Backstory:
Total Wave came into existence in the vibrant coastal city of Santa Cruz, California. The band consists of four childhood friends – Brian Steele (vocals and guitar), Todd Lincoln (bass guitar and backing vocals), Dave Reynolds (keyboard and saxophone), and Tim Ferris (drums). They each grew up surfing, hence the connection to the sea and waves, which often finds its way into their music. After graduation, the quartet decided to embrace their passion for music and their shared love for the ocean and formed Total Wave in 2014, their sound echoing the surf culture they had been immersed in.

Genre:
The band plays a unique blend of Indie Pop and Surf Rock, giving their music a sun-soaked, feel-good vibe.

Title:
“Crashing Through”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Em] Underneath the [C] California sun,
[G] Riding on a wave, the [D] day has just begun.
[Em] The surfboard under [C] my bare feet,
[G] This endless ocean is [D] where I feel complete.

(Chorus)
[Em] We’re crashing [C] through, just like a [G] total wave,
[D] No destination, [Em] it’s the journey we [C] crave.
[Em] The rhythm of the [C] water, the [G] taste of the salt,
[D] It’s in this pure freedom, [Em] we find no [C] fault.

(Verse 2)
[Em] Life’s a beach, and [C] we’re just playing in the sand,
[G] With guitars in our hands, [D] it’s like a dreamland.
[Em] The music flows, [C] the tide ebbs and rises,
[G] In every song, a [D] new horizon materializes.

(Chorus)
[Em] We’re crashing [C] through, just like a [G] total wave,
[D] Lost in translation, [Em] it’s the melody we [C] save.
[Em] With the sun on our [C] faces, and [G] salt in our hair,
[D] It’s in this wild abandon, [Em] we find solace [C] there.

The Band’s favorite fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a girl named Lily, who’s been attending their concerts since day one. Lily claims, “Total Wave is my refuge. Their music is synonymous with freedom—the same feeling I get when I’m out riding my own wave. The lyrics resonate with me, and it’s like I’m part of the journey they sing about. The connection I feel with their music is indescribable. They’ve created a sonic universe where I can just be myself, and for that, they will always be my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Formed in the back of a Midwestern coffee shop in 2014, Awkward Conclusion brought together four music-obsessed friends who were proud of their eclectic tastes and undeniable individuality. Lead singer, Jake Landon, drummer, Sam “Fingers” Harris, bassist, Ben “Eagle” Eagleton, and guitarist, Tommy Crowe were college dropouts with a penchant for creating music that reflected their shared experiences, trials, and triumphs. Drawn together by their common love for all things musical and their shared disillusionment with the conventional world, they embarked on a journey to create a unique sound that could resonate across generations.

Genre:
Alternative Rock with a hint of Indie Pop.

Song Title:
“Echoes of Youth”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
Em G D A
We walked on the edge, chased dreams in the night,
Em G D A
In the echoes of youth, we found our fight.
Em G D A
Underneath the skyline, we screamed our might,
Em G D A
In the echoes of youth, we found our light.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
In the echoes, in the shadows,
C G D Em
We found love, amidst the gallows.
C G D Em
In the ashes, in the dust,
C G D Em
In the echoes of youth, we found trust.

(Verse)
Em G D A
In the ruins of heartbreak, we learned to mend,
Em G D A
In the echoes of youth, we found a friend.
Em G D A
With our hearts on fire, we refused to bend,
Em G D A
In the echoes of youth, we found a trend.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
In the echoes, in the shadows,
C G D Em
We found hope, amidst the gallows.
C G D Em
In the ashes, in the dust,
C G D Em
In the echoes of youth, we found lust.

Favorite Fan:
Their favorite fan is a girl named Lucy, a high school teacher from Minnesota. Lucy discovered Awkward Conclusion when she was going through a tough period in her life. She found solace in their lyrical depth and unique sound, which echoed her own feelings and experiences. Lucy’s Testimonial – “Awkward Conclusion is more than just a band to me. Their music has a raw honesty that speaks to my soul. They’ve touched on topics that many artists shy away from, which makes their music feel authentic and relatable. They’ve become the soundtrack of my life, accompanying me through my highs and lows.”

Backstory:
The members of Valid Hotel met on a rainy evening in a sleepy England town’s quaint pub, where they quickly bonded over shared heartbreaks and a mutual love for music. The band consists of lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Liam Harper, lead guitarist Sam O’Reilly, bassist Oliver Stratton, and drummer Alex Grant. Their band’s name came to life after an evening of heartfelt confessionals about their wanderlust and the desire to find a place where they fit, a “Valid Hotel”.

Their journey as a band is one of friendship, adventure, and a shared passion for music. Each member brings a different musical influence to the table, from punk rock to folk, creating a unique and captivating sound. They’ve toured extensively across the UK, connecting with fans through their raw, authentic lyrics and electric performances.

Genre:
Alternative Rock / Indie Folk Fusion

Title:
“Midnight Blue”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Am] Looking out to the [G] city in lights,
[C] Wondering where you [Em] might be tonight,
[Am] Lost in the crowd, or [G] dancing alone,
[C] In our city of [Em] midnight blue.

(Chorus)
[Am] Midnight blue, [G]
[C] That’s where I found [Em] you,
[Am] Under the stars and [G] city lights,
[C] Lost in the rhythm of [Em] the night.

(Verse 2)
[Am] Walking these streets, [G] painted in dreams,
[C] Hoping to find you [Em] in between,
[Am] The laughter and tears, [G] the truth and the lies,
[C] In our city of [Em] midnight blue.

(Chorus)
[Am] Midnight blue, [G]
[C] That’s where I lost [Em] you,
[Am] Under the stars and [G] city lights,
[C] Lost in the echoes of [Em] the night.

(Bridge)
[Am] Oh, midnight blue, [G]
[C] You’re etched in every [Em] hue,
[Am] In every memory, [G] in every tune,
[C] You’re my city of [Em] midnight blue.

(Chorus)
[Am] Midnight blue, [G]
[C] That’s where I’ll find [Em] you,
[Am] Under the stars and [G] city lights,
[C] Lost in the rhythm of [Em] the night.

Fan Testimonial:
“Valid Hotel’s music has always resonated with me, particularly during my toughest times. My name is Sarah and I have been a fan since their very first gig. Their lyrics are profound, speaking directly to the heart and the soul. The fusion of alternative rock and indie folk in their music is something that I haven’t found in any other band. They’ve created a sonic universe that’s raw, real, and incredibly comforting. ‘Midnight Blue’, in particular, has helped me through many sleepless nights. I’m eternally grateful to them for their music.”

Backstory:
“Shady Fruit” is a band that came together in the bustling city of Austin, Texas in 2009. It began when lead vocalist and bassist, Jack Steele, met drummer, Emma Roberts, at a local open-mic night. Sparks flew as they discovered their mutual love for music that incorporates mood, storytelling, and a hint of darkness. Soon after, they were joined by genius guitarist, Tim O’Brian, completing the charismatic trio. They started out playing in small bars and clubs, honing their unique sound and gaining a local following. Their breakthrough came when a major record label scout saw them perform at the South by Southwest Festival; they’ve been captivating audiences worldwide ever since.

Genre:
Alternative Rock with elements of Dark Pop and Blues.

Title:
“Underneath the Hanging Tree”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[Em] Underneath the hanging tree, [G] where the moonlight paints a scene,
[D] Shadows dance and secrets [A] whisper in my ear.
[Em] Lost in thoughts of what could be, [G] in the realm of mystery,
[D] I find solace in the echoes [A] far and near.

(Chorus)
[C] Underneath the hanging tree, [G] I conquer my fears,
[Am] In the heart of darkness, [D] where no one hears.
[C] Against the raging storm, [G] I stand alone,
[Am] with the eerie silence, [D] that chills to the bone.

(Verse 2)
[Em] Tales of love lost, [G] and battles won,
[D] Echo through the night [A] under the setting sun.
[Em] The hollow sound of laughter, [G] and cries of pain,
[D] Merge into a symphony [A] in the pouring rain.

(Chorus)
[C] Underneath the hanging tree, [G] I taste the bitter sweet,
[Am] The echoes of the past, [D] pulsating with each beat.
[C] A symphony of shadows, [G] a medley of light,
[Am] Underneath the hanging tree, [D] I conquer the night.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Sarah Mitchell. Sarah was there from the beginning, attending their first-ever gig in a dingy little bar in Austin and has followed their journey ever since. Sarah claims, “Shady Fruit is my favorite band because they create an immersive atmosphere with their music. It feels as if a story is being told, and I am a part of it. Their lyrics are poetic, and the melodies are hauntingly beautiful. Their performances are always dynamic and engaging. It’s more than just music; it’s an experience. I’ve been lucky to see them grow. Their passion, dedication, and love for music are truly inspiring. They deserve all the success they’ve achieved, and I can’t wait to see where their journey takes them next.”

Backstory:
Infinite Colour is a band born out of the vibrant city of Austin, Texas during the mid-2000s. Its founding members, frontman Danny Conrad and lead guitarist Michelle Nguyen, first met at a local record store where they bonded over their shared love of a diverse range of music, from blues to heavy metal. After a few impromptu jam sessions, they decided to start a band that would incorporate all their different musical influences into a unique, colourful sound. They recruited drummer Jamal Edwards and bassist Suzy Park to complete the lineup and Infinite Colour was born. Over the years, they’ve gained a loyal fan base and are known for their high-energy performances and kaleidoscopic sound.

Genre:
Infinite Colour is a blend of Alternative Rock and Psychedelic Pop, creating a unique fusion that’s both edgy and infectious.

Title:
“Rivers of Chroma”

Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Am Dm G C
Sailing through the cosmic sea,
Am Dm G C
We’re just echoes of melody.
Am Dm G C
Shining bright, we’re a tapestry,
Am Dm G C
Of love and light, in a chroma sea.

(Chorus)
Em D G C
Rivers of Chroma, flow through our veins,
Em D G C
Painting the world with our joys and pains,
Em D G C
Infinite Colour, we’re not the same,
Em D G C
But in our hearts, we’re a single flame.

(Verse 2)
Am Dm G C
Beneath the stars, we’re all one,
Am Dm G C
Underneath the sapphire sun.
Am Dm G C
From the dawn till the day is done,
Am Dm G C
We’re painting life with a vibrant song.

(Chrous)
Em D G C
Rivers of Chroma, flow through our veins,
Em D G C
Painting the world with our joys and pains,
Em D G C
Infinite Colour, we’re not the same,
Em D G C
But in our hearts, we’re a single flame.

Fan’s Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan is Maddie Thompson. Living in a small town, Maddie always felt disconnected from the wider world until she discovered Infinite Colour. Their music resonated with her, and the band members’ authenticity and passion inspired her. She says, “Infinite Colour is not just a band to me, they’re my lifeline. Their music is a beautiful fusion of so many elements, just like life. The lyrics of ‘Rivers of Chroma’ teach me that we’re all connected somehow, despite our differences. They make me feel seen and understood. I’ve seen them live four times and each time, they leave me wanting more. I can’t wait to see what they do next!”

Backstory:
Rash Palm was formed during the rise of the underground music scene in the grungy basement of a New York City loft. Childhood friends, Max “Ax” Masters, the lead guitarist, and Sam “Thump” Thornton, the drummer, began strumming out tunes as teenagers in their parent’s garage. Years later, they crossed paths with charismatic vocalist, Jess “Riff” Riley, and laid-back bassist, Tom “Blink” Blevins, in the heart of the city’s music scene. The four instantly clicked, forming a unique bond and shared vision that led to the creation of Rash Palm.

Their unwavering commitment to their craft in the face of adversity, combined with their gritty, emotive performances, earned Rash Palm a loyal local following. Their music, fueled by the struggles of urban life, has resonated with fans across the globe. Their unfiltered lyrics and raw rhythms encapsulate their journey, casting a spotlight on the highs and lows of their life experiences.

Genre:
Rock/Alternative

Song Title:
“Concrete Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Down the alleyways, [C] under the city lights,
[D] Trapped in the noise, [Em] fighting for what’s right.
[G] We’ve seen the highs, [C] we’ve known the lows,
[D] Walking on concrete shadows, [Em] that’s all we know.

(Chorus)
[G] Concrete shadows, [C] beneath our feet,
[D] In the city that never sleeps, [Em] we found our beat.
[G] Concrete shadows, [C] in our hearts,
[D] That’s where our journey starts, [Em] that’s where we are.

(Verse 2)
[G] Street corner dreams, [C] under neon skies,
[D] Life’s not what it seems, [Em] when you’re living lies.
[G] We’ve played the game, [C] we’ve paid the tolls,
[D] Dancing on concrete shadows, [Em] that’s how it goes.

(Chorus)
[G] Concrete shadows, [C] beneath our feet,
[D] In the city that never sleeps, [Em] we found our beat.
[G] Concrete shadows, [C] in our hearts,
[D] That’s where our journey starts, [Em] that’s where we are.

The band’s favorite fan’s name:
Joey “Front Row” Franklin

Joey “Front Row” Franklin’s Testimonial:
Rash Palm isn’t just a band to me, they’re a movement. Their music speaks to me like no other. It’s raw, it’s real, it’s the soundtrack to my life. Their songs like “Concrete Shadows” is the echo of my struggle, my triumphs, my life in this city. It’s like they’ve taken my thoughts, my emotions, and put them into lyrics, and that’s a truly remarkable thing. Every concert, I’m front and center, living each moment with them. Rash Palm is more than my favorite band, they’re my lifeline in this concrete jungle.

Backstory:

The story of ‘Dimpled Struggle’ began in 2009, when four high school friends in Manchester, England, united by their mutual love for music, decided to form a band. Adrian Brooks, Patrick Meredith, Jeremy Russo, and Oliver Graeme were all passionate about playing music and had different talents that complimented each other perfectly. Adrian was an expert on the drums, Patrick had a knack for playing the bass, Jeremy had a soulful voice, and Oliver could strum the guitar like no other. Their journey was not always smooth, as their name implies, there were struggles, dimpled with moments of joy, triumph, and self-growth.

The band members went through a period of self-discovery and experimentation, trying their hands at various music genres. However, they always found themselves coming back to their first love, alternative rock, which they felt allowed them to express their creativity and emotions best. The band gained popularity after a series of successful local gigs and soon started touring around the UK.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Canvas and Colors”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
G C G
Lost in the canvas of time,
Em D G
Colors that we once defined.
G C G
Struggles that shaped our rhyme,
Em D G
Scars that we wear, signs of our time.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Canvas and colors, our stars align,
C G D G
Sailing through struggles, as rivers divine.

(Verse 2)
G C G
Dimpled smiles hide the pain,
Em D G
Yet we dance in the pouring rain.
G C G
With every fall, we rise again,
Em D G
For every loss, there’s something to gain.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Canvas and colors, our stars align,
C G D G
Sailing through struggles, as rivers divine.

(Bridge)
Em C G D
In this journey, we found our melody,
Em C D
In the noise, we found our harmony.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Canvas and colors, our stars align,
C G D G
Sailing through struggles, as rivers divine.

Fan Testimonial:

Fan’s Name:

Lily Thompson

Testimonial:

“Dimpled Struggle is just phenomenal, their music is raw and stirs your soul. They craft their lyrics with such finesse. The band’s song ‘Canvas and Colors’ is my anthem. It talks about struggles, hope, and resilience, and it’s been a beacon for me in tough times. As a visual artist, the metaphor of life as a canvas really resonates with me. The band’s music has not just touched my heart, but also inspired my art. They have become a part of my life and I can’t imagine a world without their music.”

Backstory:
Forthright Minimum came into existence within the humble walls of a small garage in Cleveland, Ohio in 2012. The band comprises four members – John ‘Fingers’ McGee on guitar, Paul ‘Bassman’ Dewitt on bass, Sammy ‘Sticks’ Cohen on drums, and frontman, Frank ‘Voice’ Russo with vocals. They were just four friends from high school who shared a common love for music, went separate ways for college, and then came back to form a band. The name of the band suggests their philosophy of life – to be forthright, straightforward, and always keep things simple and minimal.

Genre:
Forthright Minimum identifies themselves as an Indie Rock band with a dash of Folk influence.

Title:
“Straight Lines on a Curved Road”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse]
Em D
Wake up, it’s morning light,
G C
Time to leave behind the night,
Em D G
Straight lines on a curved road,
C Em D
Leading us to the unknown.

[Chorus]
G D
Follow the sun, chase the dawn,
Em C
With a guitar and a song,
G D Em
We’re Forthright Minimum,
C G D
Whistling life’s anthem.

[Verse 2]
Em D
Dreams packed in a suitcase,
G C
Adventure wears a familiar face,
Em D G
Straight lines on a curved road,
C Em D
Creating stories to be told.

[Chorus]
G D
Raise the sail, ride the wind,
Em C
To a song that’s yet to begin,
G D Em
We’re Forthright Minimum,
C G D
Living life on our own rhythm.

[Bridge]
Em D
Straight lines, curved roads,
G C
Life’s riddles in codes.
Em D
Straight lines, curved roads,
G C
A journey in episodes.

[Chorus]
G D
Find the truth in a simple song,
Em C
Where hearts like ours belong,
G D Em
We’re Forthright Minimum,
C G D
Whistling life’s anthem.

Favorite Fan’s Testimonial:
“Hi, I’m Sarah from Chicago. I’ve been a huge fan of Forthright Minimum since they first started playing at local gigs around Ohio. Their music just resonates with me on a personal level. The way they blend indie rock with elements of folk, it’s simply mesmerizing. Their lyrics are deep, meaningful, and relatable. ‘Straight Lines on a Curved Road’ is my favourite – it’s poetic, yet so raw and real. Forthright Minimum isn’t just a band for me, it’s an emotion, a journey, a philosophy. They represent the simplicity and honesty I seek in my life.”

Backstory:

Metallic Zipper was formed in the heart of Seattle, Washington, in the early 2000’s. The members, front man Jerry “Ripper” Reynolds, lead guitarist Michael “Stitch” Saunders, bassist Daniel “Denim” Davis and drummer Frank “Button” Barnes, were all childhood friends who shared a mutual love of music and a particular fondness for their mothers’ sewing rooms. They decided to combine their adoration for rock and the sounds of a sewing room, as strange as it may seem, and that’s how Metallic Zipper was born. They started off playing local gigs, mostly in dive bars and small clubs, and eventually gained traction after their performance at a major music festival took the audience by storm.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Stitches and Echoes”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Down the alleyways of [G] memory,
[Am] Echoes of laughter, [F] whispers of a story.
[C] We stitched our dreams with [G] silver lines,
[Am] On the canvas of time, [F] under the neon signs.

(Chorus)
[Dm] Stitches and echoes, [F] tales untold,
[G] Zipping up the secrets, [C] in the heart’s stronghold.
[Dm] Metallic whispers, [F] in the night,
[G] We are the keepers, [C] of the fading light.

(Verse 2)
[C] Through the threads of [G] yesterday,
[Am] We weave our music, [F] in a unique way.
[C] Our guitars scream, [G] and drums roar,
[Am] In every thread, [F] we pour our core.

(Chorus)
[Dm] Stitches and echoes, [F] tales untold,
[G] Zipping up the secrets, [C] in the heart’s stronghold.
[Dm] Metallic whispers, [F] in the night,
[G] We are the keepers, [C] of the fading light.

The Band’s Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan is a guy named Tommy “Threads” Thompson. He’s been with us since the beginning, attending every gig from dingy bars to sold-out arenas. He even has our band logo, an interlocking zipper, tattooed on his arm. Tommy says, “Metallic Zipper is more than just a band to me. They’re like a favorite jacket, comforting and familiar. Their music speaks to me on a personal level; it’s like every song is a stitch that mends my soul. They’ve been there for me through the highs and lows, their music a constant companion. That’s why they’ll always be my favorite band.”

Backstory:

Deep Protein is a band born in the heart of the vibrant music scene of Seattle. The group was formed in 2007, when lead vocalist and keyboardist Harrison “Harry” Wells met guitarist Adam Finch and drummer Ellie Reynolds while attending a local music festival. Their shared passion for experimental, progressive sounds and lyrics that delve into the complexities of life, society, and the human condition brought them together. The band’s name, ‘Deep Protein,’ is a nod to their shared interest in the intricate workings of life at a molecular level, which also drives their creative process.

Genre:
Progressive Alternative Rock

Title:
“Cellular Symphony”

Lyrics:

Verse 1: (C-G-Am-F)
Beneath our skin, there’s a world unseen, (C-G)
Microscopic, yet it’s vibrant and keen. (Am-F)
A dance of molecules so profound, (C-G)
In our cells, where life is found. (Am-F)

Chorus: (G-Am-F-C)
Cellular symphony, play your song, (G-Am)
In our veins where you belong. (F-C)
You’re the rhythm, you’re the beat, (G-Am)
The deep protein that we greet. (F-C)

Verse 2: (C-G-Am-F)
In the depths, where shadows lie, (C-G)
There’s a force that will never die. (Am-F)
It’s a language, a code, a secret lore, (C-G)
The deep protein we explore. (Am-F)

Chorus: (G-Am-F-C)
Cellular symphony, sing your verse, (G-Am)
In our bodies, universe. (F-C)
You’re the melody, you’re the rhyme, (G-Am)
The deep protein that marks time. (F-C)

Bridge: (Em-D-C-B)
Listen close, you’ll hear the tune, (Em-D)
A harmonious, biochemical moon. (C-B)
In the cosmos of our skin, (Em-D)
The deep protein plays within. (C-B)

Chorus: (G-Am-F-C)
Cellular symphony, echo loud, (G-Am)
In our hearts, so proud. (F-C)
You’re the harmony, you’re the song, (G-Am)
The deep protein that makes us strong. (F-C)

Fan Testimonial:

Named as their favorite fan, Laura Thompson, a biochemistry student, found the scientifically inspired lyrics captivating. She said, “As an aspiring scientist, the way Deep Protein merges my love for biology and music is absolutely thrilling. They’ve put into beautiful words and melodies the complex structures I study every day. Their songs like ‘Cellular Symphony’ remind me of the beauty inherent in our world, even at the smallest levels.” She also credits the band’s music for inspiring her in her academic pursuits and in her own songwriting ventures.