Backstory:

Prize Fly is an indie rock band that originated in the heart of Brooklyn, New York, back in 2013. The core group of the band – vocalist/guitarist Ben Reynolds, drummer Alex Porter, bassist Mike Turner, and lead guitarist Scott Henderson – were all high school buddies who shared a love for music and a desire to make it big. The name ‘Prize Fly’ was inspired by their collective belief that they were the underdogs in the music scene, constantly striving to reach for the prize that seemed ever elusive. Despite the challenges of the industry, their determination and strong friendship helped them create a unique sound that resonated with listeners and critics alike.

Their breakthrough came in 2016 when they were picked up by an indie record label after one of their performances at a local open mic event. The band’s raw energy, soulful lyrics, and captivating melodies quickly captured the attention of the indie rock scene. Their subsequent albums have consistently topped the indie music charts, making them a band to watch.

Genre: Indie Rock

Title: “Chasing Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am – Em – G – D
Shattered dreams, scattered lies,
Am – Em – G – D
In the darkness we find our prize.
Am – Em – G – D
Chasing shadows, chasing time,
Am – Em – G – D
In the chaos, we find our rhyme.

(Chorus)
C – G – Am – Em
We are Prize Fly, rising high,
C – G – Am – Em
Through the storm, touching the sky.
C – G – Am – Em
We’re the underdogs, we’re the fight,
C – G – Am – Em
Chasing shadows through the night.

(Verse 2)
Am – Em – G – D
In the heartbreak, in the fray,
Am – Em – G – D
We find our music, we find our way.
Am – Em – G – D
Through the silence, through the sound,
Am – Em – G – D
We are the lost that have been found.

(Chorus)
C – G – Am – Em
We are Prize Fly, rising high,
C – G – Am – Em
Through the storm, touching the sky.
C – G – Am – Em
We’re the underdogs, we’re the fight,
C – G – Am – Em
Chasing shadows through the night.

Band’s Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan’s name is Sarah Mitchell. Sarah has attended just about every local gig we’ve played since our early days, from dive bars to sold-out venues. She’s also made a point to travel to several of our performances outside of New York. In her words:

“Prize Fly is more than just a band to me. Their music has a depth and authenticity that’s hard to find these days. Their lyrics speak to my soul, and their energy onstage is infectious. Every song feels like a journey, and seeing them live is always an experience. They’re not just making music, they’re creating a community, and I’m proud to be a part of it.”

Backstory:

Formed in the vibrant city of Austin, Texas, in 2015, Busy Look is a group of four friends who found each other in the midst of life’s chaos. Guitarist and vocalist Jake Brightman, bassist Kelsey Henderson, drummer Mike ‘Thunder’ Davis, and keyboardist and vocalist Meredith Kimball were all working full-time jobs while also trying to pursue their passion for making music. They met at a local jam session and found they shared similar musical tastes and dreams. So, they decided to form Busy Look, a band that represents the busy, dynamic, and vibrant spirit of those who never stop pursuing their passion. Through their music, the band shares stories about life, love, and the struggles and joys of constantly “being busy” in a fast-paced world.

Genre:

Busy Look primarily plays Indie Rock, with a blend of Pop and Alternative elements. Their unique sound combines catchy melodies, rich harmonies, and meaningful lyrics, reflecting their diverse influences and musical backgrounds.

Title:

“No Time to Waste”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Am] Waking up with the sunrise [G]
[Dm] Chasing dreams with tired eyes [Am]
[G] Running round in circles, [C] no surprise [E]

[Am] Coffee cups and neon lights [G]
[Dm] Underneath the city’s nights [Am]
[G] We’re just trying to make it, [C] make it right [E]

(Chorus)
[F] No time to waste, [G] life’s a race [C]
[Dm] We’re all just trying to find our place [E]
[F] In this urban maze, [G] through the haze [C]
[Dm] We’re Busy Look, setting [E] the pace

(Verse 2)
[Am] Late nights and early flights [G]
[Dm] The cityscape in distant sights [Am]
[G] We’re in the fast lane, [C] reaching new heights [E]

[Am] Despite the rush, we play a tune [G]
[Dm] Underneath the same bright moon [Am]
[G] We’re Busy Look, we’ll be there soon [C] [E]

(Chorus)
[F] No time to waste, [G] life’s a race [C]
[Dm] We’re all just trying to find our place [E]
[F] In this urban maze, [G] through the haze [C]
[Dm] We’re Busy Look, shooting [E] through space

Fan Testimonial:

My name is Lexi. I am an architect by profession, but Busy Look’s number one fan at heart. Their music is the soundtrack of my life. Their song “No Time to Waste” is my morning alarm, pushing me to seize the day. The band’s energy, their commitment to their craft amidst the chaos of life — it’s inspiring. They represent all of us who juggle jobs, dreams, and passions. Busy Look is my favorite because they make me believe that no matter how hectic life gets, there’s always a rhythm to find, a song to sing, and no time to waste.

Backstory:

Lucky Determination was born from the ashes of a small town garage band, originally named ‘The Frustrated Dreams’. The founding members, lead guitarist, Jack Sins and drummer, Billy Long, decided to rebrand and refocus their energies after their high school graduation. Jack and Billy began experimenting with different sounds and ultimately gave birth to the Lucky Determination we know today. The addition of Rose Davis on vocals and Mike Hawkins on the bass guitar completed the perfect synergy they were looking for. They all shared the same dream – to create memorable music that would resonate and inspire people. Their journey from playing at local bars to headlining music festivals across the country is a testament to their name – a mix of luck and sheer determination.

Genre:

Lucky Determination can be best described as Indie Rock with a twist of Pop and Blues influence.

Song Title:

“Under the Neon Sky”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Staring ‘neath the [Em] neon sky, [C] dreams in our [D] eyes,
[G] Searching for the [Em] truth within [C] our rainbow [D] lies.
[G] We’ve run so far [Em] away, we’ve [C] yet to see the [D] day,
[G] When our hearts could [Em] speak, what our [C] mouths forgot to [D] say.

(Chorus)
[Em] Under the neon [C] sky, we found our [G] reasons why,
[D] We are whispers in the wind, [Em] echoes in the [C] night.
[G] Under the neon [D] sky, we learned to [Em] fly,
[C] With our souls bared wide, under the [D] neon [G] sky.

(Verse 2)
[G] Lost but not alone [Em], in the city’s [C] twilight zone [D],
[G] We found love, we found [Em] hope, we found a [C] place called [D] home.
[G] The streets may be cold, [Em] the nights may be [C] bold,
[G] But under the neon [Em] sky, our [C] story’s being [D] told.

(Chorus)
[Em] Under the neon [C] sky, we found our [G] reasons why,
[D] We are whispers in the wind, [Em] echoes in the [C] night.
[G] Under the neon [D] sky, we learned to [Em] fly,
[C] With our souls bared wide, under the [D] neon [G] sky.

Favorite Fan:

Their favorite fan is a young woman named Lucy Miles. Since the band’s early days performing in local bars, Lucy has been a constant presence in their journey. She’s appreciated not just for her loyalty, but for her generosity in sharing and promoting Lucky Determination’s music. Her dedication has been instrumental in the band’s growing popularity.

Lucy’s Testimonial:

“Lucky Determination is more than just a band to me. Their music is the soundtrack of my life – it’s seen me through my highs and lows. The authenticity of their lyrics and the passion in their performance is truly inspiring. Whether I’m listening to them at a crowded festival or from my headphones on a lonely night, their songs always make me feel understood and less alone. They’re not just musicians – they are storytellers, and their story is one of resilience and hope. That’s why they’re my favorite.”

Backstory:
Cultured Sheet, an indie rock band, was formed in a small rustic town of Dorset, England in 2011. The members, lead vocalist and guitarist Oscar Wilder, drummer Felix Lewis, and bassist Harry Bell, were childhood friends who grew up sharing their love for music. They grew up listening to vinyl records in Oscar’s attic, dreaming of one day taking the stage themselves. Inspired by bands like Radiohead, The Strokes, and Arctic Monkeys, they decided to form their own band after graduating high school.

After playing numerous gigs around Dorset, Cultured Sheet caught the attention of a music producer who was vacationing in the area. Impressed by their raw talent and unique sound, he offered them a recording contract. Since then, they’ve released three successful albums and continue to charm audiences with their passionate performances and soulful lyrics.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Song Title:
“Shadows of Yesterday”

Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em G D A
Lost in the whispers of time,
Em G D A
Here in the shadows of yesterday.
Em G D A
Pieces of memories, like old wine,
Em G D A
Haunting our hearts in a beautiful way.

(Chorus)
C D G Em
In the shadows, we find our light,
C D G Em
In the echoes, we hear our fight,
C D G Em
In the memories, we find our flight,
C D G Em
Back to the shadows of yesterday’s night.

(Verse 2)
Em G D A
In the mirror of past, we shine,
Em G D A
Reflecting the echoes of timeless play.
Em G D A
In the silence, the moments align,
Em G D A
Bringing us back to the shadows of yesterday.

(Chorus)
C D G Em
In the shadows, we find our light,
C D G Em
In the echoes, we hear our fight,
C D G Em
In the memories, we find our flight,
C D G Em
Back to the shadows of yesterday’s night.

Fan’s Name and Testimonial:
Name: Grace Thompson

Testimonial: “Cultured Sheet has been my favorite band since I first heard their song ‘Shadows of Yesterday’. Their music just resonates with me on such a personal level that it feels like they’re narrating my own life. Every chord they play, every lyric they sing, strikes a chord within me. Oscar, Felix, and Harry have an incredible talent of blending raw emotions with soulful music. Their songs have been my solace in hard times and a source of joy in good times. I can’t imagine my life without their music. They are not just a band to me, they are a part of my life’s soundtrack.”

Backstory:
Exhausted Item was formed by a group of high school friends from the suburbs of Seattle, Washington in 2011. Lead vocalist, Peter Bellamy, guitarist, Robbie Keats, bassist, Oliver Burns and drummer, Micah Hudson, initially decided to form the band as a fun way to pass the time, but soon discovered their shared talent and passion for music. They started writing their own songs and performing in local venues, impressing the crowds with their raw energy and distinctive sound.

After a few years of hard work, they caught the attention of indie record company, ‘Underground Sounds’. They released their debut album in 2015, which was met with critical acclaim and helped them to secure a strong fan base. Today, they are known for their intense, emotional performances and their ability to push the boundaries of their music genre.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Chasing Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Em
Walking down the street, head held low,
D
Chasing shadows of a life I used to know,
C
Memories fading like a sunset glow,
G
Got an exhausted heart, with nothing left to show.

(Chorus)
Em
Chasing shadows, shadows in the dark,
D
Looking for a spark, to light up this heart,
C
Longing for a life, that’s fallen apart,
G
Chasing shadows, in the lonely park.

(Verse 2)
Em
Eyes open wide but can’t see the sun,
D
Fighting battles that have already been won,
C
Running on empty, life’s no fun,
G
When you’re an exhausted item, the day’s work’s done.

(Chorus)
Em
Chasing shadows, shadows in the rain,
D
Caught up in the sorrow, engrossed in the pain,
C
Hoping for a tomorrow, to break these chains,
G
Chasing shadows, again and again.

(Bridge)
C
Every step feels like a fight,
G
Lost in the darkness, searching for light,
Am
But I’ll keep moving forward, with all my might,
D
For I know there’s a dawn, after the darkest night.

(Chorus)
Em
Chasing shadows, till the break of day,
D
Waiting for the sun, to cast them away,
C
In the end, it will be okay,
G
As long as I keep chasing, chasing shadows each day.

Favorite Fan:
Their favorite fan is a teenager named Allie Thompson. Allie discovered Exhausted Item at a difficult time in her life and their music provided her with comfort and a means to express her emotions. She says, “Exhausted Item isn’t just my favorite band because of their awesome music. They’ve been there for me through their songs when no one else was. Their lyrics speak to my soul and help me to cope with my struggles. They might not know me personally, but their music makes me feel seen and heard. That’s why they’ll always be my number one band.”

Backstory:
Incompatible Seashore is a band that came to life on the sandy beaches of Santa Monica, California, under the moonlit skies of 2013. The founding members, Tommy Adler and Sophia Rivers, met during a beach bonfire and discovered a shared deep-rooted love for music. They were from different musical worlds – Tommy, a grizzled punk rocker, and Sophia, a classically trained pianist. Despite their contrasting backgrounds, they formed a bond over their passion for creating new sounds and serenading the ocean with their melodies. Soon, they added bassist Riley Jackson and drummer Mia Sanders to their crew and began their journey as ‘Incompatible Seashore’.

Genre:
Incompatible Seashore’s music is a unique fusion of Punk Rock and Indie Pop, sprinkled with elements of classical music. The band’s genre-bending style creates a harmonic collision of Tommy’s gritty guitar distortions and Sophia’s elegant piano progressions, anchored by Riley’s heavy bass and Mia’s rhythmic drums.

Title:
“Saltwater Symphony”

Full Song Lyrics:
[Intro]
Am G Dm E7
Am G Dm E7

[Verse 1]
Am G Dm E7
Listen to the waves, under the moon’s gaze,
Am G Dm E7
Salty air and sandy hair, lost in a beach haze.

[Chorus]
Am G Dm E7
We play our saltwater symphony, to the rhythm of the sea,
Am G Dm E7
Incompatible as we may be, we’re free as we could be.

[Verse 2]
Am G Dm E7
Strings and keys, beneath the palm trees,
Am G Dm E7
We’ll sing until the sunrise, caught in the ocean’s breeze.

[Chorus]
Am G Dm E7
We play our saltwater symphony, to the rhythm of the sea,
Am G Dm E7
Incompatible as we may be, we’re free as we could be.

[Outro]
Am G Dm E7
Incompatible Seashore, forever we adore,
Am G Dm E7
Playing our saltwater symphony, until eternity.

Favorite Fan Testimony:
“I’m Luke, a self-proclaimed superfan of Incompatible Seashore. I’ve seen them perform at every local gig, and their music gives me a sense of freedom like nothing else. The blend of punk rock with indie pop and classical elements creates a unique sound that resonates with my rebellious yet sensitive spirit. Tommy’s punk grit, Sophia’s classical elegance, Riley’s groovy bass, and Mia’s rhythmic drums, it’s a perfect disharmony that surprisingly fits together. They’re my favorite because they prove that even the most incompatible elements can create a beautiful symphony – just like their song ‘Saltwater Symphony’!”

Backstory:
Haunting Knee has a unique origin story that dates back to 2014, when its four members met during a physiotherapy session. All of them were recovering from knee injuries sustained in different accidents. Together, they found solace and inspiration in music as a form of escape during their painful recovery. The band didn’t start with a grand idea of becoming famous. It was just about four friends – Jim (vocals), Harry (guitar), Ben (bass), and Tim (drums) – who shared their experiences, frustrations, and hopes through songwriting and jamming sessions. Over time, they realized that their collective energy and creativity could inspire others, so they decided to take their music outside the therapy room and formed ‘Haunting Knee’.

Genre:
Haunting Knee’s music primarily falls within the alternative rock genre, but they’re known for experimenting with elements of grunge and indie rock. Their music is driven by powerful lyrics and intense instrumentation, which captures the essence of their personal struggles and victories.

Title:
“Broken Strings and Healing Things”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C G
Broken strings, shattered dreams,
Am Em
Aching knees, trying to feel something.
C G
Nightmares, cold stares,
Am Em
Still we dare, to do our own thing.

(Chorus)
D Em C G
Healing things, with broken wings,
D Em Am
Strumming chords, singing words,
D Em C G
Feeling pain, shaking off the chains,
D Em Am
We’re Haunting Knee, and this is our thing.

(Verse 2)
C G
Torn ligaments, moments spent,
Am Em
Rising again, searching for the sentiment.
C G
Lonely nights, endless fights,
Am Em
Finding light, in our every plight.

(Repeat Chorus)
D Em C G
Healing things, with broken wings,
D Em Am
Strumming chords, singing words,
D Em C G
Feeling pain, shaking off the chains,
D Em Am
We’re Haunting Knee, and this is our thing.

Fan Favorite – Sandra:
“I was going through a tough time when I first heard Haunting Knee’s music. The raw emotion resonated with me. It showed me that it’s okay to acknowledge pain, but it’s also important to rise above it. Their music has been my companion through my own healing journey. It’s more than just a band to me; it’s a source of strength and inspiration. For that reason, Haunting Knee will always be my favorite.”

Backstory:

Tricky Land is an unconventional rock band formed in 2003, in the heart of Los Angeles, California. The band’s members, lead vocalist Jack Thorn, guitarist Lucas Ray, bassist Derek Stone, and drummer Jason Fox, met at a local dive bar’s open mic night. Their shared love for music and their knack for the unusual led them to create a band that’s beyond the ordinary. Their sound is a harmonious blend of classic rock, infused with elements of funk and blues, giving them a unique sound that’s distinctly their own.

Genre: Rock/Blues/Funk

Title: Midnight Carousel

Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em
Under the city lights I found,
C
A place where dreams are spinning round,
Am
Midnight carousel goes round and round,
D
In our Tricky Land, we are bound.

(Chorus)
G
In this Tricky Land, there’s no despair,
E
Only music in the air,
C
Midnight carousel, take us there,
D
In our Tricky Land, without a care.

(Verse 2)
Em
Jester’s laugh and play their tune,
C
Under the silver, cold full moon,
Am
In the dark, the dreams will bloom,
D
Come with us, it’s not too soon.

(Chorus)
G
In this Tricky Land, let’s make a stand,
E
Hold on to the music, hand in hand,
C
Midnight carousel, across the sand,
D
In our Tricky Land, it’s so grand.

Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan’s name is Emily James. Emily has attended every show we’ve performed since our inception. She knows every lyric, every riff, and every beat. Her dedication and love for our music is truly inspiring.

Emily’s Testimonial:

“I first heard Tricky Land at a local bar, and I was instantly drawn to their unique sound. Their music’s raw energy, the lyrics’ vibe, everything just resonated with me. They’re not just a band; they’re a group of talented souls creating something bigger than themselves. Every song, every performance, is an experience. Tricky Land’s music isn’t just heard; it’s felt, and that’s why they are my absolute favorite.”

Backstory:

Disfigured Fence, a widely acclaimed band, originated from the heartland of Texas. The band was formed in the mid-90s by a group of high school friends who shared a love for music. They named their band Disfigured Fence after a dilapidated fence in their hometown, which they viewed as an iconic symbol of their shared past and collective aspirations. The band members, including lead vocalist John ‘Coyote’ Mathews, drummer Billy ‘Buckshot’ James, guitarist Sam ‘Sidewinder’ Smith, and bassist Dean ‘Dusty’ Miller, initially performed at local bars, school events, and rodeos. Over the years, their distinctive sound and lyrical depth gained them a devoted fan base, propelling them to national acclaim.

Genre:

Disfigured Fence primarily plays a blend of Southern Rock and Country, with a touch of Blues. Their music is characterized by a fusion of gritty guitar riffs, driving drum beats, and soulful lyrics depicting the highs, lows, and complexities of life in the American Heartland.

Title:

“One-Eyed Jack’s Last Stand”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] One-eyed Jack, he [G] lived by the tracks,
[F] With a heart full of [C] dreams and a [G] sack on his back,
[C] He played his guitar [G] under the moonlight so grand,
[F] This is the tale of [C] One-Eyed Jack’s [G] Last Stand.

(Chorus)
[C] He strummed the strings [G] with a fever so high,
[F] Under the Texas [C] sky, [G] his voice did fly,
[C] His melody like [G] waves on the sand,
[F] We remember [C] One-Eyed Jack’s [G] Last Stand.

(Verse 2)
[C] Jack had no family, [G] Jack had no home,
[F] His only companion [C] was his [G] guitar alone,
[C] He sang his songs [G] to the night’s command,
[F] Echoing the saga of [C] One-Eyed Jack’s [G] Last Stand.

(Chorus)
[C] Jack played all night, [G] under the star’s light,
[F] His music echoed in the [C] silent night, [G] oh so right,
[C] His soul poured out [G] like a waterfall so grand,
[F] Forever etching [C] One-Eyed Jack’s [G] Last Stand.

Fan Testimonial:

“I’m Lorraine, a long-time fan of Disfigured Fence. I first heard their music when I was going through a rough patch in life. The raw authenticity of their songs, the stories they tell about regular people and their struggles, resonated with me. It’s as if they understand the courage it takes to face life’s challenges head-on. The song ‘One-Eyed Jack’s Last Stand’ has a special place in my heart. It reminds me that no matter how challenging life may get, one can always find hope and strength in music. Disfigured Fence is my favorite band because they don’t just create music; they tell stories that touch hearts and give strength.”

Backstory:

Metallic Apartment was formed during a summer night jam session in a cramped, downtown loft in 2012. Founding members, lead singer and guitarist Alex “Strummer” Stone and drummer Mark “Beatz” Davis, were roommates at the time, both pursuing careers in music production. After noticing they shared the same musical vision, they decided to create their own sound, which became the birth of Metallic Apartment. Later joined by bassist Jenny “Riff” Harper and keyboardist Samuel “Keys” Turner, the band continued to cultivate their unique blend of sounds, drawing inspiration from their urban surroundings and personal experiences.

Genre:
Alternative Rock/Electronic

Title:
“Concrete Jungle Rhythm”

Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C
Underneath the city lights, caught in the maze,
G D
Every corner telling tales, lost in the haze.
Em C
Steel and concrete, rising in the sky,
G D
Crafting melodies in the echoes, as time goes by.

(Chorus)
Em C
We dance in the rhythm of the concrete jungle,
G D
Finding harmony in the urban rumble.
Em C
This metallic apartment, our captive stage,
G D
Singing anthems of the modern age.

(Verse 2)
Em C
Graffiti walls whisper secrets in the night,
G D
Neon signs casting shadows, hiding in plain sight.
Em C
Every heartbeat echoing in the alleyway,
G D
In the city’s symphony, we find our place to play.

(Chorus)
Em C
We dance in the rhythm of the concrete jungle,
G D
Finding harmony in the urban rumble.
Em C
This metallic apartment, our captive stage,
G D
Singing anthems of the modern age.

Fan’s Testimonial:

“I’m Jordan, and I can confidently say that Metallic Apartment is my favorite band! Their sound is distinctive, combining raw guitar riffs with an electronic undertone that perfectly encapsulates city life’s energy. Their song ‘Concrete Jungle Rhythm’ speaks volumes to me as a city dweller, and I feel a deep connection to their lyrics. Every concert is a unique experience, and you can feel their love for music resonating throughout the audience. Metallic Apartment’s authenticity and passion make them stand out in the music industry. Their music has become the soundtrack to my life.”