Backstory:

Naive Discussion was born out of a late-night dorm room jam session at the New York University. Frontman and lyricist Keegan Shaw, a Literature student, found himself drawn to the moody guitar riffs of his roommate, Music major Ethan Rossi. They quickly discovered their synergy and added the versatile rhythm section of Journalism major, Sara Ross on drums and Art student, Leo Patterson on bass. Dubbed “Naive Discussion” as a tongue-in-cheek reference to their initial, carefree approach to music and life, they quickly found their niche in the bustling New York music scene, their thought-provoking lyrics and catchy tunes resonating with listeners.

Their chemistry sparked an unexpected evolution in their sonic identity, fusing their diverse interests and backgrounds together. The band’s sound has matured over the years, their music gaining depth and nuance. Yet, they’ve maintained their humble beginnings, holding tight to their roots and the friendships that forged their path.

Genre:

Indie Rock/Alternative Folk

Title:

“Coffee and Conversations”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Am7 D7
Coffee stains on my notebook,
Gmaj7 Em7
Memories of last night’s look,
Cmaj7 D7
Your words, they shook,
Am7 D7
This naive conversation took.

[Chorus]
Gmaj7 D7
We’re just coffee and conversations,
Am7 Cmaj7
Lost in our own constellations,
D7 Gmaj7
Between reality and imagination,
Em7 D7
Living in naive discussions.

[Verse 2]
Am7 D7
Streetlights on an empty avenue,
Gmaj7 Em7
Your laughter cutting through,
Cmaj7 D7
The night whispers a silent “I miss you”,
Am7 D7
Wrapped in words only we knew.

[Chorus]
Gmaj7 D7
We’re just coffee and conversations,
Am7 Cmaj7
Dancing in our shared jubilations,
D7 Gmaj7
Between love’s enchantment and reservation,
Em7 D7
Thriving in naive discussions.

Bands Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan is a guy named Jamie. Jamie was one of the first strangers to attend our gigs back when we used to play at a tiny bar in Brooklyn. He has been with us every step of the way – from our first EP release to our debut album launch.

Testimonial:

Jamie: “Naive Discussion has been my favorite band since their inception. Their music is like a breath of fresh air. It’s raw, relatable, and it hits home every time. The way they blend indie rock with folk elements is absolutely unique and captivating. Despite their growth, they’ve stayed true to their roots, and that’s what makes them special to me. They’re not just a band, they’re a story. A story about friendship, passion, and the beauty of naive discussions.”

Backstory:
The Happy Entry story begins in a small town in Ohio, a town of hard-working people and simple joys. Evan, the lead singer, worked as a mechanic, but each night after his long day, he’d retreat to his small basement studio and pour his soul into music. He then shared his songs with his childhood friend, Mitchell, a school teacher with a deep love for music. Together they brought in two other friends, Alex, a promising drummer who worked at a local grocery store, and Sarah, a gifted pianist and songwriter who moonlighted as a waitress. They all shared a common dream of making it big in the music industry. Their shared struggles and dreams resonated in their music, creating a unique sound that was soon to be known as Happy Entry.

Genre:
Folk Rock

Title:
“Dancing Shadows”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1 – Em, G, D, A)
Em G
Underneath the pale moonlight, where the shadows dance so bright,
D A
I found a love, that’s as pure as the summer rain.
Em G
We laugh, we cry, we fight, under the stars every night,
D A
In this crazy world, where love is the sweetest pain.

(Chorus – C, G, D, Em)
C G
Let’s dance in the shadows, where the world can’t see,
D Em
And I’ll sing you a song, where we’re wild and free.
C G
We’ll chase the dreams, where the wild winds blow,
D Em
In the dancing shadows, where our love will grow.

(Verse 2 – Em, G, D, A)
Em G
Between the light and the dark, I found your beating heart,
D A
In the silence of the night, I heard your whispered name.
Em G
We’ll walk this road together, through storm and sunny weather,
D A
In the dancing shadows, where love plays its game.

(Repeat Chorus)

(Testimonial)
Fan’s Name: Lily Collins

Lily has been a fan of Happy Entry ever since she first heard their music at a local festival. She loves how their songs tell stories that are genuine and relatable. She said, “Their music is like therapy for me. It’s like they understand the struggles of everyday life, yet they show you there’s always a reason to smile. Their song ‘Dancing Shadows’ is my favorite. It talks about love and dreams, but also about the courage to chase them. It gives me hope. That’s why Happy Entry is my favorite band.”

Backstory:

Obvious Jet is an enigmatic indie band that originated from a small town in Maryland back in 2012. The group was formed by high school friends, Sam Harper (vocals), Ellie Peterson (guitar), Ryan Anderson (drums), and Jamie Richardson (bass). Their common love for music brought them together in a garage, where they would spend hours practicing and creating their distinctive sound. After winning their local ‘Battle of the Bands’ competition, they decided to take their music more seriously, which led to the creation of Obvious Jet.

Their first big break came after a video of a performance at a local music festival went viral. The video showcased their raw talent and unique sound, putting them on the radar of a local record label who signed them. Despite their sudden rise to fame, Obvious Jet remained true to their grassroots style, producing music that resonates with their fan base and continually pushes the boundaries of the indie genre.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Title:

“Fluorescent Dreams”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Fluorescent lights, [Em] casting long shadows,
[C] Dancing through the night, [D] chasing tomorrow.
[G] We were just kids, [Em] armed with our dreams,
[C] Lost in the music, [D] in between the seams.

(Chorus)
[G] Fluorescent dreams, [Em] never as they seem,
[C] Fade away too swiftly, [D] like a distant beam.
[G] Hold on to the rhythm, [Em] and the melody,
[C] For they are the essence, [D] of our memory.

(Verse 2)
[G] Passionate hearts, [Em] beating in tune,
[C] Etching our story, [D] under the moon.
[G] A symphony of laughter, [Em] tears, and sighs,
[C] Echoing under, [D] the starry skies.

(Chorus)
[G] Fluorescent dreams, [Em] lighting up the scene,
[C] Weaving tales of love, [D] and places we’ve been.
[G] Hold on to the rhythm, [Em] and the harmony,
[C] For they are the whispers, [D] of our symphony.

(Bridge)
[G] And when dawn breaks, [Em] washing away,
[C] The traces of our dreams, [D] in the light of day,
[G] The music remains, [Em] a poignant refrain,
[C] A testament to love, [D] amidst the pain.

(Chorus)
[G] Fluorescent dreams, [Em] burning bright and clear,
[C] Illuminating moments, [D] that we hold dear.
[G] Hold on to the rhythm, [Em] and the melody,
[C] For they are the echoes, [D] of our history.

Fan Testimonial:

Fan’s Name: Emily Dixon

“Obvious Jet is by far my favorite band. Their music is more than just a collection of chords and lyrics, it’s a form of expression that truly touches the heart. With each song, they manage to capture a part of the human experience, making you feel as though they’re telling your own story. ‘Fluorescent Dreams’ in particular, is a song that resonates with me deeply. It reminds me of my own journey and dreams. Obvious Jet embodies the spirit of indie rock, making music that is raw, authentic, and emotionally moving.”

Backstory:

Dutiful Fat was formed in the early 2000s in the bustling city of Austin, Texas, where all the members were studying at the local university. The members Jake Waters, Noah Kyle, Matt Harris, and Sam Baxter had a shared affinity for music and a shared desire to break from the traditional norms dictated by the music industry. It started as an underground project, the boys experimenting with sounds in their dorm rooms. The band’s unique name was chosen on a whim, in a late-night jamming session when they were all exhausted and full of fast food; it stuck, just like their friendship and their commitment to create meaningful music.

Genre:

Dutiful Fat is known for their blend of Alternative Rock and Folk, adding a unique twist of their own to the mix. The raw and powerful vocals backed by compelling guitar riffs and drums have become their signature. Yet, they also infuse a surprising amount of melodic, acoustic folk-inspired elements into their compositions.

Title:

One of their most iconic songs is ‘Whispers of the Wind’.

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em G D A
(Em) I walk along the (G) worn-out road,
(D) With a heart so heavy and a mind in (A) overload,
(Em) I hear the whispers of the (G) wind,
(D) Telling me stories of where I’ve (A) been.

(Chorus)
C G Am F
(C) The whispers of the (G) wind,
(Am) Are like secrets shared with a (F) friend,
(C) A soothing balm on my (G) soul so raw,
(Am) Reminding me there’s so much more to (F) explore.

(Verse 2)
Em G D A
(Em) I look at the sky, (G) grey and vast,
(D) My dreams are anchored to the (A) mast,
(Em) I hear the whispers of the (G) wind,
(D) Encouraging me to take a (A) spin.

(Chorus x 2)

End with:
Em G D A
(Em) So here I stand, ready to (G) begin,
(D) Guided by the whispers of the (A) wind.

Fan testimonial:

“My name is Sarah Pennington, and Dutiful Fat is my favorite band, hands down. I’m drawn to their unique sound, a refreshing mix of Alternative Rock and Folk. I love how their lyrics are so profound and relatable. Their song ‘Whispers of the Wind’ is like a comforting friend, reminding me that there’s always more to explore in life. Its melody is soothing and the lyrics are empowering. It’s the perfect blend of music to get me through my day. Dutiful Fat is more than a band to me, they’re like a lifeline.”

Backstory:
Lumpy Reputation hails from the quirky streets of Austin, Texas. The band came together in the fall of 2012 when childhood friends, drummer Jerry “The Lump” Larson and singer/guitarist Delilah “Reputation” Redding realized they were creating a unique sound in their garage jam sessions. As individuals, they had their distinct eccentricities but when combined, they birthed the eccentric, lovable sound that people now recognize as Lumpy Reputation. The band added bassist, Hank “The Reverberation” Rodriguez and keyboardist, Iris “The Revolution” O’Connell, and the quartet began their journey towards changing the Austin music scene forever.

Genre:
Alternative Country

Title:
“Underneath the Mesquite Tree”

Lyrics (with chord progression):

(Verse 1: G, C, D)
G C D
Underneath the mesquite tree, where our hearts used to be,
G C D
We carved our initials, a symbol of our decree.
G C D
Two young hearts pledged in a childish spree,
G C D
Underneath the mesquite tree, our love was free.

(Chorus: C, G, D)
C G D
And we danced, and we sang, and we laughed until we cried,
C G D
Underneath the mesquite tree, where our dreams were fortified.
C G D
Under the moonlight, you and me, in our heart’s wide open sea,
C G D
Underneath the mesquite tree, that’s where we promised to be.

(Verse 2: G, C, D)
G C D
Years have gone by, and we’ve weathered the storm,
G C D
Underneath the mesquite tree, our love has been reborn.
G C D
Though the world around us has been torn,
G C D
Underneath the mesquite tree, a new love is formed.

(Chorus: C, G, D)
C G D
And we dance, and we sing, and we laugh until we cry,
C G D
Underneath the mesquite tree, our love will never die.
C G D
With the sunset, you and me, in the glow of eternity,
C G D
Underneath the mesquite tree, our love will always be.

Fan Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan is a young woman named Janie. Janie enjoys Lumpy Reputation because their music brings her peace. Her testimonial reads, “Lumpy Reputation has a way of turning the ordinary into something magical. Their songs are not just music. They’re stories, they’re experiences. The way they use their lyrics to paint vivid pictures… it’s breathtaking. Lumpy Reputation is more than my favorite band. Their music is a companion to me in both sunny and stormy days.”

Backstory:
Odd University is a four-member band that was formed in 2012. The band members met while studying at an art school in New York City. They bonded over their shared love of music & the arts, and mutual oddity which led to the creation of the band. Band members include lead vocalist and guitarist, Max; drummer, Samuel; bass guitarist, Olivia; and keyboardist, Ethan. The name ‘Odd University’ came from the combination of their unique personalities, diverse musical influences and the fact they all met at university. Their music, like their origin, is a fusion of various genres.

Genre:
Their music style is a blend of Indie Rock and Alternative Pop, with a touch of folk music. They are known for their thought-provoking lyrics and energetic performances.

Song Title:
“Lessons in Oddity”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G] Walking down the [D] corridors of life,
[Em] Meeting faces, oh so [C] rife.
[G] Trying to find our [D] place,
[Em] In this vast human [C] race.

(Chorus)
[G] We are from the Odd [D] University,
[Em] Learning lessons in [C] oddity.
[G] With our hearts like an open [D] sea,
[Em] We are free, as free [C] can be.

(Verse 2)
[G] We find comfort in the [D] strange,
[Em] We dance in the pouring [C] rain.
[G] In a world that’s rather [D] plain,
[Em] We are the wild, we are [C] the untamed.

(Chorus)
[G] We are from the Odd [D] University,
[Em] Learning lessons in [C] oddity.
[G] With our souls like a wild [D] spree,
[Em] We spread love, we spread [C] glee.

Favorite Fan:
Their favorite fan is a young woman named Lily. Lily has been following ‘Odd University’ since their early days. She has attended every concert, collected all their albums, and even has a separate Instagram account dedicated to the band. She loves their music because it makes her feel understood and accepted in her uniqueness. The band appreciates her dedication, loyalty and the positive energy she brings.

Testimonial:
“I’ve always felt different from others, and listening to ‘Odd University’ makes me feel like I’m not alone. Their music speaks to my soul and their lyrics are like a comforting friend telling me it’s okay to be odd. They are more than just a band to me, they are my guiding light.” – Lily

Backstory:
Jumbo Face started their musical journey in a small, dank basement in Brooklyn, New York. Four childhood friends – Sam “The Shredder” Riddle, Tom “Mad Dog” Madsen, Jimmy “Jazz Hands” Morrison, and Pete “The Beat” Thompson – found solace and a sense of meaning in their shared love for music. Despite their disparate backgrounds, they all sought refuge from their mundane 9 to 5 jobs by jamming together in the evenings. Tired of being just another cog in the wheel of society, they decided to take the plunge and formed ‘Jumbo Face’ in 2013. The surprisingly unique name was inspired by their shared love for circus aesthetics and an inside joke about Morrison’s unusually large face.

Genre:
Alternative Rock with a dash of Punk energy.

Title:
“Carousel of Chaos”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
(C D E G)
She’s spinning on a Carousel of Chaos,
As the world loses its colors and turns grey.
Trying to find her rhythm, in a symphony of mayhem,
With the city lights as her guiding array.

[Chorus]
(A D G E)
Oh, ride the carousel, turn and toss,
In this crazy world of chaos, don’t be lost.
Through the highs and the lows, pay the cost,
Life’s a spinning Carousel of Chaos.

[Verse 2]
(C D E G)
He’s walking down the avenue of dreams,
Underneath the moon’s silvery beams.
In the heart of the night, seeking the unseen,
Chasing shadows, and the whispers in the wind.

[Chorus]
(A D G E)
Oh, ride the carousel, turn and toss,
In this crazy world of chaos, don’t be lost.
Through the highs and the lows, pay the cost,
Life’s a spinning Carousel of Chaos.

[Bridge]
(F Dm E Am)
In this spinning world, where the lost are found,
And the dreamers dare to tread on the sacred ground.
Embrace the chaos, let your heart resound,
On the carousel, let your spirit rebound.

Fan’s Favorite Testimonial:

Name: Gina “G-Force” Ford

Gina has been following Jumbo Face since their inception. She was among the first ones to attend their gigs at local bars, even before they had a fanbase. Gina says, “Jumbo Face isn’t just a band, they are life’s soundtrack for me. Their music resonates with the daily hustle, the chaos, the dreams and the hope. ‘Carousel of Chaos’ isn’t just a song, it’s my anthem. It’s what I wake up to, and it’s what puts me to sleep. The raw energy of their music, their lyrical depth, and their punk rock spirit is like a beacon in the dark. They remind me that it’s okay to be a part of the chaos, as long as you don’t lose yourself in it. Jumbo Face is more than my favorite band, they are my tribe.”

Backstory:
Outlying Drawing began as the shared passion project of two high school friends, Max “Sketch” Harrington and Bailey “Shade” Sullivan in 2008 in their hometown of Asheville, North Carolina. Sketch, a gifted guitarist, and Shade, a talented drummer, spent their weekends honing their skills in a dilapidated old barn, gradually crafting a sound that was uniquely their own. After winning a local Battle of the Bands competition, they were discovered by an indie record label that helped them refine their raw talent into a polished act. The duo quickly earned a dedicated fan base with their catchy melodies, innovative lyrics and their electric live performances.

Genre:
Indie Rock with folk influences.

Title:
“Sketches of You”

Full song lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Em
Wandering streets, eyes on the pavement,
C
Drawing sketches of you in my mind,
G
Ink of my thoughts, paper my memory,
D
Each line a story unconfined.

[Chorus]
Em
Sketches of you, etched in my soul,
C
Picturesque moments in shades of charcoal,
G
Drenched in tears, or laughter’s hue,
D
Life’s a canvas, painted anew.

[Verse 2]
Em
Streetlamp shadows, echoes of laughter,
C
Memories of you dancing in the rain,
G
Each sketch of you, a captured moment,
D
A masterpiece of joy and pain.

[Chorus]
Em
Sketches of you, etched in my soul,
C
Picturesque moments in shades of charcoal,
G
Drowned in silence, or a lover’s rue,
D
In my heart, I’m sketching you.

[End]
Em
Through every line, each stroke of feeling,
C
Sketches of you are my healing,
G
In the gallery of my heart, you’re the view,
D
With every beat, I’m drawing you.

Favorite Fan:
Sarah Lyons, a graphic designer from Atlanta, Georgia. Sarah fell in love with Outlying Drawing after hearing them play at a local festival. She was drawn to their innovative sound, their heartfelt lyrics, and the way their music seemed to speak directly to her. She loved how their songs told stories that felt real and relatable. As a testament to her love for the band, she has attended over a dozen of their concerts and has created a series of illustrations inspired by their music. For Sarah, Outlying Drawing is not just a band, but a source of inspiration and a soundtrack to her life. “Their music is like a sketchbook,” she says, “each song is a drawing that captures a moment, a feeling, an experience. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s absolutely beautiful.”

Backstory:

Once upon a time in the vibrant city of Austin, Texas, four high school friends shared a common fascination for the depths and complexities of music. They were Caleb – a guitar enthusiast, Jeremy – the one who found peace in bass, Isaac – the drummer, and Emma – the folk singer. Their paths crossed in the school music room, where they spent hours after school nourishing their shared passion. Over time, their friendship sailed beyond the confines of school to the dream of a shared musical journey. The result was the birth of ‘Trivial Deputy,’ a band that proved music, friendship, and dreams make a potent recipe for success.

Over the years, Trivial Deputy held fast to their pursuit of music, honing their skills and continuing their journey even after the high school chapter closed. They played in local bars, festivals, and any stage they could find, making their music echo across the city. Their journey gave them invaluable lessons and experiences, shaping them into a band whose music is as diverse and layered as their own personal stories.

Genre:
Indie folk-rock

Title:
“Rusty Heartstrings”

Full song lyrics:

Verse 1:
G C
In the town where secrets lie,
Em D
Underneath the crimson sky,
G C
We found music by the riverside,
Em D
Our hearts filled with dreams high and wide.

Chorus:
G C
Oh, Rusty Heartstrings, play your tune,
Em D
Underneath the Texan moon,
G C
Sing of love, sing of pain,
Em D
Sing until we meet again.

Verse 2:
G C
We’ve walked roads, both smooth and rough,
Em D
Realized dreams are not enough,
G C
But the music, it kept us tough,
Em D
And the journey, it made us tough.

Chorus:
G C
Oh, Rusty Heartstrings, play your tune,
Em D
Underneath the Texan moon,
G C
Sing of joy, sing of strife,
Em D
This is the song of our life.

Fan Testimonial:

Name: Abby Richards

Why Trivial Deputy is her favorite:

“The first time I heard ‘Trivial Deputy’ at a local festival, I was immediately drawn to their unique sound. It was like a breath of fresh air in a world filled with commercial music. Their song ‘Rusty Heartstrings’ has been my favorite since the day I heard it. It beautifully blends the essence of folk-rock with heartfelt lyrics that speak to my soul. They are not just a band; they are storytellers, musicians, dreamers, who have the power to touch hearts through their music. I’m proud to be a fan of Trivial Deputy.”

Backstory:

Bubbly Good is the brainchild of childhood friends Alex Marley, Liam Peters, and Jessi Swanson, who started out playing music together in their parents’ garages. The trio, who hail from the small town of Ashford, Oregon, combined their love of pop classics, indie vibes, and surf-rock energy to create a unique sound that quickly caught the attention of local music lovers. Their infectious energy and bright, uplifting lyrics brought a sense of joy and positivity to their small town and soon spread to a much larger audience. After being discovered by a talent scout at one of their energetic live shows, they signed with Indie-Rock label ‘Sound Waves,’ helping them reach a national audience.

Genre:

Bubbly Good’s sound can be best described as Indie Pop-Rock with a touch of Surf music.

Title:

“Chasing Joy”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C]Sitting on the [G]edge of the world, [Am]chasing a dream of a girl
[F]Flying kites on [C]summertime skies, [G]living without any ties

(Chorus)
[C]Chasing Joy, oh what a [G]feeling,
[Am]Life’s a song, and we’re the ones [F]singing,
[C]Running wild, under the [G]moon,
[Am]With you, oh Joy, I’m [F]over the moon.

(Verse 2)
[C]Riding waves on a [G]sunny day, [Am]blue horizons leading the way
[F]Caught in the [C]ebb and flow, [G]where we’ll end up, we don’t know.

(Chorus)
[C]Chasing Joy, oh what a [G]feeling,
[Am]Life’s a journey, and you’re the one I’m [F]seeking,
[C]In the sunset or under the [G]moon,
[Am]With you, oh Joy, I’m [F]over the moon.

Favorite Fan:

Ella Green is Bubbly Good’s favorite fan. She first heard them play at a local fair in Ashford and was immediately hooked. She followed them to every gig and even organized street team efforts to help them get signed.

Testimonial:

“Bubbly Good is more than just a band to me; they’re a beacon of positivity, a source of unadulterated joy. Their music has gotten me through some of the toughest times in my life. The infectious energy of their songs, their unmistakable indie-pop sound, and their heartfelt lyrics always manage to lift my spirits. The fact that they’re just genuine, down-to-earth people who love what they do only makes me love them even more. They’ve taken the spirit of Ashford and spread it to the rest of the world.” – Ella Green.