Backstory:

Born out of the suburbs of Austin, Texas, Normal Infant is a band that redefines the concept of normalcy. The trio – frontman Jayson “Jax” Daniels, bassist Connor “CJ” Johnson, and drummer Riley “Rye” Taylor – were childhood friends who lived on the same block, shared a passion for music, and an odd obsession with the oddities of life. The band started as a garage act, playing for the neighborhood, but their eccentric lyrics, unique sound, and raw talent quickly pushed them into the spotlight.

Their name – Normal Infant – is in fact a nod to their roots, the irony of growing up in a perfect picture of suburban normalcy while feeling anything but normal. The band found refuge in music, creating tunes that speak to the misfits, the outcasts, and anyone ever felt out of sync with ‘normal’.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Suburban Nightmare”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Looking at the houses, all [D] lined up in rows,
[Em] White picket fences, concealing [C] secrets untold.
[G] Mama’s in the kitchen, [D] Daddy’s on the phone,
[Em] We’re just normal infants in [C] this suburban home.

(Chorus)
[C] Welcome to our [G] Suburban Nightmare,
[D] Living life like we [Em] just don’t care.
[C] Screaming loud in [G] the silent night,
[D] We’re normal infants, [Em] gonna start a fight.

(Verse 2)
[G] High school dances, [D] Friday night games,
[Em] Swimming in the normalcy, [C] we’re all the same.
[G] But inside we’re screaming, [D] yearning to break free,
[Em] We’re normal infants, [C] not what we seem to be.

(Chorus)
[C] Welcome to our [G] Suburban Nightmare,
[D] Living life like we [Em] just don’t care.
[C] We’re the voice of [G] the silent cries,
[D] We’re normal infants, [Em] ready to rise.

The band’s favorite fan’s name:

Tracy

Testimonial:

“Normal Infant isn’t just a band, they’re a lifeline. They put words to my feelings when I couldn’t. Their raw honesty, the angst, the rebellion – it resonates with me. “Suburban Nightmare” is more than a song, it’s a story – my story, and I think it’s the story of so many others too. Normal Infant is my favorite band because they get it, they get me. They make me feel seen, heard, and accepted. That’s why I’m their biggest fan.” – Tracy

Backstory:
Ornery Darling was formed in 2013 in Memphis, Tennessee, where its four members met at a local open mic night. Lead singer and guitarist, Charlotte “Char” Brimley and drummer, Ray “Rattlesnake” Simmons, immediately clicked with their shared love for blues rock with a punk edge. Together with bassist, Johnnie “Jet” Turner, and keyboardist, Sarah “Sparrow” Pennington, they started creating music that had a unique blend of grit, soul, and attitude.

The early years were spent playing in local bars and small festivals, facing the inevitable struggle of a band finding its unique sound. But Ornery Darling’s breakthrough came when they were discovered by a record label executive during one of their mesmerizing live performances. The executive was captivated by the band’s raw energy and signed them immediately. Their debut album, ‘Rabble Rouser’, was critically acclaimed and Ornery Darling has been a fixture on the music scene ever since.

Genre:
Blues Rock with Punk overtones

Title:
“Love’s A Mean Machine”

Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G] Down the alley, where the [C] wild things roam,
[D] Met a lover, made the [G] shadows our home.
[G] Whispered promises, under the [C] neon gleam,
[D] But I learned too late, love’s a [G] mean machine.

(Chorus)
[C] Love’s a mean machine, [D] darling, don’t you know?
[G] It’ll chew you up, [D] spit you out, leave you all alone.
[C] Love’s a mean machine, [D] but don’t you despair,
[G] We’ll weather the storm, [D] we’ve got love to spare.

(Verse 2)
[G] Love can be bitter, love can be [C] sweet,
[D] It can knock you off your [G] feet.
[G] But when the lights are low and the [C] night is mean,
[D] Remember, darling, love’s a [G] mean machine.

(Repeat Chorus)

Fan Testimonial:
My name’s Angela. I’m a die-hard fan of Ornery Darling from the very beginning. Their music speaks to me on a level no other band does. The blend of blues and punk, it’s like they’re channeling the soul of the delta through a riot grrrl filter. And Char’s voice – it’s like raw whiskey with a honey chaser. Seeing them perform live is electrifying. They’re real, they’re raw, and they’re my absolute favorite band. I’ve seen them play at tiny hole-in-the-wall places and massive stadiums, and every single time, they leave it all on the stage. Ornery Darling, you have my heart. Keep rocking!

Backstory:
Snappy Clam was formed in the autumn of 2005, when childhood friends Steve “Snappy” Clarke and Joey “Clam” Calamari, decided to combine their passion for music, their quirks, and their unique last names to create something of their own. The duo started their journey in Steve’s parents’ garage, where they spent countless hours experimenting with sounds and lyrics that resonated with their laid-back, coastal living lifestyles.

Their music was initially a hobby, an escape from their mundane 9 to 5 jobs. However, after their first impromptu performance at a local pub, Snappy Clam was presented with an unexpected opportunity to open for a renowned regional band. Their performance that night ignited a spark that made them realize their potential, leading them to quit their jobs and invest all their time and effort into music.

Genre:
Surf Rock

Song Title:
“Seashell Serenade”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C Am Em G
Luck is a seashell, found on the shore,
C Am Em G
Love is the ocean, deep and pure.
C Am Em G
I found you under the sun’s golden glow,
C Am Em G
Our hearts in rhythm, in the ebb and flow.

(Chorus)
C Am Em G
Seashell serenade, under the palm shade,
C Am Em G
In the arms of the sea, is where we’ll always be.
C Am Em G
Seashell serenade, as the day starts to fade,
C Am Em G
We’ll ride the tide, with love as our guide.

(Verse 2)
C Am Em G
Our love story, written in the sand,
C Am Em G
Washed by the waves, held by our hands.
C Am Em G
We dive into dreams, beneath the moon’s gleam,
C Am Em G
Two hearts afloat, in the silent sea’s dream.

(Chorus)
C Am Em G
Seashell serenade, under the moon’s parade,
C Am Em G
In the arms of the sea, is where we’ll forever be.
C Am Em G
Seashell serenade, as the night starts its raid,
C Am Em G
We’ll ride the tide, with love by our side.

Fan Testimonial:
Fan’s name: Lily Summers

There’s something so magical about Snappy Clam’s music. Their blend of surf rock instantly transports me to sun-soaked beaches, and their heartfelt lyrics speak to my soul. It’s as if their songs were written just for me. I remember my first Snappy Clam concert; their performance was electrifying, and I’ve been a die-hard fan ever since. They aren’t just a band to me, they’re an escape to a place where the sun never sets, and the waves never stop crashing. I proudly call myself a ‘Clamhead’.

Backstory:

Misguided Attempt was initially formed in the bustling suburbs of Seattle in 2008, an unexpected byproduct of a high school talent show. The band was comprised of four childhood friends – lead vocalist and guitarist Jimmy, bassist Dave, drummer Luke and keyboardist Chris. They started off playing covers in local dives, but soon their raw passion and dedication to their craft garnered a local following. Their sound was unique, characterized by heartfelt lyrics, and haunting melodies, grounded in their shared experiences growing up in a small town.

In 2010, Misguided Attempt got their breakthrough when they won the local “Battle of the Bands”. This landed them a record deal with an Indie Label, and since then they have been touring extensively around the US and internationally, carving out a niche for themselves in the music industry. Despite their growing success, the band remains true to their humble roots, often returning to their hometown for surprise performances.

Genre:

Misguided Attempt’s music can be classified as Alternative Rock with a touch of Punk Pop.

Title:

One of their most popular songs is “Faded Photographs”.

Lyrics:

Verse 1: [C, G, Am, F]
In this dusty attic, I find memories (C, G)
Faded photographs in the boxes unseen (Am, F)
Your eyes they still haunt me, like twilight dreams (C, G)
In this deserted place, I hear our echoes scream (Am, F)

Chorus: [F, G, C, Am]
Faded photographs, oh they never lie (F, G)
Telling tales of love, under the starry sky (C, Am)
Faded photographs, oh they never die (F, G)
Still holding on, to our goodbyes. (C, Am)

Verse 2: [C, G, Am, F]
In the silent whispers, I feel your trace (C, G)
Faded photographs, of our emboldened grace (Am, F)
Yet in the eerie quiet, I sense a space (C, G)
Fading photographs can’t replace your face (Am, F)

Chorus:
Faded photographs, oh they never lie (F, G)
Telling tales of love, under the starry sky (C, Am)
Faded photographs, oh they never die (F, G)
Still holding on, to our goodbyes. (C, Am)

The band’s favorite fan’s name and why and how this band is their favorite as a testimonial:

Their favorite fan is a woman named Jenny, a Seattle native who has been following them since their earliest gigs.

Testimonial:

“Misguided Attempt’s music has been the soundtrack of my life. I was there at their first gig, and I’ve seen them grow into the amazing band they are today. ‘Faded Photographs’ is my favorite, it’s like they’ve managed to put my emotions into words and music. Their success has never changed them. They are still the same humble, talented guys I knew from the beginning, and that’s what makes them so special. I’ll always be their biggest fan!”

Backstory:
Knotty Adventure began as a dream in the minds of childhood friends, Casey Monroe and Riley Waters, who grew up in a small town in rural Wyoming. As kids, they spent countless hours exploring the vast wilderness around their homes. The experiences from those adventurous days inspired them to write songs together. Initially, they performed at local bars and open-mic nights, but their talent didn’t stay hidden for long. They were discovered by a record label executive during a performance at a music festival. With the addition of drummer Alex Grant, bassist Jamie Lee, and keyboardist Sarah Morton, Knotty Adventure quickly rose to prominence, captivating audiences with their unique sound and relatable lyrics.

Genre:
Folk-Rock

Title:
“Untangled in the Wild”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1:
[G] We lived in a town, where the [C] mountain touched the sky,
[D] Chasing freedom in the wild, with our [G] spirits flying high.
[G] Our hearts were beating, like a [C] drum against the still,
[D] Lost in the echoes of the [G] forest’s thrill.

Chorus:
[G] Untangled in the wild, we [C] find our destiny,
[D] In the rhythm of the river, in the [G] whispers of the tree.
[G] We dance with the wind, we [C] sing with the sea,
[D] In the heart of the wilderness, we [G] are truly free.

Verse 2:
[G] The sun paints the sky, as the [C] day begins to fade,
[D] We find solace in the silence, as the [G] colors start to wade.
[G] Night reveals its secrets, under a [C] blanket of the stars,
[D] We strum our tunes, beneath the [G] moon’s memoirs.

Chorus:
[G] Untangled in the wild, we [C] find our harmony,
[D] Amidst the chirping of the crickets, under the [G] giant canopy.
[G] We dance with the flame, we [C] sing with the night,
[D] In the embrace of the wilderness, everything [G] feels right.

Fan’s Name:
Jenny Clarke

Testimonial:
“Knotty Adventure is my absolute favorite band because their music takes me on a journey. I’m a city girl, but their lyrics make me long for the open wilderness and the sense of freedom it promises. Every song feels like an adventure filled with raw emotions, joy, introspection, and a deep connection with nature. It’s not just about their music; it’s about the story they tell and the feelings they evoke. For me, they symbolize the exploration of the soul, the uncovering of self, and a celebration of life’s beautiful complexities. They are truly one of a kind.”

Backstory:

Flat Agent was born in the heart of Austin, Texas, a city teeming with live music and cultural vibrance. The band was formed by childhood friends, lead singer and guitarist Kiefer “Keys” Morton and drummer Brendan “Breezy” Jones. The duo, after years of jamming in their basements, decided to take their music to the streets in 2010. Their performances caught the attention of bassist and backup vocalist, Emily “Em” Walker, who instantly felt a connection with their eclectic sound. She joined the band, bringing her unique style and musical talent, solidifying Flat Agent’s distinct sound.

Their music, though rooted in their love for rock, began to incorporate elements from various genres. This led to a surge in their local popularity and they quickly became a staple in Austin’s bustling live music scene. Their breakthrough came in 2014 after a performance at the SXSW festival, which led to their first record deal and a wider fan base.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Rusty Chains”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1, E minor, G, D, A)
In the cold, cold heart of Texas, (E minor)
Underneath the blazing sun, (G)
We found our rhythm, we found our voices, (D)
Flat Agent, we’ve just begun. (A)

(Chorus, C, G, D, E minor)
Rusty Chains can’t hold us, (C)
Neither can borders or walls, (G)
We’re Flat Agent, born in Austin, (D)
And we’re here to enthrall. (E minor)

(Verse 2)
From basements to the streets, (E minor)
Music is our beat, (G)
With Em’s bass and Breezy’s drums, (D)
Flat Agent can’t be beat. (A)

(Chorus)
Rusty Chains can’t stop us, (C)
We’re breaking free and standing tall, (G)
We’re Flat Agent, born in Austin, (D)
Ready to take the fall. (E minor)

(Bridge, B minor, A, G, D)
We’ve got the power, we’ve got the sound, (B minor)
Flat Agent, we’re Texas bound. (A)
With Rusty Chains, we break apart, (G)
Flat Agent, we’re just at the start. (D)

(Chorus)
Rusty Chains won’t bind us, (C)
Flat Agent, we’re on the ball, (G)
Born in Austin, we are rising, (D)
Against the odds, we stand tall. (E minor)

Favourite Fan Testimonial:
My name is Lily. Flat Agent is, hands down, my favorite band for so many reasons. Their distinct sound, a blend of rock, blues, and a dash of country, resonates with me. No other band has managed to capture the spirit of Austin like they have. Their song, “Rusty Chains”, speaks to the resilience and spirit of not just the band, but every individual who has faced adversity. Every time I hear it, I feel like I can conquer the world. Flat Agent is more than just a band to me, they represent the spirit of perseverance and they inspire me to break my own ‘Rusty Chains’.

Backstory:

Known Location is a band that emerged from the vibrant music scene of Austin, Texas in 2015. The band consists of lead vocalist and guitarist Derek Henderson, bassist Jennifer ‘Jen’ Collins, and drummer Mike Richardson. All three members were individually active musicians, playing in various local bands, before they crossed paths at a music festival and decided to form a band. The name “Known Location” was inspired by the idea that regardless of where their music takes them, they’re rooted in their home city, their ‘known location’.

Known Location became famous for their electrifying live performances and soulful lyrics. They quickly garnered a loyal following, and their popularity soared after their debut album was released. Despite their sudden success, the band members remain firmly committed to their humble beginnings, often playing surprise gigs in small local venues and maintaining a close relationship with their fans.

Genre:

Known Location’s music can be described as a blend of Indie Rock and Folk, with strong Southern Rock influences. The band’s sound is characterized by heartfelt lyrics, strong rhythms, and a distinctive mix of electric and acoustic guitar.

Title:
“Lost in the Known”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am C G D
Daylight’s breakin’,
Am C G D
We’re on the road, chasing the unknown,
Am C G D
Leaving our hearts in a place, we call home,
Am C G D
In the rearview mirror, a silhouette of known.

(Chorus)
Am C G D
Lost in the known, found in the mystery,
Am C G D
Chasing the wind, writing our history,
Am C G D
Every beat of the heart, every breath we take,
Am C G D
Is a step away from the comfort, a step into the break.

(Verse 2)
Am C G D
These city lights, they don’t shine like the stars,
Am C G D
In that Texas sky, where we strummed our guitars,
Am C G D
In every corner, in every bar,
Am C G D
We’re lost in the known, wherever we are.

(Chorus)
Am C G D
Lost in the known, found in the journey,
Am C G D
Riding the wave, no hurry,
Am C G D
Every mile, every day we make,
Am C G D
Is a step away from the known, a step into the stake.

(Bridge)
Am C G D
We’re just a band, we’re just a sound,
Am C G D
In the vast universe, just spinning around,
Am C G D
But in every chord, in every song we’ve known,
Am C G D
We’re finding our way, in the lost, in the known.

The Band’s Favorite Fan:

Known Location’s favorite fan is a young woman named Lucy Miller. Lucy has been following the band since their first Austin gig and has attended every show since. She knows every lyric to every song and is known for her enthusiastic spirit in the front row. Lucy says, “Known Location is my favorite because their music speaks directly to my soul. It’s raw, it’s real, and it always takes me on a journey. Even though they’re gaining popularity, they’ve kept their authenticity, and that makes them even more special to me. I feel like I’m part of their journey, and I can’t wait to see where they go next.”

Backstory:

Uncommon Oatmeal was formed in the small town of Avena, Iowa in 2009. The band’s members, lead vocalist and guitarist Joey “Oat” Oates, bassist Sam “Bran” Branigan, and drummer Kelly “Grain” Grainsworth, met at a local farmer’s market where they bonded over a shared love for music and, of course, oatmeal. They decided to turn their passion into reality and started playing at local bars and cafes, quickly gaining a loyal following.

Their breakthrough came in 2012 when they were discovered by a famous music producer who happened to stumble into one of their shows while passing through Avena. He was so captivated by their unique sound and engaging performances that he decided to sign them to his label. Since then, Uncommon Oatmeal has been pouring their heart and soul into creating music that resonates with their fans and continues to rise in popularity.

Genre:

Indie Folk Rock

Title:

“Morning Harmony”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Wake up, it’s a brand new day, [C] sun is shining in a [G] charming way
[D] Spoonfuls of love and a [C] bowl of dreams, [G] life is more than what it [D] seems
[G] Kitchen smells like warmth and cheer, [C] as the day’s dawn is drawing [G] near
[D] Hear the sound of the morning dove, [C] it’s another day to [G] love [D]

(Chorus)
[G] Morning harmony, [C] in a bowl of oatmeal [G] rising
[D] With every spoonful I [C] take, there’s a new day [G] dawning
[C] Uncommon, but it’s ours, [G] everyday starts with these hours
[D] Morning harmony, the [C] sweetest thing in [G] life [D]

(Verse 2 repeats verse 1’s chord progression)
Wake up, it’s a melody, life is singing in a perfect key
Bowl of oatmeal, a cup of joe, ready to face the day and go
Sunrise colors the world anew, every day is a different hue
Taste the sweetness of the dawn, another day to be reborn

(Chorus repeats)

Favorite Fan’s Name:

Linda Thompson

Testimonial:

“I’ve always been a fan of music that speaks to the simple things in life and when I first heard Uncommon Oatmeal, I knew I had found something special. Their music is so relatable and comforting, like a warm bowl of oatmeal on a cold morning. It’s an essential part of my day now. I just love how their songs can turn ordinary moments into something magical. They’re not just a band to me, they’re like family.”

Backstory:
Jagged Chain formed in the heart of Detroit, Michigan, in 2008, when four friends decided to turn their passion for music into a tangible reality. The bandmembers, Jack “Jazz” Johnson, Andy “Twister” Tisdale, Greg “Grit” Greene, and Nate “Nail” Norton, all came from different musical backgrounds, making their fusion unique and electrifying. Jazz, a former church choir singer, brought a soulful touch to their sound, Twister, a classically trained pianist, added depth, while Grit and Nail, both self-taught musicians, contributed raw, powerful energy. Their shared ambition and love for their hometown propelled them into the local music scene, where they quickly made a name for themselves.

The band’s big break came when their energetic performance at a local music festival caught the attention of a record label executive. Since then, Jagged Chain has released three albums, each reflecting their gritty, emotional sound and their evolution as artists. Their music, often described as a unique blend of rock, soul, and blues, resonates with their fans, who appreciate their authenticity and down-to-earth approach.

Genre:
Blues-Rock

Title:
“Steel City Blues”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
E A E
Steel city’s burnin’, burnin’ down to the ground
C#m B7 E
Feels like my whole world is tumblin’ down
E A E
Workin’ long hours, just to make ends meet
C#m B7 E
Dreamin’ of a life away from this heat

(Chorus)
A E
I’ve got those steel city blues
B7 E
Ain’t got nothing left to lose
A E
Shackles tying me down
B7 E
In this old industrial town

(Repeat Verse and Chorus)

Favorite Fan Testimonial:
Name: Sarah “Chainlink” Thompson

Sarah, known among the Jagged Chain community as “Chainlink,” has been a diehard fan since their first performance. “I was there at their first gig in a rundown bar in Detroit. What drew me to them was their raw energy, passion, and the way they captured the struggles of our city in their music. ‘Steel City Blues,’ in particular, spoke to me. It was like they took the heartache, dreams, and resilience of our city and turned it into a song. Over the years, I’ve watched them grow and evolve, but they’ve always remained true to their roots. Jagged Chain isn’t just a band; they’re a symbol of our city, our struggles, and our hopes. They’re my favorite because their music is real, and it speaks to my soul.”

Backstory:
Hailing from the rain-soaked city of Seattle, Washington, Harsh Cemetery formed in the fall of 1999 through childhood friends and music enthusiasts: Malcolm Riley (Lead Vocals), Elliot Brown (Lead Guitar), Thomas Harington (Bass), and Aaron Mathis (Drums). The four of them found solace in music amidst the chaos of their tumultuous teenage years. Malcolm’s hauntingly beautiful lyrics, often inspired by the macabre, paired with Elliot’s atmospheric guitar riffs, Thomas’s brooding basslines, and Aaron’s thunderous drumming, quickly gained a cult following in the Pacific Northwest’s vibrant music scene. They were known for their raw and intense live performances that left audiences in an emotional tornado.

Genre:
Post-Grunge with a tint of Gothic Rock

Title:
“Echoes in the Graveyard”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1:
[Am] In the heart of dark, where shadows lie [E]
[G] You’ll find me wandering, beneath the moonlit sky [D]
[Am] Among the tombstones, where the silence screams [E]
[G] I trace the names of forgotten dreams [D]

Chorus:
[Am] Echoes in the graveyard, whisper to the night [E]
[G] Lost souls humming lullabies, in the pale moonlight [D]
[Am] In this harsh cemetery, we find our peace [E]
[G] Where the world’s chaos, finally cease [D]

Verse 2:
[Am] The wind carries stories, of love and despair [E]
[G] In the cold night air, there’s a mournful prayer [D]
[Am] I etch my heartache, on the marble stone [E]
[G] In this sea of death, I’m not alone [D]

Chorus:
[Am] Echoes in the graveyard, whisper to the night [E]
[G] Lost souls humming lullabies, in the pale moonlight [D]
[Am] In this harsh cemetery, we find our peace [E]
[G] Where the world’s chaos, finally cease [D]

Favorite Fan Testimonial:
Lisa Marie, a 30-year-old from Olympia, Washington, has been following the band since their early days. “Harsh Cemetery’s music is a cathartic experience,” she says. “Their lyrics are incredibly profound, and their raw energy is truly mesmerizing. I’ve been to dozens of their concerts, and each time, I come out feeling emotionally purged. I’ve even got their lyrics tattooed on me. They’ve helped me through some tough times, and for that, they’ll always be my favorite band.”