Backstory:

Formed in the year 2000, Timely Valley hails from a small town in the hills of North Carolina. The members met in their high school music class and realized they shared a deep passion for music and storytelling. They decided to name their band after the valley that cradled their hometown, a place where time seemed to move at its own pace. The band comprises five members – lead vocalist and guitarist Lucas, bassist Jake, keyboardist Heather, drummer Max, and backing vocalist and percussionist Ava. Over the years, Timely Valley has gone from playing in local bars and community centers to performing at major music festivals across the country. Their heartfelt lyrics and distinctive sound have won the hearts of audiences everywhere.

Genre:

Folk Rock

Song Title:

“Echoes of Our Home”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Down in the valley where the [C] river runs free,
[Em] We were kids just chasing [D] dreams.
[G] Hand in hand under the [C] old oak tree,
[Em] Life was simple, or so [D] it seemed.

(Chorus)
[G] Echoes of our home, [C] whispering in the wind,
[Em] Memories of a time, when [D] innocence wasn’t pretend.
[G] Now we’ve grown and [C] gone away,
[Em] But our hearts will always [D] stay,
[G] In the echoes of our [C] home, [Em] echoes of our [D] home.

(Verse 2)
[G] We’ve traveled far, seen the [C] world so wide,
[Em] But nothing compares to the [D] mountain side,
[G] The wild flowers, the [C] starry nights,
[Em] Those moments of pure [D] delight.

(Chorus)
[G] Echoes of our home, [C] whispering through the years,
[Em] The laughter, the love, and the [D] unshed tears.
[G] We carry it with us, [C] wherever we roam,
[Em] Engraved in our hearts, are the [D] echoes of our home.

(Guitar solo / Bridge)

(Chorus)
[G] Echoes of our home, [C] echoing so true,
[Em] As we journey on, we’ll always [D] find you.
[G] In the sunsets and [C] the morning dew,
[Em] The echoes of our [D] home, will [G] always pull us [C] through.

Fan Testimonial:

My name is Emily and I’m a lifelong fan of Timely Valley. Their music speaks directly to my soul. The beauty of their lyrics and the passion they put into their performance is incredibly moving. The song “Echoes of Our Home” resonates deeply with me, reminding me of my own small town upbringing. Their music has been a comforting companion through the ups and downs of life. For that, Timely Valley will always be my favorite band.

Backstory:
Awful Polytechnic formed in the bustling, artistic city of Portland, Oregon, in 2008. The band was born out of the shared frustration of four disillusioned engineering students at Portland State University. They were submerged knee-deep in the chaos of academia and sought refuge in the expansive world of music. The quartet—consisting of Julian ‘Jules’ McAllister on lead vocals and guitar, Bessie ‘Bess’ Holt on bass, Franklin ‘Frankie’ Jones on drums, and Ronald ‘Ronnie’ Smith on keyboard—decided to channel their academic frustrations into a form of artistic expression, resulting in the formation of Awful Polytechnic.

As the band members’ academic years neared their end, Awful Polytechnic slowly began to build a name for themselves in the Portland music scene. They became known for their intense, energetic performances and frank, complex lyrics that mirrored their experiences in the world of academia. Their unique sound and approach began to resonate with many young adults facing similar struggles, leading to a dedicated fan base that continues to grow.

Genre:
Indie Rock/Alternative

Title:
“Thermodynamic Heartbreak”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Chords: C, G, Am, F, Em, Dm)

(Verse 1: C, G, Am, F)
From the lecture halls to the dive bar stools,
We’ve been breaking all their precious rules.
With textbooks heavy and hearts so light,
We’ve been waiting for this all damn night.

(Chorus: Em, Am, Dm, G)
Thermodynamic heartbreak, it’s more than we can take,
This entropy of love that’s meant to break.
A chemical reaction, a classroom distraction,
We’re just awfully good at this thermodynamic heartbreak.

(Verse 2: C, G, Am, F)
In the swirl of equations and crumbling dreams,
We found a place where nothing’s as it seems.
With guitar strings and scribbled proofs,
We’ve woven truth beneath this roof.

(Chorus: Em, Am, Dm, G)
Thermodynamic heartbreak, it’s our favorite mistake,
This entropy of love that’s meant to shake.
A kinetic connection, seeking direction,
We’re just awfully good at this thermodynamic heartbreak.

(Bridge: F, C, G, Am)
Oh, the energy it takes to defy gravity,
Just to stay afloat in this academic sea.
But the melody and the math, they’ve carved a clear path,
And we’ll dance through this thermodynamic aftermath.

(Chorus: Em, Am, Dm, G)
Thermodynamic heartbreak, it’s more than we can take,
This entropy of love that’s meant to break.
A chemical reaction, a classroom distraction,
We’re just awfully good at this thermodynamic heartbreak.

Fan’s Name and Testimonial:
Fan Name: Amy Roberts

“Awful Polytechnic is my favorite band because they understand. They get the struggle of balancing school, work, life, and dreaming big. Their music speaks to those feelings in a way that’s raw, passionate, and deeply relatable. Every song feels like a direct conversation, a shared secret between me and the band. Being part of the Awful Polytechnic community means being part of a group that’s navigating the same chaotic, beautiful mess of youth and ambition. There’s no other band I’d rather have as the soundtrack to this period of my life.”

Backstory:
Formed in the quaint suburbs of York, England, Frightening Expense took root in 2012 when lead vocalist and guitarist, Vincent Straker, met drummer, Joshua Redwood, at a local pub’s open mic night. They bonded over their mutual adoration for punk rock music and shared financial struggles. Drawn to their raw energy and shared passion, local bassist Sarah Spade joined them, and the trio began creating music that combined their shared experiences and frustrations, naming their band ‘Frightening Expense’ as a snide comment on their financial struggles and the cost of pursuing their love for music.

The band’s first album, “Broken Piggy Bank,” brought them local recognition and the attention of indie music producer Julian Stratford, who helped the band refine their sound and establish a loyal cult following. Frightening Expense’s music, characterized by its raw energy, biting lyrics, and a dash of self-deprecating humor, resonated with fans facing the same struggles, turning them into a symbol of the ‘struggling artist’ in the local music scene.

Genre: Punk Rock

Title: “Empty Pockets, Full Hearts”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1 – G,Em,C,D)
In the city of dreams, with our torn-up jeans, (G, Em)
Chasing fame or bust, but it’s just dust. (C, D)
Empty pockets, but our hearts are full, (G, Em)
We’ve got the rhythm, we’ve got the pull. (C, D)

(Chorus – G,D,Em,C)
Empty pockets, full hearts, (G, D)
Never stopping, from dusk till dawn. (Em, C)
With a song in our heart, a dream in our sight, (G, D)
We’ll make it through, cutting through the night. (Em, C)

(Verse 2 – G,Em,C,D)
Dinner’s cheap ramen, in a room that’s crumbling, (G, Em)
No dollars in our hands, but we’ve got a band. (C, D)
Empty pockets, but our hearts are on fire, (G, Em)
With a song to sing, and a burning desire. (C, D)

(Chorus – G,D,Em,C)
Empty pockets, full hearts, (G, D)
Playing our music, tearing charts. (Em, C)
With a melody sweet, a rhythm so right, (G, D)
We’ll keep playing, till the morning light. (Em, C)

Fans Favorite: ‘Becky Thompson’

Testimonial:
“I discovered Frightening Expense during a low point in my life. I was jobless, penniless, and feeling pretty worthless. Their music, especially ‘Empty Pockets, Full Hearts,’ spoke directly to my soul. They transformed their struggles into something beautiful, which encouraged me to do the same. Frightening Expense is more than a band to me; they’re a symbol of resilience and hope. They remind me that even though I might have empty pockets, as long as my heart is full of dreams and determination, I can overcome anything.”

Backstory:
“Worthless Animal” was born out of the gritty urban landscape of Detroit, Michigan, in 2003. The founding members, vocalist Joaquin “Quin” Reyes, guitarist Danny “Riff” Rogers, bassist Ben “Beast” Bauer and drummer Tommy “Thunder” Thurman, were all steeped in the city’s robust punk scene before they decided to form a band that challenged the traditional punk boundaries. The name “Worthless Animal” was inspired by a graffiti tag they saw on a decaying wall in their neighborhood – it was gritty, raw and unapologetic, just like their music.

Their journey from underground local heroes to the national stage was a roller coaster ride of garage gigs, basement rehearsals, and relentless touring. Their raw energy, aggressive lyrics, and an unyielding commitment to authenticity set them apart from many other bands of the era. They soon gathered a dedicated fanbase that resonated with their defiant ethos and unfiltered sound.

Genre:
Punk Rock

Song Title:
“Concrete Jungle Symphony”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Am (F) / E (G) / Dm (Am)
In the city’s cold embrace, we found our home,
Lost in the concrete maze, but never alone.
We found beauty in the grime, in the urban decay,
Carved our names on the walls, made this jungle our domain.

[Chorus]
C (G) / Am (F) / Dm (E)
We’re the voice of the underdogs, the forgotten, the unseen,
Screaming loud in the Concrete Jungle Symphony.

[Verse 2]
Am (F) / E (G) / Dm (Am)
Skyscrapers cast long shadows, hiding the sun,
This is our playground, our battle has begun.
The city’s pulse under our feet, its rhythm in our veins,
Our anthem echoes off the walls, in the pouring rain.

[Chorus]
C (G) / Am (F) / Dm (E)
We’re the voice of the underdogs, the forgotten, the unseen,
Screaming loud in the Concrete Jungle Symphony.

Fan Testimonial:
Name: Lucy “Punkgirl” Thornton

“Worthless Animal isn’t just a band—it’s a movement. Their music speaks to me in a way nothing else has. It’s raw, it’s real, it’s unfiltered—just like life. From the first time I heard ‘Concrete Jungle Symphony’, I knew I was a fan for life. The way they capture the angst and the beauty of the city resonates with my own experiences. Worthless Animal gives a voice to people like me, who often feel unseen and unheard. This band is more than a favorite, it’s a lifeline.”

Backstory:
Greedy Question was born out of the smoky basement of a run-down apartment in the heart of New York City. Founders, and childhood friends, Max Reynolds (vocals and guitar) and Sam Harper (drums) spent countless nights jamming and writing songs fueled by their angst, their dreams, and a mutual love for rock music. After a few years of honing their craft, they were joined by Bella Robinson (bass) and Sarah Jacobs (keyboard), two talented musicians they met at a local gig. Their chemistry was undeniable from the start and Greedy Question quickly became a force to be reckoned with on the local underground music scene, winning hearts with their raw energy, compelling lyrics, and passionate performances.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Burning Bridges”

Full Song Lyrics:
[Verse 1]
Em G
Once upon a time, we were young and reckless,
D C
Burning bridges just to feel alive.
Em G
Chasing shadows in the dead of night,
D C
Lost in a world that was black and white.

[Chorus]
Em G
Now we’re older, a bit colder,
D C
But the fire inside still rages on.
Em G
Building bridges from the embers,
D C
Finding hope in the break of dawn.

[Verse 2]
Em G
Tales of love, tales of sorrow,
D C
We’ve all got our demons to fight.
Em G
Through the chaos, through the madness,
D C
We find strength in the darkest night.

[Chorus]
Em G
Now we’re wiser, the horizon’s brighter,
D C
But the storm inside still rages on.
Em G
Healing bridges from the ashes,
D C
Finding peace in the rising sun.

Fan Testimonial:
“I’m Jenny Thompson, probably the biggest Greedy Question fan you’ll ever meet. I’ve followed them from their early days playing small gigs in downtown New York. Their music resonates with me on such a deep level it’s like they’re singing my feelings, my story. ‘Burning Bridges’ has pulled me through some really tough times and made me feel less alone. Their raw energy, their passion for their art, and their authenticity make them not just my favorite band but my lifeline.”

Backstory:
Waterlogged Ally was formed in the rain-soaked corners of Seattle, Washington in 2015. The four-piece group, composed of lead vocalist and guitarist Jack Howell, bassist Lisa Kellerman, drummer and backing vocalist Danny Styles, and keyboardist and backing vocalist Sara Morris, developed a unique blend of heartfelt lyrics and dynamic sounds that set them apart from other bands in the area. The name Waterlogged Ally was inspired by the city’s reputation for constant rainfall and the streets they wandered during their initial days, creating a music vibe deeply connected to their roots.

Genre:
Waterlogged Ally’s sound can be best described as a blend of Indie Rock and Soulful Blues.

Title:
“One Rain Away”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse)
G Em
Walking through this city, under the grey sky,
C D
Dreams in our pockets, and hope in our eyes.

G Em
Each drop of rain, a story on our skin,
C D
A little waterlogged, but we’ll never give in.

(Chorus)
G Em
We’re just one rain away,
C D
From finding our sunshine day.
G Em
We may be drenched, but we’ll find a way,
C D
Yes, we’re just one rain away.

(Verse)
G Em
In this waterlogged ally, we found our sound,
C D
Echoing off streets, where dreams are found.

G Em
Though the skies may weep, we stand tall,
C D
For in the rain, we found our call.

(Chorus)
G Em
We’re just one rain away,
C D
From finding our sunshine day.
G Em
We may be drenched, but we’ll find a way,
C D
Yes, we’re just one rain away.

Favorite Fan’s Name:
The band’s favorite fan is named Rachel.

Testimonial:
Rachel says, “There’s something about Waterlogged Ally that just resonates with me. Their sound is like a soothing rain on the roof – calming, but with an underlying energy that keeps you wanting more. The way they weave their experiences with the rainy city into their songs is simply poetic. Their lyrics are so relatable, and their music just speaks to my soul. They are, without a doubt, my favorite band.”

Backstory:

Originating from the vibrant city of San Francisco, Brown Spoon was formed in 2010 by a group of college best friends who shared a common passion for music and storytelling. The band’s unique name came from their favorite hangout spot, a small café near their campus known as “Brown Spoon,” where they wrote most of their early songs and jammed together after class. The members include lead vocalist and guitarist, Danny Carson, drummer Adam Cohen, bassist Kyle Johnson, and keyboard player, Mike Shaw. Their journey from playing at small college gigs to performing at massive music festivals has been nothing less than a roller coaster ride, filled with highs and lows, yet they’ve always managed to stay true to their roots.

Genre:

Brown Spoon is essentially an Indie Rock band with a unique blend of folk and blues. Their music is characterized by raw, emotive lyrics coupled with powerful guitar riffs and rhythmic drum beats.

Title:

“Echoing Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C G Am F
Under the ink of the night, we found our voices,
C G Am F
Lost in the echoes, whispering choices.
C G Am F
Reality’s a dream, so we chose to forget,
C G Am F
In the echoing shadows, we cast the net.

(Chorus)
C G Am F
Echoing shadows, our silent guise,
C G Am F
We are but stardust in the skies.
C G Am F
In lingering whispers and soft sighs,
C G Am F
We are the echoes, we are the cries.

(Verse 2)
C G Am F
Through the looking glass, we saw our reflection,
C G Am F
Tangled in dreams, searching for direction.
C G Am F
In the echoing shadows, we found our song,
C G Am F
A melody that’s been in our hearts all along.

(Chorus)
C G Am F
Echoing shadows, our silent guise,
C G Am F
We are but stardust in the skies.
C G Am F
In lingering whispers and soft sighs,
C G Am F
We are the echoes, we are the cries.

Their Favorite Fan’s Name:

Brown Spoon’s favorite fan is Sarah Thompson, a young artist from Seattle.

Testimonial:

“As a painter, I often look for inspiration in the world around me, but nothing inspires me more than the music of Brown Spoon. Their song lyrics are poetic masterpieces that trigger deep emotions, making me see the world in a whole new light. Their sound, a seamless blend of indie, folk, and blues, creates a unique musical landscape that takes me on an unforgettable journey. The rawness and authenticity in their music touch my soul and give me the courage to express myself through my art. Brown Spoon is not just a band to me, they are my muses.”

Backstory:
Intent Harm came together in the gritty, vibrant streets of New York City during the early 2000s—an era characterized by a significant rock revival. The band was formed by vocal powerhouse, Jack Turner, and his childhood friend, gifted guitarist, Ryan Sullivan. Jack and Ryan had shared a passion for music since their early years, experimenting with various musical styles and instruments in their parents’ garages. Joined by drummer, Eddie Wright, and bassist, Olivia Reed, the band gained a reputation for their raw energy and unapologetic sound, drawing audiences into their world of hard-hitting rock and soul-baring lyrics.

The band’s journey began with playing local venues and bars, where they honed their sound and built a solid fan base. Their big break came when a music producer caught them playing at a late-night dive bar and offered them a record deal. Over the years, Intent Harm has defied trends and continued to keep their sound true to their rock roots while infusing elements of punk and grunge.

Genre: Rock/Punk/Grunge

Song Title: “Fury’s Echo”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
G C D Em
Down these lonely streets, I wander, lost in time,
G C D Em
In the echoes of your laughter, in the remnants of our prime.
G C D Em
Once we were warriors, with hearts ablaze and wild,
G C D Em
Now we’re just memories, lost in the mind of a child.

[Chorus]
Am C G D
Can you hear the Fury’s Echo, the sound of our demise?
Am C G D
Can you feel the bitter cold, beneath the starless skies?
Am C G D
Though the world has moved on, and the days have turned to grey,
Am C G D
In Fury’s Echo, we will forever stay.

[Verse 2]
G C D Em
Through the chaos and the carnage, we sought for truth,
G C D Em
In the silence of the morning, in the innocence of youth.
G C D Em
We found love in the shadows, and solace in the night,
G C D Em
But the Fury’s Echo, it always wins the fight.

[Chorus]
Am C G D
Can you hear the Fury’s Echo, the sound of our demise?
Am C G D
Can you feel the bitter cold, beneath the starless skies?
Am C G D
Though the world has moved on, and the days have turned to grey,
Am C G D
In Fury’s Echo, we will forever stay.

Fan’s Name: Sarah Thompson

Testimonial:
“Intent Harm has been my favorite band since I first heard them at a local bar in the city. Their music, especially ‘Fury’s Echo’, resonates with me deeply. It’s like they’re narrating my life and emotions in their songs. They have the rawness that’s missing in today’s overproduced music. Their sound is unique, powerful, and doesn’t shy away from revealing the darker side of life. Jack’s voice is hauntingly beautiful, and the synergy between him, Ryan, Eddie, and Olivia is unparalleled. They’ve remained genuine in their music and to their fans. For me, Intent Harm is not just a band, it’s a musical revelation.”

Backstory:
Founded in the heart of New York City, Outstanding Mayor is a unique quartet that combines the hustle and bustle of city life with their love for music. The band members met at a neighborhood protest against city hall in 2010. Fueled by their shared passion for social issues and unique musical tastes, they decided to form a band. The name ‘Outstanding Mayor’ emerged as a cheeky nod to their origin story, reminding them and their fans of the power of community and the importance of holding authorities accountable.

Genre:
Outstanding Mayor has made a name for themselves in the Pop Punk genre. Their music is a blend of energetic punk rock rhythms mixed with catchy pop melodies, often underscored by lyrics that reflect their socio-political origins.

Song Title: “Shadows on the Sidewalk”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Walking down the city streets, [D] feeling the concrete beneath my feet
[E] Shadows on the sidewalk, [C] telling stories bittersweet
[G] Everywhere you look there’s pain, [D] but we’re dancing in the rain
[E] Holding on to hope, [C] we’ve got everything to gain

(Chorus)
[D] Shadows on the sidewalk, [G] we won’t let them bring us down
[E] We’re the voice of the city, [C] we’re gonna take back this town
[D] Screaming till our lungs give out, [G] we’re standing tall and proud
[E] Shadows on the sidewalk, [C] but together we’re loud

(Verse 2)
[G] Corner stores and city lights, [D] we’re not going without a fight
[E] Dreams of a better future, [C] is what keeps us up at night
[G] Big city, bigger hearts, [D] we’re more than just moving parts
[E] We’re the rhythm, we’re the pulse, [C] we’re outstanding works of art

(Chorus)
[D] Shadows on the sidewalk, [G] we won’t let them bring us down
[E] We’re the voice of the city, [C] we’re gonna take back this town
[D] Screaming till our lungs give out, [G] we’re standing tall and proud
[E] Shadows on the sidewalk, [C] but together we’re loud

Fan’s Name and Testimonial:
Amy Thompson: “Outstanding Mayor is my favorite band and their song ‘Shadows on the Sidewalk’ resonates with me on so many levels. I feel seen, heard, and represented in their music. It talks about resilience, hope, and the spirit of the city that I love. The band’s energy, their passion for social issues, and their catchy tunes make me feel like a part of something bigger. Outstanding Mayor isn’t just a band, it’s a movement.”

Backstory:

Genuine Caption is a band formed in the bustling city of Portland, Oregon in the summer of 2007. The four-person group includes lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Sam Thompson, lead guitarist Jake Miller, bassist Ryan Preston, and drummer Andy McAllister. The band members met at a local music shop where they bonded over their shared love for music and their passion for creating something fresh and unique. They started practicing in Sam’s garage and eventually began to perform in local pubs and venues. Their breakthrough came when a talent scout discovered them in 2010 at one of their performances.

Genre:

Genuine Caption plays a fusion of indie rock and folk, with a touch of blues. They are known for their soulful lyrics, intricate riffs and layered harmonies.

Title:

“One More Echo”

Song Lyrics:

Verse 1 [Dm C Bb A]:
In this city where the night just fades,
I’m left chasing your one more echo.
Through the silence, your voice invades,
In the depths of my soul, it echoes.

Chorus [F C Bb A]:
One more echo, one more whisper in the wind,
A trace of you that keeps reverberating.
One more echo, through the silence it begins,
Your memory, it keeps resonating.

Verse 2 [Dm C Bb A]:
In the corners of this empty room,
I still hear the laughter and the sorrow.
In the echoes, I find the bloom,
Of a love that may not see tomorrow.

Chorus [F C Bb A]:
One more echo, one more whisper in the night,
An imprint of you that’s softly pulsating.
One more echo, in the dimming of the light,
In every echo, it’s you I’m locating.

Band’s Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Lisa. She’s been following Genuine Caption since their early days playing in small venues in Portland. Lisa says, “I fell in love with their music the first time I heard it. Their lyrics speak to me on a personal level and their fusion of indie and folk is really refreshing. They aren’t just a band to me, they are like a soundtrack to my life. Their song ‘One More Echo’ helped me get through a tough time in my life and for that, I will always be grateful.”