Backstory:

Formed in the eclectic city of Austin, Texas, in 2012, Forked Mind came into existence when three friends decided to transform their shared college dorm jam sessions into something more potent. The trio consists of charismatic frontman and guitarist, Jeff “Riff” Maddox, the quiet but rhythmically gifted drummer, Kyle “Kilowatt” Watts, and the classically trained bassist, Amelia “Mel” Donaldson. Their shared love of music and desire to express their journey of self-discovery resulted in the creation of Forked Mind, a name inspired by the often conflicting duality of their creative and rational sides.

The band spent their early years honing their craft in local bars and music festivals, building a dedicated fan base with their raw energy and soulful performances. Their big break came in 2015 when their single ‘Crossroads’ caught the attention of a well-known record producer who signed them on the spot. From there, they have only grown, their unique sound rapidly gaining popularity across the nation.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Shattered Reflections”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C G D
Lost in a maze, drowned in the haze,
Em C G D
Seeing the world through a shattered mirror.
Em C G D
Minds split, hearts adrift,
Em C G D
Running from shadows that only grow closer.

(Chorus)
G D Em C
Shattered reflections, broken connections,
G D C
We’re lost but we’re together.
G D Em C
Fractured minds in the hands of time,
G D C
Still, we’ll weather the storm forever.

(Verse 2)
Em C G D
Dark days, sleepless nights,
Em C G D
We’re a symphony played on silent screams.
Em C G D
Forked paths, split in half,
Em C G D
Chasing dreams that are more than they seem.

(Chorus)
G D Em C
Shattered reflections, broken connections,
G D C
We’re lost but we’re together.
G D Em C
Fractured minds in the hands of time,
G D C
Still, we’ll weather the storm forever.

Fan testimonial:

Fan’s Name: Sammie Pritchard

“I’ve been a die-hard Forked Mind fan since I first heard them in a local bar back in 2012. What drew me to their music was how raw and real it was. It’s like they pour their hearts and souls into each song, and you can feel it. Each lyric resonates with me and their music has helped me through some of the toughest times in my life. I’ve seen them perform live several times, and each performance is more amazing than the last. Forked Mind isn’t just my favorite band; they are a part of my journey, my life!”

Backstory:
Animated Value was formed in the heart of New York City’s underground indie scene in 2014. The band members, lead vocalist and guitarist Jake Henderson, bassist Greg Matthews, and drummer Tony Davis, met in a record shop where they discovered their shared love for experimental music that pushes boundaries. Their early days were spent playing in basements, small bars and on the street corners of Brooklyn, gradually gaining a devoted following for their unique sound.

The band’s first breakthrough came when they were spotted by a music producer who was drawn in by their unorthodox blending of genres and insightful lyrics. Their debut album, released in 2016, was hailed as a breath of fresh air in the music industry. Despite their success, Animated Value has remained true to their roots, insisting on creative control over their music and maintaining the intimate, authentic connection with their diverse fanbase.

Genre:
Indie Rock with elements of Experimental and Alternative music.

Title:
“Underneath the City Lights”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1:
Em G D
Underneath the city lights,
Em G D
We found our paradise,
Em G D
Carved our names in the midnight sky,
Em G D
With dreams too big to die.

Chorus:
C G D
We are the animated value,
Em G D
Shaking the walls of this venue,
C G D
Igniting the rhythm and the hue,
Em G D
Our hearts beat for something new.

Verse 2:
Em G D
The city sleeps but we’re awake,
Em G D
With every chord, boundaries we break,
Em G D
In the noise, we found our voice,
Em G D
And in the chaos, our simple choice.

(Chorus repeats)

Band’s Favorite Fan’s Name:
Becky Thompson

Why and How this Band is Their Favorite:
“Animated Value has been my favorite band since their street performing days. Their music is an escape, a journey into a world where freedom and creativity break down the mundane walls of life. I fell in love with their raw, unfiltered sound and insightful lyrics that speak to my soul. I’ve been to every concert, own every album, and can sing along to every one of their songs. They’re not just a band to me, they’re a beacon of authenticity in an industry that often favors commercialism over creativity.”

Backstory:
The band ‘Genuine Yarn’ was formed in the bustling city of Liverpool in the United Kingdom. The four members, Kevin (vocals and guitar), Emma (drums), John (bass), and Sarah (keyboard and backing vocals), met at a local open mic night at a neighborhood pub. They connected over their mutual love for storytelling through music and a desire to create something different from the mainstream sound. Armed with their varied musical influences and a goal to create a unique genre of their own, they decided to form Genuine Yarn. They jammed in Sarah’s basement garage for months before they were ready to perform their first gig in the same pub where they met. Their music was well received, and they started playing in other local venues, slowly building their fan base.

Genre:
Folk Rock

Title:
“Strings of Destiny”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Wandering down the [C] roads of yesterday,
[Em] Memories twist like [D] strings of destiny.
[G] Behind the laughter, [C] behind the tears,
[Em] Echoes of love, [D] whispers of fears.

(Chorus)
[G] We are the tale, we are the [C] Genuine Yarn,
[Em] Spun from the moments, under the [D] sun and the stars.
[G] Every joy, every [C] scar,
[Em] We are the story, we are who [D] we are.

(Verse 2)
[G] Shadows dance in the [C] corners of the mind,
[Em] Every thread tells a [D] story, every soul intertwined.
[G] Through the winds of change, [C] through the sands of time,
[Em] We weave our tales, in [D] verses and rhymes.

(Chorus)
[G] We are the tale, we are the [C] Genuine Yarn,
[Em] Spun from the moments, under the [D] sun and the stars.
[G] Every joy, every [C] scar,
[Em] We are the story, we are who [D] we are.

Fan’s Name:
Charlie

Testimonial:
Charlie, a devoted fan since Genuine Yarn’s first gig, has this to say: “There’s something about Genuine Yarn that resonates with me. Their lyrics, their melodies, the way they tell stories through their music – it’s like they’re singing my life’s tale with every song. Their music has been a constant companion, through the good times and the tough ones. ‘Strings of Destiny’ is my all-time favorite – it’s a song that perfectly encapsulates the journey of life. I’ve seen them perform live countless times, and their passion and energy on stage is infectious. Genuine Yarn is more than just a band to me, they’re like friends who’ve been with me through my journey. They’re my favorite, and I believe they always will be.”

Backstory:
Scaly Beginning was born out of a shared passion for music and reptiles. Founding members, Jasper “Snake Eyes” Connolly and Lyla “Lizard” Murdock, met at a herpetology conference in Florida. Over shared drinks and conversations about their favorite cold-blooded creatures, they discovered their mutual love for rock music. They started jamming together, with Jasper on the drums and Lyla on the guitar, and they quickly realized they had something special. In 2010, they added Ryan “Rattlesnake” Allen on bass and Kayla “Komodo” Smith on keyboard, officially forming Scaly Beginning. Their music is inspired by their love for rock and roll, and their lyrics often include nods to their favorite reptiles.

Genre:
Classic Rock with a hint of Grunge

Title:
“Slithering Shadows”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Slithering shadows, [C] creep under the moon,
[Am] Silence whispers, [D] in the midnight gloom.
[G] Rattlesnakes and cobras, [C] in our dreams,
[Am] Living for the rhythm, [D] dying for the screams.

(Chorus)
[G] We are Scaly Beginning, [C] we play it loud,
[Am] Under the spotlight, [D] lost in the crowd.
[G] We sing for the serpents, [C] we sing for the kin,
[Am] With every strum, [D] let the reptile reign begin.

(Verse 2)
[G] Scales and fangs, [C] inspire our song,
[Am] Music hits you, [D] it won’t be long.
[G] In the snake’s den, [C] we find our peace,
[Am] This is our world, [D] where the wild things feast.

(Chorus)
[G] We are Scaly Beginning, [C] we play it loud,
[Am] Under the spotlight, [D] lost in the crowd.
[G] We sing for the serpents, [C] we sing for the kin,
[Am] With every strum, [D] let the reptile reign begin.

Bands favorite fan’s name and why and how this band is their favorite as a testimonial:

Our favorite fan is undoubtedly Penny “Python” Thompson. Penny has been following us since our first gig at a local bar. She says, “Scaly Beginning isn’t just a band, it’s a movement. As a reptile enthusiast and rock music lover, I feel seen and represented. Their music speaks to my soul and makes me feel a part of something bigger. The lyrics, the melodies, they all create this fantastic world where rock and reptiles coexist. I’ve never felt such a connection with a band before. Their song ‘Slithering Shadows’ is my anthem. I can’t wait to see where Scaly Beginning goes next!” Penny’s passion for our music is a constant reminder of why we do what we do.

Backstory:
Formal Sheet was formed in the early 2000s in the bustling city of San Francisco. The band comprised four childhood friends – Jack, Ronnie, Willie, and Charlie. They were studying in the same high school when they discovered their shared passion for music. The name, “Formal Sheet” was derived from their inside joke about how their music was a departure from the ‘formal,’ traditional, and expected norms that they grew up with. The band started as a pastime, a way to blow steam in the garage, but their local popularity led them to take music more seriously.

Genre:
Rock with a blend of Alternative and Indie.

Title:
“Chasing Stars”

Full Song Lyrics with Chord Progression:

(Verse)
[Em] Caught in the storm, [C] under the rain
[G] Wondering if we’d ever [D] smile again
[Em] Lost in a dream, [C] you and I
[G] Chasing the stars in the [D] midnight sky

(Chorus)
[Em] Oh, we are [C] just dreamers
[G] Holding hands while the [D] world gets colder
[Em] And we’re chasing stars, [C] you and I
[G] Making memories under the [D] midnight sky.

(Verse)
[Em] We’ve got our fears, [C] we’ve got our flaws
[G] But together, we’re more than [D] just ticking clocks
[Em] We are the rebels, [C] we are the free
[G] Chasing the stars until the [D] break of day.

(Chorus)
[Em] Oh, we are [C] just dreamers
[G] Holding hands while the [D] world gets colder
[Em] And we’re chasing stars, [C] you and I
[G] Making memories until the [D] day we die.

Testimonial – Fan’s Name:
Fan Name – Johnny

Johnny says, “Formal Sheet is my favorite because their music speaks to me on a deeper level. It’s an amazing blend of rock and indie that gives me freedom and feels soothing. Every song they have is a story I can relate to. Their song ‘Chasing Stars’ has been my anthem, a reminder that it’s okay to dream big and chase those dreams. The band has inspired me to start my band and play my music. I am forever grateful to Formal Sheet for their impactful and incredible music.”

Backstory:
Formed in the bustling city of New York in 2015, Intentional Art is a compelling blend of four passionate musicians: lead vocalist and guitarist, Jackson Tate, drummer, Oliver Cox, bassist, Zoe Armstrong, and keyboardist, Samuel Grant. They met at a local open mic night, all individually drawn to the city due to its rich music culture. Recognizing their shared passion for creating unique music, they decided to unite their varied musical backgrounds, forming the band, Intentional Art. Their name was inspired by the idea that every chord, every lyric they produce, is intentional and aims to evoke an emotional response in their listeners.

Over the years, they’ve created a distinct sound that has drawn attention from various corners of the globe. Constantly pushing the boundaries of music, Intentional Art is fueled by the desire to connect to their audience at a deeper level. Their strong chemistry, combined with their dedication to their craft, has led to a rapid rise in their popularity.

Genre:
Alternative Indie Rock

Title:
“Canvas of Dreams”

Full song lyrics:

Verse 1 [Em – C – G – D]
(Em) On the canvas of my dreams, I paint a thousand scenes
(C) A world where the sun always gleams, (G) and love is what it seems
(D) And I find myself lost in, your sweet and tender grin

Chorus 1 [G – D – Em – C]
(G) But you’re an artist too, (D) painting shades of blue
(Em) Crafting our story anew, (C) in the colors of me and you

Verse 2 [Em – C – G – D]
(Em) As the sun sets behind the hills, a moment of calm instills
(C) And though the silence chills, (G) our love never stills
(D) We find ourselves immersed in, a melody that’s just beginning

Chorus 2 [G – D – Em – C]
(G) For we’re artists of the heart, (D) creating our own art
(Em) Each stroke, a new start, (C) etching love in every part.

Fan’s Testimonial:
Name: Sarah Mitchell
Testimonial: I’ve been following Intentional Art since their early days performing at small gigs in NYC. I’m always drawn to their raw, passionate energy and deeply meaningful lyrics. Their music resonates with me on a personal level. It’s like they’re painting pictures with their words and melodies, and I find myself immersed in their story. Their song, “Canvas of Dreams,” is my all-time favorite. The chord progression, the lyrics, everything is just perfect. The more I listen to it, the more I fall in love with their music. Intentional Art isn’t just a band to me; they’re a source of inspiration and empowerment.

Backstory:
Flickering Rhythm is a band that traces its origins back to a small suburban town in Oregon. The group is comprised of childhood friends Mark (Lead Vocalist), Jasmine (Drummer), Noah (Guitarist), and Travis (Bassist). They grew up together, listening to the same records and dreaming of the same stages. The band officially formed during their high school years, first performing at local talent shows and school events. They garnered a small but dedicated fan base in their hometown before they set their sights on a bigger stage. With a shared dream and a passion for music, they moved to Los Angeles in the pursuit of their musical career.

Genre:
Flickering Rhythm has carved a niche for themselves in the indie rock genre. Their music is a fusion of raw emotion, hypnotic guitar riffs, and vibrant rhythms. They are known for their unique sound that combines the intensity of rock with the soulful elements of folk and blues.

Title: “Shadows in the Spotlight”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Dm G
Underneath the spotlight, we’re cast in shadows,
C Am
Lost in the rhythm, the music of the meadows,
Dm G
In the flickering lights, we share our fears,
C Am
Through the night, we’ve shed our tears.

(Chorus)
Dm G
Shadows in the spotlight, we dance alone,
C Am
To the rhythm of our hearts, a song of our own,
Dm G
In the flickering rhythm, we find our home,
C Am
In the music, we’re free, no more to roam.

(Verse 2)
Dm G
In the melody, we find our voices,
C Am
In the rhythm, we make our choices,
Dm G
In the flickering light, we’re alive,
C Am
With the music, we thrive.

(Chorus)
Dm G
Shadows in the spotlight, we dance alone,
C Am
To the rhythm of our hearts, a song of our own,
Dm G
In the flickering rhythm, we find our home,
C Am
In the music, we’re free, no more to roam.

Fan’s Name: Claire Robinson

Testimonial:
“Flickering Rhythm is more than just a band for me – they’ve been the soundtrack to my life for the past five years. Their lyrics resonate with my experiences and emotions, and their music has a unique way of speaking to my soul. Whether I’m going through a heartbreak or celebrating a special moment, there’s always a Flickering Rhythm song that perfectly encapsulates my feelings. I’ve been to every concert they’ve had in California, and each performance is an indescribable experience. Their energy, passion, and raw talent make every show unforgettable. Flickering Rhythm isn’t just my favorite band, they’re a part of me.”

Backstory:
Delicious Coast was born on the vibrant seashore of San Diego, California. Founding members Jackson “Jax” Hartman and Riley “Ry” Whitman were childhood friends who bonded over their shared passion for music and the ocean. From their high school garage band days to playing at local beach parties and surf competitions, they eventually caught the attention of an indie record label scout while performing at a local farmers market. With a contract signed and the addition of drummer Luke “Lucky” Daniels and bassist Oliver “Ollie” Richmond, Delicious Coast was officially formed.

The band’s unique sound, like a rhythm of crashing waves, soon attracted a following. Their debut album, “Tide and Time,” was an unexpected commercial and critical success, catapulting Delicious Coast to the national stage. Despite their newfound fame, they remain true to their roots, often returning to the same beaches where they first started to find inspiration.

Genre:
Alternative Rock with a hint of Reggae

Title:
“Vitamin Sea”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1) [Am-G-Dm-F]
Sea salt air, in my hair, sun shining without a care,
Walking barefoot, we’re understood, at the beach where we share
Riding the waves, free and brave, we’re playing our tunes in the cave,
As the sunset paints, without any restraints, beautiful memories we crave.

(Chorus) [F-C-G-Am]
Vitamin Sea, you and me, underneath the palm tree,
Song of the tide, by our side, this is where we’re meant to be.
Vitamin Sea, wild and free, no other place I’d rather be,
In the golden sand, guitar in my hand, singing our melody.

(Verse 2) [Am-G-Dm-F]
Moonlit dance, in a trance, under the stars, we enhance,
Ocean’s roar, on the shore, in this moment, we soar.
Warm summer night, in the soft moonlight, holding you feels so right,
With the rhythm of the waves, that our heart craves, love’s in flight.

(Chorus) [F-C-G-Am]
Vitamin Sea, you and me, underneath the palm tree,
Song of the tide, by our side, this is where we’re meant to be.
Vitamin Sea, wild and free, no other place I’d rather be,
In the golden sand, guitar in my hand, singing our melody.

Fan Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Lola Martinez. Lola says, “Delicious Coast isn’t just my favorite band; they’re a part of who I am. Their music is a constant in my life, helping me ride the highs and lows just like the tides they sing about. Their songs embody the free spirit of the coast, reminding me to live in the moment and embrace the beauty around me. I’ve been to every one of their local shows, and each time I’m blown away by their talent and authenticity. With Delicious Coast, it’s not just about the music, it’s about the journey. And I can’t wait to see where they take us next.”

Backstory:
Born from the eclectic music scene of Portland, Oregon, ‘Fair Concession’ came into existence as a quintet in 2012. They were five friends, all passionate about music, who decided to take their shared love for indie and alternative rock from their garage to the world. The band comprises lead vocalist, Liam Scott, guitarist, Jane Foster, drummer, Kyle Evans, bassist, Aaron Davis, and keyboardist, Emily Bates. They have journeyed together through friendship, heartbreak, and the ups and downs of life, all of which are reflected in their introspective lyrics and distinctive sound. The band’s breakthrough came in 2015 with their debut album, which was lauded for its raw, emotional lyrics and innovative style.

Genre:
Indie/Alternative Rock

Title:
“Shades of Yesterday”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
G C Em D
In the shadowed shades of yesterday,
G C Em D
We lost our hearts, in a game we didn’t play.
Am C Em D
Broken dreams, scattered like fallen leaves,
Am C Em D
Let’s find our way, through these silent eves.

[Chorus]
G C Em D
Shades of yesterday, reflecting in our eyes,
G C Em D
Ghosts of you and me, under these endless skies.
Am C Em D
Time keeps moving, but we’re standing still,
Am C Em D
In the faded echoes, of a love we used to feel.

[Verse 2]
G C Em D
Turn down these empty streets again,
G C Em D
Memories whispering like rain.
Am C Em D
Our story told, in the cracks and lines,
Am C Em D
Tracing the path, of love’s intertwines.

[Chorus]
G C Em D
Shades of yesterday, tangled in our dreams,
G C Em D
Shadows of a dance, unraveling at the seams.
Am C Em D
Though the echoes fade, the memories remain,
Am C Em D
In the haunting whispers, of yesterday’s refrain.

Fan Testimonial:
“My name is Sarah and I am, without a doubt, Fair Concession’s biggest fan. Their music speaks to me on a deeply personal level. It’s like they’re singing about my life, my experiences, my feelings. I’ve never felt more connected to any band before. I’ve seen them live seven times, and every time, it’s like a spiritual experience. Shades of Yesterday is my favorite song. It’s raw, emotional and it tells a beautiful story. Fair Concession isn’t just my favorite band, they’re a part of me.”

Backstory:

Born out of the gritty underbelly of the late 90’s New York punk scene, Tired Suicide emerged as a sonic force to be reckoned with. The four-piece ensemble — frontman Billy “Shredder” Riles, bassist Tim “Thunder” Kowalski, drummer Mike “Hammer” McCall, and lead guitarist Danny “Blitz” Blitzer — met in a dingy basement gig, where they bonded over a shared love for rebellious music and a distaste for the mainstream music industry. United by their mutual aspirations, they quickly moved in together into the same grimy loft, writing songs and playing shows at local dive bars, eventually making a name for themselves as the city’s most authentic punk band.

Struggle, passion, and a relentless pursuit of individuality define Tired Suicide. Their ferocious energy and razor-sharp lyrics encapsulate the struggles of a disillusioned generation, bearing the weight of a world that seems to have given up. They view their music not as a solution but as a means of catharsis, an outlet to vent the frustration, anger, and despair that often come hand in hand with the harsh realities of life.

Genre: Punk Rock

Title: “Echoes of Rebellion”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Em] Streetlights flicker in the [G] dead of night,
[D] Empty faces in an [A] endless fight,
[Em] The city’s cold, and the [G] world’s unfair,
[D] We’re just shadows, [A] lost in the glare.

(Chorus)
[C] Echoes of rebellion, [G] in our hearts they ring,
[D] Louder than the sirens, [Em] that the night does bring.
[C] Tired Suicide, we [G] refuse to hide,
[D] Our voices will be heard, [Em] in the echoes of the night.

(Verse 2)
[Em] Broken dreams in a [G] concrete sea,
[D] Jaded hearts yearning to [A] break free.
[Em] We’re the unheard, the [G] unseen,
[D] Finding solace in the [A] punk rock scene.

(Chorus)
[C] Echoes of rebellion, [G] in our songs they dwell,
[D] Louder than the chaos, [Em] in the city’s swell.
[C] Tired Suicide, we [G] won’t be denied,
[D] Our spirit will live on, [Em] in the echoes of the night.

Favorite Fan:

Tired Suicide’s biggest fan is a guy named Tommy “Grit” Donovan. For Tommy, the band represents more than just music, it’s a lifeline. He credits their songs for helping him through the toughest times in his life. Tommy says, “I’ve never felt more understood than when I’m listening to Tired Suicide’s music. Their raw energy, their unapologetic lyrics, they get what it’s like to feel lost in this crazy world. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without them. They’re not just my favorite band, they’re my heroes.”