Backstory:
In 2010, four friends — Sven, Tom, Charlie and Jack — from the coastal city of San Diego decided to channel their shared passion for music and surf culture into a project they called ‘Salty Holiday’. They’d spent endless summers together, surfing, jamming and partying, and it was out of these nostalgic sun-soaked memories that ‘Salty Holiday’ was born. After a few years of playing local gigs and honing their craft, they caught a break in 2014 when a music producer, visiting the city, happened upon one of their beach performances. Since then, they have been producing heart-touching music, with a touch of sea salt for flavor.

Genre:
Surf Rock/Indie Pop

Song Title:
“Wave Break Serenade”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
G C D
Beneath the summer sun, where the ocean meets the sand,
Em G C D
We found a rhythm, harmonizing with the band.
G C D
The echo of the seabirds, the whisper of a breeze,
Em G C D
In the golden light, we found our melody.

(Chorus)
Em D G C
Wave break serenade, our hearts in sync with the tide.
Em D G C
In this salty holiday, in the rhythm of the ride.
Em D G C
With the sea as our soundtrack, the sand beneath our feet,
Em D G C
We dance, we sing, we live, in this coastal retreat.

(Verse 2)
G C D
As the sun sets, the stars begin their nightly show,
Em G C D
We strum our guitars, hearts beating in slow mo.
G C D
With the moon as our spotlight, the night just feels so right,
Em G C D
Our voices harmonizing, under the soft moonlight.

(Chorus)
Em D G C
Wave break serenade, our souls speak through each note.
Em D G C
In this salty holiday, on this high we always float.
Em D G C
With the sea as our symphony, the stars shining so bright,
Em D G C
We dance, we sing, we dream, in this magical summer night.

Testimonial:
Fan’s Name: Mia Hansen

“I fell in love with Salty Holiday’s music the first time I heard it. Their songs encapsulate everything I love about the beach – the freedom, the fun, and the sense of peace it brings. Their music is like a wave break serenade that seems to transport me to my favorite beach, every time I listen. Their tunes are the perfect soundtrack to any summer day. And beyond their music, the guys are genuine and down-to-earth. They’ve created a community around their music that feels like one big beach party. Salty Holiday isn’t just my favorite band, they’re a lifestyle.”

Backstory:
The origins of ‘Grotesque Beast’ trace back to a basement in suburban Ohio back in 2007. The band comprises four childhood friends – Dustin (vocals and rhythm guitar), Caleb (lead guitar), Josh (bassist), and Jason (drums). They grew up in a tight-knit community, their shared passion for music being their escape from the small town monotony. They found unique solace in the grotesque, the eerie, which eventually birthed the name of their band. Dustin’s emotionally raw vocals, Caleb’s heavy riffs, Josh’s punchy basslines, and Jason’s relentless drum beats, combined with their collective love for the obscure resulted in an unmistakable sound that would eventually become synonymous with ‘Grotesque Beast’.

Their rise to fame was not meteoric, but rather a steady ascendance, the band members credit this consistent growth to their unwavering dedication to their craft and persistent gigging. The Beast, as they are fondly referred by their fans, believe in the power of their music- the ability it has to channel emotions, experiences, and stories that evoke a sense of connection amongst their listeners. This connection is what fuels their music and their journey.

Genre:
Alternative Metal

Title:
“Shadows of the Lost”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1:
(Am – G – F – G)
In the graven depths of your despair, (Am – G)
Echoes of silence, does anyone care? (F – G)
Lost to the world, forgotten by time, (Am – G)
In the shadows, you find your prime. (F – G)

Chorus:
(C – G – Am – F)
Shadows of the lost, (C – G)
In this world, we pay the cost. (Am – F)
In the darkness, we find light, (C – G)
In our struggle, we find our might. (Am – F)

Verse 2:
(Am – G – F – G)
In the cacophony of voices, you find your peace, (Am – G)
In the upheaval, you find release. (F – G)
The grotesque beast within you stirs, (Am – G)
In this chaos, where reality blurs. (F – G)

(Repeat Chorus)

Favorite Fan Testimonial:
Becky Simmons, a college student from their hometown, is the band’s favorite fan. She’s been following them since their garage days and has attended every single local concert. She says, “Grotesque Beast is more than a band to me. Their music is an escape and a solace. I connect deeply with their lyrics, their sound, and the raw emotion they put into every performance. They’ve created a community around their music, a place where I feel seen and understood. As a fan, there’s nothing more you could ask for. They’re my favorite because they make music not just to entertain, but to connect, to heal, and to inspire. And they do it with such authenticity, it’s impossible not to be moved.”

Backstory:

Hearty Mystery first came together in a tiny garage in Austin, Texas. The band members – lead vocalist and guitarist, Jake Daniels, bassist, Aidan Smith, drummer, Alex Rogers, and keyboard player, Julia Bell – were all college friends who shared a deep passion for music. The band’s name was a product of a late-night jam session and a worn-out Agatha Christie novel lying on the counter. Hearty Mystery began playing gigs at local bars and small venues, quickly gaining a reputation for their infectious energy and unique sound. Their music, a blend of introspective lyrics and upbeat tunes, resonates with the audience, making every performance truly unforgettable.

Genre:

Alternative Rock/Pop

Title:

“Eternal Echoes”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Close your eyes, [Am] can you hear the sound,
[G] It’s an echo of a heart [F] that has been found.
[C] There’s a secret, [Am] hidden in the dark,
[G] It’s the beat of a journey, [F] waiting to embark.

(Chorus)
[C] Can you hear, [Am] can you hear the call,
[G] It’s an eternal echo, [F] bouncing off the wall.
[C] Don’t be scared, [Am] don’t let the mystery fade,
[G] For in the rhythm of love, [F] hearty memories are made.

(Verse 2)
[C] In the silence, [Am] between the beats,
[G] You’ll find the mystery [F] where the love meets.
[C] Embrace the rhythm, [Am] let your heart play,
[G] For the echoes of love [F] will always find a way.

(Chorus)
[C] Can you feel, [Am] can you feel the song,
[G] It’s an eternal echo, [F] where our hearts belong.
[C] Don’t let go, [Am] let the music play,
[G] For in the rhythm of love, [F] we’ll find our way.

Fan Testimonial:

Hearty Mystery’s biggest fan is undoubtedly Laura Harper. She claims, “Hearty Mystery is not just a band for me, it’s an experience. Their music touches your soul and fills you with a sense of joy and understanding that’s hard to find these days. Their song ‘Eternal Echoes’ helped me through some really tough times. The lyrics feel so personal, yet universal. It’s like they’re singing just for you. They don’t just make tunes; they create heartfelt art that resonates with you. That’s why Hearty Mystery is my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Whole Desert was born within the heat and grit of Joshua Tree, California. The four members, lead vocalist and guitarist Adam Smith, bass guitarist Mike Rivers, drummer Ethan Bennett, and keyboardist and backing vocalist Jason Miller, met at a local music festival where they bonded over their shared love of the vast desert landscape and the profound silence it offered. They decided to form a band that reflected their shared passion – thus, Whole Desert came to life, with a mission to spread their raw, organic sound that resonates with the spirit of the sprawling terrains they call home.

The band spent their early days jamming in rustic cabins, often under the starlit sky, adding a touch of the celestial to their earthy tones. Their unique sound didn’t take long to pique the interest of the local community and eventually, they sparked a wildfire in the indie music scene, spreading their music across the country and building a dedicated fanbase.

Genre: Indie Rock

Title: “Dune Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1] (Am, G, F, C)
In the echoes of the sand, under a cloudless sky, (Am, G)
I find my heart entwined in the dune shadows lie. (F, C)
The blazing sun cracks the ground, while my soul yearns for you, (Am, G)
In the empty vastness, your absence is my truth. (F, C)

[Chorus] (G, F, Am, G)
Dune shadows, bury my dreams in your embrace, (G, F)
In your heart, I find a quiet space. (Am, G)
With each gust, you shift and shape, (G, F)
Dune Shadows, in you I see her face. (Am, G)

[Verse 2] (Am, G, F, C)
The night descends, the stars gaze down, so distant yet so near, (Am, G)
In the silence of the desert, your whispers I hear. (F, C)
In the moonlit dunes, your shadow takes form, (Am, G)
In the cold desert night, your memory keeps me warm. (F, C)

[Chorus] (G, F, Am, G)
Dune shadows, etch my love in your sands, (G, F)
Hold my longing in your shifting hands. (Am, G)
With each whispering wind, you change your guise, (G, F)
Dune Shadows, in you I see her eyes. (Am, G)

Favorite Fan’s Name: Robyn Hartley

Testimonial:
Robyn Hartley has been a long-standing fan of Whole Desert ever since their humble beginnings in Joshua Tree. “I’ve followed them from the start, and not just because their music is extraordinary,” she states. “Their sound captures the essence of the desert – the tranquility, the raw beauty, the feeling of being so insignificant yet so connected to nature. It’s like they’ve taken the soul of the desert and transformed it into music. Plus, they’re the nicest guys you’ll ever meet. They’ve stayed true to their roots and their fans despite their growing success, and that’s why they’re my favorite band.”

Backstory:

Founded in a small, quirky college town in Vermont, Probable Employer came to life when four friends found themselves out of work, disillusioned with the corporate world, and desperate for an outlet to express their inner turmoil. In a tiny, unheated garage, they began to merge their diverse backgrounds in jazz, punk, folk, and R&B into a sound that defied categorization. After spending countless hours honing their skills, they finally hit the local music scene. Their songs, often filled with biting satire about the working world, quickly resonated with audiences, making them a standout act in a town known for its vibrant musical culture.

Genre:
Indie Rock Fusion

Title:
“Desk Job Blues”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] I sit at this [C] desk, eight hours a [G] day
[D] Typing my life and my dreams [G] away
[G] The walls are so [C] grey, my boss is a [G] drone
[D] I wish I could just rock, and [G] leave this all alone

(Chorus)
[G] Got the desk job [C] blues, I’m feeling so [G] confined
[D] I want to break free, leave this old grind [G] behind
[G] Play my guitar [C], feel the rhythm’s [G] pull
[D] Music’s my probable employer, it’s [G] undeniable

(Verse 2)
[G] The clock ticks [C] so slow, as I watch the [G] time
[D] My heart beats in melody and [G] rhymes
[G] I need to escape, [C] need to be set [G] free
[D] My probable employer, come [G] rescue me

(Chorus)
[G] Got the desk job [C] blues, I’m in a deep [G] rut
[D] I want to sing loud, from this corporate [G] cut
[G] Strum my six strings, [C] under the moon’s [G] pull
[D] Music’s my probable employer, it’s [G] beautiful

(Fan Testimonial)

Name: Lily Evans

“Probable Employer isn’t just my favorite band, it’s my lifeline. I first heard their song ‘Desk Job Blues’ during a particularly dismal day at my office job, and it was like they had reached into my soul and put my deepest feelings into words. Their music isn’t just fantastic, it’s also deeply comforting, knowing that I’m not alone in how I feel about the rat race. They remind me that there’s more to life than the 9-5 grind and inspire me to pursue my passions. For that, I’ll always be a fan.”

Backstory:
Formed in the small town of Oakdale, Pennsylvania, Strident Twig is a testament to the resilience of four childhood friends – Tom ‘Twig’ Henderson, Andy Johnson, Billy Carter, and Sam Rogers – who found solace in music amidst their mundane small-town lives. The boys collectively discovered their love for music in their high school music class and started jamming together in the Henderson’s garage. The name “Strident Twig” was coined as a tribute to their lead singer, Tom, who was often ridiculed due to his skinny figure but possessed a powerful and resonating voice. As they slowly gained recognition within their local community, they decided to take a leap of faith and pursue music full-time, setting their sights on the grand stages of the music industry.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Echoes of the Unsaid”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Sat on the edge, [Em] in the moonlight glow,
[C] Whispered words, [D] secrets we hold.
[G] Haunting shadows, [Em] dance in the night,
[C] Looking for answers, [D] in your deceptive sight.

(Chorus)
[G] Echoes of the unsaid, [Em] in the silent night,
[C] Secrets like a thread, [D] weaved in black and white.
[G] Tell me your truth, [Em] beneath the starry sky,
[C] Unveil the mystery, [D] don’t let our love die.

(Verse 2)
[G] Wandering souls, [Em] lost in time,
[C] Chasing illusions, [D] in the paradigm.
[G] Trapped in the labyrinth, [Em] of your deceit,
[C] Gasping for truth, [D] in the echoed heartbeat.

(Chorus)
[G] Echoes of the unsaid, [Em] resonating loud,
[C] Unspoken words, [D] hiding in the crowd.
[G] Shatter the silence, [Em] of the lonely night,
[C] Unravel your essence, [D] in the mystic moonlight.

The band’s favorite fan:
Jenny Lucas.

Testimonial:
“Strident Twig isn’t just my favorite band, they are my lifeline. Their music resonates with me, especially the song ‘Echoes of the Unsaid’. The lyrics feel personal, as if they were written for me. I’ve been following them since their garage jamming days in Oakdale. The band embodies the spirit of our town – always daring to dream big and not afraid to step out of the comfort zone. They inspire me every day, not just with their music, but with their journey and their bond of friendship. They are a testament to all dreamers that with passion and perseverance, dreams do come true.”

Backstory:
Guilty Start is a band from the heart of London, England. The band came together in the bustling music scene of Camden Town in 2010, initially drawn together by their shared love of alternative music and a mutual desire to challenge the status quo. The band members, lead vocalist Harry Samson, guitarist Liam Brown, bassist Rebecca Jones, and drummer Jack Oliver, initially bonded over late-night jam sessions in Brown’s basement, honing their skills and developing their unique sound. The name ‘Guilty Start’ is based on their humble beginnings where they used to ‘borrow’ instruments and equipment to play their gigs until they could afford their own. Their journey from a struggling underground band to international rockstars is a testament to their shared passion for music and their unwavering dedication to their craft.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Borrowed Time”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C]Looks like we’re on [Am]borrowed time again,
[G]Strung out on dreams, [Dm]playing pretend.
[C]In the harsh city glow, [Am]searching for a friend,
[G]Clinging to hopes, [Dm]we refuse to rend.

(Chorus)
[C]We are guilty, [Am]guilty from the start,
[G]Chasing dreams, [Dm]nursing broken hearts.
[C]But we’re never backing down, [Am]never going to part,
[G]In this borrowed time, [Dm]we make our art.

(Verse 2)
[C]Shadows creeping, [Am]on these silent streets,
[G]Unsaid promises, [Dm]forgotten treaties.
[C]With a borrowed guitar, [Am]and stolen beats,
[G]We voice our truths, [Dm]from our makeshift seats.

(Chorus)
[C]We are guilty, [Am]guilty from the start,
[G]Chasing dreams, [Dm]nursing broken hearts.
[C]But we’re never backing down, [Am]never going to part,
[G]In this borrowed time, [Dm]we make our art.

The band’s favorite fan’s name: Sarah Thompson

Testimonial:
“I’ve been a fan of Guilty Start since their early days in Camden Town. Their music has a distinct, raw energy that resonates with me on a deep level. It’s more than music; it’s an expression of who they are and the struggles they’ve faced. I’ve seen them grow from a small underground band to the global phenomenon they are today, and I couldn’t be prouder. They’ve remained true to their roots, despite their success. Guilty Start is my favorite band because their music speaks to my soul, and their journey inspires me to chase my dreams, no matter the odds.”

Backstory:
Born in the heart of Chicago, Outlying Pancake is a band that came together out of a shared love for music and breakfast foods. The five bandmates, Jake, Matt, Sam, Mel, and Alex met at a local pancake house where they would regularly gather to discuss music after their respective gigs. They were all part of different bands at that time. One fateful day, they decided to jam together and realized they had a unique sound that needed to be shared. That day, Outlying Pancake was born and the rest, as they say, is history. Their journey is a testament to their love for music, pancakes, and the pursuit of a shared dream. Their mutual love for Rock and Roll combined with elements of Blues gives them a distinctive sound that makes them stand out from the crowd.

Genre:
Rock/Blues

Title:
“Maple Syrup Blues”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C G Am E
Woke up this morning with a hunger in my soul,
C G D E
Longing for something to make me whole.
F C G A
Down to the diner, where we used to meet,
F C G A
In the booth by the window, your favorite seat.

(Chorus)
C G Am E
I got the maple syrup blues,
C G D E
Missing the sweetness that was you.
F C G A
In every pancake, every bite,
F C G A
Feels like your memories taking flight.

(Verse 2)
C G Am E
The coffee’s bitter, the pancake’s cold,
C G D E
Without you here, it’s a silence that’s bold.
F C G A
In this old diner, under neon lights,
F C G A
I’m missing your laughter, our pancake nights.

(Chorus)
C G Am E
I got the maple syrup blues,
C G D E
Missing the sweetness that was you.
F C G A
In every pancake, every bite,
F C G A
Feels like your memories taking flight.

Band’s Favorite Fan Name:
Timothy

Testimonial:
“Outlying Pancake is my favorite band, hands down. Their music has the perfect blend of rock and blues, it’s like nothing I’ve ever heard. Plus, the way they weave their love for pancakes into their lyrics, it’s genuine, it’s relatable. I’ve been a fan since their first gig at the local pancake house. I remember hearing ‘Maple Syrup Blues’ for the first time and knew these guys were something special. There’s no other band that could make me feel so connected over breakfast food.”

Backstory:

Brown Light is a band that found its roots in the small towns scattered across Kentucky. The band was formed in the year 2010 when five friends from high school decided to pursue their shared passion for music. Over the years, they have toured extensively, honing their craft and developing a unique sound that blurs the lines between different musical styles. From the rolling hills of Kentucky to the vibrant city life, their music reflects the rich diversity of their experiences.

The band’s members, Jack Larson (vocals), Danny Holt (guitar), Billie Austin (bass), George Harris (drums), and Emma McDonald (keyboard), each bring their own flavor to the band’s collections. Brown Light believes that their music isn’t just about the sound but the stories they tell and the emotions they evoke.

Genre:

The band’s music is primarily Soul, R&B, and Blues, with a dash of Country.

Title:

“Red Sun Over Blue Hills”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
G [Em] Red sun over blue hills, [C] every dawn my heart fills,
[D] Seeing you in the morning light, [Em] oh what a sight.
[Em] Coffee brewing slowly, [C] Soft whispers so holy,
[D] Cradled in your loving arms, [Em] protected from all harms.

(Chorus)
G [Em] Brown Light, [C] through the fight,
[D] Your love’s my armor, [Em] my only knight.
[Em] Brown Light, [C] take flight,
[D] Carry me to the skies, [Em] beyond the night.

(Verse 2)
G [Em] Day slowly fading, [C] stars above parading,
[D] Your laughter rings in twilight’s glow, [Em] love’s perfect show.
[Em] Shadows gently creeping, [C] promises worth keeping,
[D] We dance under the silent stars, [Em] healing all our scars.

(Chorus)
G [Em] Brown Light, [C] through the night,
[D] Your voice my lullaby, [Em] sleep so tight.
[Em] Brown Light, [C] hold me tight,
[D] In your arms, everything’s [Em] just right.

Bands Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan’s name is Lisa. Lisa stumbled upon our music during a difficult time in her life and found solace and strength in our lyrics. Because of her, we remember the power our music holds to move and affect people. Her testimonial is a constant reminder of why we do what we do.

Testimonial:

“I fell in love with Brown Light’s music for its authenticity and emotional depth. Their songs ‘Red Sun Over Blue Hills’ touched me deeply, it was like they had put my feelings into words. It helped me through some really tough times. I feel a connection with their music that I haven’t felt with any other band. They are more than just a band to me, they are a beacon of hope and light.” – Lisa Brown

Backstory:
Sturdy Walk was formed in the late 90s in the bustling metropolis of Chicago. The band was composed of four friends – lead vocalist George, guitarist Tim, bassist Rob, and drummer Jess – who shared a common passion for music and a shared dream of creating something unique and impactful. They started out playing at local dive bars and quickly gained a following with their raw energy and distinctive sound. Through the trials and tribulations of life, the music industry, and the changing landscape of their city, Sturdy Walk has remained a constant, never straying from their vision and always delivering heartfelt, authentic performances.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Concrete Jungle”

Full Song Lyrics with Chord Progression:

Verse 1 (E, B, C#m, A):
In the city streets, the sounds they echo (E, B)
Life’s a rhythm, beating fast then slow (C#m, A)
Every corner tells a tale (E, B)
Of dreams that dared, and dreams that failed (C#m, A)

Chorus (A, E, B):
In this concrete jungle, we find our way (A, E)
Underneath the stars, where dreams don’t fray (B, A)
Concrete Jungle, our hearts display (E, B)
The strength to carry on, come what may (A, E)

Verse 2 (E, B, C#m, A):
Neon lights blink, casting shadows long (E, B)
In the city’s heart, we find our song (C#m, A)
Through the noise, through the grind (E, B)
We find beauty, not left behind (C#m, A)

Repeat Chorus (A, E, B)

Bridge (C#m, A, E, B):
Among the skyscrapers tall, the voices rise (C#m, A)
Every raw emotion, every silent cry (E, B)
In the Concrete Jungle, we’re never alone (C#m, A)
In its steel heart, we’ve found our home (E, B)

Repeat Chorus and end (A, E, B)

Favorite Fan’s Name:
Emily Johnson

Testimonial:
“I’ve been a fan of Sturdy Walk since I stumbled upon one of their early gigs in a local bar. Their music resonated with me immediately – it was like they were telling my story, reflecting my experiences, through their lyrics and melodies. I’ve followed them through every album, every gig, and they’ve never failed to amaze me. They’re not just a band to me, they’re like family. Their music has seen me through some tough times, and for that, they’ll always hold a special place in my heart. Sturdy Walk is my favorite band because they are genuine, they are passionate, and they’ve shown me that even in a concrete jungle, one can always find the melody of life.”