Backstory:
Tepid Science formed in the heady days of the early 2010s, when the five members – Dana, Mark, Louie, Jake and Sam – met while studying various scientific disciplines at the University of California, Berkeley. Initially, they collaborated on academic research projects, but their shared love of music soon drew them into a different type of experimentation. The band was born out of late-night jam sessions in their shared dorm rooms, where they gleefully merged their technical expertise with their eclectic musical influences. They named themselves ‘Tepid Science’ as a tongue-in-cheek reflection of their scientific background and mild-mannered personalities.

Though they were initially just a campus band, Tepid Science’s reputation quickly spread beyond Berkeley. Their unique blend of intellectual lyricism and accessible melodies caught the attention of both independent radios and music festival organizers. Soon, they were performing at venues across California, garnering a dedicated fanbase that appreciated their cerebral approach to music.

Genre:
Indie Rock with a Progressive Twist

Title:
“Quantum Parallax”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
Em
In the world of smallest particles,
G
Where reality is mystical,
C
Two bodies, separate, so far apart,
D
Yet entangled in the heart.

(Chorus)
Am
Quantum Parallax, we’re spinning in a daze,
G
Love is the most beautiful phase,
D
Two hearts, one mind, in paradox embrace,
Em
Quantum Parallax, our cosmic love chase.

(Verse)
Em
In the vast expanse of the universe,
G
We’re a poetry, a cosmic verse.
C
Though light years apart, we’re one,
D
Under the same burning sun.

(Chorus)
Am
Quantum Parallax, we’re spinning in a daze,
G
Love is the most beautiful phase,
D
Two hearts, one mind, in paradox embrace,
Em
Quantum Parallax, our cosmic love chase.

Band’s favorite fan:
Favorite fan’s name is Jessie Armstrong. Jessie is a physics major at Stanford University who discovered Tepid Science during her freshman year. As a lover of both music and science, she was immediately drawn to their thoughtful lyrics and infectious melodies. She’s been to over 20 of their gigs and even has a tattoo of their band logo on her arm. Here’s her testimonial:

“Discovering Tepid Science was like finding a rare gem in a sea of monotonous music. Their lyrics speak to my intellect, and their melodies touch my soul. Being both a scientist and a rock music lover, their music is a perfect blend of my two passions. As a fan, I’ve been privileged to see them play live multiple times, and they always deliver an unforgettable experience. Their song ‘Quantum Parallax’ was the soundtrack to my college years, and it continues to inspire me as I pursue my PhD in physics. Tepid Science isn’t just a band to me, they’re a lifestyle.”

Backstory:
Speedy Yak was formed in a small mountain town in Colorado, where the members; Jimmy and Alex, had spent their lives surrounded by the natural beauty and tranquility of the Rockies. The two friends found their shared passion for music during their high school years, looking for a way to escape the monotony of their small town lives. Their inspiration came from the yaks that roamed the mountains and their speed and agility when navigating the rough terrains, hence the name ‘Speedy Yak’. They started out in their parents’ garages, using borrowed instruments and recording equipment. As time passed, they began to find their own sound, honing their skills and writing their own songs, eventually gaining a local following that allowed them to expand their horizons beyond their hometown.

Genre:
Indie Folk Rock

Song Title:
“Run Free”

Full Song Lyrics:
Verse 1:
[G] Up on the [C] mountains, where the [D] winds blow [G] free,
[G] There stands a [C] Yak, as wild as [D] can [G] be.
[C] He’s got no [G] chains, he’s got no [D] fear,
[G] His spirit [C] echoes, in every [D] wind I [G] hear.

Chorus:
[G] Run Free, [C] Speedy Yak, [D] run [G] free,
[G] In your steps, [C] there’s a rhythm, [D] a melody,
[G] Through the valleys, [C] over the peaks, [D] across the sea,
[G] Run Free, [C] Speedy Yak, [D] live [G] free.

Verse 2:
[G] Under the [C] starlight, through the [D] roaring [G] storms,
[G] His heart beats [C] fast, against the [D] norms.
[C] He’s a wanderer, [G] he’s a [D] dream,
[G] In his eyes, [C] the universe [D] gleams.

(Repeat Chorus)

Band’s favorite fan:
John Mitchells. John has been a fan of Speedy Yak from day one. He has attended every single one of the band’s shows since their inception, proudly wearing his ‘Speedy Yak’ t-shirt at every concert. His unflinching support has meant the world to Alex and Jimmy.

Fan Testimonial:
“There’s something about Speedy Yak’s music that resonates with me. It’s raw, it’s honest, and it’s filled with passion. Their music has been the soundtrack to my life, providing comfort in my lows and amplifying my highs. They’re more than just a band to me, they’re a beacon of hope and inspiration. Their song ‘Run Free’ is my personal anthem, it motivates me to live life to the fullest, just like the Yak they sing about. Speedy Yak’s music encourages me to embrace my own speed, my own journey, and for that, they will always be my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Founded in the heart of San Francisco’s thriving music scene in 2007, Faraway Business was initially a trio of college friends with a shared love for music. Lead vocalist and guitarist, Vince D’Amico, drummer, Pete Henderson, and bassist, Jeremy Travis stumbled upon their distinctive sound during late-night jam sessions in their university dormitory. Their music encapsulated their struggles, dreams, and the bittersweet taste of growing up. After a few years of playing local gigs and honing their sound, they added Sofia Luna, a talented keyboardist and vocalist, to their ensemble. Her addition brought a new depth and emotion to their music, giving birth to the Faraway Business fans know and love today.

Genre: Indie Folk Rock

Title: “Stardust & City Lights”

Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
C G Am F
Underneath the stardust and the city lights, we were born and bred,
C G Am F
With our dreams hanging on the threads of the night, we chase instead.
C G Am F
Running on empty, hearts full of might, we’re spinning in our heads,
C G Am F
In this faraway business, in the soft moonlight, where everything is unsaid.

(Chorus)
C G Am F
Oh, in the faraway business, under the city lights, we find our way,
C G Am F
Stardust in our pockets, and dreams in our eyes, we’re here to stay.

(Verse 2)
C G Am F
Between the whispers and the hindsight, we’ve made our bed,
C G Am F
In this faraway business, where everything’s right, even when it’s misread.
C G Am F
Battling the shadows, chasing the light, we’re dancing on the edge,
C G Am F
In this faraway business, where love’s the fight, and dreams are our pledge.

(Chorus)
C G Am F
Oh, in the faraway business, under the city lights, we find our truth,
C G Am F
Stardust in our pockets, and dreams in our hearts, we reclaim our youth.

Fan’s Profile:
Name: Emily Thompson

Testimonial:
“Faraway Business is more than just a band to me, they’re a lifeline. Their authentic energy and raw lyrics resonate with my own experiences. I discovered them during a challenging period in my life, and their songs provided me with the strength to push forward. ‘Stardust & City Lights’ specifically spoke to my heart. It’s about struggling, dreaming, and persevering, which really connected with me. I’ve seen them perform live numerous times and each time feels like the first. They pour their heart out every time they step on stage, and it’s that honesty that makes them my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Born out of the bustling music scene in Seattle, Gleaming Profile didn’t take long to stand out with their unique sound and captivating live performances. Formed in the summer of 2013, the band comprises lead vocalist and guitarist Jeff Tomlinson, bassist Stuart Kane, drummer Mark Bisset, and keyboard player Eric Donovan. They began their journey performing at local pubs, open mics, and street fairs. Their shared love for music, combined with a relentless passion for creating unique soundscapes, soon led them to record their first EP. Following its release, Gleaming Profile quickly gained a loyal fan base and a reputable name within the indie music scene.

In 2016, their debut album “Spectrum Echoes” made a splash in the industry, propelling the band into the spotlight. Known for their eclectic sound and spellbinding lyrics, Gleaming Profile continues to redefine their genre and push boundaries with each new album.

Genre:
Alternative Rock/Electronic

Title:
“Rays of the Silver Dawn”

Full Song Lyrics:
Verse 1(Am, G, F):
(Am)Wake up to the (G)silence, and the (F)embers of the night,
(Am)Walk out to the (G)horizon, where the (F)world is bathed in light.
(Am)The shadows of the (G)past, on the (F)canvas of the mind,
(Am)Melt away in the (G)rays, of the (F)silver dawn we find.

Chorus(C, G, Am, F):
(C)Let the rays of the (G)silver dawn,
(Am)Illuminate the path we (F)trek upon,
(C)Let the glow of the (G)breaking day,
(Am)Guide us as we find our (F)way.

Verse 2(Am, G, F):
(Am)Chasing dreams and (G)echoes, in the (F)mirror of the sky,
(Am)Weaving tales of (G)trust and truth, and (F)promises that never die.
(Am)With open hearts, we (G)embrace, the (F)journey yet unknown,
(Am)In the rays of the (G)silver dawn, our (F)true colors are shown.

(Repeat Chorus)

Favorite Fan Testimonial:
Meet Carolyn Mitchell, a devoted fan from the band’s hometown, Seattle. Carolyn has followed Gleaming Profile since their early days playing at local gigs. “Their music is like a beacon of light in the whirlwind of life, always guiding me through my darkest days. There’s an emotional depth to their lyrics, and a raw honesty in their sound that speaks volumes. I feel like they’re not just a band, they’re my friends sharing their stories and experiences. Gleaming Profile is more than my favorite band, they’re a part of my life.” Carolyn’s unwavering support and enthusiasm have made her a cherished member of the Gleaming Profile fan community.

Backstory:
Recent Sheet was born from the ashes of two neighboring high school bands, The Riff Raiders and The Acoustic Aces, in the bustling city of Austin, Texas. The band members, all best friends since childhood, decided to combine their diverse musical strengths to create a wholly unique sound. They rented out an old warehouse where they could practice after school and soon, their unique blend of styles began to take shape, forming what would become “Recent Sheet.” Their journey took them from playing at local bars and school functions to being one of the hottest opening acts for major bands touring in Texas.

Genre:
The band’s music is an eclectic mix of Indie Pop and Soul, which they have dubbed “Soulful Indie Pop.”

Title:
“Shimmering Sky”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Cmaj7
Beneath the shimmering sky, I found my heart,
Gmaj7
In the rhythm of the night, torn apart.
Em7
Traces of your sweetness, etched on my soul,
Dmaj7
Now I’m lost in the echoes, of our beautiful woe.

(Chorus)
Fmaj7
Shimmering sky, don’t you cry,
Cmaj7
Can’t you see, it’s just you and I.
Gmaj7
In the dance of the stars, we will find,
Em7
The rhythm of our hearts, intertwined.

(Verse 2)
Cmaj7
In the silence of the night, I hear your voice,
Gmaj7
In the shimmering sky, I made my choice.
Em7
A symphony of love, playing our song,
Dmaj7
In the rhythm of the night, where we belong.

(Chorus)
Fmaj7
Shimmering sky, don’t you lie,
Cmaj7
Can’t you see, it’s do or die.
Gmaj7
In the dance of the stars, we will find,
Em7
The rhythm of our hearts, designed.

(Outro)
Cmaj7
Beneath the shimmering sky, our hearts collide,
Gmaj7
In the rhythm of the night, we glide.
Em7
A symphony of love, our song will play,
Dmaj7
Under the shimmering sky, we’ll forever stay.

Favorite Fan:

Riley Thompson, a college student from Austin, claims Recent Sheet as her favorite band. She says, “Their soulful indie-pop sound is a breath of fresh air amid the mechanical, overproduced music that’s so popular today. Their lyrics are poetic, filled with emotion and relatability. Every song takes you on a journey, filled with love, loss, and the beauty of life. They’re more than just a band to me; they’re the soundtrack of my life.” This poignant testimonial beautifully captures the emotional connection between Recent Sheet and their fans.

Backstory:

Messy Join is a band that was formed in the heart of Seattle in 2009. The group was initially formed by John “Rusty” Russler, who was a mechanic by profession, and his childhood friend Lucas “Lucky” Nelson, a barista with a deep passion for music. The duo was later joined by Gary “Grizzly” Grills, their old high school mate, and an architect by profession. Their shared love for music, coupled with their rich and diverse backgrounds, gave birth to a unique musical offspring, Messy Join. The band was named after a woodworking term Rusty picked up during his mechanic years symbolizing the perfect blend of their different worlds.

Genre:

Alternative Rock with hints of Blues

Title:

“Blueprints”

Full song lyrics:

[Verse 1]
(G-C-D-Am)
I was a barista, brewing coffee dreams,
You were a mechanic, lost in machine screams,
We found a rhythm, in this routine,
In the heart of Seattle, we set our scene.

[Chorus]
(G-D-Am-C)
We are the blueprints, we have the plan,
Strumming strings in a band, with our hearts on hand,
We are the architects of our own land,
In the symphony of life, we make our stand.

[Verse 2]
(G-C-D-Am)
Gary was a genius, in buildings high and tall,
The city was his canvas, the world his hall,
We tuned our passion, with his rock and roll,
In the rhythm of the rain, we found our soul.

[Chorus]
(G-D-Am-C)
We are the blueprints, of a messy join,
In the melody of chaos, we coin,
We are the architects, in the noise we find our voice,
In our symphony, we made our choice.

The band’s favorite fan:

Name: Anna “Annabell” Bell

Testimonial:

“Messy Join isn’t just a band for me; it’s an emotion. I’ve never seen such a perfect blend of alternative rock with blues that tells a story so deep and relatable. Their song ‘Blueprints’ is like an anthem to my life. I see myself through their lyrics, the struggles, the passion, and the choice to make my stand. It’s not just music, it’s a journey that they take you on. You could say I’ve found my ‘Messy Join’ in life and it’s absolutely beautiful.”

Backstory:

Excitable Sock was formed in the misty landscapes of Asheville, North Carolina, where the vibrant music scene and creative energy fostered a unique blend of talents. The band’s founding members, Jinx Malone (vocals/guitar) and Seth Rumble (drums), originally met in a worn-out record store, bonding over a shared appreciation for the beautifully eclectic history of music. They soon discovered that their musical chemistry was too powerful to be contained. They invited Sofia Hart (bass) and Lilly-Jane Pearson (keyboard) to join the band, creating a dynamic fusion of old-school rock and contemporary alternative pop.

From the early days of impromptu jam sessions in Malone’s garage to their explosive debut at the legendary Grey Eagle Tavern, Excitable Sock quickly gained a reputation for their distinctive sound and infectious energy on stage. The band’s quirky name, a tribute to an old inside joke about a sock puppet that Malone used to bring to rehearsals, perfectly encapsulates their playful approach to music.

Genre:
Alternative Pop-Rock

Title:
“Melodies Of The Morning”

Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
[G] Woke up [D] this morning,
[Em] Melodies [C] in my head.
[G] Echoes of [D] the evening,
[Em] Songs [C] yet unsaid.

(Chorus)
[G] I’m singing [D] in the morning light,
[Em] Chasing [C] dreams in the pale moonlight.
[G] With every [D] strum, every beat, every rhyme,
[Em] I find [C] myself, one note at a time.

(Verse)
[G] Cosmic [D] tunes whispering,
[Em] Telling [C] tales of the night.
[G] The rhythm [D] in the silence,
[Em] Dancing [C] in the twilight.

(Chorus)
[G] I’m singing [D] in the morning light,
[Em] Chasing [C] dreams in the pale moonlight.
[G] With every [D] strum, every beat, every rhyme,
[Em] I find [C] myself, one note at a time.

Fan Testimonial:

Hi, I’m Jake Stevenson, and Excitable Sock isn’t just my favorite band, they’re my lifeline. Their music is like a light in the dark, guiding me through the ups and downs of life. Their lyrics resonate with me on a level that’s almost too deep to explain. Their beat is my heartbeat, their melody, my soul’s song. Their passion for music is inspiring and contagious. This band means a lot to me, and I think that’s because they make music not just to entertain, but to connect and heal. They’re more than a band, they’re a musical haven.

Backstory:
Athletic Hypothesis was formed in the vibrant heart of New York City in 2012. The members, high school pals turned college roommates, found solace in their shared love for music as a means to escape the stresses of academia. Their name, Athletic Hypothesis, is a tribute to their unique beginning, embodying their energetic spirit and intellectual curiosity. The band comprises Scott “Red” Thompson on vocals and guitar, Benny “The Brain” Franklin on keyboards, Jenny “Jazz” Foster on bass, and Mike “Maverick” McAllister on drums.

They started performing at local college events and small gigs around the city before getting their big break in 2015. A talent scout spotted them at a local open mic night, and not long after, they were signed to a major record label. They’ve since released three albums, each one a testament to their growth and evolution as musicians.

Genre:
Athletic Hypothesis falls under the alternative rock genre, but their music incorporates elements of pop, punk, and even a touch of blues. Their sound is characterized by catchy melodies, complex keyboard harmonies, and thought-provoking lyrics, making them a favorite among fans of all ages.

Title:
“Paradox in Motion”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G] Around the corner and [D] down the line,
[Em] Our destinies are [C] intertwined.
[G] A footrace against [D] time, can we ever [Em] win?
[C] I guess that’s the paradox [G] we’re in.

(Chorus)
[G] We are the Paradox in [D] Motion,
[Em] Lost in the waves of the [C] ocean.
[G] Time is a cruel [D] notion,
[Em] But in our hearts, we’ll keep [C] the devotion.

(Verse 2)
[G] Sprinting through the chapters [D] of our lives,
[Em] Crossing finish lines, taking [C] dives.
[G] The goalpost keeps [D] shifting, as we [Em] begin,
[C] Embracing the paradox [G] we’re in.

(Chorus)
[G] We are the Paradox in [D] Motion,
[Em] Navigating life’s complex [C] ocean.
[G] Reality’s a tough [D] potion,
[Em] But we’ll drink it with [C] love and devotion.

The band’s favorite fan’s name:
Testimonial:
“My name is Lily Matthews. Athletic Hypothesis isn’t just my favorite band because of their infectious tunes and captivating stage presence. It’s also because of the deep connection I feel with their lyrics. As a science student, the band’s name initially caught my attention, but their lyrics, intelligent and thought-provoking, truly resonated with me. Their song ‘Paradox in Motion’ perfectly encapsulates my journey—constantly moving, full of highs, lows, and everything in between. I feel seen, understood, and accepted when I listen to Athletic Hypothesis. Each song is like a friend lending me a comforting hand on a tough day. That’s why they are my number one band.”

Backstory:

Arctic Quince came together around six years ago, in the heart of the desolate, frost-laden landscapes of Alaska. Band members Caleb, Sarah, Josh, and Ben all grew up together in a small Alaskan town. Their shared love for music, combined with the shared experience of the frigid, striking landscapes of their hometown, led them to form their unique band, Arctic Quince. They have always mentioned how their music is heavily influenced by their roots, drawing inspiration from the breathtaking and isolative beauty of the Alaskan wilderness.

Genre:

The band defines themselves under the genre of Indie Folk-Rock, their music blending earthy folk undertones with vibrant rock energy. They reflect their love for their hometown by infusing elements of nature and chilly Arctic vibes into their tunes.

Title:

One of their most popular songs is titled “Frostbite Lullaby.”

Full Song Lyrics (with chord progression):

(Verse 1)
Em C G D
Underneath the polar skies, where the northern lights lie,
Em C G D
In a town forgotten by time, we learned to harmonize.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
Singing our frostbite lullaby, under the pale moonlight,
Em C G D
In our hearts, we carry the tune, through the long cold winter nights.

(Verse 2)
Em C G D
Through the ice we found a rhythm, in the snow a melody,
Em C G D
In the quiet, we found our voices, in the cold we found a symphony.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
Singing our frostbite lullaby, under the starry blanket of the night,
Em C G D
With each note, a memory frozen, in the Arctic’s eerie light.

Fan Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Emily. Emily has been a dedicated follower of Arctic Quince since their very first concert at a local Alaskan pub. She has attended nearly every show since then, traversing with the band across different cities, states, and even countries. Emily says, “Arctic Quince isn’t just a band to me, it’s an embodiment of my home state, Alaska. Their music is a perfect symphony that captures the spirit of the Arctic, making me feel closer to home, no matter how far I am. Every song is like a journey back to the frosty landscapes and the northern lights. Their music is comforting, like a familiar lullaby that resonates with my soul. Arctic Quince is not just my favorite band, they are my musical haven.”

Backstory:

Grumpy Diary was formed in the back of an old coffee shop in Memphis, Tennessee in 2014. The four members – Amy Sullivan (vocals), Billy Thompson (bass), Charlie Morgan (guitar), and David Evans (drums) – had all had their fair share of heartbreak and disappointment in their lives. This common ground made them bond instantly and they decided to pour their shared experiences into their music, creating a sound that reflects their raw emotions and candid narratives. Their name, Grumpy Diary, was derived from the idea that a diary is the place where one can be honest about their feelings, no matter how grumpy they may be.

In just a few years since its formation, Grumpy Diary has managed to build a steady fan base, attracted by their raw, emotional storytelling and relatable lyrics. Their songs are a blend of melancholy and hope, weaving together their personal experiences and observations of the world around them. Despite their struggles, they maintain a positive outlook and believe that their music can speak to others in a similar situation.

Genre:
Indie Rock / Alternative

Title:
“Scars on Paper”

Lyrics:

Verse 1:
(Am) Trapped in thoughts, (Em) ink on a page,
(G) Words that rhyme, (D) love and rage,
(Am) Tear stained notes, (Em) unspent sighs,
(G) Sad goodbyes, (D) under disguised lies.

Chorus:
(C) Scars on paper, (G) bleeding ink,
(Am) Deep down emotions, (Em) we seldom think.
(C) Scars on paper, (G) hearts in a bind,
(Am) Artistry of (Em) the troubled mind.

Verse 2:
(Am) Life’s a dance, (Em) rhythm’s offbeat,
(G) Love’s a gamble, (D) bitter, sweet.
(Am) Words unsaid, (Em) memories fade,
(G) Love’s parade, (D) in shadows laid.

Chorus:
(C) Scars on paper, (G) wounds unseen,
(Am) Poured out in verses, (Em) in between.
(C) Scars on paper, (G) tales untold,
(Am) Hearts that (Em) never fold.

Favorite Fan:

Name: Sarah Miller.
Testimonial: “Grumpy Diary has a way of perfectly expressing what I’m feeling on the inside. Their music is like therapy to me. I’ve been through some hard times, and their songs have been a comfort. Listening to them feels like talking to a friend who understands. They’re not just a band to me, they’re a lifeline. I’ve seen them live three times and each time was an unforgettable experience. Their passion and authenticity shine through in their performances. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for Grumpy Diary!”