Backstory:

Dimwitted Layer was formed in the summer of 2007, in the bohemian backstreets of Portland, Oregon. The band consists of four childhood friends – lead vocalist and guitarist Derek Mullins, bassist Tom Houghton, drummer Stephen White, and keyboardist Cheryl Lister. All four members had a mutual love for music and an intense passion for expressing their perspectives on life, society, and emotions through their tunes. Over the years, they have taken their experiences and personalities, and channeled them into their music, creating a unique, multi-layered sound that resonates with their audience.

Their journey started in a neighborhood garage where they spent countless hours jamming and creating music. After performing in local events and pubs, they started gaining attention for their distinctive sound and energy. The band’s breakthrough came with their performance at a local music festival in 2010, which led to their signing with a major record label. While they have certainly evolved since their garage band days, Dimwitted Layer remains true to their roots, producing music that is as raw and authentic as their origins.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Shattered Mirrors”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1, Chords: C G Am F)
C
Beneath the shattered mirrors,
G
I see your face, filled with fears.
Am
The echoes of your laughter,
F
Now a distant whisper.

(Chorus, Chords: G Am F C)
G
Shattered mirrors on the floor,
Am
Reflect the love we had before.
F
Through the cracks, I see the light,
C
A glimpse of you in the darkest night.

(Verse 2, Chords: C G Am F)
C
I trace the lines of your silhouette,
G
In the spaces where the shards have met.
Am
Your eyes, once filled with innocence,
F
Now clouded by the veil of pretense.

(Chorus)
G
Shattered mirrors on the wall,
Am
Hold the secrets of our fall.
F
Through the fragments, I find the truth,
C
In every reflection, I see you.

Fan’s name:
Lindsay Miles

Fan Testimonial:

“I’ve been a fan of Dimwitted Layer since their early days of playing in local pubs. It’s their authenticity and raw energy that drew me to them initially. Over the years, I have witnessed their growth and transformation, and I must say their ability to remain true to their craft is unparalleled. ‘Shattered Mirrors’ is my favorite song. It resonates with me on a personal level and never fails to stir emotions within me. The pain, the longing, the love – Dimwitted Layer captures it all effortlessly in their music. This band has a special place in my heart, and their songs are like an old friend – comforting, familiar, and always there when I need them.”

Backstory:

Dental Population was formed in 2003 in the heart of San Francisco by twin brothers, Charlie and Max Denton, both dentistry students. The brothers had a deep love for music that could not be ignored despite their medical career paths. As they spent their days studying crowns, bridges, and oral health, their nights were dedicated to creating music. They named their band ‘Dental Population’, as a cheeky nod to their daytime occupations and an aim to make music that ‘fills cavities in the heart’.

The band started by playing at local pubs and soon gathered a following in the city. They used their wit and humor in their songs to attract the crowd. Their unique fusion of rock and alternative pop music with dental puns and metaphors quickly gained popularity, and today, Dental Population is one of the most well-known bands in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Genre:

Alternative Rock/Pop

Title:

“Cavity of Love”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
Am [C] I just another tooth in your [G] mouth
Do you chew your words before you [Am] spit them out [F]
Are we just a [C] plaque or a [G] deeper route
In the cavity of [Am] love, we’re about [F]

(Chorus)
We’re just [C] flossing and brushing, [G]
In the mirror of [Am] love, we’re rushing [F]
Stuck in the [C] cavity of love, we’re [G] gushing,
Overflowing [Am] with feelings, no [F] hushing.

(Verse)
You look at me with that [C] brace-faced [G] grin
My heart beats like a [Am] drill within [F]
Are we gonna [C] fill this gap or let it [G] win
In the cavity of [Am] love, we’re in [F]

(Chorus)
We’re just [C] flossing and brushing, [G]
In the mirror of [Am] love, we’re rushing [F]
Stuck in the [C] cavity of love, we’re [G] gushing,
Overflowing [Am] with feelings, no [F] hushing.

Fan’s Name:

Our favorite fan is Timmy Johnson, a dental hygienist from Los Angeles. He’s been following us since our first gig and has been to every concert since then. Here’s his testimonial:

Testimonial:

“Dental Population is my favorite band! These guys are not just about the music, they are about a lifestyle. They perfectly blend their dental knowledge with their musical talent, creating something truly unique. Their song ‘Cavity of Love’ hits close to home for me. I start my day by flossing and brushing my teeth as I sing along to their tunes. Dental Population is more than a band to me; their music is the bridge between my love for dentistry and music.”

Backstory:

Foolish Carbon is an indie rock quartet formed in 2010 in the bustling city of Birmingham, UK. The band – comprised of childhood friends, lead vocalist Liam Bennet, guitarist Alex Johnson, bassist Jamie Dawson, and drummer Henry Clark – was born in the garage of Liam’s parents’ house, where they would spend countless hours playing and refining their sound. They borrowed the name ‘Foolish Carbon’ from a science book they found in the garage, the term referring to the element that forms the basis of life on earth, and the band thought it encapsulated their desire to create music that was raw, organic, and deeply human.

With their well-crafted melodies and introspective lyrics, Foolish Carbon soon built a local fanbase and started performing in local bars and clubs. Their energetic live performances and distinctive sound quickly caught the attention of a major record label, and they released their debut album in 2013. The band’s passion and love for music, combined with their natural talent and relentless work ethic, has only grown stronger over the years, with Foolish Carbon becoming a prominent name in the indie rock scene.

Genre: Indie Rock

Title: “Echoes of Yesterday”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Am G D Em
Lost in the crowd, we’re just foolish carbon,
Am G D Em
In the grand design, dancing under the neon.
Am G D Em
Looking for love, for a moment of pardon,
Am G D Em
In the echoes of yesterday, in the echoes of yesterday.

[Chorus]
C G D Em
We’re echoes of yesterday,
C G D Em
Lost, but trying to make a way.
C G D Em
And we dance to the rhythm of the heart’s play,
C G D Em
In the echoes of yesterday, in the echoes of yesterday.

[Verse 2]
Am G D Em
Dreaming in color, under city lights satin,
Am G D Em
Chasing down dreams, in the language we’ve written.
Am G D Em
We are the stars, in a sky that’s darkened,
Am G D Em
We are the echoes of yesterday, the echoes of yesterday.

[Chorus]
C G D Em
We’re echoes of yesterday,
C G D Em
Lost, but trying to make a way.
C G D Em
And we dance to the rhythm of the heart’s play,
C G D Em
In the echoes of yesterday, in the echoes of yesterday.

Band’s Favorite Fan:

Emily Watson, a die-hard Foolish Carbon fan from day one, has been to every concert and collects every album. Emily says, “Foolish Carbon is my favorite band because their music resonates deeply with me. Their lyrics are like poetry that describes my feelings perfectly. Their songs have been with me through my highs and lows. Plus, their energetic performances are simply electrifying! Every Foolish Carbon concert feels like a celebration of life and music!”

Backstory:
Active Exposure first hit the scene during the mid 2000s in the bustling city of Austin, Texas. The band was formed by a group of high school friends who shared a passion for creating music that spoke to the soul. They started off playing for small local gigs, honing their skills and writing original songs that delivered raw emotion and powerful energy.

Their big break came in 2008 when they were discovered by a local music producer who was immediately captivated by their unique sound. This was a turning point for Active Exposure, leading them to national tours, record deals, and a loyal fan base that continues to grow.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Chasing Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C
Lost in a crowd, feeling so low,
G D
Just need a place where we can go.
Em C
Feeling the heat, freezing inside,
G D
Chasing shadows, got nowhere to hide.

(Chorus)
Am G D
Chasing shadows in the night,
Am G D
In the darkness, we will fight.
Am G D
We are lions, hear us roar,
Am G D
We’re not running anymore.

(Verse 2)
Em C
Standing firm, against the tide,
G D
With every pulse, we are alive.
Em C
In the chaos, we find our path,
G D
Chasing shadows, we’ll have the last laugh.

(Repeat Chorus)

Testimonial:

Fan’s Name: Katie Johnson

“Active Exposure is, hands down, my favorite band. Their music is not just something you listen to – it’s something you feel. Each song resonates with me on a different level. ‘Chasing Shadows’ especially speaks to me. The lyrics about overcoming challenges and finding strength within ourselves is so inspiring. It’s a constant reminder to me that no matter how tough things get, I can keep going. I love what this band stands for, and I can’t wait to see what they do next!”

Backstory:

Formed in the late 1990s in the bohemian neighborhood of Greenwich Village, Manhattan, Enlightened Wage was initially a trio of passionate street musicians. Consisting of lead singer and guitarist, Jake ‘Jazz’ Sorenson, bassist, Lou ‘Lounge’ Harris, and drummer, Sam ‘Soul’ Blackwood, the band started their journey playing at local bars, cafes, and street corners. Their unique sound, a fusion of raw emotion and skilled musicianship, quickly grabbed attention. In 2003, they were discovered by a local radio station executive, who propelled them into the mainstream music scene.

Genre:

Enlightened Wage combines the richness of blues with the grit of garage rock. Their music is often described as “Blue garage”, a genre they pioneered, characterized by soulful melodies, powerful rhythms, and thoughtful lyrics that comment on society and personal experiences.

Title:

“Chasing Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Walking down these [G] empty streets, [Am] echoes of my [Em] solitude.
[F] Searching for the [C] missing piece, [G] in this grand [C] interlude.
[C] Reflections in the [G] window panes, [Am] tell a tale of [Em] yore.
[F] A tale of love, a tale of [C] pain, [G] a tale of [C] nevermore.

(Chorus)
[F] Chasing shadows, [C] in the night,
[G] Dancing with the [Am] echoes of [Em] the light.
[F] Searching for a [C] love so pure,
[G] A love that could [C] endure.

(Verse 2)
[C] The moon above [G] whispers softly, [Am] secrets of the [Em] night.
[F] In its glow, I [C] find solace, [G] in its silence, [C] I find might.
[C] I wander till the [G] break of dawn, [Am] with this heart of [Em] mine.
[F] Chasing shadows, [C] till they’re gone, [G] lost in the sands of [C] time.

(Chorus)
[F] Chasing shadows, [C] in the night,
[G] Dancing with the [Am] echoes of [Em] the light.
[F] Searching for a [C] love so pure,
[G] A love that could [C] endure.

Bands Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Marianne, a librarian from their hometown. Marianne has been following Enlightened Wage from their early days, often attending their street performances and local gigs. Despite their mainstream success, she has remained a devoted fan, frequently traveling to see them perform at music festivals and concerts across the country.

Testimonial:

“As a long-time fan of Enlightened Wage, I can honestly say their music has been a constant source of inspiration and comfort for me. Their unique blend of blues and garage rock speaks directly to the soul, while their lyrics often provide critical commentary on society and personal experiences. I’ve seen them grow from a local band to successful musicians, and through it all, they’ve remained genuine, down-to-earth, and true to their craft. Their music is like a light in the darkness, a guiding beacon in this chaotic world – it’s irreplaceable.” – Marianne.

Backstory:

Born out of a makeshift garage studio in the heart of Seattle, Trusting Flavor is a five-member band that met during their high school years. Spencer, the lead singer, and Dan, the bassist, had known each other since childhood and had always shared a common interest in music. John, the drummer, joined them after a chance encounter during a local music fest. The final pieces of the jigsaw, Hailey and Chris, the guitarists, were added later, contributing to the unique sound that Trusting Flavor is now known for. The band started performing locally, quickly gaining a devoted fan base due to their raw energy, distinctive sound, and honest lyrics.

When they released their first EP, it was well-received and led to a national tour. The band has since then released three more EPs and a full-length album, each one charting higher than the last. Despite their success, Trusting Flavor remains grounded, always remembering their roots and the local scene where they started.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

Beneath the Midnight Sky

Full Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C G D
Walking down an empty road,
Em C G D
Underneath the city’s glow,
Em C G D
Thinking about where we’ve been,
Em C G D
And where we’re yet to go.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
Beneath the midnight sky,
Em C G D
We’ll find our truths and lies,
Em C G D
In the silence of the night,
Em C G D
Your hand fits perfectly in mine.

(Verse 2)
Em C G D
The city sleeps but we’re awake,
Em C G D
Exploring dreams, no time to take,
Em C G D
Our shadows dance in harmony,
Em C G D
Creating memories in our wake.

(Repeat Chorus)

(Bridge)
Em C G D
We’re painting pictures in the dark,
Em C G D
Every moment leaves a mark,
Em C G D
Beneath the midnight sky we roam,
Em C G D
In our hearts, we’ve found our home.

(Repeat Chorus)

Fans Favorite Name:

Becky

Testimonial:

“Trusting Flavor has an authenticity that a lot of bands lack these days. Their music isn’t just about catchy beats; it’s about real emotions, real experiences, and real people. I’ve been a fan since their first local gig and I’ve seen them evolve and grow into the amazing band they are today. Their song ‘Beneath the Midnight Sky’ speaks to me on a personal level, like they’ve reached into my soul and put my feelings into words. Trusting Flavor isn’t just my favourite band, they’re a part of my life.”

Backstory:
Formed in the dimly lit basement of a leather workshop in Seattle, Grimy Leather began its journey in the alternative rock scene. The band’s members, all employees of the same shop, decided to channel their love for leatherwork and music into a unique project. They would create music that mirrored the gritty, raw, and real character of their lives. Their name, “Grimy Leather,” was a nod to the worn and beaten leather they worked with, symbolizing their enduring spirit in the face of life’s struggles. Over time, the band evolved, adding elements of punk and grunge influences to their music, creating a riveting fusion of sound that resonated with audiences all over the country.

Genre:
Alternative Rock/ Grunge

Title:
“Burnt Ends”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Livin’ on the backstreets, [C] workin’ with our hands,
[Am] Sewing stories on the leather, [D] in a rock ‘n’ roll band.
[G] Heartache in our pockets, [C] dreams in our eyes,
[Am] We are Grimy Leather, [D] and we never hide.

(Chorus)
[G] Burnt ends of our dreams, [C] but we won’t let go,
[Am] In the fire, we find strength, [D] it’s the only way we know.
[G] We are the raw, the real, [C] we’re the worn-out souls,
[Am] We are Grimy Leather, [D] making rock ‘n’ roll.

(Verse 2)
[G] Echoes in the workshop, [C] hammer hitting nail,
[Am] We’re crafting more than jackets, [D] we’re crafting a tale.
[G] With every stitch and rivet, [C] every chord we strum,
[Am] We’re Grimy Leather, [D] and we’ve just begun.

(Repeat Chorus)

Ending Verse:
[G] So here’s to the outcasts, [C] the fighters in the fray,
[Am] We are Grimy Leather, [D] and we’re here to stay.

Fan Testimonial:
Fan’s name: Jake “Leatherhead” Thompson

Jake “Leatherhead” Thompson, a middle-aged man from Boston and self-proclaimed number one fan of Grimy Leather, shows up at almost every concert, decked in a vintage leather jacket adorned with the band’s badges. Jake says, “There’s something so raw and real about Grimy Leather’s music. It speaks to my soul. It’s like they put my life into words and set it to the backdrop of killer guitar riffs. I’ve seen them live over fifty times, and each time, it feels like the first. They’re my favorite, hands down!”

Backstory:
Born in the artistic hub of Portland, Oregon, Wordy Sink started as a passion project in a college dorm. Founding members, Leo Fitzgerald and Charlotte ‘Charlie’ Evans, two literature majors with a shared love for music and expression, began collaborating on music as an extension of their poetry. Their music quickly caught the attention of fellow students and professors, and before long, they were performing at university events and local pubs. As the popularity of Wordy Sink grew, they added bassist Marcus ‘MJ’ Johnson and drummer Emily ‘Em’ Tate to the mix, creating a complete, cohesive band.

Genre:
Indie Folk Pop. Wordy Sink’s sound is characterized by a blend of intricate lyricism, melodic guitar lines, and warm, harmonized vocals. Their music is introspective, exploring themes of love, loss, hope, and the human experience.

Title:
“Diving into the Abyss”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G]Looking at this ocean, [D]wide and deep,
[Em]Wondering where it ends, [C]where secrets it keeps.
[G]Dive in headfirst, [D]no fear of the unknown,
[Em]Chasing the answers, [C]that haven’t been shown.

(Chorus)
[G]We’re diving into the abyss, [D]our hearts lead the way,
[Em]In the darkest depths, we will [C]find our own day.
[G]With poetry as our map, [D]and courage as our sink,
[Em]We’ll pen our own story, [C]faster than you think.

(Verse 2)
[G]Sometimes the waves, [D]they crash and roar,
[Em]But we keep swimming, [C]always asking for more.
[G]With each stroke, [D]we’re writing our tale,
[Em]In this ocean of life, [C]we will never fail.

(Chorus)
[G]We’re diving into the abyss, [D]our hearts lead the way,
[Em]In the darkest depths, we will [C]find our own day.
[G]With dreams as our compass, [D]and passion as our ink,
[Em]We’ll create our own reality, [C]in the blink.

The band’s favorite fan’s name:
Sophie.

Testimonial:

“Sophie has been following Wordy Sink since their early shows at university events. She’s been to virtually every performance and has a unique connection with the band’s music. Sophie explains, “I fell in love with Wordy Sink’s music instantly. Their deeply expressive lyrics intertwined with beautiful melodies speak to my soul. There’s something incredibly touching and comforting about their music that just resonates with me. It’s as if they’re translating my thoughts and feelings into songs. Their music has been my companion through life’s highs and lows. For me, Wordy Sink is more than just a band, they’re a lifeline!”

Backstory:

Gigantic Fact came into existence in the early 90s in the heart of Los Angeles, California. The band was formed by a group of high school friends – Jim McAllister (vocals), Mike Breton (guitars), Kevin Stewart (bass), and Jack Michaelson (drums). The group was drawn together by their passion for music and an unyielding determination to create something novel and unique. After winning a local talent contest, the group started to play at small local venues, where they quickly captured the attention of music enthusiasts for their distinctive sound and energetic performances.

In 1995, the band got its big break when a scout from the music label, “Music Rampage,” was mesmerized by their electrifying performance in one of the local cafes. From that point, Gigantic Fact began to climb the ladder of stardom, impressing audiences with their music that told stories of real-life experiences, hopes, dreams, and love. Their journey through the music industry has been a testament to their enduring perseverance, unrivaled creativity, and unbreakable brotherhood.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Rollercoaster Heart”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Rolling down the [G] highway, [Am] feeling kind of [Em] low,
[F] Thinking about the [C] old times, [G] where did they go?
[C] My heart was [G] on a rollercoaster, [Am] moving fast then [Em] slow,
[F] Caught in a [C] love storm, [G] with nowhere to go.

(Chorus)
Am G F
Rollercoaster Heart, why do you play this part?
Am G C
Taking me high, then tearing me apart,
Am G F
Rollercoaster Heart, you’re an elusive art,
Am G C
Show me the way, to make a fresh start.

(Verse 2)
[C] Staring at the [G] night sky, [Am] lost in the [Em] dark,
[F] Searching for the [C] answers, [G] just a tiny spark.
[C] My heart is still [G] on a rollercoaster, [Am] stumbling in the [Em] park,
[F] But I’ve got a [C] fighter spirit, [G] ready to embark.

(Chorus)
Am G F
Rollercoaster Heart, why do you play this part?
Am G C
Taking me high, then tearing me apart,
Am G F
Rollercoaster Heart, you’re an elusive art,
Am G C
Don’t back down now, we’ve come too far.

Fan’s Name:

Samantha Johnson

Samantha’s Testimony:

Gigantic Fact has been my favorite band since the moment I first heard “Rollercoaster Heart”. Their lyrics resonate with me on a deep level, and their melody always manages to touch my soul. I have been to every concert they’ve held in LA, and each performance is a testament to their incredible talent. The energy they bring to the stage is infectious – it’s impossible not to get swept up in it. I love how their music is all about real-life experiences; it’s raw and authentic. It’s not just about the catchy tunes – it’s the stories they tell through their songs that make them truly special.

Backstory:

Specific Belief was born in the grimy alleyways of Detroit, Michigan in 2005. Founding members, lead vocalist Kurt Hawkins and guitarist Greg Beasley, were childhood friends who found solace in music amidst their rough upbringing. They began playing in garage bands during their high school years, gradually developing their distinct sound, and later found their rhythm section in drummer Mike Walker and bassist Jerry Thornton. Their shared passion for music and a quest to bring light to the social and political issues of their time is what brought them together. They found their voice in their songs, standing for the common man facing everyday struggles and the system that seemed against him.

Specific Belief steadily gained popularity in their local scene thanks to the raw honesty of their lyrics and the energy of their live performances. Their first big break came in 2007 when they won a local band competition, which gave them the chance to record their debut album. Since then, they have been playing across the country, resonating deeply with their audience and carving out a unique place for themselves in the music industry.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Rebellion Call”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Looking out at the world, [D] through a cracked window pane,
[Em] Wondering why things always [C] stay the same,
[G] People with power, they [D] don’t seem to care,
[Em] While we’re out here lost in [C] despair.

(Chorus)
[G] It’s a rebellion call, [D] from deep within,
[Em] Rise up now, let [C] the revolution begin,
[G] Stand up for the truth, [D] let them hear our voice,
[Em] It’s our world, our [C] choice.

(Verse 2)
[G] Corporations profit, [D] while the poor pay the cost,
[Em] We’re working our lives away, [C] but what’s the cost?
[G] Their greed is a disease, [D] spreading like a flame,
[Em] It’s time we stand up, [C] end this game.

(Chorus)
[G] It’s a rebellion call, [D] from deep within,
[Em] Rise up now, let [C] the revolution begin,
[G] Stand up for the truth, [D] let them hear our voice,
[Em] It’s our world, our [C] choice.

Favorite Fan’s Name:
Billy Thompson

Testimonial:

“I’ve been a fan of Specific Belief since they started out playing in the local clubs. Their music speaks directly to the soul – it’s raw, honest, and powerful. They are not afraid to speak their truth, and they inspire listeners to do the same. Their songs like ‘Rebellion Call’ are anthems for people like me who believe in a better world. They make music that matters and for that, they will always be my favorite band.”