Backstory:
Worse Border is a band born from the heart of a small, midwestern town in the U.S. The founding members, Jake McAllen (lead singer) and Ronnie Hart (guitarist), were childhood friends who found solace in music amidst their mundane small-town life. After a few tough years of unsuccessful job hunting, they decided to take a leap of faith and pursued their passion for music, forming ‘Worse Border’. Joined later by Angela Rossi (drummer) and Sam “Bassman” Choi (bassist) whom they met at a local music festival, the band started creating a unique blend of sounds that echoes their struggles, hopes, and dreams.

They spent countless hours jamming in their basement, developing their sound, and writing songs that speak about society, love, and life. They began playing at local bars, slowly gaining a dedicated fanbase who resonated with their music. Despite their growing popularity locally, they faced numerous challenges, including rejection by several music labels. However, they didn’t let these setbacks deter them, and they continued to hone their craft, resulting in their raw, unfiltered sound that has since become their signature.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Scratch the Surface”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] There’s a place where no one [D] goes,
[Em] Hidden behind the city’s [C] blows,
[G] It’s where we find our [D] rhythm and our [Em] prose,
[C] Scratch the surface, and it [G] shows.

(Chorus)
[G] Behind the facade, behind the [D] border,
[Em] We’re all just trying to keep our [C] sanity in order,
[G] The world is harsh, but we’re [D] tougher,
[Em] Scratch the surface, you’ll see, we’re no [C] different from each other.

(Verse 2)
[G] Under the stars, we share our [D] dreams,
[Em] Our stories flowing like silent [C] screams,
[G] The world’s a stage, we’re just the [D] themes,
[C] Scratch the surface, nothing’s as it [G] seems.

(Repeat Chorus)

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is Maddie Turner. Maddie, a high school student, discovered Worse Border while going through a difficult period in her life. She found solace in their music, especially in their lyrics which she felt deeply resonated with her struggles and emotions. As she puts it, “Worse Border isn’t just a band, they’re my lifeline. Their honesty, their raw energy, their refusal to sugarcoat reality – it’s invigorating. Their music makes me feel seen and understood. It’s like they’re singing my thoughts, my feelings. They’re more than my favorite band, they’re my heroes.”

Backstory:
Cuddly Discourse began in a quaint little art cafe in Portland, Oregon. Two of its founding members, lead singer/guitarist Sam “Cuddly” Davis and drummer/percussionist Monica “Discourse” Ramirez, found themselves sharing the small stage for an open mic night in late 2014. Between the poetry recitations and stand-up comedy performances that night, they found a unique, unexpected harmony when Sam’s folksy strumming met Monica’s rhythmically intricate beats. They decided to form a band and soon added bassist Lisa “Bassline” Thompson and keyboardist Graham “Sonic” Michaels to their lineup, creating their peculiar mix of indie melodies and spoken-word lyrics.

In 2015, Cuddly Discourse dropped their first EP, which quickly gained local attention. Their unique sound, combined with their engaging stage presence, has stirred a sense of intrigue and admiration around the Pacific Northwest. Today, they continue to define their colorful palette of sounds and voices, pushing the boundaries of alternative music.

Genre:
Alternative/Indie

Title:
“Silk and Denim”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Em C G D
Cruising down this cosmic road, in silk and denim dreams,
Em C G D
The starlit sky my canvas, and my thoughts the streaming beams.

[Verse 1 Chorus]
Em C G D
We’re painting life in shades of truth, in Cuddly Discourse themes,
Em C G D
Lost in time, but found in rhythm, bound by our sonic seams.

[Verse 2]
Em C G D
Beneath the moon’s soft whisper, in a dance both wild and free,
Em C G D
Weaving tales of love and loss, through our melodic spree.

[Verse 2 Chorus]
Em C G D
Bound by notes and spoken words, in our harmonious decree,
Em C G D
We’re Cuddly Discourse, hear us roar, in silk and denim, we believe.

Band’s Favorite Fan:
Kevin “Kev” Reynolds

Fan Testimonial:
“Cuddly Discourse is my jam. I first heard their stuff at a small music festival in Seattle and was instantly hooked. The way they blend spoken-word poetry with indie music is just genius. Their song, ‘Silk and Denim,’ is an absolute anthem. The lyrics speak of life’s journey, discovery, and the beauty of self-expression – it’s soulful, raw, and incredibly inspiring. I never miss their gigs and have every piece of merch they’ve ever released. They’ve got this unique energy that sets them apart. For me, they’re not just a band, they’re a movement.”

Backstory:

Indolent Appeal was born in the heart of Brooklyn, New York, in the eclectic and vibrant year of 2010. Childhood friends Jasper (vocals and guitar), Lenny (drums), and Maya (bass and backup vocals) found themselves gravitating toward the same love for music. Their shared passion for creating something new out of the raw and powerful energy they found in their city became the driving force behind their music. Their aim was to create a sound that was a direct reflection of their lives – a beautiful chaos of love, heartbreak, hustle, and dreams.

Indolent Appeal’s journey as a band was far from easy. The three members faced their fair share of challenges, from financial struggles to creative differences. However, their common dream and unwavering friendship kept them together, and eventually, they garnered recognition in the underground music scene. Their music struck a chord with many, garnering a fanbase that resonated with their authentic and raw narrative.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Bridges of Brooklyn”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em G
Underneath the city lights,
D C
we built our dreams on sleepless nights.
Em G
Barefoot on the bridges of Brooklyn,
D C
we found our rhythm, we found our kin.

(Chorus)
Em G D C
In the heart of the city, we found our appeal,
Em G D C
Indolent but driven, hearts on the wheel.

(Verse 2)
Em G
Walking on the path we’ve carved,
D C
Our melody rings in every boulevard.
Em G
In the whispers of the wind,
D C
You’ll hear our story, our love, our sin.

(Chorus)
Em G D C
In the neon glow, we found our touch,
Em G D C
Indolent Appeal, the world’s our hutch.

Fan’s Name:
Evelyn

Testimonial:

“As someone who’s lived in Brooklyn all her life, Indolent Appeal has managed to capture the very essence of our city in their music. Their songs feel like home to me. I feel seen, heard, and represented in their lyrics. Their sound is raw, authentic, and real. They’re not just a band to me, they’re the voice of our city. Their music is my solace, my celebration, and everything in between. It’s this connection that makes Indolent Appeal my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Spanish Trend is a vibrant music ensemble that was formed in the lively city of Barcelona, Spain, in 2011. The band consists of four childhood friends – Rico Torres (Lead Vocals), Miguel Sanchez (Lead Guitarist), Carlos Pena (Drummer), and Luis Gonzalez (Bassist) – who grew up in the same neighborhood and shared a passion for music. They started out playing gigs in local bars and gradually built a reputation for their lively performances and dynamic fusion of music genres. They were eventually discovered by a music producer during a local music festival and have since catapulted to international fame.

Genre: Spanish Trend is known for their unique blend of Latin rock and pop, which they infuse with elements from other genres such as reggae, folk, and alternative rock.

Title: “Dancing with the Waves”

Full song lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Am G
Along the coast, under the Spanish sun,
F C
Where the breeze meets the rolling waves.
Am G
Two souls dance, their hearts as one,
F C
Living moments they want to save.

(Chorus)
G Am
Dancing with the waves, under the orange sky,
F C
Feeling the rhythm, with the world passing by.
G Am
Living for this moment, where love never lies,
F C
Here in your arms, under the Spanish skies.

(Verse 2)
Am G
In your eyes, I see a world so bright,
F C
A world where dreams come to life.
Am G
In your arms, I find the endless night,
F C
Where love overcomes every strife.

(Chorus)
G Am
Dancing with the waves, under the moon’s soft glow,
F C
Feeling the warmth, letting the love flow.
G Am
Living for this moment, where our hearts beat slow,
F C
Here in your arms, where I belong, I know.

Band’s favorite fan:
Our favorite fan is Sofia Martinez. She’s been with us since our early days playing in local bars. She’d travel all around Barcelona to watch us perform, always standing at the front of the crowd, singing along to our songs. Sofia isn’t just a fan, she’s a part of our journey. She’s always sharing our music with her friends, helping us reach more people. She says, “Spanish Trend isn’t just a band for me, it’s an emotion. Their music touches my soul, and the energy they bring to their performances is infectious. They’ve added a rhythm to my life, and I can’t imagine a day without their music.”

Backstory:

Angry Premium was formed in the heart of Brooklyn, New York, in the mid-2000s. Childhood friends and music lovers, singer Max ‘Maxim’ Harris and guitarist Leo ‘Fierce’ Jacobs, decided to transform their passion for music into a professional endeavor after witnessing a life-altering concert by their favorite punk rock band. They were soon joined by drummer Alex ‘Smash’ Ronald and bassist Jax ‘Thump’ Mitchell, creating the perfect blend of artistry and talent that soon took the local music scene by storm. The band’s name, Angry Premium, was born from their shared belief that raw emotions and authenticity are the premium qualities of great music.

Genre:

Punk Rock

Title:

“Chaos in Harmony”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em G
Wake up in the morning with a twisted mind,
D A
Another day in the world, not so kind.
Em G
Screaming headlines, burning city lights,
D A
We’re just pawns in this endless fight.

(Chorus)
C G
Chaos in harmony, that’s where we belong,
D A
In the noise and disorder, we find our song.
C G
Struggle and resilience, it makes us strong,
D A
In the chaos, in the harmony, we belong.

(Verse 2)
Em G
Broken hearts, shattered dreams,
D A
Not everything is as it seems.
Em G
In the wreckage, we find our path,
D A
Finding peace amidst the wrath.

(Repeat Chorus)

Fan’s Testimonial:

Hi, I’m Sarah Johnson! I’ve been a hardcore fan of Angry Premium since I first saw them play at a small bar in Brooklyn. Their music has a raw, authentic energy that just pulls you in and refuses to let go. “Chaos in Harmony” is my personal favorite, with its powerful lyrics and strong chord progression, it perfectly encapsulates the struggle and resilience of life. Angry Premium isn’t just a band for me, it’s a way of life. Their music has seen me through some of the toughest times and for that, I’ll always be grateful. They are, without a doubt, my favorite band.

Backstory:
Roasted Rule was conceived in the dark, gritty heart of downtown Chicago in 2008. Its founding members, Denny ‘The Roast’ Rollins, Eddie ‘Rule’ Ruiz and Tommy ‘T-bone’ Thompson, all hail from unique and colorful musical backgrounds. Denny, a classically trained guitarist, found his musical solace in the distorted chords of rock while Eddie, a self-taught drummer, drew inspiration from the rhythmic complexities of jazz. Tommy, on the other hand, with his sultry voice and charismatic stage presence, was a perfect fit for the role of frontman.

Together, they started jamming in garages, honing their sound and crafting lyrics that reflected their shared life experiences. Their journey was far from smooth, with countless late-night practices, countless extremely low profile gigs and countering financial struggles. Despite these challenges, their passion for music kept them united. It was not until 2012, when their demo got into the hands of a local radio DJ, that they gained some recognition. Their fan base began to grow rapidly, and Roasted Rule became a household name in the Chicago rock scene.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Shadows of Yesterday”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Looking back on the [D] days of old,
[Em] Trying to shelter from the [C] cold,
[G] Memories painted in [D] black and white,
[Em] Shadows of yesterday, in the [C] moonlight.

(Chorus)
[G] And we’ll keep on [D] fighting,
[Em] In the name of love, in the name of [C] right,
[G] Holding to the [D] memories,
[Em] Shadows of yesterday, in the [C] pale moonlight.

(Verse 2)
[G] Times have changed but [D] we’re the same,
[Em] Playing life’s little [C] game,
[G] We stand tall, we [D] stand proud,
[Em] Shadows of yesterday, speaking [C] loud.

(Chorus)
[G] And we’ll keep on [D] fighting,
[Em] In the name of love, in the name of [C] right,
[G] Holding to the [D] memories,
[Em] Shadows of yesterday, in the [C] pale moonlight.

Favorite Fan (Testimonial):
Her name is Jessie Mitchell. She fell in love with Roasted Rule when she first heard their demo on the local radio station. A passionate music lover, she was drawn to the band’s raw energy, practical lyrics and the unique blend of rock and alternative music. Jessie’s testimony, “Roasted Rule’s music was like a breath of fresh air in the stagnant world of mainstream music. It resonated with my life, my struggles and my victories. I’ve attended every single gig since I first heard them and their music has become my daily anthem.” Jessie’s enthusiasm and loyalty have made her a favorite among the band members.

Backstory:

Formed in the rolling hills of Vermont, Lucky View began as a trio of childhood friends – Eddie McGill (vocals/guitar), Jesse O’Donnell (bass), and Ruth Packer (drums) – who shared a love for music. They spent their high school years experimenting with different genres and playing gigs at local venues, before deciding to take their passion to the next level. They moved to New York City, where their unique sound and energetic performances quickly gained them a loyal following. From basement shows to sold-out venues, Lucky View have carved a niche in the music scene, and continue to push boundaries with their eclectic blend of styles.

Genre:
Adult Alternative / Indie Rock

Title:
“Streets of Gold”

Full Song Lyrics (with chord progression):

(Verse 1 – C, F, Am, G)
( C ) Down the streets of gold, ( F ) I wander,
( Am ) In search of tales ( G ) yet to be told,
( C ) Echoes of laughter, ( F ) whispers of sorrow,
( Am ) Dancing in the shadows of ( G ) tomorrow.

(Chorus – Em, F, C, G)
( Em ) Can you see it? ( F ) Can you feel it?
( C ) The rhythm of the city, ( G ) it’s a hidden beat,
( Em ) Can you hear it? ( F ) Can you taste it?
( C ) The sugar and the grit, ( G ) oh, it’s bittersweet.

(Verse 2 – C, F, Am, G)
( C ) Beneath the neon lights, ( F ) we wander,
( Am ) Dreamers lost in ( G ) a world of wonder,
( C ) Stories unfold, ( F ) secrets untether,
( Am ) We’re painting memories, ( G ) moments to remember.

(Chorus – Em, F, C, G)
(Em) Can you see it? ( F ) Can you feel it?
( C ) The rhythm of the city, ( G ) it’s a hidden beat,
(Em) Can you hear it? ( F ) Can you taste it?
( C ) The sugar and the grit, ( G ) oh, it’s bittersweet.

(Bridge – A, F, C, G)
( A ) And in the midst of it all, ( F ) we found our voice,
( C ) Singing loud, making noise,
( G ) A symphony in the chaos,
( A ) We are Lucky View, ( F ) this is our choice.

(Chorus – Em, F, C, G)
( Em ) Can you see it? ( F ) Can you feel it?
( C ) The rhythm of the city, ( G ) it’s a hidden beat,
( Em ) Can you hear it? ( F ) Can you taste it?
( C ) The sugar and the grit, ( G ) oh, it’s bittersweet.

Favorite Fan:

Meet Sam Martinez, a Brooklyn-based photographer who claims Lucky View as his favorite band. “Their music is like a soundtrack to New York City. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s incredibly honest. They capture the essence of living in the city – the highs, the lows, and everything in between. I’ve been to every one of their gigs in the city, and each show feels like a homecoming. Lucky View is not just a band, they are a musical experience!”

Backstory:
Sandy Dirt was born out of a small town in Arizona, where four childhood friends discovered their shared love for music. The group consisted of Tommy “T-Bone” Watkins on vocals, Jeremy “Jer” Mullins on guitar, Freddie “Fingers” Taylor on keyboard, and Danny “Dirt” Dawson on drum set. They started out by playing small gigs at local bars and clubs, their sound echoing through the dry desert air. As they grew older, their sound evolved, growing more complex and blending different influences from their surroundings. Despite various life changes and moving to different parts of the country, the band stayed together, committed to their passion for making music.

Genre:
Folk Rock with a hint of Country and Blues.

Title:
“Desert Sunrise”

Full song lyrics with chord progression:
Verse 1 (Am, D, G, Em):
(Am) Got a pocket full of dreams, (D) Desert by my side,
(G) Sun’s just peaking over, (Em) ready for the ride.

Verse 2 (Am, D, G, Em):
(Am) Dusty boots on a dirt road, (D) takes me where I need,
(G) There’s no place I’d rather be, (Em) where my heart is freed.

Chorus (C, G, D, Em):
(C) Desert Sunrise, (G) calling my name,
(D) With every new dawn, (Em) life’s not the same.
(C) Sandy Dirt under my feet, (G) I’m home once again,
(D) In the arms of the desert, (Em) where my heart’s always been.

Repeat: Verse 1, Verse 2 and Chorus twice.

Bridge (C, G):
(C) Daylight fades, (G) stars take the stage,
(C) The desert night whispers, (G) turning the page.

Chorus (C, G, D, Em):
(C) Desert Sunrise, (G) I’m home once again,
(D) With the break of dawn, (Em) where my heart’s always been.

Fan Testimonial:
Fan’s Name: Billy “The Kid” Carson
“Billy The Kid” Carson, a local bartender in their hometown, has been a fan of Sandy Dirt since their early days. For Billy, the band’s music is the soundtrack to his life, a companion through his highs and lows. He says, “Sandy Dirt isn’t just a band for me; it’s a feeling of home, a comfort that lingers no matter where I am. Their melodies echo my life’s journey, and their lyrics speak the language of my heart. Every new song feels like a letter from an old friend. That’s why they’ll always be my favorite.”

Backstory:

Jaded Cheese was formed in the basement of a tiny house in Bristol, England in 2012. The band consists of four members; lead vocalist and bassist Jack “Cheese” Chandler, guitarist Ryan “Jade” Jenkins, drummer Alex “Cheddar” Chapman, and keyboardist Lily “Gouda” Green. They came together through their shared love of music and cheese, deciding to combine the two into an unforgettable band name that would stick in people’s minds.

Despite their unique and slightly humorous name, the band’s journey has been anything but easy. They started by performing at local pubs and small music festivals, gradually building their audience through their energetic performances and innovative sound. They finally caught their big break in 2015 when a talent scout discovered them during a performance at the Glastonbury Festival. Since then, Jaded Cheese has released two successful albums, toured worldwide, and won multiple awards, making them one of the most exciting and creative bands to emerge from the UK in recent years.

Genre:

Jaded Cheese is best known for their intriguing blend of Indie Rock and Psychedelic Pop.

Title:

“Curdled Dreams”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am G
In the city light, under the neon sight,
F C
We traded dreams, like jaded cheese.
Am G
In the moonlit haze, through the smoky maze,
F C
We found our place, in curdled dreams.

(Chorus)
G Am
Curdled dreams and jaded cheese,
F C
That’s where I found my heart’s ease.
G Am
In the night’s sweet reprise,
F C
Underneath the starry skies.

(Verse 2)
Am G
As the music played, we danced and swayed,
F C
Love was our song, all night long.
Am G
In the laughter’s glow, we let go,
F C
Living our curdled dreams, in jaded scenes.

(Chorus)
G Am
Curdled dreams and jaded cheese,
F C
That’s where I found my heart’s ease.
G Am
In the night’s sweet reprise,
F C
Underneath the starry skies.

Fan’s Testimonial:

“Hi, my name is Tom, but my friends call me ‘Cheesy Tom’ because I’m the biggest Jaded Cheese fan out there. I’ve followed them since their early days, and I fell in love with their unique sound and energetic performances. Their style is like a breath of fresh air in the music industry. Their lyrics are so profound, and their music has a way of touching your soul. My favorite song, ‘Curdled Dreams,’ is a masterpiece that perfectly encapsulates their talent. I’ve seen them live multiple times, and every performance feels unique and special. I’ll forever be a proud fan of Jaded Cheese!”

Backstory:
‘Married Chalk’ was born out of the thriving music scene of Seattle in 2010. The four members, lead vocalist Jack Dawson, guitarist Lily Rivers, bassist Mark Stevens, and drummer Sam Wilson, initially met at a local Open Mic Night at ‘The Rusty Anchor’. Dawson’s soulful voice paired with River’s bluesy guitar licks caught the attention of Stevens, a classically trained bassist, and Wilson, a punk rock drummer. The combination of their different musical backgrounds created a unique fusion, and ‘Married Chalk’ was born. Since then, they have been entertaining audiences with their unique blend of music at various local and international venues.

Genre:
Indie Rock/Alternative

Title:
“Washed Out Memoirs”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G] Standing tall in this [C] sea of faces,
[D] Washed out memoirs, [Em] forgotten places,
[G]Painted pictures that [C] time erases,
[D] Captured moments in [Em] broken vases.

(Chorus)
[C]We are the [D] stories,
[G] That we [Em] tell,
[C] In the [D] end, it’s just [G] as well,
[C]We are the [D] songs,
[G] That we [Em] play,
[C] Tattered dreams in [D] colors of grey.

(Verse 2)
[G] Tracing lines on [C] old town maps,
[D] Tangled memories in [Em] time’s lapse,
[G] Echoes of laughter, [C] fleeting claps,
[D] Life’s strange music in [Em] silent gaps.

(Chorus)
[C]We are the [D] stories,
[G] That we [Em] tell,
[C] In the [D] end, it’s just [G] as well,
[C]We are the [D] songs,
[G] That we [Em] play,
[C] Stitching seams in [D] hues of grey.

Favorite Fan’s Name:
Rebecca

Rebecca’s Testimonial:
“Married Chalk is hands down my favorite band! Their music speaks to me on a profound level. It’s like they’ve somehow managed to put my deepest thoughts and emotions into words and melodies. Every song is different, yet there’s a familiar thread that runs through them all. They’ve got this raw, authentic sound that’s just so rare these days. Whether they’re playing at a huge concert or a small local bar, they always perform with such passion and intensity. I’ve been fortunate enough to see them live a few times, and I’m just blown away every time. Their music has gotten me through some tough times, and for that, I’m eternally grateful. ‘Washed Out Memoirs’ in particular has a special place in my heart. The lyrics really resonate with me and the melody is simply beautiful. I can’t wait to see what they come up with next!”