Backstory:
Zigzag Sister is a band hailing from the quirky streets of Portland, Oregon. The band consists of four members – lead vocalist and guitarist Kelsey ‘Kels’ Turner, bassist Lucy ‘Loose’ Vinson, drummer Sam ‘Scissors’ Shaw, and keyboardist Ryan ‘Ry’ Mitchell. The band came together in a serendipitous meet-cute at a local record store, where they found they all shared a love for diverse music styles and a passion for heartfelt lyrics. They began jamming together in their respective apartments before moving to a shared garage to hone their craft and create their unique sound. The band’s name is in tribute to Kels’ and Loose’s bond as foster sisters, who navigated their zigzagging life paths to create their own version of family.

Genre:
Zigzag Sister’s sound is a blend of Indie Pop and Soul, a reflection of their eclectic music tastes. Their music is characterized by catchy hooks, layered harmonies, groovy basslines, and lyrics that strike a chord with their listeners’ hearts.

Title:
“Shadows and Sunbeams”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[F C G Am]
In the corners of our past, dark and cold,
Shadows lurk, stories untold.
And in the silence of our dreams,
We find sunbeams, bursting at the seams.

(Chorus)
[F C G C]
Shadows and sunbeams, laughter and screams,
Life’s a crazy quilt of hope and broken dreams.
In the maze of the mind, a single thread glistens,
That’s our love, if you just listen.

(Verse 2)
[F C G Am]
In the echoes of our hearts, secrets hide,
Beneath the surface, feelings reside.
And in the canvas of our souls,
We find our roles, completing the whole.

(Chorus)
[F C G C]
Shadows and sunbeams, tears and smiles,
Life’s a twisted path with unexpected miles.
In the labyrinth of life, a single light flickers,
That’s our bond, stronger than liquors.

(Bridge)
[Am G C F]
We dance in the shadows, sing in the sun,
Lost in the rhythm, our stories spun.
Through the highs and lows, we resonate,
In this symphony of life, we participate.

(Chorus)
[F C G C]
Shadows and sunbeams, sorrow and joy,
Life’s a music score, not a toy.
In the orchestra of existence, our song persists,
Zigzag sister, in the mist.

Fan’s Name and Testimonial:
Fan’s name is Alex ‘Alley Cat’ Carter. Alley Cat says, “Zigzag Sister is my favorite band because their music feels like it’s speaking directly to my soul. Their song, ‘Shadows and Sunbeams,’ is my anthem. I’ve had a rough couple of years, bouncing around, lost, but their lyrics remind me that it’s okay to not have it all figured out, that it’s all part of the journey. Their music is like a balm to my weary heart. Plus, their live gigs are electrifying! Whether it’s a crowd of twenty or two hundred, they create a connection that makes you feel part of something bigger. Zigzag Sister isn’t just a band to me, they’re a lifeline.”

Backstory:

In the vibrant, musical heart of Seattle, Washington, five high school friends found a common connection through their love for music and an appreciation for the raw, unsaid emotions of life. The band, Tragic Nest, was born from the ashes of their past rock bands, giving rise to an evolved, mature, and distinctive sound. The band’s name is a metaphorical representation of the bittersweet reality of life, where happiness often comes intertwined with tragedy. They began their journey in the basement of their lead vocalist, Ron’s house, finding solace in the musical notes and lyrics that allowed them to forget their immediate problems and connect on a deeper level.

Their breakthrough came when their song, “The Unseen Tomorrow,” gained traction on a local radio station, opening avenues for their raw and heart-touching music. The popularity that followed was unexpected, yet humbling, serving as a reminder that their music resonated with people’s emotions and experiences. Tragic Nest has since toured across the United States, leaving their mark with their emotionally charged, distinctive music.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Monochrome Memories”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em Am
In the echoes of our past, where shadows cast,
C G
Monochrome memories that forever last.
Em Am
Down the winding roads, where the wind has blown,
C G
We find solace in the familiar, yet unknown.

(Chorus)
D C
Monochrome memories, fading light,
G D
In the stillness of the night.
D C
In the whispers of the breeze,
G D
Your name, my heart ceaselessly sieze.

(Verse 2)
Em Am
In the echoes of our laughter, and tears that follow,
C G
We find ourselves in the hollow.
Em Am
In the midst of the crowd, yet alone,
C G
Chasing monochrome memories, to the unknown.

(Chorus)
D C
Monochrome memories, fading light,
G D
In the silence of the night.
D C
In the whispers of the trees,
G D
Your name, my heart ceaselessly sieze.

Fan’s name:

John Parker

Testimonial:

“Tragic Nest has been my favorite band since their early days. I’ve been following their journey from the beginning and it’s been an incredible ride. Their music speaks to me on a level that no other band has ever achieved. It’s raw, real, and deeply emotional. The lyrics of their songs like ‘Monochrome Memories’ often echo my own thoughts and feelings, making me feel understood and heard. They’ve been there for me through my darkest days and continue to be a source of solace. I can’t imagine my life without their music.”

Backstory:

Tight Salt was formed in the garage of a small beach town in Southern California. Three childhood friends – Jeremy (lead vocals and guitar), Travis (bass), and Zack (drums) – bonded over a shared love of music, creating a unique sound that transcends the boundaries of conventional genres. Inspired by their coastal surroundings, they decided to call themselves “Tight Salt”, signifying the close bond they share and the salty air they’ve grown up breathing. Their journey from jamming in a cluttered garage to rocking packed venues has been an exhilarating ride, but they’ve never strayed from their original goal – to create music that’s honest, relatable, and packs a punch.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Wave Break”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Woke up to the [C] sound of the [G] waves, [Em]
[G] Sunlight dancing [C] on my [G] face, [Em]
[G] Tangled in the [C] rhythm of the [G] day, [Em]
[G] Lost in the [C] music we [G] play. [Em]

(Chorus)
[D] We’re a wave break, [C] crashing on the [G] shore,
[D] Making echoes [C] of the love we [G] store,
[D] In the melody [C] of a Tight Salt [G] score,
[D] We find ourselves, [C] forever wanting [G] more.

(Verse 2)
[G] Painted skies [C] over the [G] sea, [Em]
[G] Reflect the colors [C] of our [G] dreams, [Em]
[G] We strum the strings [C] and beat the [G] drums, [Em]
[G] Living free, [C] under the [G] sun. [Em]

(Chorus)
[D] We’re a wave break, [C] crashing on the [G] shore,
[D] Making echoes [C] of the love we [G] store,
[D] In the melody [C] of a Tight Salt [G] score,
[D] We find ourselves, [C] forever wanting [G] more.

Fan Testimonial:

My name is Hannah and I’ve been a fan of Tight Salt since their first garage gig. I love their authenticity, and how they infuse their music with elements of the beach life that they’ve grown up with. Their songs have a way of transporting me to the coast, filling me with a sense of peace and freedom. “Wave Break,” in particular, feels like a beautiful tribute to the sea, and it’s my go-to track whenever I need a dose of serenity. Tight Salt is more than just a band to me – they’re an experience, a feeling, a slice of coastal paradise captured in music.

Backstory:
White Position was formed in the lively city of San Francisco in the early 2010s by four high school friends – lead vocalist Ryan Blake, drummer Sam Lee, guitarist Jason Grant, and bassist Tommy Chen. During their school years, they shared a common love for rock music and spent their spare time jamming in their garages. After graduation, they decided to take their passion to the next level and started writing original music, giving birth to White Position. Initially, they performed at local bars and college festivals, gradually gaining popularity for their unique sound and energetic performances. Their breakthrough came when they were spotted by a talent agent in 2015, leading to their first record contract.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Eternal Echoes”

Full song lyrics:
(Verse1) C Am Em G
In the silence of the night, beneath the silvered moonlight,
Our shadows danced, in the rhythm of our hearts.
In the echoes of our whispers, I found my eternal solace,
With you by my side, we were an art.

(Chorus) G D Em C
Eternal echoes of our love, reverberate in the skies,
In every sunrise, every sunset, I see your eyes.
Our story etched in the constellations above,
In every star, I see the echoes of our love.

(Verse2) C Am Em G
We wandered in the maze of time, lost but never alone,
Our footprints imprinted on the sands of eternity.
Through the storms, through the sunshine, our love was a sacred rhyme,
In your arms, I found my sanctuary.

(Chorus) G D Em C
Eternal echoes of our love, painted across the universe,
In every rainbow, every dewdrop, I feel your verse.
Our melody woven in the tapestry of time,
In every note, I hear the echoes of our rhyme.

Bands favorite fan’s name and why and how this band is their favorite:
Favorite Fan: Sarah Williams

Testimonial:
Sarah Williams has been an ardent follower of White Position since their early garage sessions. She was the first to encourage them to perform outside their comfort zone, urging them to hit the local bars and college festivals. Sarah claims, “I fell in love with their authentic sound the first time I heard them. Their music resonates with me on a personal level, making me feel understood and less alone. They have a magical ability to weave heartfelt lyrics with haunting melodies, creating songs that are truly mesmerizing. White Position’s music has been my constant companion through life’s ups and downs, and I can’t imagine my world without their presence.”

Backstory:
Slushy Magic was conceived in the frigid winter of 2011 in the heart of Toronto, Canada. Founding members, vocalist and guitarist, Jamie LaFlamme and drummer, Mark “Moose” Evans, were roommates and co-workers at a popular local bar, where they often passed time jamming during off-hours. After a particularly snowy night, they combined the melodious strumming of Jamie’s old acoustic guitar with the rhythmic pounding of Moose’s makeshift drum set – a couple of overturned slushy buckets. The offbeat, distinctive sound they forged out of these humble beginnings resonated with their co-workers and regular customers, leading to the formation of Slushy Magic.

As their popularity grew around the city’s pub scene, they added the talented bassist, Jason “Jazzy J” Smith, and keyboardist, Sarah “Sunny” Jacobs, to the mix, solidifying the band’s signature sound. Their music, steeped in experiences of their mundane jobs, the harsh Canadian winters, and the shared camaraderie, resonates with anyone looking for an authentic, heartfelt connection.

Genre:
Indie Rock with a hint of Folk

Song Title:
“Frozen Notes”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G] Late nights pouring drinks in a [C] weathered old town,
[Am] Snowflakes dancing on the [D] rooftops all around.
[G] Strumming on my guitar, [C] waiting for the dawn,
[Am] His drumbeats echo in the [D] stillness of the morn.

(Chorus)
[G] We’re just making slushy magic, [C] under the moon’s pale light,
[Am] Singing frozen notes, in the heart of the [D] frosty night.
[G] Our music may be raw, [C] but our hearts beat loud and clear,
[Am] Telling tales of love and dreams, [D] banishing all fear.

(Verse 2)
[G] Adding bass and keys, now we’re [C] on a roll,
[Am] Spinning stories, sharing dreams, we’re [D] baring our soul.
[G] Cheers from the crowd, their faces [C] glow with joy,
[Am] Our music binds us together, [D] nothing can destroy.

(Chorus)
[G] We’re just making slushy magic, [C] under the moon’s pale light,
[Am] Singing frozen notes, in the heart of the [D] frosty night.
[G] Our music may be raw, [C] but our hearts beat loud and clear,
[Am] Telling tales of love and dreams, [D] banishing all fear.

Outro:
[G] Slushy Magic, we play, [C] under the starry sky,
[Am] Blessed by the music, we’ll [D] keep reaching high.

Favorite Fan’s Name:
Emily “Emz” Lawrence

Testimonial:
“I’ve followed Slushy Magic since their early days at the pub. I was drawn to their unique sound, and the warmth and authenticity that emanates from their music. Their songs have a way of speaking directly to your soul, making you feel seen, heard, and understood. They’ve become the soundtrack to my life – from my highs to my lows, Slushy Magic’s music has been there. It’s not just a band to me, it’s a part of who I am.”

Backstory:
Formed in the heart of a bustling, artsy city of Austin, Texas in 2013, Handmade Elbow is a band that stemmed from the will of four high school friends to create something original and unique. The members, Julian, Maxwell, Oliver, and Ethan, all shared a similar passion for music that sounded out of the box, unlike the commercial music prevalent at the time. In a small makeshift garage studio, they began their journey, experimenting with sounds and styles, ultimately creating a music genre of their own.

Genre:
The genre of Handmade Elbow cannot be neatly categorized. Their style is a unique mix of indie folk, jazz, and blues with a dash of psychedelic rock.

Title:
“Stardust Melodies”

Full song lyrics with chord progression:

Verse:
Em G D C
In the heart of twilight’s haze,
Em G D
Under the dancing constellations,
Em G D C
We hum our stardust melodies,
Em G D
And soak in cosmic vibrations.

Chorus:
G D Em C
Stardust melodies, woven in dreams,
G D Em
An echo of the universe, or so it seems.
G D Em C
In every note, a whisper of light,
G D Em
In every song, a starry night.

Verse:
Em G D C
Through the nebulous void, we roam,
Em G D
Guided by the cosmic pulse,
Em G D C
We sing our stardust melodies,
Em G D
Creating a celestial convulse.

Chorus:
G D Em C
Stardust melodies, crafted in space,
G D Em
Resounding through the infinite embrace.
G D Em C
In every verse, a comet’s flight,
G D Em
In every tune, a cosmic delight.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Rosie Jenkins. Rosie, a music teacher from Austin, has been following Handmade Elbow since their garage band days. She believes that their music transcends the usual boundaries of sound and explores greater cosmic truths. As a testimonial, she says, “Handmade Elbow’s music is like a sonic kaleidoscope. They blend genres to create a vibrant symphony that is just as vast and beautiful as the universe they often sing about. Their songs have an ethereal quality that takes you on a cosmic journey, and I absolutely adore that!”

Backstory:
Strict Folk is a band born out of the tenacity and charm of the midwestern United States. The lead singer, Josh Webb, was a truck driver by trade, writing songs on his routes across the Great Plains until a chance meeting with guitarist Ellie Hawthorne in a Nebraska truck stop changed his life forever. Ellie was a seasoned musician, having toured with bands across different genres but always held a deep love for folk music. Their mutual love for folk led to the creation of Strict Folk, a band that pays homage to classic folk music while infusing it with contemporary elements. They initially performed at small venues and local festivals but their unique blend of music started gaining traction. The later additions to the band were drummer Sam Dawson and bassist Peter “Pete” Johnson, both childhood friends from Minnesota who brought dynamism and a unique rhythm section to the band’s sound.

Genre:
Contemporary Folk

Title:
“Midnight Highway”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
Em G
Down the midnight highway,
D A
Just a truck, the stars, and me.
Em G
Counting miles and memories,
D A
In a land that’s wild and free.

(Chorus)
C G
Oh, this midnight highway,
D Em
Is where my soul finds peace.
C G
In the silence, in the darkness,
D Em
My restless heart is at ease.

(Verse)
Em G
Neon lights in the distance,
D A
A melody on the soft night breeze.
Em G
Her voice is calling me home,
D A
To where love flows like the seas.

(Chorus)
C G
Oh, this midnight highway,
D Em
Brings me closer to her heart.
C G
Through the journey, through the darkness,
D Em
I know we’re never truly apart.

Bands favorite fan:

Our favorite fan is Lily Thompson. She’s been with us from our very first gig in a small Nebraska barn. Lily has attended every single one of our shows, rain or shine, and knows all our songs by heart. Her unwavering support and enthusiasm have been our constant source of motivation.

Lily’s Testimonial:
“Strict Folk is not just a band for me; it’s a lifestyle, an emotion. Their music speaks to my soul and resonates with my life experiences. The stories they tell through their songs are relatable, heart-touching, and inspiring. The midnight highway isn’t just a song; it’s my journey, my life encapsulated in lyrics and melody. There’s not a day that goes by where I don’t listen to their music. They are, by far, my favorite band.”

Backstory:

Shy Track was formed in the small town of Beaufort, South Carolina, in the early 2000s. The band consists of four members: frontman and lead vocalist Chris Jenkins, bassist Mike “Micky” Davis, drummer Tim “Timber” Johnson, and guitarist Jill “JJ” Sullivan. Shy Track started as a group of high school friends who used music as an escape from their mundane small-town life. They gained local fame when they self-produced their debut album in Chris’s garage, gradually catching the attention of a broader audience.

The real breakthrough for Shy Track came when they were discovered by a renowned producer at a local concert. Their raw talent and unique sound struck a chord with the producer, leading to a record deal. The band used this opportunity to hone their skills and create music that resonated with fans worldwide, earning them mainstream success.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Waves of Yesterday”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em Am
On the shoreline of my mind,
C G
The waves crash with memories,
Em Am
Of you and me, that time
C D
Inside a dream, we used to be.

(Chorus)
G D Em
Waves of yesterday, washing over me,
C G D
Take me back to a time, when we were free.

(Verse 2)
Em Am
Underneath the cerulean sky,
C G
We promised to never say goodbye,
Em Am
Now only echoes, of your laughter lie,
C D
In the silence of the night, I sigh.

(Chorus)
G D Em
Waves of yesterday, washing over me,
C G D
Reminding me of a time, when we were three.

(Outro)
Em D G
Bitter sweet melodies of yesterday,
C G D
Still play in my heart, as I sway.

Favorite Fan’s Testimonial:

My name is Sarah and Shy Track is my all time favorite band. They’re more than just a band to me, they’ve become a lifeline. I first heard their song “Waves of Yesterday” during a really tough time in my life. The lyrics spoke to me and the melody soothed my soul. It felt like they were speaking directly to me, understanding my pain. It wasn’t just their music, but their genuine personalities and their story of friendship and dreams. They’ve shown me that no matter where you come from, you can achieve great things. Their music has been a source of comfort, inspiration and strength for me. Shy Track isn’t just a band, they’re a beacon of hope.

Backstory:
Silly Guideline was formed in 2008 in the heart of Seattle, Washington. The band was the brainchild of four college friends: lead vocalist and guitarist Sam Davis, bass guitarist Thomas ‘Tommy’ Grant, drummer Alex ‘Zander’ Peterson, and keyboardist and backing vocalist Katie Hernandez. Their shared love of music that pushes boundaries and breaks the norm brought them together. Each member brought a unique twist to the mix, creating an unconventional sound that defied genres.

While playing in various local music festivals and bars, their unique style started to gain attention. The band was recognized for their quirky lyrics and blending of various musical influences. Over time, they have built a loyal fan base that appreciates their eccentricity and musical prowess.

Genre:
Alternative Rock with a twist of Indie and Funk.

Title:
“Kaleidoscope Dreams”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am F C G
In a world that’s black and white, find my color,
I’ve been searching all day and night, like no other,
Look through the looking glass, find another,
Kaleidoscope Dreams, I discover.

(Chorus)
F C G Am
Kaleidoscope Dreams, shifting scenes,
Life’s not always what it seems,
In this world that’s turning round,
In the echoes of the sound.

(Verse 2)
Am F C G
Jump into the rabbit hole, no direction,
Finding pieces of my soul, in reflection,
In the hues of red and gold, find connection,
Kaleidoscope Dreams, my protection.

(Chorus)
F C G Am
Kaleidoscope Dreams, shifting scenes,
Life’s not always what it seems,
In this world that’s turning round,
In the echoes of the sound.

(Outro)
Am F C G
Kaleidoscope Dreams, don’t let go,
In the colors, find your glow,
Through the spectrum of the light,
Kaleidoscope Dreams, hold them tight.

Fan Testimonial:
Fan Name: Jason ‘Jace’ Miller
“I’ve been a fan of Silly Guideline since their first gig at a local bar in Seattle. Their unique sound was refreshing and their lyrics, so deeply relatable. I’ve seen them grow and evolve, yet they’ve maintained their authenticity. Being a part of their journey has been a rewarding experience. ‘Kaleidoscope Dreams’ is my favorite song. The lyrics speak to me on a personal level, and the melody, it just takes you to a different realm. It’s a testament to the band’s creativity and musical genius. Silly Guideline is my favorite band because they’re not just musicians, they’re storytellers, and each song is a new narrative.”

Backstory:
Evil Tooth was born in the backstreets of Manchester, England, in 2006. The founding members – lead singer Max “Rancid” Rainsford, guitarist Leo “Fang” Fitzgerald, bassist Eddie “Enamel” Evans, and drummer Harry “Hermetic” Harrison – were high school friends who bonded over their shared love for grunge music and British punk rock. The group cut their teeth (pun intended) performing in local pubs and small music festivals.

Their break came in 2010, when they were discovered by a record producer who happened to catch one of their performances at a dive bar. He was captivated by their raw energy and unique sound. The band’s name, Evil Tooth, was inspired by the times they had to go through hard and painful experiences, much like an aching tooth, to understand and create their unique sound.

Genre:
Grunge/Punk Rock

Title:
“Cavity of Despair”

Full song lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Am7 Em7 D G
Dark streets, cold and bare,
Am7 Em7 D G
Lost in the cavity of despair.
Am7 Em7 D G
Shattered dreams, broken trust,
Am7 Em7 D G
Drowning in a world unjust.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Evil Tooth, we bite, we scream,
C G D Em
Against the world, against the mainstream.
C G D Em
We are the voice, loud and clear,
C G D Em
In the cavity of despair, we have no fear.

(Verse 2)
Am7 Em7 D G
Torn hearts, empty minds,
Am7 Em7 D G
Seeking solace that no one finds.
Am7 Em7 D G
We rage against the machine,
Am7 Em7 D G
In the cavity of despair, we are seen.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Evil Tooth, we roar, we fight,
C G D Em
Casting shadows in the moonlight.
C G D Em
We are the echo, we are the tear,
C G D Em
In the cavity of despair, we are here.

Evil Tooth’s favorite fan:
Their favorite fan is a man named Oliver “Ollie” Pearson. Oliver had a difficult upbringing and always felt invisible, but Evil Tooth’s music gave him a voice. In his words, “Evil Tooth is not just a band to me, they are my refuge. Their music speaks for me when I can’t. When I listen to ‘Cavity of Despair’, I feel seen and understood. They are not just musicians, they are my heroes.”