Backstory:
Unnatural Religion was born in the garage of a suburban house in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in 2004. The trio of friends, lead vocalist Alex Fender, drummer Benny “B”. Drums, and guitarist Jacob Strat, found solace in the creation of music during a tumultuous period in their adolescence. Using their shared passion, they created music that spoke to their struggles as well as their dreams. Despite their humble beginnings, the band quickly gained local notoriety, leading to their first major gig in 2006. Since then, Unnatural Religion has been a staple performer at music festivals and in underground music scenes across the country.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Desolate Dreams”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Em] Wandering down a path uncharted,
[G] In the depths of our desolate dreams.
[Am] We’re both lost and wholehearted,
[C] Breaking apart at the seams.

[Em] The world is a stage we borrow,
[G] Playing parts we’re meant to portray.
[Am] Laughter today, pain tomorrow,
[C] It’s the price we’re destined to pay.

(Chorus)
[D] Desolate dreams and hollow hopes,
[C] Our hearts beat like thunder.
[Em] In this cruel cosmic joke,
[G] We’re torn asunder.

(Verse 2)
[Em] We’re just vagabonds on a journey,
[G] Trapped in the confines of time.
[Am] Our hearts are the jury,
[C] In a world that’s void of rhyme.

[Em] In the grand scheme of creation,
[G] We’re but specks in the cosmic design.
[Am] Living through the frustration,
[C] Of a life that’s yours and mine.

(Chorus)
[D] Desolate dreams and hollow hopes,
[C] Our hearts beat like thunder.
[Em] In this cruel cosmic joke,
[G] We’re torn asunder.

(Bridge)
[G] We’re just stardust,
[Am] In the vast cosmic sea.
[D] We’re just drifters,
[C] In the grand tapestry.

(Chorus)
[D] Desolate dreams and hollow hopes,
[C] Our hearts beat like thunder.
[Em] In this cruel cosmic joke,
[G] We’re torn asunder.

The band’s favorite fan’s name:

Amy Johnson

Testimonial:
“I’ve been a fan of Unnatural Religion since their first gig. Their music just resonates with me on such a deep level. ‘Desolate Dreams’ particularly hit home for me. I had it on repeat for days during a difficult time, and it felt like they were speaking directly to me. The raw emotion in their music, the passion in their performance, it’s all so palpable. It’s more than just a band for me, it’s a lifeline.”

Backstory:

Open Platform was formed under a desolate London overpass in the early 2000s. It was there that lead singer and guitarist, Jamie McAllister, and drummer, Ethan Ross, friends since their early school days, decided to take their shared penchant for tinkering with synthesizers and distorted guitars to the next level. They would go on to recruit classically trained violinist, Lily Baker, and self-taught bassist, Oliver Lee, rounding out the eclectic quartet. Open Platform derives their name from their belief in the power of music as a unifying and democratizing force, a platform open to all regardless of background or orientation.

Their rise to the top was anything but ordinary. Open Platform was discovered by a music producer who happened to be passing by while they were in the middle of one their impromptu jam sessions on the streets. Their unique sound caught his attention and he immediately offered them a recording deal. Today, Open Platform is known for their innovative music that brilliantly fuses various genres with a touch of electronic elements and soulful, heartfelt lyrics.

Genre:

Indie Rock / Electronic Fusion

Title:

“Vibrations in Silent Echoes”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am G D Am
Underneath the city lights, lost in faded hues,
Am G D Am
We danced to our own beat, in worn out, tattered shoes.
Em C G D
Chasing shadows of the past, reaching for the stars,
Am G D Am
In this open platform, we strummed our rusty guitars.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Vibrations in silent echoes, sounds that we create,
C G D Em
In this musical maze, in this infinite state.
C G D Em
Love and loss, joy and sorrow, all in our shared fate,
Am G D Am
On this open platform, we resonate.

(Verse 2)
Am G D Am
Through the neon signs and the labyrinth of dreams,
Am G D Am
Our music flows like a river, in endless streams.
Em C G D
Every note a story, every beat a tale,
Am G D Am
On this open platform, our spirits set sail.

(Repeat Chorus)

Fan Testimonial:

My name is Paige, and I’ve been the biggest fan of Open Platform since their early days of performing under the overpass. What sets this band apart is their unique sound – a fusion of indie rock and electronic that really resonates with me. Their song “Vibrations in Silent Echoes” is my personal favorite. It perfectly encapsulates the spirit of their music – a celebration of collective experiences, emotions, and dreams. Open Platform is not just a band for me, it’s an experience, an ecosystem of beautiful melodies and thought-provoking lyrics.

Backstory:
Anguished Setting is a band that emerged from the heart of Chicago’s underground music scene in 2012. The band consists of five members; lead vocalist Aaron, guitarists Ryan and Kevin, bassist Mike, and drummer Tom. The group started out as friends who simply shared a love for music and deep emotional expression. It was during one of their late-night jamming sessions in Mike’s garage that the idea of forming a band was brought to life. The name ‘Anguished Setting’ was chosen to symbolize their desire to use their music to navigate life’s painful moments and turn it into something beautiful.

Genre:
Anguished Setting sails under the flag of Alternative Rock, with elements of emo, post-hardcore, and indie rock incorporated into their sound.

Title:
“One Last Sunset”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Staring at the sun, [C] watching it descend,
[Em] Our hearts are heavy, [D] can we make amends?
[G] The echoes of your laughter, [C] the silence in between,
[Em] It’s all that’s left now, [D] of what could have been.

(Chorus)
[G] One last sunset, [C] before we say goodbye,
[Em] Can we hold on, [D] give it one more try?
[G] Will the morning find us, [C] in each other’s arms,
[Em] Or will we drift apart, [D] succumbing to the charms?

(Verse 2)
[G] The shadows are growing, [C] as the light fades away,
[Em] The promise of a new day, [D] seems so far away.
[G] In the anguished setting, [C] we find our truth,
[Em] Proof of our youth, [D] and all that we lose.

(Repeat Chorus)

Favorite Fan’s Name:
Anguished Setting’s favorite fan is Emily.

Testimonial:
Emily has been following the band since their initial days, attending every one of their shows, big or small. Emily says, “Anguished Setting is my favorite band because their music resonates with me on a deep, personal level. Their lyrics are raw and genuine, making me feel seen and understood. Their song ‘One Last Sunset’ particularly helped me through a difficult breakup. It’s like they’ve turned my pain into a beautiful melody. Their music isn’t just something I listen to, it’s something I feel.”

Backstory:

Black Shit, a raucous rock trio from the gritty streets of Detroit, Michigan, was formed in the basement of a grimy, worn-out pub in 2008. The founding members, Johnny ‘Flame’ McDonald, Teddy ‘Fingers’ Jackson, and Ricky ‘Skinbeat’ Jenkins, were all childhood friends who lived, breathed, and dreamed about rock and roll. Flame, the lead vocalist and guitarist, was known for his electrifying stage presence and raw vocal power. Fingers, the bass guitarist, provided the spine-tingling basslines, while Skinbeat, the drummer, completed the potent musical cocktail with his thunderous beats.

Despite their unusual name, Black Shit quickly gained a cult following in the local scene, renowned for their explosive live performances and their unfiltered, relentless approach to rock music. Their debut album, ‘Dirty Riffs and Broken Strings’, was a smash hit and propelled them to stardom. Yet, they never lost touch with their roots and continued to play with an undying passion and authenticity that resonated with both the old school and the new wave of rock fans.

Genre:

Garage Rock / Punk Rock

Title:

“Chasing the Storm”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Woke up with a rotten head, [D] in a city painted red,
[C] Tonight the stars are underfed, [G] on a road that’s miles ahead.

[G] Got a guitar and a dream, [D] a pocket full of broken scheme,
[C] In a world that’s lost its gleam, [G] I’ll be the rebel, so it seems.

(Chorus)
[D] Chasing the storm, riding the wave,
[C] Lost in the sound, it’s my soul I crave.
[G] In the heart of the city, under the neon lights,
[D] Singing my heart out, into the endless nights.

(Verse 2)
[G] I got a heart that’s full of rage, [D] life’s a book, I’m a savage page,
[C] I won’t be locked in your golden cage, [G] I’ll break the chains, I’ll set the stage.

(Chorus)
[D] Chasing the storm, riding the wave,
[C] Lost in the sound, it’s my soul I crave.
[G] In the heart of the city, under the neon lights,
[D] Singing my heart out, into the endless nights.

(Outro)
[G] Chasing the storm, [D] it’s my path, it’s my life,
[C] In this rusty world, [G] I’m the sharpened knife.

Fan’s Testimonial:

My name is Sandy ‘Rocker’ Thompson, and I swear there ain’t no band out there like Black Shit. I’ve been a fan since their first gig at the local pub. They play like they’re possessed, and their music, man, it speaks to my soul! It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s energizing. “Chasing the Storm” is my all-time favorite track. Its rebellious lyrics and wild guitar riffs just get me every time. For me, Black Shit isn’t just a band; they’re a way of life. They make me feel alive and remind me that it’s okay to be different, to be passionate, and to chase my dreams no matter how stormy the path is.

Backstory:

Formed in the rustic barns of middle Tennessee, ‘Other Grain’ is a group that emerged out of five college friends who discovered their shared love for music during a chance late-night jam session. The quintet comprised of Jake Ellis (vocals and guitar), Max Turner (lead guitar), Noah Brown (bass), Skylar Ross (drums), and Rhys Peterson on keys, decided to transform their bond and passion for music into a professional endeavor – thus ‘Other Grain’ was born. The band’s uniqueness lies in their shared farming backgrounds, infusing their down-to-earth roots into their music in a way that is tangible and authentic, resonating deeply with their growing fan base.

Genre:

Alt-Country / Folk Rock

Song Title:

“Dusty Roads Home”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
[G] Down the [D] dusty roads [Em] home,
[C] Underneath the [G] twilight dome.
[D] Remembering [Em] days of old,
[C] When life was [G] just a story told.

(Verse)
[G] The cattle [D] low and [Em] rivers flow,
[C] Where the willows [G] softly grow.
[D] Whispers of the [Em] wind so kind,
[C] Bringing back that [G] old moonshine.

(Chorus)
[G] Oh, take me back [D] to the dusty roads [Em] home,
[C] Where the heart is [G] free to roam.
[D] Underneath the [Em] southern sky,
[C] Where the lonesome [G] doves fly high.

(Verse)
[G] Cotton fields [D] swaying wide [Em],
[C] The sun setting [G] at our side.
[D] Corn taller [Em] than a man,
[C] It’s all part of [G] God’s grand plan.

(Chorus)
[G] Oh, take me back [D] to the dusty roads [Em] home,
[C] Where the heart is [G] free to roam.
[D] Underneath the [Em] southern sky,
[C] Where the lonesome [G] doves fly high.

Fan’s name:

Lucas Green

Fan Testimonial:

“Bands like ‘Other Grain’ make you feel like you’re part of something bigger than yourself. Their music takes me back to the simplicity and wholesomeness of rural life, something I deeply miss. I grew up on a farm, and their songs, especially ‘Dusty Roads Home,’ resonate with me on a soulful level. It’s like they’ve tapped into the heartbeat of the countryside and turned it into music. Every song they put out seems to speak directly to me and my experiences. That’s why ‘Other Grain’ will forever be my favorite band.”

Backstory: Sad Fight first formed in the bustling city of Austin, Texas in 2013. The band consists of four childhood friends, Jake Morello (lead vocals), Ben Harris (drummer), Gavin Potter (guitarist), and Theo Parker (bassist). After finishing high school, the quartet decided to pursue a music career influenced by their shared love for punk rock and the alternative scene. They started performing small gigs at local bars, and their raw, emotional performances quickly drew attention. When they finally got their big break opening for a renowned punk rock band, Sad Fight left the crowd mesmerized, and they haven’t slowed down since.

Genre: Punk Rock/Alternative

Title: “Tears in the Rain”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
G D Em C
Beneath the veil of the night, (G)
I’m walking down the lonely lane, (D)
Memories swirling with the city lights, (Em)
Our love lost in the tears in the rain. (C)

(Chorus)
G D Em C
Oh, we were just a sad fight, (G)
Battles raging in the twilight, (D)
Your words were my guiding light, (Em)
Now they’re just tears in the rain. (C)

(Verse)
Screaming at the top of our lungs, (G)
Underneath the city’s glare, (D)
Our words lost among the thrumming beats, (Em)
Our hearts breaking beyond repair. (C)

(Chorus)
Oh, we were just a sad fight, (G)
Battles lost in the neon light, (D)
Your love was my only respite, (Em)
Now it’s just tears in the rain. (C)

(Chorus)
Oh, we were just a sad fight, (G)
Our love lost in the cold moonlight, (D)
Your touch was my only delight, (Em)
Now it’s just tears in the rain. (C)

Favorite Fan: Sarah Thompson, a high school teacher from Dallas, is Sad Fight’s favorite fan. Sarah has been following the band since their early days, often driving hours to attend every one of their shows. Her dedication to the band is palpable, and the love is mutual.

Testimonial: “Sad Fight is more than just a band to me. Their music has been my solace during some of my toughest times. Their raw emotion and genuine lyrics resonate with me deeply. The energy and passion they bring to their performances are extraordinary and unmatched. I’ve watched them grow from playing in small bars to massive arenas, and their humility and dedication remain the same. They are truly a band of the people, and I couldn’t be prouder to be their fan.”

Backstory:
Educated Amount is a unique blend of individuals who found their way together through the corridors of a university. The three founding members, Greg Fletcher, Ritchie Kowalski, and Lisa Taylor, first met while pursuing their respective degrees at the University of Chicago. An impromptu jam session in the dormitory common room sparked a musical connection that could not be denied. The band’s distinct sound was born from a diverse range of influences, from classic rock to indie folk, and from that moment onward the trio decided to build upon their shared love for music. After graduating, they moved to New York City, where they added drummer Andy Peters and bassist Sarah McFadden, finalizing the band’s lineup. Their chemistry was evident, and they started to make waves in the local music scene, earning a growing fan base with their bold lyrics, poetic sensibilities, and unique sound.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Degrees of Separation”

Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
[G] In the heart of the city, a [D] tale began,
[Em] We found our voices, [C] took a stand.
[G] From lecture halls to [D] dingy bars,
[Em] Chasing dreams and [C] shooting stars.

[Chorus]
[G] Degrees of separation, [D] hearts in unison,
[Em] We’re an educated amount in this [C] world of confusion.
[G] Our song’s our declaration, [D] music our revolution,
[Em] We’re an educated amount, [C] finding our solution.

(Verse)
[G] Through late-night whispers, [D] and early dawn melodies,
[Em] We found each other, [C] amidst the degrees.
[G] From the grind of books, to the [D] thrill of the stage,
[Em] Penned our story, [C] page by page.

[Chorus]
[G] Degrees of separation, [D] hearts in unison,
[Em] We’re an educated amount in this [C] world of confusion.
[G] Our song’s our declaration, [D] music our revolution,
[Em] We’re an educated amount, [C] finding our solution.

Fan Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan is an engineering student named Pete Thompson. “Educated Amount is my favorite band because their music speaks to me on so many levels,” he asserts. “Be it the poetic lyrics, the story of their formation, or their unique sound, everything about them resonates with me. They remind me that in this chaotic world, it’s okay to find solace in what you love, in my case, music and engineering. Their story is an inspiration for students like me, proving you can pursue your passion without sacrificing your education. Their song ‘Degrees of Separation’ is the anthem of my life.”

Backstory:

In the heart of Knoxville, Tennessee, a group of four exceptional friends with unique musical talents decided to form a band named ‘Hungry Expertise’. It all started in their college dorm room where they would jam together and discovered a unique resonance in music. The band consists of lead vocalist and guitarist George ‘Buzz’ Harper, drummer Casey ‘Beat’ Olsen, bass guitarist Daniel ‘Bassman’ Edwards, and keyboardist Sarah ‘Keys’ Monroe. Their love for music coupled with a constant hunger to master their craft resulted in the formation of ‘Hungry Expertise’. Over the years, the band developed a unique sound inspired by their diverse backgrounds and shared love for Southern rock and blues.

Genre:

Blues Rock

Title:

“Rolling Down the Highway”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse]
G D
Rolling down the highway, not a soul in sight,
Em C
The moon above is shining, lighting up the night.
G D
I got my girl beside me, her hand holding tight,
Em C
We’re just two kids in love, trying to make it right.

[Chorus]
G D
Oh, we’re rolling down the highway, chasing dreams anew,
Em C
Under the starlit sky, just me and you.
G D
With the beat of the drums, and the guitar’s hue,
Em C
We’re making our own rhythm, humming our own tune.

[Verse]
G D
With every mile we cover, every town we pass,
Em C
We’re leaving behind shadows, breaking the glass.
G D
Got our hearts beating in rhythm, foot on the gas,
Em C
We’re not looking back, we’re free at last.

[Chorus]
G D
Oh, we’re rolling down the highway, chasing dreams anew,
Em C
Under the starlit sky, just me and you.
G D
With the beat of the drums, and the guitar’s hue,
Em C
We’re making our own rhythm, humming our own tune.

[End]
G D
So here’s to the highway, our faithful friend,
Em C
With you, we’ll roll on, until the very end.

The band’s Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is a girl named Lucy Hart. Lucy has been their most loyal supporter from the very start. In her testimonial, she said, “Hungry Expertise has a unique sound that’s rooted in tradition but also fresh and innovative. Their music speaks to my soul and connects with me on a deep level. Their song, ‘Rolling Down the Highway’ is a symbol of hope and freedom for me. They’re not just a band, they’re a beacon of inspiration for all young and aspiring musicians like me. I am their biggest fan, and their music is the soundtrack of my life.”

Backstory:
High Vessel was born in the sparkling city of Los Angeles, California, during the summer of 2015, when drummer Mike Hartley, bassist Jennifer Morgan, lead guitarist Troy McNally, and vocalist and rhythm guitarist, Lenny Martin, were all studying at the Musicians Institute in Hollywood. Their shared love for music and hunger for a fresh sound pulled them together. Often practicing and jamming together after classes, they found a unique chemistry among them that soon birthed High Vessel. They began playing at local bars and festivals, gradually gaining recognition for their distinctive style and sound.

After two years of relentless gigging, experimentation, and refinement, they caught the attention of a record label and won a contract. Their debut album, launched in 2018, catapulted them into the national spotlight, followed by a successful nationwide tour. Despite their rapid rise to fame, the members of High Vessel have remained grounded, attributing their success to their passion for music and their dedicated fans.

Genre:
Alternative Rock, with elements of Indie and Punk Rock

Title:
“Chasing Eternity”

Song Lyrics:
[Verse 1: G-Em-C-D]
(G) Underneath a neon sky, (Em) we found our dreams collide
(C) Running wild, we lost our way, (D) into the endless night
(G) Shadows dancing in the light, (Em) we were so full of life
(C) But time’s cruel trick, it played its hand, (D) left us in twilight

[Chorus: G-D-Em-C]
(G) We’re just chasing eternity, (D) in a world that’s fading so fast
(Em) Lost in our insanity, (C) trying to hold onto the past
(G) Chasing all we used to be, (D) in hopes that we might last
(Em) We’re just chasing eternity, (C) trying to outrun the past

[Verse 2: G-Em-C-D]
(G) Misty mornings and hazy days, (Em) we were invincible, unafraid
(C) Whispering secrets into the wind, (D) believing they’d never fade
(G) Bound by the music, we found our way, (Em) in melodies, we’d always stay
(C) But even songs can lose their words, (D) in the silence of the day

[Chorus: G-D-Em-C]
(G) We’re just chasing eternity, (D) in a world that’s fading so fast
(Em) Lost in our insanity, (C) trying to hold onto the past
(G) Chasing all we used to be, (D) in hopes that we might last
(Em) We’re just chasing eternity, (C) trying to outrun the past

Fan Testimonial:
“Hi, I am Amy Peterson, High Vessel’s biggest fan. I’ve been following them since their early days at Musicians Institute. Their music is more than just words and sounds; it’s raw and real. It’s about life, love, and everything in between. There’s an honesty in their lyrics that resonates with my own experiences. High Vessel isn’t just my favorite band because of their music, but also because of who they are as people. Humble, passionate, and real, they’re the kind of band that truly appreciates their fans, and I am proud to be one of them.”

Backstory:

Teeming Approval is a group of four friends from the small coastal town of Argyll, Scotland. The band was formed in high school when lead singer, Jillian, drummer, Angus, bassist, Fergus, and guitarist, Ewan, decided to amplify their garage jam sessions. After years of playing small gigs at local pubs and booking whatever venues they could, they caught the attention of a talent scout from a major record label. Their passion for music and their unique sound quickly earned them a record deal, and they have been living their dream ever since.

Their underdog story, humble origins, and unpretentious approach to music have helped Teeming Approval create a connection with their audience that goes beyond the simple pleasure of listening to good music. Their songs speak of common struggles, hopes, dreams, and the joys of simple everyday life, making them a band that their fans can easily relate to.

Genre:

Indie Folk Rock

Title:

“Rain on Cobblestones”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
G D
Rain on cobblestones, echoes of home
Em C
Hear the lighthouse call as the sea waves foam
G D Em C
Whispers of the wind, dancing with the leaves
G D Em C
We were just children playing in these streets

(Chorus)
G D Em C
Where the salt air meets the pine, that’s where you’ll find
G D Em C
A piece of my heart that I left behind

(Verse 2)
G D Em C
Old castle walls, standing tall and proud
G D Em C
The moonlight’s serenade, playing out loud
G D Em C
Secrets in the sand, tales of old and new
G D Em C
Memories of the summer skies, painted in hues

(Chorus)
G D Em C
Where the highland heathers bloom, under the moon
G D Em C
A piece of my heart still sings that tune

The band’s favorite fan:

Name: Sophie McTavish
Testimonial: “Teeming Approval is more than just a band to me, they’re like friends I’ve never met. Their songs speak to my heart and soul. Their melodies are the comforting echo of home and their lyrics are the stories of my life. Listening to “Rain on Cobblestones” always brings tears to my eyes. It’s like they wrote it just for me. Their music is real, raw and passionate, and I believe that’s why so many people, including myself, love them.”