Backstory:

Impolite Basket was formed in the bustling city of Austin, Texas in 2012. The band’s three members – lead vocalist and drummer Jonathan “Jono” Lewis, bassist Rachel “Rach” Martinez, and guitarist Mark “Markie” Howell – met while studying at the University of Texas. They bonded over their shared love of music and their desire to break away from the traditional sound of their city’s music scene, and before long, they found themselves jamming together in Howell’s basement.

The band gained a local following with their electrifying live performances and unique sound, leading them to win the city’s prestigious “Battle of the Bands” competition. This victory served as the springboard that launched Impolite Basket into the national spotlight. Now, they are known for their energetic performances, humorous lyrics, and their ability to blend different musical styles into a sound that is uniquely their own.

Genre:
Alt-Rock with a hint of Funk

Title:
“Rude Awakening”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1 – Am, C, G, D)
Am C G D
“Woke up this morning, feeling just fine,
Am C G D
Then reality hit me, like a punchline.
Am C G D
Staring at the ceiling, lost in my head,
Am C G D
Can’t escape the feeling, I’m better off in bed.”

(Chorus – F, C, G)
F C G
“It’s a rude awakening, it’s a slap in the face,
F C G
Life ain’t a picnic, it’s a rat race.
F C G
I’m just a hamster on a wheel,
F C G
Life’s an impolite basket, that’s how I feel.”

(Verse 2)
“Every day’s a battle, it’s a constant fight,
Trying to find the balance, between wrong and right.
Can’t tell if I’m winning, or losing the game,
Every day’s different, but it all feels the same.”

(Repeat Chorus)

(Bridge – Em, D, C, G)
Em D C G
“Got to find the courage, to face another day,
Em D C G
Embrace the struggle, in every single way.”

(Repeat Chorus, then Outro)

Fan Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Sally Thompson. Sally is a professional photographer who started following the band during their early days in Austin. She says, “I’ve been an avid fan of Impolite Basket since the beginning. Their music, their energy, their honesty – it all resonates with me. I see myself in their lyrics, and it’s a comforting feeling to know that someone else understands the struggles of everyday life. Their music has gotten me through some tough times. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.”

Backstory:

Easy-Going Drama was formed in the vibrant music scene of Austin, Texas, in 2012. The band was initially a duo, consisting of childhood friends Kevin ‘Kev’ Murphy on guitar and vocals, and Lucy ‘Lulu’ Parker on drums. The two were known for their distinct music and passion for storytelling through song. They quickly gained a local following with their unique style and engaging performances.

In 2014, the duo expanded into a four-piece band adding bassist Rick ‘Red’ Johnson and keyboardist Sarah ‘Saz’ Cooper. This addition added depth to their music and brought a new dimension to their performances. The group’s unity and shared vision for creating meaningful music, combined with their individual talents, turned Easy-Going Drama into a band that seamlessly blended storytelling, emotion, and impeccable musicianship.

Genre:

Indie Folk Rock

Song Title:

“Underneath the Willow Tree”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Underneath the willow tree, [D] found a place to hide,
[Em] Whispered dreams and secrets, [C] with the moon as our guide.
[G] We were young, we were bold, [D] dreams painted in gold,
[Em] Shared a love story, [C] that had never been told.

(Chorus)
[G] Underneath the willow tree, [D] where we used to be,
[Em] Lies the roots of our love, [C] hidden yet free.
[G] Underneath the willow tree, [D] the stars ignite,
[Em] We’re dancing in the shadows, [C] lost in the night.

(Verse 2)
[G] Time moved like a flowing stream, [D] years started to blend,
[Em] But the willow tree remembered, [C] it was our loyal friend.
[G] Memories painted on its bark, [D] secrets in its core,
[Em] Underneath the willow tree, [C] we exist forevermore.

(Chorus)
[G] Underneath the willow tree, [D] our love story unfolds,
[Em] Dancing in its shadows, [C] stories never told.
[G] Underneath the willow tree, [D] under the starry night,
[Em] We found love’s symphony, [C] in its soft, gentle light.

Band’s favorite fan:

Our biggest fan is undoubtedly Mia Thompson. She’s been following our journey since the very beginning. She’s attended every gig, bought every album, and even traveled to different states just to see us perform.

Mia’s Testimonial:

“Easy-Going Drama is my heartbeat. Their music resonates with me in a way no other band’s does. The raw emotions, the compelling storytelling, their authenticity; everything about them feels real. They’re not just making music; they’re sharing their souls, and that’s why I love them.”

Backstory:
Sure-Footed Pit emerged from the remnants of three local garage bands from the small town of Llano, Texas. The band members, childhood friends, decided to combine their talents in 2008, after their individual bands broke up. The band’s name, chosen after a fun night around a campfire, recalls the unforgiving Texas landscape that has helped shape their sound and ethos. The band’s unique style draws from their shared passion for vintage rock and roll, and their collective experience in different bands has allowed them to create a sound that, while inspired by the past, has a unique and modern identity.

Genre:
Sure-Footed Pit’s style can be described as a fusion of indie rock and folk, blending powerful guitar riffs with haunting lyrics and a soulful Southern drawl. Their music is characterized by anthemic choruses, evocative lyrics and an overall raw and edgy sound.

Title:
“A Heartbeat Away”

Full Song Lyrics:
Verse 1 (C G Am F):
Beneath the Texas sun, in a town that’s run,
By the ghosts of the past and a future undone.
In dreams and dust, we learn to trust,
And to love and live, in this world we must.

Chorus (Am F C G):
And we’re just a heartbeat away,
From the dawn of a brand-new day.
Through the dark, through the fray,
We’re just a heartbeat away.

Verse 2 (C G Am F):
In the pits and the peaks, where the silence speaks,
We find our strength, in the words we leak.
In the rhythm of life, through love and strife,
We play our song, with passion rife.

Chorus (Am F C G):
And we’re just a heartbeat away,
From the dawn of a brand-new day.
Through the dusk, through the decay,
We’re just a heartbeat away.

The Band’s Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Alice. Alice first got to know Sure-Footed Pit at one of their earliest garage performances. She has since followed them to every gig, becoming a familiar face in the crowd and a cherished member of the band’s inner circle.

Testimonial:
“I’ve been a fan of Sure-Footed Pit since their garage band days. Their music resonates with me on a personal level. Their lyrics, the rhythm, it’s just amazing. No other band manages to capture the spirit of our town, our people, the way they do. They’re more than just a band to me, they’re a part of my life.” – Alice

Backstory:

Born in the rusty boroughs of Brooklyn, New York in 2012, Busy Execution is the brainchild of four childhood friends – lead vocalist Craig “Crank” Marston, guitarist Billy “Blaze” Connolly, bassist Stuart “Stu” Reynolds, and drummer Pete “The Beat” Thompson. The quartet used their shared passion for music as a lifeline, an escape from the grim realities of their troubled neighborhood. They converted an old abandoned warehouse into their jamming studio, and the space echoed with their dreams and the raw energy of their music. As their talent and dedication persevered through the years, they caught the attention of a local music producer who saw the potential in their socially-conscious lyrics and rebellious spirit. Soon, Busy Execution was born, creating music that resonates with the voice of the youth.

Genre:

Post-Punk Revival with grungy undertones.

Title:

“Concrete Jungle Bloodline”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[E] Walking down these cold city nights, [C] under the neon light’s fight
[D] Got a guitar on my back, [A] dreams in my sight
[E] In the concrete jungle, [C] where dreams take flight
[D] In the heart of the beast, [A] we ignite

(Chorus)
[E] We’re the Concrete Jungle Bloodline, [C] born in chaos and grime
[D] Strumming the chords of rebellion, [A] one note at a time
[E] In the echoes of our music, [C] hope begins to chime
[D] We’re the Concrete Jungle Bloodline, [A] and we’re gonna climb

(Verse 2)
[E] In this jungle of steel, [C] where silence is a steal
[D] We scream, we shout, [A] make the world kneel
[E] We’re the pulse, the beat, [C] the city’s heartbeat
[D] We’re the Concrete Jungle Bloodline, [A] and we won’t accept defeat

(Chorus)
[E] We’re the Concrete Jungle Bloodline, [C] born in chaos and grime
[D] Strumming the chords of rebellion, [A] one note at a time
[E] In the echoes of our music, [C] hope begins to chime
[D] We’re the Concrete Jungle Bloodline, [A] we’re in our prime.

Fan Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan is undoubtedly “Rudy the Rocker”. Rudy has been a steadfast supporter of the band since their inception. Despite now being in his late sixties, not a single concert goes by without him in the front row. He says, “Busy Execution is more than just a band to me. They are the embodiment of struggle, rebellion, and the unquenchable spirit of the youth. Their music speaks to my soul, reminding me of my own rebellious youth. They are the voice of the voiceless, a beacon of light in these trying times. And as long as they’re playing, I’ll be there, rocking right along with them!”

Backstory:
Snappy Sample are a group of five friends from the heart of Seattle, Washington, who all share an unparalleled love for music. The band was formed in late 2012 when lead vocalist and guitarist, Connor Jennings, got together with drummer, Max Carter, and bassist, Liam Fisher for an impromptu jam session in Jennings’ garage. After realizing they had a unique chemistry, they decided to recruit keyboardist, Laura Anderson, and backup vocalist, Sally Peterson, to complete the lineup.

Originally, they performed at local bars and venues, earning a small but loyal following in their city. Their breakthrough came when they were discovered by a renowned music producer at one of their gigs. Impressed by their raw talent and energy, he offered them a record deal. Since then, they’ve been touring across the United States, capturing hearts with their strikingly different yet melodious tunes.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Stormy Weather Ahead”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[E]Sitting in the corner, waiting for the [A]rain
[E]Thinking about the joy, remembering the [B]pain
[E]Life’s like a roller coaster, it’s a crazy [A]ride
[E]But with you by my side, I can take it in [B]stride

(Chorus)
[A]Stormy weather ahead, but we’ll make it [E]through
[B]Loving you feels like a dream that’s come [A]true
[A]In the thunder and the lightning, in the [E]pouring rain
[B]With you, I can weather through all the [A]pain

(Verse 2)
[E]Dancing in the kitchen, in the middle of the [A]night
[E]With you, every moment feels just [B]right
[E]You’re my sunshine after the storm, you’re my [A]rainbow
[E]With you, I’ve found a place that feels like [B]home

(Repeat Chorus)

Favorite Fan:
Joshua Collins. Joshua is a die-hard Snappy Sample fan because he resonates with their lyrics and feels the band has a unique energy that sets them apart. According to him, “Snappy Sample isn’t just a band, they’re a feeling. Their music has helped me through some of the toughest times in my life. Each song tells a story that I can relate to. They’re my favorite band because they make me feel seen and understood. It’s as if they’re putting words and melody to emotions I can’t express myself.”

Backstory:
Hailing from the vibrant streets of New York City, ‘Some Culture’ was born out of the shared passion for music of four childhood friends – Owen, Ben, Kate, and Alex. The quartet had been playing different instruments since their school days, and they were known for their impromptu jam sessions in the city parks. It was during a particularly melodious evening in the summer of 2011, that they decided to come together and form ‘Some Culture’. Over time, their shared love for indie rock and their willingness to experiment with different musical elements has resulted in a unique sound that has earned them a loyal fanbase.

Alex, with his wizardry on the keyboard, weaves a magical base for the music. Ben, on his bass, adds depth to it. Owen’s drumming creates a pulsating rhythm that sets the mood, and Kate’s enchanting vocals bring listeners into their musical world. Their music reflects the diversity and vibrancy of NYC, with the band pushing boundaries and defying genre conventions, ever eager to experiment and innovate.

Genre: Indie Rock

Title: “City’s Lullaby”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am
Late-night city lights, our dreams taking flight
C
In the rhythm of the streets, we dance till it’s light
F G
We’re under the stars, guided by the city’s lullaby

(Chorus)
Am
Oh, it’s the city’s lullaby, setting our hearts on fire
C
In the rhythm of the street, where dreams never tire
F G
We’re dancing under the stars, to the sound of the city’s lullaby

(Verse 2)
Am
The skyline’s silhouette, a sight we’ll never forget
C
In the city’s heartbeat, our own we met
F G
Under the stars, lost in the city’s lullaby

(Chorus)
Am
It’s the city’s lullaby, setting our hearts on fire
C
In the rhythm of the street, where dreams never tire
F G
We’re dancing under the stars, to the sound of the city’s lullaby

Favorite Fan:
‘Some Culture’s’ favorite fan is an music enthusiast named Danny who hails from Brooklyn. Danny has been a big fan since he first heard them play in a local park. He has been to all their concerts in NYC and has even followed them to a few out-of-state shows. He loves ‘Some Culture’ for their unique sound, energy, and the way they weave a story through their music. In his words:

“I’ve never heard a band that captures the essence of New York like ‘Some Culture’ does. Their music is like a beautiful dialogue between the city and its people. Their song ‘City’s Lullaby’ is my personal anthem, a beautiful ode to the city that never sleeps. ‘Some Culture’ embodies the essence of indie rock with their soulful music and I can’t wait to see where their musical journey takes them next.”

Backstory:
Fake Loss is a unique band that emerged from the vibrant music scene of Portland, Oregon. The band came to life in 2010 when lead vocalist, Jason Miller, met drummer, Danny Green, at a local bar’s open mic night. Their shared love for music and a common vision of creating something that resonates with people led to the formation of Fake Loss. Adding to their lineup, they later recruited Ben Ford on guitar and Michael Scott on bass, who came from different music backgrounds, bringing a unique touch to the band’s sound. The name ‘Fake Loss’ reflects the band’s metaphorical take on life, where loss often leads to the discovery of something new.

Genre:
Alternative Rock/Indie

Title:
“Washed Ashore”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse)
Em C G D
I woke up today, bathed in the city’s gray
Em C G D
Lost in the crowd, just trying to find my way
Em C G D
With every passing stranger, a story untold
Em C G D
I carry the weight of dreams that I’ve been sold

(Chorus)
Em C G D
I’m washed ashore, where the ocean meets the sand
Em C G D
In the emptiness, I’m trying to understand
Em C G D
Life’s a fake loss, a riddle in disguise
Em C G D
In the dying embers, the phoenix always rise

(Verse)
Em C G D
The city lights flicker, like distant stars
Em C G D
I’m a silent wanderer, bearing unseen scars
Em C G D
With every ticking second, a moment unfolds
Em C G D
Underneath the mask, a thousand tales untold

(Chorus)
Em C G D
I’m washed ashore, where the sky kisses the sea
Em C G D
Amid the chaos, I find my symphony
Em C G D
Life’s a fake loss, a labyrinth without end
Em C G D
In every goodbye, there’s a hello around the bend

Fan’s Name:
Samuel Brown

Testimonial:
Fake Loss isn’t just my favorite band, they are my lifeline. Their music somehow manages to articulate my thoughts and feelings that I can’t express. “Washed Ashore” was a song that helped me navigate through a very challenging time in my life. I felt like a lost soul, but their lyrics reminded me that every loss is just an opportunity for a new beginning. They might be ‘Fake Loss,’ but their impact on my life is absolutely real. Their authenticity and profound lyrics make them stand out. They are not just a band; they are poets of modern times.

Backstory:

Qualified Text is a band that was born out of the shared passion for music among four college friends: frontman Ethan, guitarist Mike, bassist Alex, and drummer Leo. All hailing from Boston, Massachusetts, they first met in a literature class and later discovered their mutual love for creating music. Qualified Text was formed in their junior year and they started playing in the local pub scene and college events. The band gained popularity for their distinctive sound and thought-provoking lyrics which are heavily influenced by their literature background—a unique blend of their literary insights and musical creativity.

Genre:

Qualified Text’s music can be best categorized as Indie Rock, with elements of Alternative Rock and Progressive Rock blended in. They are known for their poetic lyrics, complex guitar riffs, and strong rhythms. Their sound is often described as a modern take on the classic rock, combining the depth and darkness of their lyrics with the energy of their performances.

Title:

One of their notable songs is titled “Coded Reality”.

Song Lyrics:

Verse 1: [Am, F, G, E]
In the haze of a coded reality, [Am]
Where the keyboard keys are our only sanity. [F]
We write our dreams, we script our fears, [G]
In the silence of the night, it’s where we steer. [E]

Chorus: [C, G, Am, F]
Oh, Coded Reality, what’s your validity? [C]
Lost in the code, we forget our humanity. [G]
We’re living in the text, oh can’t you see, [Am]
Our coded reality, is it truly free? [F]

Verse 2: [Am, F, G, E]
In the luminescence of the screen’s glow, [Am]
We find comfort, in the lines’ flow. [F]
But what’s beyond the scripted line? [G]
In this coded reality, are we fine? [E]

Chorus: [C, G, Am, F]
Oh, Coded Reality, your digital duality, [C]
Finding meaning in algorithms’ brutality. [G]
We’re living in the text, oh can’t you see, [Am]
In this coded reality, we long to be free. [F]

Favorite Fan:

Their favorite fan is named Jenny. She found Qualified Text through a local college event and has been following them since their early days. Jenny says “Qualified Text’s music resonates with me on a personal level. Their lyrics are profound and thought-provoking. They have the unique talent of blending meaningful literature with exciting rock music. Ethan’s voice and their overall sound are just mesmerizing. I feel understood and seen when I listen to them. Each of their songs is a journey, a story that pulls you in and leaves you thinking.”

Backstory:
Raw Hotel is a band that emerged from the underground music scene in Seattle, Washington. The four members, lead singer Jake Daniels, guitarist Mike Foster, drummer Sam Malone, and bassist Bill “Billy” Thompson, all met while working in various roles at a run-down hotel on the outskirts of the city. Inspired by the raw, unfiltered experiences they witnessed and lived through, they decided to channel their collective frustration and creativity into music, thus giving birth to Raw Hotel.

The band quickly gained a reputation in the local music scene for their gritty lyrics, high-energy performances, and the unmistakable bond they had on stage, a testament to their shared experiences at the hotel. Garnering a cult following initially, Raw Hotel gradually started catching the attention of mainstream audiences and record labels.

Genre:
Alternative Rock/Indie

Title:
“Room 109”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
A [Am] stranger walks into room [G] one-oh-nine,
[Dm] Leaving behind a life, a [E] love so divine.
[Am] Shadows of past, on the [G] wall they align,
[Dm] Under the flickering neon [E] sign.

(Chorus)
F#m D A E
Here in the Raw Hotel, we let it dwell,
F#m D A E
The stories untold, within these walls they swell,
F#m D A E
Room 109, where heartache and love fell,
F#m D A E
In the heart of the Raw Hotel, we bid farewell.

(Verse 2)
[Am] Laughter, tears, rage, and [G] sweet romance,
[Dm] Every room here holds a [E] unique dance.
[Am] Echoes of life, in a transitory [G] trance,
[Dm] In the Raw Hotel, we give them a [E] chance.

(Repeat Chorus)

Favorite Fan:
Their favorite fan is a girl named Sarah Johnson. Sarah, a fine arts student, discovered Raw Hotel during a low point in her life. Their music resonated with her, reflecting her own struggles and helping her find solace. She has been a devoted fan ever since, attending every gig in town, creating fan art, and running an online fan club for the band.

Sarah’s Testimonial:
“Raw Hotel is real. Their music isn’t just about catchy hooks or flashy performances. It’s about life, the raw, unfiltered truth of it. It’s about the hotel we all live in, with rooms full of joy, sadness, love, and loss. In a world where so much feels artificial, Raw Hotel is a breath of fresh air; they’re authentic. They’ve been a constant in my life, helping me make sense of my own experiences. They’re not just a band to me, they’re my rock.”

Backstory:

Popular Female is an all-female group formed in Oakland, California back in 2015. Although college friends, the band members knew each other from various music projects and had always dreamt of forming their own band. Lead vocalist, Joanne “Jo” Barker and lead guitarist, Rachel “Rach” Hoffman, were the founding members who later roped in their former classmate, Katie “Kait” Nichols for the drums and long-time friend, Lisa “Lee” Johnson on the bass. The band wasn’t an overnight success, they played in numerous local bars and small venues before being discovered by a talent agent at a local music festival, which ultimately led to their first record deal.

Genre:

Indie Pop/Rock

Title:

“Shattered Glass”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G]In the midst of noise, [C]beneath the city lights,
[Em]Found our voice, [D]emerging from the night.
[G]Fought the stereotypes, [C]broke the age-old norms,
[Em]We are Popular Female, [D]weathering the storms.

(Chorus)
[G]We are the shattered glass, [C]the unheard scream,
[D]We are the dream within a dream.
[Em]We are the silent prayer, [C]the broken chain,
[G]We are Popular Female, [D]rising again.

(Verse 2)
[G]Under the starlit sky, [C]we wrote our songs,
[Em]In the melody, [D]we found where we belong.
[G]With every tune we play, [C]every note we sing,
[Em]We are Popular Female, [D]let our voices ring.

(Chorus)
[G]We are the shattered glass, [C]the unheard scream,
[D]We are the dream within a dream.
[Em]We are the silent prayer, [C]the broken chain,
[G]We are Popular Female, [D]rising again.

Band’s Favorite Fan:

Their favorite fan is a young woman named Jenny who first discovered the band while browsing through a local music forum.

Testimonial:
“I adore Popular Female because their music speaks to me on a personal level. Their songs tell stories that are real, raw, and relatable. They’re not just musicians, they’re storytellers, and that’s what makes them unique. The song “Shattered Glass” is my anthem – it reminds me that it’s okay to be different, to break molds, and to keep rising no matter what. They’re more than just my favorite band – they’re my inspiration.” – Jenny.