Backstory: Quick-Witted Variation rose from the heart of Nashville, Tennessee, in the latter half of the 2000s. The band was founded by high school friends Maddox Grant and Levi Mitchell, who started off playing in Mitchell’s garage, their music echoing through the quiet suburban streets. Their shared passion for unique sound and their knack for witty, spontaneous lyrics became a trademark of the duo’s style. Joined by three more friends, Lisa Thompson on the guitar, her brother Greg on drums, and Emily Rose on bass, the band navigated its way through the local music scene, slowly gaining traction and carving out a distinctive niche for themselves.

Quick-Witted Variation’s music is an eclectic mix, a fusion of rock, country, and a dash of punk, reflecting the vibrant diversity of their backgrounds and musical influences. Despite their varying styles, their music is tied together by their shared love for quick-witted lyrics and unconventional sonic experimentations.

Genre: Rock/Country Fusion

Title: “Cottonwood Sighs”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Underneath the [C] cottonwood tree,
[Em] Where you whispered [D] secrets to me,
[G] Shadows dancing [C] in the breeze,
[Em] Our love as wild, [D] as free.

(Chorus)
[G] Cottonwood sighs, [C] darling close your eyes,
[Em] We got the moon, [D] and these starlit skies.
[G] Hold my hand, [C] through the highs and lows,
[Em] Underneath the [D] cottonwood, love grows.

(Verse 2)
[G] Stories told, [C] in the hush of the night,
[Em] Your laughter echoing, [D] oh so bright.
[G] Silhouettes against [C] the evening light,
[Em] This is where, [D] it all feels right.

(Chorus)
[G] Cottonwood sighs, [C] honey don’t you cry,
[Em] We got dreams, [D] reaching for the sky.
[G] Come what may, [C] in joys and woes,
[Em] Underneath the [D] cottonwood, love grows.

Band’s Favorite Fan: Their favorite fan is a woman named Sarah Thompson. Sarah is an elementary school teacher who, despite her busy schedule, makes time to catch every one of their concerts. “Quick-Witted Variation is my favorite band because they can turn any ordinary day into a special one with their music. The way they mix different genres is fascinating and their lyrics always manage to touch my heart. Attending their concerts is like a mini-vacation for me. I just can’t get enough of their sound!” says Sarah.

Backstory:

Costly Product started off as an ironic name for a band of high school friends, just trying to make some noise in their garage in the small town of Bakersville, Georgia. The five-piece ensemble was born out of a group of friends who had spent their entire childhoods together, playing and listening to music. They were all drawn together by their shared love of unconventional and progressive music. Their musical journey started off as a hobby, then gradually evolved into an emotional outlet, and finally, a full-blown career. The band comprises of lead vocalist, Ronnie, guitarist, Macy, bassist, Dave, drummer, Jay, and keyboardist, Olive. They’ve been through thick and thin, and have used their experiences to create music that resonates with their audience.

Genre:

Costly Product can best be categorized as a Progressive Rock band. Their music is known for its complex musical sequences, intricate lyrics, and innovative themes that break away from traditional rock norms. They combine elements of blues, jazz, and classical music to create a sound that’s distinct and captivating.

Title:

“Fabricated Freedom”

Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em – G – D – A
In the heart of the city, draped in lights so pretty,
We sell our dreams away.
We’re tired of the lies, the fabricated highs,
We’re breaking free today.

(Chorus)
C – G – D – Em
Fabricated freedom, we won’t believe ’em,
We’ve got our own way to fly,
Costs us our soul, this mindless control,
We’re breaking these chains tonight.

(Verse 2)
Em – G – D – A
Burned by the glamour, lost in the clamor,
Just pawns in a losing game.
But beneath the charade, our spirit’s unswayed,
We won’t be tamed, we won’t be blamed.

(Chorus)
C – G – D – Em
Fabricated freedom, we won’t believe ’em,
We’re marching to our own beat,
Costs us our pride, this pointless ride,
We’re taking control of the driver’s seat.

(Outro)
C – G – D – Em
Fabricated freedom, we’re more than they see ’em,
We are the costly product,
Our voices will rise, break through the skies,
We’re the truth, we’re the object.

Fan’s testimonial:

My name is Riley, and I am probably the biggest Costly Product fan out there. Their music speaks to me on a level no other band has managed to achieve. Their lyrics are raw and relatable. They’re not just another rock band, they stand for something – a rebellion against the norms, an uprising against the system. Costly Product is more than just a band to me, they’re a movement, a voice for the voiceless. Their song, “Fabricated Freedom,” is my anthem. It resonates with my own struggle against the societal expectations and norms. Costly Product isn’t just my favorite band, they’re my beacon of hope in a world that too often dismisses individuality.

Backstory:
Born in the bustling city of New York, Queasy Duration is a unique blend of five college friends who shared a love for music and a knack for pushing boundaries. The band members – Jessica (lead vocals), Tom (guitar), Brian (bass), Steve (drums), and Lily (keyboard) – met at a campus jam session and immediately felt an unexplainable synergy. They started out playing at college events and soon gained a loyal fanbase due to their experimental sounds and relatable lyrics. The name of the band, Queasy Duration, was inspired by the band’s early days when they would feel “queasy” before going on stage and the “duration” of their journey together.

Genre:
Queasy Duration falls under the indie rock genre with strong influences of progressive rock and punk.

Title:
“Our Battle Cry”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C G D
Treading on this lonely path,
Em C G D
Anxiety’s our aftermath.
Em C G D
Our hearts play a broken symphony,
Em C G D
At the mercy of life’s discrepancy.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
Our Battle Cry, high and strong,
Em C G D
Carries us when things go wrong.
Em C G D
With every beat, with every song,
Em C G D
Our Battle Cry, keeps us strong.

(Verse 2)
Em C G D
Underneath the city’s glow,
Em C G D
We face our fears, we grow.
Em C G D
Through the chaos, through the strife,
Em C G D
Music is our way of life.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
Our Battle Cry, high and strong,
Em C G D
Carries us when things go wrong.
Em C G D
With every beat, with every song,
Em C G D
Our Battle Cry, keeps us strong.

Fan Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan is a devoted follower named Rachel. She has been supporting Queasy Duration since their early days and has attended every single one of their concerts. Rachel says, “Queasy Duration is my favorite band because their music speaks to me. It’s raw, it’s real, and it tackles emotions that we often shy away from. Their lyrics are poetic and their sound perfectly encapsulates the chaos of life. I believe in their journey and their music, and I can’t wait to see what they do next.”

Backstory:
Well-Documented Impact came together in the college town of Lawrence, Kansas in 2008. Founding members, Jason Rogers (vocals/guitar) and Ben Mitchell (drums), were roommates with a shared passion for music and the environment. It wasn’t long before they added bassist, Sarah Williams, to the mix who was also an environmental science major. The trio began to mold their unique sound in the basement of their shared house, utilizing their collective passion for Mother Earth and their love for music. They started to play in local bars and clubs, and their sincere commitment to environmental causes quickly garnered attention. Their well-researched lyrics paired with catchy rock hooks quickly had the town humming along.

Genre: Environmental Rock

Title: “Ozone Layer Love”

Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
G C
Underneath the blue sky,
D Em
Where the greens and blues lie,
G C
Breathing in the fresh air,
D Em
Feeling like it’s so rare.

(Chorus)
G C
Ozone layer love, it’s a gift from above,
D Em
Clouds rolling by, under the endless sky,
G C
Ozone layer love, hold it like a dove,
D Em
Let’s make a pact, to make an impact.

(Verse 2)
G C
Sun is getting hotter,
D Em
Water’s going shorter,
G C
Earth is calling for help,
D Em
It’s more than just the ice melt.

(Chorus)
G C
Ozone layer love, it’s a gift from above,
D Em
Clouds rolling by, under the endless sky,
G C
Ozone layer love, hold it like a dove,
D Em
Let’s make a pact, to make an impact.

(Outro)
G
Let’s make a pact,
C
To save our impact,
D Em
Ozone layer love, let’s rise above.

Fan Testimonial:
Fan Name: Tim Jones

“Well-Documented Impact is my favorite band because their music speaks to me on a deep, personal level. As an environmentalist myself, I appreciate how they use their platform to address important issues while creating catchy, listenable rock music. Each song is a call to action, and it’s impossible not to feel moved by their commitment to our planet. Their song ‘Ozone Layer Love’ reminds me of the importance of our individual and collective roles in saving the environment. Plus, it’s just a great jam!”

Backstory:
Slushy Cupboard was born in a small suburban garage in the bustling city of Austin, Texas. It all started when childhood friends, Billy “Blitz” Smith on vocals and guitar, and Jerry “Jazz” Johnson on drums, discovered their shared love for music during a high school talent show. Their infectious energy and unique sound soon caught the attention of Angie “Angel” Martinez, an ethereal keyboard player and vocalist, and finally, Lorrie “Loco” Thompson, an eccentric bass guitarist who added a touch of madness to their music. Their journey started as a local hit in the underground music scene, quickly raising the band to unprecedented fame.

Genre:
Slushy Cupboard plays a vibrant mix of Indie Pop with a touch of Psychedelic Rock.

Title:
“Melting Rainbows”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse)
C G Am E
Woke up this morning, sun in my eyes,
C G Am E
Found a note by the bed, but it’s no surprise,
C G Am E
She’s gone again, leaving trails of light,
C G Am E
I’m staring at the ceiling, lost in the night.

(Chorus)
F C G Am
Melting Rainbows, in a slushy cupboard,
F C G Am
Dreams are fading, like the colors she adored,
F C G Am
Running rivers, down the canvas of my heart,
F C G Am
Melting Rainbows, oh we are falling apart.

(Verse)
C G Am E
Turn the key, step outside, feeling the breeze,
C G Am E
Her scent in the wind, whispering through the trees,
C G Am E
She’s a memory now, like a fading song,
C G Am E
Nights are colder, since my love has gone.

(Chorus)
F C G Am
Melting Rainbows, in a slushy cupboard,
F C G Am
Tears are shaping, the silhouette of our world,
F C G Am
Echoing laughter, the ghost of her art,
F C G Am
Melting Rainbows, oh we’re back at the start.

Favorite fan:
Their favorite fan is a quirky, energetic young woman named Emma Thompson, who claims to have attended every single one of their performances, even going as far as traveling across states to catch them live. Emma’s dedication and love for their music have made her an integral part of the Slushy Cupboard family.

Testimonial:
“Slushy Cupboard’s music has a way of resonating with your soul. From their upbeat Indie-pop rhythms to the deep emotive lyrics, they create a beautiful chaos that you can’t help but get lost in. Their song “Melting Rainbows” is a testament to their creative prowess. The way they blend melancholy with hope is just pure magic. Being a part of their journey, watching them evolve and grow, has been an incredible experience. Their music feels like home to me.” – Emma Thompson

Backstory:
Bumpy Roll was formed accidentally in the bustling city of Chicago in 2015. It all started when a group of friends decided to participate in an impromptu jam session at a local pub’s open mic night. To their surprise, the audience was thoroughly impressed and demanded more. Realizing their shared passion and potential for music, they decided to form a band. The name ‘Bumpy Roll’ was inspired by their shared love for sushi and the rollercoaster ride of life.

The core members of the band include frontman Jack ‘Bumpy’ Thompson on vocals and rhythm guitar, Larry ‘Roll’ Peterson on lead guitar, Sarah ‘Smooth’ Davis on bass, and Tim ‘Crash’ O’Connor on drums. Each member brings a unique flavor to the table, blending their various musical influences to create a sound that’s uniquely their own.

Genre:
Bumpy Roll’s music is best described as a fusion of Blues Rock and Funk.

Title:
“Riding the Waves”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Am F C G
Rolling down the highway, under the midday sun,
Am F C G
Life’s a bumpy ride, but we’re just out here having fun.
Am F C G
Trading stories, sharing laughs, as we watch the world go by,
Am F C G
Sailing the asphalt ocean, under the open sky.

[Chorus]
Dm C G
Riding the waves, we’re riding so high,
Dm C G
In our lives, under the open sky.

[Verse 2]
Am F C G
City lights behind us, the open road ahead,
Am F C G
With the wind in our hair, there’s no path that we dread.
Am F C G
Every bend, every turn, a new story to be told,
Am F C G
We’re living this bumpy ride, with hearts that are bold.

[Chorus]
Dm C G
Riding the waves, we’re riding so high,
Dm C G
In our lives, under the open sky.

Fan Testimonial:
Bumpy Roll’s biggest fan, Angie Martinez, has this to say about the band: “Bumpy Roll is more than just a band to me. Their music is like a friend that never fails to bring me comfort. The raw honesty in their lyrics, combined with the energetic blues-funk sound, speaks to my soul. I’ve been to every one of their concerts in the tri-state area and their performances are electrifying! They have this incredible ability to connect with the audience and make them feel part of the show. Bumpy Roll isn’t just my favorite band, it’s a way of life.”

Backstory:
Treasured Milk was formed in the midst of the bustling music scene of Seattle, Washington in 2014. The band consists of four childhood friends who shared a deep passion for music and creativity. Lead vocalist, Dylan Thompson, and bassist, Chris Myers, were the first to compose music in their parents’ garages at the age of 15. They were later joined by lead guitarist, Jess Turner, and drummer, Matt Roberts, during their high school years. Together, they transformed their shared passion into a unique sound and a shared dream.

Their journey was not easy, as they started as a small-time band performing at local bars and events. While their earlier days were filled with struggles, they never lost hope and continued to cultivate their unique sound. Their big break came when they were discovered by a music producer at a small gig within their home city. Ever since then, Treasured Milk has been steadily gaining recognition and popularity among indie music enthusiasts.

Genre: Indie Folk

Title: “Bottled Echoes”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1 – Am, G, F, C]
(Am)Staring through the (G)hazy window,
(F)Watching as the (C)world goes round.
(Am)We’re just echoes (G)in a bottle,
(F)Waiting to be (C)found.

[Chorus – Dm, Am, G, C]
(Dm)Bottled echoes, (Am)drawn in shadows,
(G)Seeking the sun, (C)yearning to run.
(Dm)Bottled echoes, (Am)lost in time,
(G)Searching for rhythm, (C)hungry for rhyme.

[Verse 2 – Am, G, F, C]
(Am)Footprints fade in (G)sands of silence,
(F)Yet the echoes (C)still remain.
(Am)In the bottle, (G)we find solace,
(F)Free from the world’s (C)pain.

[Chorus]
(Dm)Bottled echoes, (Am)drawn in shadows,
(G)Seeking the sun, (C)yearning to run.
(Dm)Bottled echoes, (Am)lost in time,
(G)Finding our rhythm, (C)creating our rhyme.

Favorite Fan: Emily Matthews.

Emily has been following Treasured Milk since their early beginnings. She was drawn to their unique indie folk sound and their raw, honest lyrics. Emily says, “Treasured Milk has this timeless and nostalgic vibe that resonates with me. Their music has been a companion during my highs and lows, and I found solace in their words. I feel like they understand my struggles and it’s comforting. They’re not just a band to me, they’re storytellers who’ve made a difference in my life.”

Backstory:

Perky Ring is the brainchild of four college friends – Ryan, Ethan, Jake, and George – who began their journey by serenading coffeehouse patrons in the small town of Asheville, North Carolina. Together, they combined their different musical backgrounds and shared passion for making music that resonates with people and tells their shared stories. After winning a local battle of the bands competition, the group caught the attention of a local record label, giving them the opportunity to create their debut album.

Their music is inspired by life’s simple moments, extraordinary adventures, and the emotional roller-coasters that we all experience. Perky Ring is a band that knows how to connect with audiences, thanks to their honesty and raw emotion evident in their music. Their sound has evolved over time, growing from acoustic coffeehouse tunes to the unique, uplifting, and engaging music they create today.

Genre:
Indie Pop

Title:
“Sunset Dreams”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
G D
Underneath the crimson sky,
Em C
We laughed, we cried, we lived, we lied,
G D
In our sunset dreams, so it seems,
Em C
We built our world, let it unfurl.

(Chorus)
G D
Oh, these sunset dreams,
Em C
They’re more than what they seem,
G D
They’re our hopes, our fears,
Em C
Our joys and our tears.

(Verse 2)
G D
In the soft glow of the night,
Em C
We fought, we loved, with all our might,
G D
In our sunset dreams, so it seems,
Em C
We found our truth, in our youth.

(Chorus)
G D
Oh, these sunset dreams,
Em C
They’re more than what they seem,
G D
They’re our heartbreaks, our smiles,
Em C
Our journeys and our trials.

(Outro)
G D
So, here’s to the sunset dreams,
Em C
To the love and the screams,
G D
To the moments in between,
Em C
In our sunset dreams.

Favorite Fan:

Amy Jensen is a dedicated fan of Perky Ring. She first discovered their music during one of the difficult stages of her life. Amy shares, “Perky Ring’s music has been a beacon of light for me. Their song ‘Sunset Dreams’ resonated with me on so many levels. It felt like they were telling my story, and it gave me the strength to face my troubles. This band is not just about making music; it’s about connecting, healing, and inspiring. I feel like they’re my friends singing my feelings out loud. And that’s why, they will forever be my favorite.”

Backstory:

Formed in the bustling heart of New York City in 2016, Similar Sign is the brainchild of childhood friends, singer and songwriter, Lucas Wilde, and drummer, Aidan Briggs. Initially, they began as a duo, jamming in their garage, experimenting with different sounds and writing songs that spoke to the struggles and triumphs of their generation. After a couple of years, they were joined by guitarist, Noah Harper, and bassist, Ethan Fitzgerald, launching Similar Sign to a different league. Their music caught the attention of a local producer at an underground gig, and they were soon signed to a major record label, catapulting them into worldwide fame.

Genre:

Alternative Rock/Pop

Song Title:

“Echoes Of Yesterday”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em (C) G D
In the cold light of dawn, we found our way,
Em (C) G D
Through the shadows, against the fray.
Em (C) G D
Chasing dreams, like a runaway train,
Em (C) G D
In the echoes of yesterday.

(Chorus)
G D Em C
We’re the firefighters, we’re the stargazers,
G D Em C
We’re the dreamers, lost in the mazes.
G D Em C
In the echoes of yesterday, we find our way,

(Verse 2)
Em (C) G D
Broken hearts, with battle scars,
Em (C) G D
Playing life, like it’s all ours.
Em (C) G D
Screaming loud, come what may,
Em (C) G D
In the echoes of yesterday.

(Chorus)
G D Em C
We’re the wild hearts, we’re the game-changers,
G D Em C
We’re the rebels, not the strangers.
G D Em C
In the echoes of yesterday, we find our way,

(Outro)
Em (C) G D
In the echoes of yesterday, we find our way,
Em (C) G D
In the echoes of yesterday, we’re here to stay.

Fan Testimonial:

Name: Emily Thompson

“Similar Sign has been my favorite band since I first heard their music in 2017. Their blend of rock and pop, mixed with deeply meaningful lyrics, resonates with me in a way no other band has. The raw emotions in their songs, like “Echoes of Yesterday,” make me feel understood and heard. They’ve been there for me through breakups, life transitions, and even just dull days when I needed a pick-me-up. I’ve watched them evolve over the years, but they’ve never lost their authenticity or connection with their fans. That’s why Similar Sign will always be my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Originating from the vibrant music scene of Austin, Texas, ‘Apt Assembly’ was formed in 2012 by college friends, Marcus King on vocals and guitar, Emily Stone on bass and vocals, and Zach Harper on drums. Starting as a garage band, they played in various local venues, garnering attention for their innovative sound and passionate performances. Their breakthrough came in 2015 when they were discovered by a talent scout at the South by Southwest festival, leading to their first record deal.

Inspired by the likes of Radiohead, The Strokes, and Tame Impala, they incorporated elements of rock, indie, and alternative into their music, creating a distinctive sound that resonated with both critics and fans. ‘Apt Assembly’ is known for their thought-provoking lyrics, merging societal commentary with personal experiences, and for their energetic live performances that captivate audiences.

Genre:
Alternative/Indie Rock

Title:
‘Stardust Melodies’

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am – F – G – Em
Underneath the neon city lights,
We’re just trying to find our fight.
Beyond the noise and the crowd,
Finding melodies in the silent shroud.

(Chorus)
C – G – Dm – F
In stardust melodies, we’re free,
Beyond the cage of reality.
In the echo of our dreams,
We find our voice in the silent screams.

(Verse 2)
Am – F – G – Em
In the chaos, we find our tune,
Singing under the same moon.
In the rhythm of the night,
We find the strength to ignite.

(Chorus)
C – G – Dm – F
In stardust melodies, we’re free,
Beyond the cage of reality.
In the echo of our dreams,
We find our voice in the silent screams.

Bridge:
E – F – C – Dm
In the rhythm of our hearts,
We’re composing our own charts.
With every strum, with every beat,
We create a symphony so sweet.

(Chorus)
C – G – Dm – F
In stardust melodies, we’re free,
Beyond the cage of reality.
In the echo of our dreams,
We find our voice in the silent screams.

Fan’s Name: Jenny Thompson

Testimonial: “I’ve never connected with a band as much as I do with ‘Apt Assembly’. Their lyrics resonate with me on a personal level, and it’s like they’re speaking directly to me. Their music has seen me through some tough times, and I feel a sense of belonging in the community they’ve created. ‘Stardust Melodies’ is my favorite track – it speaks to the dreamer in me. Their live performances are electrifying, and the energy is infectious. I proudly call myself a die-hard ‘Apt Assembly’ fan.”