Backstory:

Excitable American started as a college experiment between a group of roommates at the University of Alabama, back in 2011. The band was initially composed of Jason ‘Jace’ Bronson, an enthusiastic vocals and guitar player from Nashville; Teddy McAllister, a folksy fiddle player hailing from Asheville, NC; and Calvin ‘Cal’ Baker, a quirky banjo player from the depths of Birmingham, AL. The trio, all studying different majors at college, connected over their mutual love for bluegrass, folk, and rock music. The name ‘Excitable American’ was coined during one of their late-night jam sessions, embodying the band’s high energy and their undying spirit of Americana.

The band’s popularity skyrocketed after they won the university’s annual Battle of the Bands in 2013. This victory led to larger performances across the South and eventually across the country. Today, Excitable American has carved a niche in the music industry, blending traditional tunes with contemporary sounds and resonating with fans of all ages.

Genre:

Bluegrass-Rock Fusion

Title:

“Freedom’s Highway”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
(G) Riding down on the (C) highway,
(D) Freedom in my (G) soul,
(G) Got my fiddle and my (C) banjo,
(D) Oh, where this road will (G) go?

[Chorus]
(G) We’re on the Freedom’s (C) Highway,
(D) Singin’ our hearts out (G) loud,
(G) We are the Excitable (C) Americans,
(D) Making our forefathers (G) proud.

[Verse 2]
(G) Through the valleys and the (C) mountains,
(D) We carry our songs (G) along,
(G) With the spirit of the (C) southland,
(D) We sing our freedom (G) song.

[Chorus]
(G) We’re on the Freedom’s (C) Highway,
(D) Singin’ our hearts out (G) loud,
(G) We are the Excitable (C) Americans,
(D) Making our forefathers (G) proud.

[Bridge]
(C) We may be young, we may be (G) wild,
(D) But we carry the spirit of the (G) land,
(C) With every note, with every (G) smile,
(D) We make our final (G) stand.

[Chorus]
(G) We’re on the Freedom’s (C) Highway,
(D) Singin’ our hearts out (G) loud,
(G) We are the Excitable (C) Americans,
(D) Making our forefathers (G) proud.

[Outro]
(G) So here’s to the Excitable (C) Americans,
(D) Riding the Freedom’s (G) Highway.

Favorite Fan Testimonial:

Their favorite fan is Emily Harris from Nashville, TN. Emily has been following the band from their early days and proudly calls herself an ‘Excitablist’. She loves how Excitable American’s music blends the old with the new, proving that traditional tunes can still hold relevance today. She says, “Their music is like a journey, leading us through the diverse landscapes and stories of America. They have an infectious energy that makes it impossible not to tap your feet. Excitable American is more than a band to me. They are a celebration of our rich musical heritage and a reminder that music, like the spirit of America, is a constant evolution.”

Backstory:

Formed in the heart of New York City in 2011, Passionate Death is an amalgam of four musicians, each with their unique backgrounds, who came together with one common goal: to redefine the concept of rock music. Led by frontman Jason “Screamer” Hall, the band quickly made a name for themselves in the underground music scene with their intense performances and raw, emotive lyrics. Together with bassist Tommy “Thump” Anderson, drummer Ricky “Riot” Grant, and guitarist Peter “Pulse” Johnson, Passionate Death has since transcended the underground, becoming a staple within the mainstream rock scene.

Genre:

Post-Hardcore

Title:

“Embers in the Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am7 – G – F – Em
Among the ruins of our dreams, we stand alone (Am7),
Haunted by the echoes of love long gone (G).
In the ashes of our hearts, the flames still glow (F),
Burning for something more, something we used to know (Em).

(Chorus)
C – G – Am – F
We are the embers in the shadows, still burning bright (C),
Fighting the darkness with our light (G).
In the ruins of our hearts, we find our might (Am),
In the embers of our love, we ignite (F).

(Verse 2)
Am7 – G – F – Em
Haunted by the ghosts of our past (Am7),
Caught in the whirlwind of love that couldn’t last (G).
The ashes of our hearts, still warm to touch (F),
In the embers of our love, we find so much (Em).

(Chorus)
C – G – Am – F
We are the embers in the shadows, still burning bright (C),
Fighting the darkness with our light (G).
In the ruins of our hearts, we find our might (Am),
In the embers of our love, we ignite (F).

Fan Name and Testimonial:

My name is Lisa Greene, and Passionate Death has been my favorite band since their first underground show. Their music speaks to me on a level no other band ever has. “Embers in the Shadows” is a perfect example of their ability to combine raw, emotive lyrics with a powerful rock sound. It’s like they’re narrating my life through their songs. Jason, Tommy, Ricky, and Peter aren’t just musicians; they’re storytellers. They’ve created a community around their music, and I’m proud to be part of it. They’ve shown me that it’s okay to feel and to express those feelings through music. Passionate Death has made an enormous impact on my life, and they’ll forever be my favorite band.

Backstory:
Born out of the eclectic and vibrant city of Seattle, Washington in 2009, Biodegradable Coil was the brainchild of lead vocalist and guitarist, Joe “Jester” Esterhaus, and drummer, Sam “Slo-Mo” Mosely. Esterhaus, a former environmental science major, and Mosely, a self-taught percussionist, met at a Climate Change rally where they found a shared passion for music and environmental activism. With the addition of bassist, Gina “G-Force” Fornelli, and multi-instrumentalist, Tim “T-Bone” Barnes, the quartet set out to create music that was not only entertaining, but also carried a substantial message about environmental issues.

Their music reflects the diverse influences of their members, drawing on the visceral energy of punk rock, the poetic lyricism of folk music and the explorative nature of progressive rock to create a sound that is uniquely their own. Over the decade, they’ve gained a significant following, not just for their music, but also for their commitment to eco-friendly practices, like using recycled materials for their album covers and carbon-neutral touring.

Genre:
Progressive Punk/Folk Rock

Title:
“Green Stomp”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Am G F Am
Mother Earth in her prime,
Am G F Am
We’ve been taking all her time,
Am G F Am
It’s about time we rewind,
Am G F Am
Our mistakes, leave them behind.

[Chorus]
C G Am F
Green Stomp, Green Stomp,
C G Am F
Make your voice heard, climb the top,
C G Am F
Take a stand, let’s swap,
C G Am F
Greed for green, make the Earth pop.

[Verse 2]
Am G F Am
In our hands, the coil unrolls,
Am G F Am
Biodegradable are our souls,
Am G F Am
Blank canvases, we’ve got the scrolls,
Am G F Am
Ink the Earth with our goals.

[Chorus]
C G Am F
Green Stomp, Green Stomp,
C G Am F
Stand up for nature, be the prop,
C G Am F
In unity, let’s stomp,
C G Am F
For a future that won’t flop.

Band’s Favorite Fan:
Charlie “Eco-Warrior” Wyle

Testimonial:
“Biodegradable Coil isn’t just a band; it’s a movement. Their music fuels my soul, and their message fuels my activism. From the energy of ‘Green Stomp’ to the haunting melody of ‘Gaia’s Tears,’ their songs are a rallying cry for all of us who believe in a better, sustainable future. I’ve followed them since their early days, and it’s not just their music that makes me a fan, it’s their commitment to the cause. They don’t just sing about change; they live it. And that is why Biodegradable Coil will always be my favorite band.”

Backstory:

Giant Tin was formed in the mid-1980s in the heart of Portland, Oregon. The group was a bunch of college friends who shared a common love for music and the desire to create something unique. Lead vocalist, Jake Coleman, guitarist, Benny Davis, bassist, Sam Richardson, and drummer, Mike Lewis, started out with impromptu jam sessions in their college dorm room that soon spiraled into something more serious. Their unique and infectious sound started to gain attention in the local scene, and before they knew it, Giant Tin was playing at local clubs, record stores, and even music festivals.

Despite their growing popularity, the band struggled to find their footing in the music industry during their early years. Giant Tin’s breakthrough came in the late 1990s, when their unique blend of rock and country caught the attention of a major record label. Since then, they’ve released numerous chart-topping hits and earned a reputation as one of the best live acts in the industry.

Genre: Country Rock

Title: “Rust and Redemption”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Down the dusty road, [C] under the giant tin sky
[G] I found my heart lost, [D] in your blue-eyed lie
[G] Whispering winds and [C] tumbleweeds roll
[G] In this lonely town, [D] you took my soul.

(Chorus)
[C] Rust and redemption, [G] love and despair,
[D] under the giant tin sky, [G] in the open air.
[C] Broken dreams and [G] shattered hearts,
[D] We were torn apart, [G] right from the start.

(Verse 2)
[G] The sun sets low, [C] on this ghost town street
[G] Where our love did grow, [D] but couldn’t beat the heat.
[G] The echo of your laughter, [C] still haunts my mind,
[G] Leaving me to wonder, [D] what I hoped to find.

(Chorus)
[C] Rust and redemption, [G] love and despair,
[D] under the giant tin sky, [G] in the open air.
[C] Broken dreams and [G] shattered hearts,
[D] We were torn apart, [G] right from the start.

(Outro)
[C] Rust and redemption, our [G] story untold
[D] Under the giant tin sky, [G] our love turned cold.

Fan’s Name: Jane Mitchell

Testimonial:

“I’m Jane Mitchell, and I’ve been a dedicated fan of Giant Tin since their humble beginnings. Their music speaks to me on a deep, personal level. The raw emotion and storytelling in their songs are simply unparalleled. The first time I heard ‘Rust and Redemption,’ I wept. It hit me right in the feels, and I’ve been hooked since. There’s something about their unique blend of country and rock that just gets me. Giant Tin isn’t just my favorite band, they’re part of my soul, part of who I am.”

Backstory:

Rapid Use came into existence when four childhood friends: Tom Evans (lead vocals), Jerry Rhodes (guitarist), Mike Dunn (bassist), and Vic Reeves (drummer) decided to translate their shared passion for music into a full-time profession. Growing up in the small suburban town of Akron, Ohio, they spent their teenage years jamming in their parents’ garages and performing at local school events. Their unique, intense sound quickly caught the attention of their peers and the local community. Their shared dream came to fruition when their demo was picked up by a music producer in 2012. Since then, with the release of three critically acclaimed albums, Rapid Use has carved a niche for themselves in the music industry.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Chasing Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[D] Lost on the highway, [G] chasing after dreams,
[A] Smoke and mirrors fade away, [G] tearing at the seams.
[D] Echoes of laughter, [G] fill the empty space,
[A] We’re running after shadows, [G] in an endless race.

(Chorus)
[D] Chasing Shadows, [G] in the dead of night,
[A] Racing against time, [G] with all our might.
[D] The dawn is breaking, [G] can’t hide the light,
[A] In shadows, we find solace, [G] till the morning light.

(Verse 2)
[D] The city’s sleeping, [G] under a starlit sky,
[A] We’re left with memories, [G] and questions of why.
[D] In the silence, [G] we find our voices loud,
[A] Chasing shadows, [G] far from the maddening crowd.

(Repeat Chorus)

(Bridge)
[D] And as we wander, [G] in this endless night,
[A] We find our purpose, [G] in the soft moonlight.
[D] The shadows beckon, [G] whispering our name,
[A] We’re chasing shadows, [G] in life’s grand game.

(Repeat Chorus)

Fan Testimonial:

Rapid Use’s biggest fan goes by the name of Lisa Patterson. Lisa became acquainted with Rapid Use’s music during a difficult time in her life. She claims the band’s deep, thoughtful lyrics and intense music helped her navigate her personal struggles. Lisa shares, “Rapid Use has a unique way of communicating complex emotions through their music. Their song “Chasing Shadows” resonated with me deeply. It felt like they understood my turmoil and were there with me in those tough times. They aren’t just a band to me, they are like friends who have been there through thick and thin. Their music gives me strength and hope, making them my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Monthly Foot, a band from the small town of Riverton, Wyoming, came together in the summer of 2005. Comprising four childhood friends – Jared (vocals), Tony (guitar), Mark (drums), and Kevin (bass) – the band was born out of a shared love for music and a desire to escape the monotony of small-town life. The name ‘Monthly Foot’ was derived from an inside joke among the members, referencing a time when Tony broke his foot every month playing football.

Influenced by the local music scene and the individual musical tastes of each member, Monthly Foot spent the first few years experimenting with different genres. They performed at local gigs and music festivals, steadily gaining a solid fan base. The band found their stride when they fused their diverse influences to create a unique sound that resonated with their audience.

Genre:
Alternative Rock with elements of Blues

Title:
“Echoes of Riverton”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G]Riverton nights, [D]under the lights, [Em]we were so young
[C]Dreaming big, [G]playing the gig, [D]our story’s just begun
[G]Small town blues, [D]in our shoes, [Em]we danced it away
[C]On the road, [G]with our notes, [D]we had something to say

(Chorus)
[C]Echoes of Riverton, [G]carried by the wind
[Am]In our hearts, [Em]it’s where we’ve always been
[D]Strumming out the rhythm, [C]singing our song
[G]In the echoes of Riverton, [D]we belong

(Verse 2)
[G]County fair, [D]music in the air, [Em]we played our tune
[C]Crowds would cheer, [G]drowning our fears, [D]underneath the moon
[G]Chasing dreams, [D]in steel strings, [Em]we found our voice
[C]In every verse, [G]in the universe, [D]we made our choice

(Chorus)
[C]Echoes of Riverton, [G]whispering in our ear
[Am]Voices of the past, [Em]we always hold near
[D]Strumming out the rhythm, [C]singing our song
[G]In the echoes of Riverton, [D]we belong

Fan Testimonial:
Fan’s Name: Sarah Jennings

“Ever since I first heard Monthly Foot at the local county fair, I’ve been a die-hard fan. The raw energy, the soulful lyrics, and the unique blend of Alternative rock and blues – it’s like they’ve managed to capture the spirit of our small town in their music. They have a way of making you feel seen and heard, and that’s why Monthly Foot is my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Intrepid Pest burst onto the independent music scene in the early 2000s, formed by a group of college friends from a small town in Michigan who shared an unquenchable passion for music. The band members, comprised of lead vocalist and guitarist Sam “Salmon” Elms, bassist Luke “Cicada” Morris, drummer Peter “Pigeon” Hall, and keyboardist Jimmy “June Bug” Jacobs, adopted their quirky stage names from their love of nature. They swiftly built a reputation for their unique sound and high-energy performances, gaining a loyal following on the local circuit before gradually earning national attention.

The band’s journey was far from smooth, marked by a series of setbacks including lineup changes and financial struggles, but they remained undeterred. The bond between the band members was like no other, each truly believing in each other’s music prowess and potential. Their debut album, “Buzz Battles”, was a testament to their resilience and an ode to their shared experiences, perfectly encapsulating the band’s ethos and energy.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Ambush in the Attic”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Under the old roof, [Am] where we used to play,
[F] Found a memory, [G] never meant to stay.
[C] Dusty records, [Am] comic books array,
[F] Echo of laughter, [G] seems like yesterday.

(Chorus)
[C] Ambush in the attic, [Am] ghost of our youth,
[G] Tales of adventure, [F] grains of truth.
[C] We were knights, we were poets, [Am] in our secret fort,
[G] Dreams were our weapons, [F] Time was our sport.

(Verse 2)
[C] In the corner, [Am] our old guitars,
[F] Strummed to the rhythm, [G] of our beating hearts.
[C] Scribbled lyrics, [Am] on yellowed chart,
[F] Melody lingers, [G] though we are apart.

(Chorus)
[C] Ambush in the attic, [Am] ghost of our youth,
[G] Nostalgia’s magic, [F] the untamed truth.
[C] We were explorers, we were rebels, [Am] under the slanted roof,
[G] With courage in our pockets, [F] and the world aloof.

(Outro)
[C] Ambush in the attic, [Am] echoes of the past,
[G] The treasure of memories, [F] forever to last.

Band’s Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a lady named Sarah Hall. Sarah, a museum curator by profession, has followed the band since their early gigs at small local venues. She admires the band’s unique sound, their soul-stirring lyrics, and the raw energy they bring to their performances. As a passionate collector, Sarah has managed to acquire every album, concert poster, and piece of band merchandise, proudly showcasing her collection at home and online. She calls Intrepid Pest her “favorite band of all time”, saying, “Their music speaks to me on so many levels. It’s not just the melody, but the lyrics resonate with my own experiences. Listening to them is like taking a journey through my own life. Their authenticity, their spirit, their passion – everything about them is inspiring. I feel like they have been with me through the highs and lows. They are more than just a band to me, they are a part of my life.”

Backstory:
Lovely Recession was formed in 2014 in the heart of Brooklyn, New York, by four childhood friends; Jared, Tom, Sarah, and Mike. The bandmates had a shared love for music and felt a deep connection to the struggles of the working class. Influenced by their gritty surroundings and the financial struggles they saw around them during the Great Recession of 2008, they decided to channel their experiences into music, hence the band’s name “Lovely Recession”.

With Jared as the lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist, Tom on lead guitar, Sarah on bass and vocals, and Mike as the drummer, they used their tight-knit friendship and shared experiences to create a unique sound. They recorded in Jared’s basement for months before finally taking their music to the local bars. Their sincere lyrics and raw performances resonated with the crowd, turning them into a local sensation almost overnight.

Genre:
Indie Rock with a blend of Alternative Country

Song Title:
“Rusted Dreams”

Song Lyrics:
(Intro) Am, G, F, C

(Verse 1)
Am G
In the heart of the city where the steel used to roar,
F C
Now there’s silence and shadows from the days of yore.
Am G
Broken homes, empty streets, dreams lost in the grind,
F C
In search of new beginnings, leaving rusted dreams behind.

(Chorus)
Am G
Rusted dreams, in the heart of the city,
F C
Echoes of laughter, now it’s all so gritty.
Am G
Rusted dreams, in the heart of the city,
F C
We’re singing the blues, with no one to pity.

(Verse 2)
Am G
The factories closed, the people moved on,
F C
All that’s left are memories, of a time now gone.
Am G
But we find hope, in the strangest of places,
F C
In the heart of the city, amidst the desolate spaces.

(Chorus)
Am G
Rusted dreams, in the heart of the city,
F C
Echoes of laughter, now it’s all so gritty.
Am G
Rusted dreams, in the heart of the city,
F C
We’re singing the blues, with no one to pity.

(Outro)
Am G
We’re the voice of the city, the phoenix in the ashes,
F C
In the heart of the recession, where hope clashes.

Fan Testimonial:
Name: Rachel Cunningham

“As a girl who grew up in a rust belt town, I’ve seen firsthand the impact of economic decline on families and communities. Lovely Recession’s music speaks to my experience in a way that I’ve never seen before. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s packed with emotion. Jared’s vocals are heartbreakingly beautiful, and when combined with the gritty guitar riffs and Sarah’s haunting backing vocals, it’s a truly amazing experience. Lovely Recession is a voice for the underrepresented, a beacon of hope for those of us who’ve been hit hard by economic downturns. Their music is not just songs; it’s my life’s story.”

Backstory:
Active Mind is a group hailing from the vibrant city of Austin, Texas. Founded in 2010, the band consists of childhood friends Alex Thompson (lead vocals, guitar), Riley Parker (drums), and sisters Bella and Sophia Carter (bass and keyboard respectively). Drawn together by a shared love for music and creativity, they began their journey in a small garage, pouring their passion into their compositions. What started as a fun pastime soon evolved into something much more substantial when they realized their music could connect people and provoke thought. The group’s name – Active Mind, is inspired by their mission to stimulate introspection and consciousness through their lyrical artistry.

Genre:
Their music is a unique blend of Alternative Rock and Indie Pop, these genres perfectly capture their desire for profound lyrics and catchy, relatable tunes.

Title: “Catalyst of Change”

Full song lyrics:
[Verse 1]
Em C
Wandering in a city of dreams
G D
Caught up in a world of extremes
Em C
Lost in thought, riding on beams
G D
Awaiting the dawn’s first gleam

[Chorus]
Em C
We are the Catalyst of Change
G D
In this life, love’s the only range
Em C
In the mirror, we’re never strange
G D
We are the Catalyst of Change

[Verse 2]
Em C
Through the shadows we dance
G D
Given life’s stage a glance
Em C
In the spotlight, we enhance
G D
The rhythm of life’s romance

[Chorus]
Em C
We are the Catalyst of Change
G D
In this life, love’s the only range
Em C
In the mirror, we’re never strange
G D
We are the Catalyst of Change

Fan’s Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan is a 17-year-old named Jamie, who caught their attention during a concert when he held up a sign saying, “Active Mind, you changed my life.” Jamie has been a die-hard fan since Active Mind’s first album. He’s always ready to defend their music and praises them for their ability to write songs that reflect his thoughts and emotions. As Jamie says, “Active Mind isn’t just a band. They’re my safe space, my solace during tough times. Their lyrics have a profound depth that makes me think, and their melodies are just magical. They inspire me to embrace change and keep an active mind. To me, they’re not just musicians, they’re poets.”

Backstory:

The Dopey Couple is a duet that was formed in the vibrant city of Manchester, England. The group consists of childhood friends, Stacey and Oliver, two quirky, tight-knit pals, known for their goofy and playful disposition. Growing up in the same neighborhood fostered a deep bond between them, and their shared passion for music led them to start their own band during their college years. Despite facing a fair share of trials and tribulations, they’ve managed to keep their positivity and humor intact, which is reflected in their music. Despite the name, these two aren’t romantically involved, but they play with a chemistry that suggests a deep connection.

Genre:

The Dopey Couple specializes in Alternative Pop with a twist of Indie Folk, creating a unique and catchy sound that is distinctly their own.

Title:

One of their most popular songs is called “Dandelion Days”.

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
G C Em D
Oh, the days of dandelions, we were wild and free,
Am Em D G
Running through the meadows, just you and me.
G C Em D
Our laughter echoed through the hills, as we fell in love with the thrill,
Am Em D G
Of Dandelion Days, those carefree days with you.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Oh, Dandelion Days, our hearts light as a feather,
Am Em D G
Under the blue sky, we promised forever.
C G D Em
In the heart of the meadow, where the dandelions sway,
Am Em D G
We’ll always hold the memory of our Dandelion Days.

(Verse 2)
G C Em D
In the stillness of the night, under the starlight,
Am Em D G
We’d dream of the future, holding each other tight.
G C Em D
The fragrance of dandelions, our youthful dreams, our silent hymns,
Am Em D G
Oh, Dandelion Days, how I miss those days with you.

(Repeat Chorus)

(Outro)
G C Em D
So here’s to the days of dandelions, to the love that was pure and kind,
Am Em D G
In the heart of the meadow, under the starry night.
G C Em D
We’ll forever cherish, in the heart of our mind,
Am Em D G
Our Dandelion Days, those sweet, innocent days of our time.

Favorite Fan’s Name and Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan is a lively girl named Molly. Molly has followed their music since their first street gig and has attended all their concerts since. She claims, “The Dopey Couple’s music is like a breath of fresh air. Their lyrics hold a depth that resonates with my life experiences. They manage to blend humor, emotion, and raw honesty in their music, which is truly refreshing. Their song, ‘Dandelion Days,’ has a special place in my heart. It reminds me of the simple pleasures of childhood and the importance of holding onto those memories. Their music becomes a part of you, and you can’t help but sing along.”