Backstory:

Jealous Approval was never the first choice for the band’s name. In fact, they had gone through several iterations before settling on something that reflected their tumultuous journey in the music industry. Formed in 2005 in the busy city of Boston, Jealous Approval is comprised of four members: lead vocalist and guitarist, Andrew Ryan, bassist, Jason Clarke, drummer, Paul Mitchell, and keyboardist, Rebecca Gray. The group was initially a mix of college friends and strangers who connected through their shared love for music. They began their musical journey playing in small local pubs, often to a crowd of less than twenty. However, their raw talent and soulful music soon caught the attention of a talent scout, leading to their first record deal. Critics were initially dismissive, labeling them as “just another band,” but Jealous Approval proved them wrong, creating a sound that was uniquely their own.

Genre: Alternative Rock

Title: “Burning Bridges”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]

(Em) Walking on the (G) line, we’re (D) playing with fire,
(Em) Crossing the (G) stream, where (D) burning bridges lie,
(Em) Chasing the (G) dream, with (D) hearts on our sleeves,
(Em) We are the (G) children of the (D) wild, wild breeze.

[Chorus]

(C) We are the (G) burning bridges, (D) lighting up the skies,
(Em) We are the (G) echoes of the (D) past, the truth in your lies,
(C) We seek (G) jealous approval, (D) in this world so wide,
(Em) We are the (G) burning bridges, (D) with nothing to hide.

[Verse 2]

(Em) Riding the (G) storm, we’re (D) dancing in the rain,
(Em) Breaking the (G) norms, we (D) rise above the pain,
(Em) With our (G) spirits high, and (D) hopes on the line,
(Em) We are the (G) chasers of the (D) divine.

[Chorus]

(C) We are the (G) burning bridges, (D) lighting up the skies,
(Em) We are the (G) echoes of the (D) past, the truth in your lies,
(C) We seek (G) jealous approval, (D) in this world so wide,
(Em) We are the (G) burning bridges, (D) with nothing to hide.

Fan Name: Maddie Thomas

Testimonial:

Maddie Thomas, a 25-year-old graduate student from Boston, first discovered Jealous Approval at a small pub gig in 2006. Since then, she’s been their most dedicated fan, following them on tour and supporting them through every album release. “Jealous Approval fills a void in the music industry with their raw, honest lyrics and powerful performances,” Maddie says. “Their music resonates with me on a personal level and has been a constant companion through my highs and lows. I’m proud to be their fan and will continue to support them wholeheartedly!”

Backstory:

Thin Knife emerged from the misty alleyways of Brooklyn, New York in the late 2000s. The band was formed by frontman, Jace Thompson, who was a small-time accountant by day and a passionate songwriter by night. Thompson’s unique blend of haunting vocals and poetic lyrics, blended with the dynamic backing of drummer, Reese Harrison, bassist, Ivy James, and lead guitarist, Leo DeMarco, quickly garnered the attention of the local music scene. Their rise to prominence was fueled by a series of high-energy performances in underground clubs, where their aggressive sentiments resonated with listeners who were hungry for something different.

In 2015, Thin Knife firmly established themselves in the music industry with their debut album, ‘Slice of Life’. Their distinctive sound, coupled with their heartfelt and thought-provoking lyrics, has continued to captivate audiences and critics alike, earning them a dedicated fanbase worldwide.

Genre:

Alternative Rock/Indie Rock

Title:

“Edge of Oblivion”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Em]Walking down the [G]shadows of a [D]road I’ve known,
[Em]Carrying the [G]weight of a [D]heart turned stone.
[Em]Echoes of the [G]past whisper [D]in my ear,
But [Em]I keep on [G]walking, I won’t [D]let fear steer.

(Chorus)
I’m on the [C]edge of oblivion,
With a [G]thin knife in my hand.
Will it [D]be my salvation,
Or the [Em]end of this barren land?

(Verse 2)
[Em]Every step I [G]take, every [D]choice I make,
[Em]Feels like I’m [G]walking a [D]tightrope for heaven’s sake.
[Em]Silhouettes of [G]dreams, fading [D]in the light,
But [Em]I won’t give [G]up, I won’t [D]give up the fight.

(Chorus)
I’m on the [C]edge of oblivion,
With a [G]thin knife in my hand.
Will it [D]be my salvation,
Or the [Em]end of this barren land?

(Outro)
[Em]With every [G]breath, I will [D]stand,
Against the [C]edge of oblivion,
With a [G]thin knife in my [D]hand.

Band’s Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan is Sophia Miller. Sophia has been with us since the very beginning. She was there at our first gig in Brooklyn, right in the front row, her eyes filled with excitement and belief. She’s followed us around the country, showed up at every backstage, and spread the word of Thin Knife through fan clubs and social media. Sophia even has our lyrics tattooed on her arm.

Sophia’s Testimonial:

“I found Thin Knife at a time in my life when I was lost and their music spoke to me on a deeply personal level. They have a unique ability to mix raw emotion with catchy rock melodies that just resonates with me. Their lyrics have become my anthems. For me, Thin Knife is more than just a band, they’re a beacon in the storm. Their music inspires me to keep fighting, to keep believing, no matter how hard it gets.”

Backstory:

Shy Creature is a band that originated from the sleepy town of Evansville, Indiana in the mid-2000s. All four members – lead vocalist and guitarist Alice, bassist Mike, drummer Zach, and keyboardist Lily – met in high school and bonded over their shared love for 90s grunge music and their shared ambition to make it big in the music industry. Their journey from playing in their high school auditorium to headlining indie music festivals is a story of friendship, hard work, and resilience. Drawing on each member’s individual experiences, struggles and triumphs, Shy Creature’s music is a reflection of life, love, and everything in between.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Title:

“Whispered Adventures”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am7 G
“Out in the night, under city lights,
Dm7 C
We were chasing stars, and whispered adventures
Am7 G
Skinned knees, hearts on our sleeves,
Dm7 C
Breaking all the rules, our youth was our treasure.”

(Chorus)
Fmaj7 G
“Can you hear the whisper?
Em7 A7
Of our wild hearts beating
Fmaj7 G
We were just shy creatures
Em7 A7
In a world that was fleeting.”

(Verse 2)
Am7 G
“Time flew by, like a lullaby,
Dm7 C
We grew up, but held onto our dreams,
Am7 G
In their eyes, we were still the shy,
Dm7 C
Creatures of the night, craving unseen.”

(Chorus)
Fmaj7 G
“Can you hear the whisper?
Em7 A7
Of our wild hearts beating
Fmaj7 G
We were just shy creatures
Em7 A7
In a world that was fleeting.”

Favorite Fan Testimonial:

My name is Hannah. Shy Creature is my favorite band, without a doubt. Their music has a way of speaking to my soul. Their song “Whispered Adventures” became my anthem during my fight against depression. It’s about holding onto who you are, even when the world is trying to change you. The band members are genuine and humble, always taking the time to interact with their fans. It’s not just about the music with them, it’s about the connection. They might be ‘Shy Creatures’ but their music is anything but shy. It’s bold, heartfelt, and unapologetically real.

Backstory:
Gray Paper is an indie rock band that was born in the heart of New York City. The trio consists of childhood friends Adam Levine on the guitar, Brendan Smith on drums, and Emily Scott on vocals. They began their musical journey in the small garage of Adam’s house, performing at local gigs and open mic nights while working part-time jobs. Their passion for music was evident in their soulful performances, gradually catching the attention of local record labels. The band’s breakthrough came in 2015 when they were signed to a small indie record label, launching their career into the mainstream.

Genre: Indie Rock

Title: “Voices in the Dark”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Am] You are whispers in the night, [G]
Echoes in the corners of my mind [F]
[Am] Shadows dance across the walls, [G]
I hear your voice as the twilight falls [F]

(Chorus)
[C] Voices in the dark, [G]
Calling out my name
[Am] I’m lost in your echo,
[F] I’ll never be the same.

(Verse 2)
[Am] In the stillness of the night, [G]
Your memory takes flight [F]
[Am] The silence is too loud, [G]
I’m lost in the crowd, but you’re not around [F]

(Chorus)
[C] Voices in the dark, [G]
Pulling at my heart
[Am] Without you here, [F]
Everything just falls apart.

(Bridge)
[Dm] I’m reaching out, [G]
Can’t you see?
[Am] Your voice, your echo,
[F] It’s the only thing that’s left of me

(Chorus)
[C] Voices in the dark, [G]
They’re tearing me apart
[Am] I’m holding on, [F]
But you’re already gone

(Outro)
[C] Voices in the dark, [G]
A melody, a spark
[Am] Your echo lingers on, [F]
In every song.

Favorite Fan:
Gray Paper’s most dedicated fan is a 22-year-old college student named Sarah Thompson. She discovered their music during her freshman year and has been hooked ever since. According to Sarah, “Gray Paper’s music has a raw and authentic feeling that is rare in today’s music scene. Their lyrics resonate with me on a deep level, making me feel seen and understood. I’ve been to nearly all their concerts and each performance was a unique experience. Their song ‘Voices in the Dark’ is my favorite – the lyrics, the melody, and Emily’s powerful voice blend to create a hauntingly beautiful piece of art. Gray Paper is not just a band to me, they’ve become an integral part of my life.”

Backstory:

Incredible Vacation is an indie rock band formed in 2011 in the quiet town of Asheville, North Carolina. The group consists of childhood friends, Matt Jacobs (lead vocals and guitar), Jack Stevens (drums) and Amy Henderson (bass guitar and backing vocals). They started off playing in small local venues and street corners, often performing covers of their favorite bands. Their unique sound and infectious energy soon caught the attention of fans and music industry insiders alike.

Incredible Vacation’s big break came in 2013, when they won a local band competition, earning them a record deal with Indie Rock Records. They’ve since released two albums and toured nationwide, making a name for themselves in the indie music scene. Their music reflects their love for travel, adventure and the joy they find in the simple things in life.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Postcards from Nowhere”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Caught a ride on the [D] midnight train,
[Em] Didn’t know where I was [C] heading,
[G] Just a suitcase, a [D] guitar, and a [Em] dream
[C] The world at my feet, [G] no more dreading.

(Chorus)
[D] Postcards from Nowhere,
[Em] Tales of the [C] unknown,
[G] We’re on an incredible [D] vacation,
[Em] In the end, wherever we [C] roam.

(Verse 2)
[G] Bright city lights or [D] country lanes,
[Em] It’s all an enticing [C] picture,
[G] Making music under the [D] moonlight,
[Em] Living life, no [C] strictures.

(Chorus)
[D] Postcards from Nowhere,
[Em] Stories yet [C] untold,
[G] We’re on an incredible [D] vacation,
[Em] This journey will never [C] grow old.

(Bridge)
[G] We’ll sing our song, [Em] bold and free,
[C] On this incredible [G] vacation,
[D] The world’s our stage, [Em] come join the spree,
[C] In the heart of each [D] destination.

(Outro)
[G] So here’s to this incredible [D] vacation,
[Em] As we chase the sun and [C] the sensation,
[G] Postcards from Nowhere,
[D] Our journey, our [Em] declaration, [C] our destination.

Favorite Fan Testimonial:

My name is Sarah and I’ve been a fan of Incredible Vacation since their early days. What I love about them is their genuine, down-to-earth sound. Their music is like a breath of fresh air in a world filled with highly processed and overproduced music. “Postcards from Nowhere” resonates with me on a deeper level as I too, love the thrill of traveling and experiencing new cultures. They’re my favorite band because their music feels so real and relatable. It’s like they’re not just singing songs, but sharing their own personal stories and experiences. I can’t wait to see where their musical journey takes them next!

Backstory:

Present Pizza was born in the heart of Brooklyn, New York, in a cramped apartment above a local pizzeria. Childhood friends, Leo “Pepperoni” Perez on vocals and keyboard, and Tony “Mozzarella” Manicotti on drums, longed to make music that reflected their dynamic, quirky personalities and love for pizza. The two started practicing in the pizzeria’s basement after hours, drawing in a crowd of locals with their lively melodies and zany lyrics. They were soon joined by two more friends – Maria “Margherita” Marino on bass, and Eddie “Extracheese” Romano on lead guitar. Together, they created a unique sound that took the city by storm, earning them the name, Present Pizza – a gift of music and a nod to their favorite food.

Genre:

Present Pizza’s music falls into the Indie Pop genre with a hint of Punk and 80s Synth. Their sounds are characterized by catchy hooks, upbeat rhythms, tongue-in-cheek lyrics, and a distinct blend of modern and retro influences.

Title:

“Slice of My Heart”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C G D
Wake up in the morning, got pizza on my mind,
Em C G D
Head down to the corner, for that slice so fine.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
You’re the only one for me, the cheese to my pie,
Em C G D
You’re the slice of my heart, under the Brooklyn sky.

(Verse 2)
Em C G D
Saucy and divine, just like our love so true,
Em C G D
Pepperoni passion, in a city that never sleeps, just like you.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
You’re the only one for me, the cheese to my pie,
Em C G D
You’re the slice of my heart, under the Brooklyn sky.

(Bridge)
Am Em D G
Through all the toppings, and all the years,
Am Em D G
Our love’s never cold, it’s hot and sears.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
You’re the only one for me, the cheese to my pie,
Em C G D
You’re the slice of my heart, under the Brooklyn sky.
Em C G D
You’re the slice of my heart, under the Brooklyn sky.

Favorite Fan:

Present Pizza’s favorite fan is Sarah “Supreme” Johnson, a middle school teacher from Queens. Sarah fell in love with Present Pizza’s music because she found it fun, uplifting, and an homage to her favorite food too – pizza. Sarah’s testimonial reads, “Present Pizza’s music is like the perfect pizza slice – it’s cheesy, saucy, and leaves you wanting more. Their unique sound, clever lyrics, and infectious love for pizza make them my favorite band. They represent the lively spirit of New York in every song they play, making me feel at home no matter where I am.”

Backstory:

Unimportant Reputation was born out of a college dorm room in the heart of Michigan. The three members, Jordan Bennett (lead vocalist and guitar), Mason Parker (drummer), and Emily Ruiz (bassist), were all studying different fields but shared a common love for music. Inspired by their grueling academic life and the complex emotions of the millennial generation, they started writing songs about the struggles and triumphs of uncertain youth. Over time, their sound evolved into an eclectic mix of angst, hope, and quiet introspection, resonating with a broad audience and creating a loyal fan base.

Genre:

Unimportant Reputation’s music can be best described as Indie Rock with a splash of Emo-Punk, blending the raw energy and intense emotion of punk with the melodic sophistication and lyrical depth of indie music.

Title:

“Stargazing in Suburbia”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G]Late nights and [C]cheap red wine, [D]dreaming in the [Em]suburban skyline,
[A]Missed calls and [D]broken hearts, [G]We’re all just [D]playing parts.
[G]Shattered dreams on [C]picket fences, [D]Youthful spirit [Em]on the benches,
[A]Lost souls in [D]nameless faces, [G]We’re all running [D]endless races.

(Chorus)
[C]Stargazing in [G]suburbia, [D]We’re just lost [Em]in this utopia,
[A]Looking for [D]our own supernova, [G]In the quiet of [D]the night it’s over.

(Verse 2)
[G]Empty streets and [C]traffic lights, [D]Distant echoes [Em]of forgotten fights,
[A]Hold on to [D]the fleeting moments, [G]Before we all [D]become opponents.

(Chorus)
[C]Stargazing in [G]suburbia, [D]We’re just lost [Em]in this utopia,
[A]Looking for [D]our own supernova, [G]In the quiet of [D]the night it’s over.

Favorite Fan and Testimonial:

Jenna Thompson, a college student from Michigan, is Unimportant Reputation’s number one fan. Jenna says, “Unimportant Reputation’s music has a unique way of speaking to my generation. They don’t glamorize life but narrate it with honesty and raw emotion. Their songs like ‘Stargazing in Suburbia’ speak to my life in a way that no other band has been able to. It’s as if they’ve somehow seen my world, managed to put my thoughts into words and melodies. They’re not just a band to me; they’re the voice of our generation.”

Backstory:
Founded in the grungy back-alleys of Seattle in 2003, ‘Snarling Passage’ was born out of a shared passion for raw, unfiltered expression of music by four college dropouts – Jake ‘Snarl’ Morris (Lead Vocals), Mike ‘Passage’ Collins (Guitarist), ‘Crazy’ Eddie Stokes (Bassist), and Lewis ‘The Machine’ Taylor (Drummer). Their initial years were filled with relentless gigging, countless all-nighters, and an unwavering commitment to their music. They were renowned for their high-energy performances and the raw emotion they poured into each set. Their rise to fame was cemented with their debut album ‘Barking at Shadows’, which became an instant classic, putting them on the map as a force to be reckoned with in the world of hard rock music.

Genre:
Snarling Passage’s music falls under the genre of Hard Rock, with notable influences from Grunge and Punk. Their music is characterized by aggressive guitar riffs, pounding drum beats, and raw, emotive vocals, often exploring themes of personal struggle, societal disillusionment, and resistance against the establishment.

Title:
‘Abyss of Despair’

Full song lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G]Look into my eyes, [Am] can you see the pain?
[C]Walking down this lonely road, again and [D]again.
[G]Caught in a raging storm, [Am] lost in the rain,
[C]In the abyss of despair, [D] chained in disdain.

(Chorus)
[G]Screaming at the sky, [Am] tears fall like rain,
[C]In the abyss of despair, [D] where hope is slain.
[G]Drifting in the night, [Am] life’s cruel game,
[C]In the abyss of despair, [D] we’re all the same.

(Verse 2)
[G]Can you hear the cries, [Am] echo in the night?
[C]Haunted by the ghosts, of battles [D]lost in fight.
[G]Wounds that never heal, [Am] hidden from sight,
[C]In the abyss of despair, [D] there’s no light.

(Chorus)
[G]Screaming at the sky, [Am] tears fall like rain,
[C]In the abyss of despair, [D] where hope is slain.
[G]Drifting in the night, [Am] life’s cruel game,
[C]In the abyss of despair, [D] we’re all the same.

Favorite fan:
The band’s favorite fan is ‘Rocking’ Rita, a 50-year-old librarian from Portland. Rita has been with the band since their early days, attending every concert and buying every album. She even has a tattoo of the band’s logo on her arm. Testament to her devotion, Rita says, “Snarling Passage isn’t just a band, it’s a way of life. Their music speaks to me on a level that nothing else does. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s the soundtrack to my life. There’s nothing I wouldn’t do for these guys.”

Backstory:
Born in the heart of the Eastern European countryside, Antique Region is a band that has its roots in the echo of the old world. The band members, Sasha Petrov on the guitar, Nikolai Baranov on the drums, and Elena Kuznetsova on the violin and lead vocals, met in a rural schoolhouse where they discovered their shared love of music. With songs inspired by the simple beauty of their surroundings and an appreciation for their rich cultural heritage, they began creating a unique sound that is hauntingly beautiful and deeply touching.

Genre:
Folk Rock

Title:
“Valley of the Forgotten”

Full Song Lyrics (with chord progression):

[Verse 1 – Am G C F]
(Am)Down in the valley where the (G) old willows weep,
(C)Where secrets are hidden and (F) promises keep.
(Am) I saw a shadow of our (G) forgotten past,
(C) Echoing whispers of a love that (F) won’t last.

[Chorus – C G Am F]
(C) Valley of the forgotten, (G) where our dreams lie,
(Am) Under the willow, beneath the (F) starry sky.
(C) Can you hear the echoes, (G) can you feel the pain,
(Am) In the valley of the forgotten, love (F) lost in vain.

[Verse 2 – Am G C F]
(Am) I walked on the path where (G) you used to tread,
(C) Feeling your presence, hearing (F) words unsaid.
(Am) The breeze carries your laughter, (G) the rustling leaves your voice,
(C) In the valley of the forgotten, I (F) made the choice.

[Chorus – C G Am F]
(C) Valley of the forgotten, (G) where our memories reside,
(Am) Beneath the ancient willow, where our (F) secrets hide.
(C) Can you feel the echoes, (G) can you see the trace,
(Am) In the valley of the forgotten, our (F) love’s resting place.

Band’s Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Marta. She has been their biggest supporter since they first started performing in their small town’s annual music festival. Marta claims that Antique Region’s music touches her soul, reminding her of the beauty of their homeland and the emotions that come with love and loss. She proudly shares, “Their lyrics are pure poetry. They take me on a journey back to the roots of our culture, back to the forgotten valleys of our ancestors. Listening to Antique Region is like a spiritual homecoming for me. Their music is a testament to our shared heritage; it’s my favorite to listen to when I need comfort or a reminder of home.”

Backstory:

Stylish Profit is a band that was forged in the gritty back streets of Brooklyn, New York, in the early 2000s. The band’s members – lead vocalist and guitarist Max Callahan, bassist Freddie Klein, drummer Leo Sandler, and keyboardist Jenny “Jazz” Hudson – met in a local dive bar’s Open Mic Night. They found a common bond in their shared passion for music and an undiscovered synergy in their individual talents.

The band started out with covers before they began to explore their unique sound, eventually crafting a style that set them apart from the rest. Stylish Profit spent countless nights in makeshift garage studios, honing their craft and refining their sound. Their persistent dedication and relentless pursuit of their passion eventually led them to be one of the most recognized bands in the indie music scene.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Title:

“Midnight City Blues”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am Em
In the midnight city, there’s a tale to unfurl,
Dm G
Under fluorescent lights, in a chrome-plucked world.
Am Em
Walking in shadows, feeling the vibes,
Dm G
Hiding our sorrows, living in disguise.

(Chorus)
C G
Midnight City Blues, under neon lights,
Am Em
We’re singing our truth, in these sleepless nights.
F C
With Stylish Profit’s tunes, setting hearts on fire,
Dm G
In our midnight city, we inspire.

(Verse 2)
Am Em
Strumming our stories, under the starry quilt,
Dm G
Nursing our wounds, with whiskey and guilt.
Am Em
With guitars we speak, and drums we confess,
Dm G
In the midnight city, we undress.

(Chorus)
C G
Midnight City Blues, it’s our soulful plight,
Am Em
In the face of despair, we ignite the light.
F C
With Stylish Profit’s rhythm, we break the quiet,
Dm G
In our midnight city, we incite.

Favorite Fan Testimonial:

Their number one fan, Sarah Thompson, has followed the band since their earliest gigs. “Stylish Profit isn’t just a band, it’s an experience,” says Sarah. “Their music is raw, intricate, and it resonates with me on a deeply personal level. Every song is like a journey, and I feel like they’re not just singing to an audience, but directly to me. Their music has seen me through the best and worst times of my life. To me, Stylish Profit isn’t just my favorite band, it’s an inseparable part of my life.”