [D]in the night,
[Em]Playing our music, [C]with all our might.
[G]Living dreams, [D]in our heads,
[Em]Laughing and singing, [C]till the night sheds.

Favorite Fan: “My name is Sarah Thompson, and I am undoubtedly Thick Direction’s biggest fan. I’ve followed them since their early performance days in Manchester’s pubs. Their music has been a constant in my life, guiding me through the highs and lows. Thick Direction isn’t just a band to me; they are a part of my life. Their soul-touching lyrics and powerful performances have a way of making me feel understood and heard. That’s why they’re my favorite band. Their music resonates with me on a deep level, and I am incredibly proud to be a part of their journey.”

Backstory:

Spherical Wheel is a band that was born in the summer of 2009, in the vibrant and artsy city of Austin, Texas. The founding members, vocalist and keyboardist Jack Henderson and guitarist Mike Sullivan, were roommates at the University of Texas, where they both studied music theory. After a night of jamming and beer drinking, they realized that their musical styles and perspectives meshed well together and decided to form a band. They recruited drummer Alex “Smitty” Smith and bassist Ryan “RJ” Johnson from their local coffee shop’s open mic nights. Spherical Wheel has since become a staple in the Austin music scene, gaining local fame for their unique sound and energetic performances.

Genre:

Spherical Wheel’s music is a distinctive blend of Alternative Rock and Psychedelic Pop. Their songs are characterized by their abstract lyricism, melodic hooks and layered instrumental arrangements.

Title:

“Swirling in the Echoes”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1):
C G Am F
In the heart of the night, under neon light
C G Am F
Through the hustle and the noise, I hear your voice
C G Am F
In the echoes of the crowd, your laughter rings loud
C G Am F
In the whispers of the wind, our story begins

(Chorus):
Em F C G
We’re swirling in the echoes, lost in the noise
Em F C G
In the rhythm of our hearts, we find our voice
Em F C G
Through the chaos and the chatter, we roam
Em F C G
In the echoes of the night, we find our home

(Verse 2):
C G Am F
In the shadows of the streets, our eyes meet
C G Am F
In a city that never sleeps, our secrets we keep
C G Am F
In the hum of the cars, under the stars
C G Am F
In the echoes of the night, we take flight

(Chorus):
Em F C G
We’re swirling in the echoes, lost in the dance
Em F C G
In the melody of the city, we find our chance
Em F C G
In the sound of the skyline, we glow
Em F C G
In the echoes of the night, we grow

Favorite Fan:

Spherical Wheel’s favorite fan is a local Austin resident named Patricia Harper. Patricia stumbled into one of their gigs accidentally, but she was instantly hooked by their refreshing sound and infectious energy. She has since attended every single one of their shows in Austin.

Testimonial:

“I was just looking for a place to grab a drink, but I ended up finding my new favorite band. Spherical Wheel’s music is like a breath of fresh air. I love the way their songs make me feel – it’s like I’m on a euphoric trip through the city at night. They’ve got this unique sound that you can’t help but get lost in. And their performances? Nothing short of electrifying. There’s something so raw and authentic about them that just draws you in. I can’t wait to see where they go next!”

Backstory:

Emerging from the underground music scene of London in the late 2000s, Acidic Notebook was born when frontman and lead vocalist, Tommy ‘Blitz’ Blitzer, stumbled upon a talented keyboardist, Sarah ‘Synth’ Saxton, performing in a shady pub on the outskirts of Shoreditch. They connected over their shared love for experimental sounds and unconventional harmonies, and decided to form a band that would redefine the alternative music space. Together with bassist, ‘Raging’ Ricky Rodgers, and drummer, ‘Pulse’ Peter Peterson, they started Acidic Notebook. Known for their electrifying performances, Acidic Notebook has grown from playing in small pubs to performing at major music festivals around the world, earning themselves a loyal fan base.

Genre:

Acidic Notebook’s music falls under the genre of Psychedelic Synth Pop. Their sound is a unique blend of synthesized tunes, edgy bass lines, and powerful drum beats, all laced with Blitz’s haunting and often surreal lyrics.

Title:

Their hit song is titled “Binary Love”.

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Binary love, you’re a [D] shock to my system,
[Em] Pink neon lights in the [C] dark prism.
[G] Navigating through your [D] circuitry heart,
[Em] Ctrl Alt Del, [C] ready to restart.

(Chorus)
[G] Binary Love, are you [D] real or just a dream?
[Em] Lost in your code, in your [C] intricate scheme.
[G] High on your bytes, [D] drunk on your bits,
[Em] In this digital world, [C] we perfectly fits.

(Verse 2)
[G] You’re a glitch in my [D] code, a spark in my wire,
[Em] In this matrix of love, [C] you’re all I desire.
[G] Pixelated kisses, [D] under the cybernetic rain,
[Em] Rebooting my heart, [C] deleting the pain.

(Chorus)
[G] Binary Love, are you [D] real or just a dream?
[Em] Lost in your code, in your [C] intricate scheme.
[G] High on your bytes, [D] drunk on your bits,
[Em] In this digital world, [C] we perfectly fits.

(Testimonial)

The band’s favorite fan is named Tim.

Tim says: “I’ve been a fan of Acidic Notebook since their first gig in Shoreditch. Their unique sound, the blend of haunting yet beautiful lyrics with synthesized tunes just resonates with me. It’s like they put into words and music the surreal dreams and feelings I’ve always had but could never express. Every song feels like a journey into the unknown, into the depth of emotions. They’re not just a band to me, they’re a revelation.”

Backstory:
Colorless Lace is an indie-pop quartet formed in 2013 in the vibrant music scene of Austin, Texas. The band is composed of old college friends, Amelia Grant (vocals and guitar), Brian Thompson (bass), Paul Walker (drums), and Lucy Simmons (keyboard and backing vocals). Their shared love for music and creative expression led them to form this group during their senior year, pursuing their passion for music beyond their college dorms. Colorless Lace is lauded for their combination of introspective lyrics, catchy rhythms, and a unique mix of acoustic and electronic instruments, creating an immersive, melodic soundscape that lures audiences into their world.

Genre: Indie-pop

Song Title: “Violet Sunsets”

Full song lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Em C G D
Lookin’ at violet sunsets, painted on the canvas of the sky, yeah
Em C G D
With your hand in mine, under the twilight, everything feels just right

[Chorus]
Em C G D
Oh, under these violet sunsets, we share our secrets, in hushed whispers
Em C G D
Every silhouette of our love, under these violet sunsets, forever exists

[Verse 2]
Em C G D
As the stars take their place, in the cosmic space, your eyes shine the brightest
Em C G D
And with your laughter in my ears, darling, I’ve found my peace

[Chorus]
Em C G D
Oh, under these violet sunsets, we dance with our ghosts, in tender echoes
Em C G D
Every silhouette of our love, under these violet sunsets, forever exists

[Bridge]
Em C G D
In this realm of violet sunsets, together, we’re timeless, eternally bound

[Chorus]
Em C G D
Oh, under these violet sunsets, our love story unfolds, in surreal colors
Em C G D
Every silhouette of our love, under these violet sunsets, forever exists

Fans Favorite:
A fan named Jenna Winters holds a special place in the band’s heart. Jenna has been following Colorless Lace since their early days, traveling with them to different cities and supporting them in every concert and social media interaction. To Jenna, Colorless Lace is more than just a band; they’re a reminder of a simpler time, a source of comfort during her dark days, and a beacon of positivity. She shares, “Colorless Lace’s music has this magical power to turn my gloomy days into bright ones. Their lyrics resonate with my experiences, and their melodies never fail to lift my spirit. I feel a connection, a sense of belonging, when I listen to their songs. For that, they’ll always be my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Formed in the gritty backstreets of Liverpool in 2012, ‘Clever Second’ was the brainchild of four childhood friends: Joe, Ben, Harry, and Alex. The quartet grew up together, sharing dreams of music stardom and a passion for crafting lyrics that resonated with people. This shared vision was the catalyst for their formation, and they practiced tirelessly in the basement of Ben’s parents’ house. They began performing at local pubs and quickly won over the local crowd with their engaging performances and catchy tunes. Their music is an eclectic mix of their diverse influences, honed into a distinct sound that sets them apart.

Genre:
Clever Second’s sound is best described as a blend of alternative rock fused with elements of indie pop.

Title:
“Racing Against the Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am F
Just another day, in this concrete maze,
C G
chasing dreams, in a drowsy haze.
Am F
We’re skipping stones, against the tide,
C G
finding ways, our fears to hide.

(Chorus)
Am F
Racing against the shadows, under the neon lights,
C G
Betting on tomorrow, after endless nights.
Am F
The city’s heart is beating, matching our restless strides,
C G
In the rearview mirror, are yesterday’s goodbyes.

(Verse 2)
Am F
In the silence, we hear the hum,
C G
of promises, yet to come.
Am F
With every tick, of the passing time,
C G
we embrace, the uphill climb.

(Chorus)
Am F
Racing against the shadows, under the neon lights,
C G
Betting on tomorrow, after endless nights.
Am F
The city’s heart is beating, matching our restless strides,
C G
In the rearview mirror, are yesterday’s goodbyes.

Favorite Fan:
Clever Second’s favorite fan is a dedicated follower named Emily. She has been with them from their early pub gigs and has never missed a concert, travelling across the country to see them perform. As a fan, Emily loves the connection she feels with the band’s lyrics. She says, “Clever Second is my favorite because their music speaks to me. Their lyrics have helped me through some of the toughest times in my life. It is like they are telling my story. Plus, they put on a fantastic live show. There’s so much energy and passion. I feel like they are playing just for me.” It’s fans like Emily that keep the band motivated and remind them why they love what they do.