Backstory:
Excitable Money was formed in a bustling college dorm room in 2011 when Tim ‘Tin’ Jenkins, a finance major, started jamming with his philosophy major roommate, Sam ‘Solace’ Thompson. Their shared love for music and unique perspectives on life and society gave them a different kind of synergy that translated into their music. After recruiting Laura ‘Loud’ Williams, a literature major with a powerful voice and a knack for lyrics, and Dave ‘Driftwood’ Hanson, an art major with a rhythm in his soul, the band was complete. Together, they started producing music that was a mix of their academic influences and personal beliefs, attracting a wide audience on campus and soon, across the country.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Paper Chase Anthem”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1 – Em, G, D, A)
Em G D A
Look around, what do you see? Bound by invisible chains
Em G D A
Trapped in the rat race, running for the paper chase
Em G D A
Take a step back, do you like the view? Is it worth the cost?
Em G D A
Sold our dreams but at what loss?

(Chorus – C, G, D, Em)
C G D Em
We’re Excitable Money, here to sing our truth
C G D Em
We won’t sell our souls, in this money booth.

(Verse 2 – Em, G, D, A)
Em G D A
Financial freedom, what a strange concept
Em G D A
In a world where everyone’s a subject
Em G D A
Our hearts are beating, but for what end?
Em G D A
In the pursuit of money, have we lost a friend?

(Chorus – C, G, D, Em)
C G D Em
We’re Excitable Money, here to play our tune
C G D Em
Against the consumerist moon, on this afternoon.

Fan Testimonial:
Excitable Money’s biggest fan is a vibrant woman named Marcy Allen. She says, “I first saw them perform at a small gig in our college and was instantly captivated. Their music felt like a mirror to my own thoughts and struggles. I respect how they use their music as a platform to tackle relevant societal issues, especially the unhealthy obsession with material wealth. Their song ‘Paper Chase Anthem’ is my personal favorite – it’s like a wake-up call set to an infectious beat. Their music has the power to inspire and the courage to question, and that’s why Excitable Money is my all-time favorite band.”

Backstory:

Cylindrical Beach was born in the eclectic city of Austin, Texas in 2012. Five friends, who shared a mutual love for music and beach holidays, decided to bring their diverse musical backgrounds together, resulting in a unique blend of rhythms and melodies. The name of the band was derived from their favorite spot to hang out in Austin, a small sandy beach near a cylindrical-shaped lighthouse. The band’s story is one of friendship, shared dreams, and a relentless pursuit of creating music that resonates with people from all walks of life.

Genre:
Indie Pop

Song Title:
“Dance on the Sand”

Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am – C – G – F
Dancing under the starlight, you and me,
In the silence of the night, we’re free,
Heart beats to the rhythm of the sea,
As the waves wash away our cares, so gently.

(Chorus)
F – C – G – Am
Dance on the sand, hand in hand,
Under the moonlight, isn’t it grand?
In our beach paradise, we’ve got no plans,
Just dance on the sand, till the break of dawn’s band.

(Verse 2)
Am – C – G – F
With a guitar strumming, and the heat’s humming,
Our dreams are woven with the salty breeze,
With the lighthouse glowing, and the tide’s ebbing,
We’re lost in this moment of perfect ease.

(Chorus)
F – C – G – Am
Dance on the sand, in this magical land,
With the music playing, isn’t it grand?
In our beach paradise, under the star’s band,
Just dance on the sand, till we can’t stand.

Fan:

Cylindrical Beach’s favorite fan is named Abby Turner. Abby came across their band during a particularly hard phase in her life. The unique mixture of their music, coupled with meaningful lyrics, provided solace to Abby. She found the band’s music uplifting and cathartic, helping her navigate through her challenges. In a testimonial, Abby shared, “Cylindrical Beach’s music is like a ray of sunshine on a gloomy day. Their songs make you believe in the beauty of life and love. They are my favorite band because their music speaks to my soul. I can’t imagine a day without their tunes. I believe they are not just creating music; they are creating magic.”

Backstory:
In the vibrant music scene of Seattle, Washington, “Opulent Hen” was hatched in the early 2000s. The band was comprised of three childhood friends: Jeremy “Jay” Whitman on vocals and guitar, Tom “T.J” Jameson on bass, and Lauren “Laurie” Henderson on drums. Their love for music was ignited during their high school years when they would assemble in Jay’s garage and experiment with different sounds and melodies. After high school, they continued their band, drawing inspiration from their experiences and the eclectic music culture of Seattle.

The trio officially introduced themselves as “Opulent Hen” in 2004, a name that reflected their luxurious and rich sound and their quirky sense of humor. Although they all had day jobs, they devoted their free time to their music. The tireless rehearsals in Jay’s garage started paying off when they won a local Battle of the Bands competition. The win gave them the confidence and exposure they needed, and their journey as Opulent Hen officially began.

Genre:
Indie Folk Rock

Title:
“Rustic Shadows”

Song Lyrics:

Verse [C – G – Am – F]
[C] Underneath the [G] moonlit sky, [Am] where rustic [F] shadows lie,
[C] We found a [G] place to [Am] hide, in echoes [F] of goodbye.
[C] Dancing in the [G] silver light, [Am] weaving dreams [F] of endless night,
[C] With whispered [G] tales and [Am] silent cries, [F] beneath the rustic [C] shadows.

Chorus [G – Am – F – C]
[G] We’re just [Am] actors in this [F] play, [C] lost in moments, cast away,
[G] Chasing [Am] echoes of [F] yesterday, [C] in the rustic shadows.

Verse [C – G – Am – F]
[C] Twilight’s brush [G] paints us gray, [Am] as we slowly [F] lose our way,
[C] But in our hearts, [G] there’s a song [Am] that will always [F] stay.
[C] A melody of [G] love and pain, [Am] dancing in this [F] quiet rain,
[C] It echoes [G] in the [Am] rustic shadows, [F] where we used to [C] play.

Chorus [G – Am – F – C]
[G] We’re just [Am] actors in this [F] play, [C] lost in moments, cast away,
[G] Chasing [Am] echoes of [F] yesterday, [C] in the rustic shadows.

Fan Testimonial:
“My name is Sarah McMillan, and I’m Opulent Hen’s number one fan. Their music just speaks to my soul in a way no other band has been able to. Their lyrics paint a picture of the human experience, so vivid and raw. It’s like they’ve put to music the highs and lows of my own life. That’s why Opulent Hen is my favorite band. Their music isn’t just something you listen to, it’s something you feel and experience.”

Backstory:
Hailing from the rain-soaked streets of Seattle, the band “Bitter Other” came into existence in the early 2000s. The four members: lead vocalist and bassist, Max Freeman, guitarist, Jake Harrison, drummer, Sam Coleman, and keyboardist, Lucy Malone were all childhood friends who shared a common love for music. They started playing in local bars and clubs, eventually gaining a solid fan base due to their unique sound and relatable lyrics. Their name, Bitter Other, symbolizes their shared experiences of heartbreak, loss, and the hardships of life which they pour into their music, creating an emotional connection with their listeners.

Genre:
Alternative Rock/ Indie Pop

Title:
“Shadows of Yesterday”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Am] She said I’m just a [G] mirror,
[Am] Reflecting all your [G] fears,
[F] Shadows of yesterday, [G] pierce like a spear,
[Am] Is this what we’ve [G] become, my dear?

(Chorus)
[C] Shadows of yesterday, [G] haunting our today,
[Am] Lost in a dead-end maze, [F] love’s gone astray,
[C] Shadows of yesterday, [G] in us they lay,
[Am] Whispering the words, [F] we dared not to say.

(Verse 2)
[Am] Fading in the twilight, [G] love’s dying ember,
[Am] The cold winds of December, [G] do you remember?
[F] How we promised, [G] never to surrender,
[Am] Now we’re just shadows, [G] of what we were.

(Chorus)
[C] Shadows of yesterday, [G] blurring our view,
[Am] Broken hearts, broken promises, [F] love’s residue,
[C] Shadows of yesterday, [G] a bitter brew,
[Am] Echoing the sorrow, [F] of love we once knew.

Favorite Fan:
Their biggest fan is Violet Miller, a college student from Portland who discovered Bitter Other during a summer music festival. She says, “Their music speaks to me on a level I can’t explain. The raw emotions they put into their lyrics, their soulful music, it’s helped me through some really tough times. It’s as if they know exactly what I’m feeling, and they’ve turned it into a song. Bitter Other isn’t just my favorite band, it’s my emotional support, my source of strength, my safe haven. Their music is my emotional home.”

Backstory:
Funny Timber was born out of the vibrant music scene of Austin, Texas. The band was formed by a group of college buddies – Joe, Ethan, Mark, and Liam – who were all studying different subjects but found common ground in their love for music. They began by performing at frat parties and local venues, till one day, their uniquely melodic and humorous twist on traditional folk music caught the attention of a local producer. Their music was not only catchy but also conveyed stories and experiences that resonated with their audience, quickly propelling them to become a local favorite. The band is known for their lively performances, humorous improvisations, and their ability to turn everyday experiences into catchy tunes.

Genre:
Folk-Pop

Title:
“Laughter in the Lumberyard”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C F C G
Early morning, sun’s a-rising,
F C G C
Joe’s in the lumberyard, day’s beginning.
F C G C
Ethan’s got the coffee, Mark’s in a slumber,
F C G C
Here in our lumberyard, there’s no room for blunder.

(Chorus)
F C G C
Hear the laughter in the lumberyard,
F C G C
Humor’s our timber, we work so hard.
F C G C
With every chuckle, every shared word,
F C G C
We’re building a love song, unheard.

(Verse 2)
C F C G
Liam with his banjo, strumming a tune,
F C G C
Under the Texas moon, we’re crooning in June.
F C G C
Sawdust and dreams, woven together,
F C G C
In the lumberyard, we’re birds of a feather.

(Chorus)
F C G C
Hear the laughter in the lumberyard,
F C G C
Humor’s our timber, we work so hard.
F C G C
With every chuckle, every shared word,
F C G C
We’re building a melody, unheard.

(Outro)
F C G C
So here’s to the laughter in the lumberyard,
F C G C
To the tales we’ve spun, to every shared word,
F C G C
To the jokes, the songs, and the good times had,
F C G C
In our lumberyard, life ain’t half bad.

Favorite fan name:
Billy Thornton

Testimonial:
“I’ve been a fan of Funny Timber since their early days. It’s not just their music that pulls you in, it’s also the stories they tell and the emotions they stir up. They are unique, poking fun at life while inspiring you at the same time. Every performance is a new experience, they keep you on your toes, and you can’t help but fall in love with their melodies and lyrics. It’s not just me, it’s the whole town of Austin that swears by their music. They are my go-to band, whether I am having a good day or a rough one – their music is like therapy to me.”

Backstory:

Immaterial Marketing was born out of a shared philosophy class at a Boston University between four restless undergraduates, back in 2009. The group, composed of Sam Davies on the lead guitar and vocals, Zoe Mitchell on the bass, Ethan Lawrence as drummer, and Nick Schneider on keyboards, found a unique connection in their shared passion for music, philosophy, and ironically, a disdain for commercialism. They began jamming in their dorm rooms, creating a unique fusion of music that became a campus sensation, eventually breaking out to the local music scene. Over time, the band evolved through different sounds and messages but consistently maintained their core, a critique of consumer culture wrapped in irresistible melodies and unique sound.

Genre:

Alternative Indie Rock

Title:

“Receipts and Regrets”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am G D Am
Empty pockets, souls on display,
G D Am
Under the neon lights and the hollow praise.
Am G D Am
We’re buying dreams that never satisfy,
G D Am
Wrapped in pretty lies and alibis.

(Chorus)
C G D Am
Receipts and regrets, we’re drowning in debt,
C G D Am
Chasing illusions in the market’s net.
C G D Am
Bought and sold, the truth unfolds,
C G D Am
In the end, what’s the cost of a soul?

(Verse 2)
Am G D Am
Gilded cages, beautiful and bright,
G D Am
They’re selling happiness at half the price.
Am G D Am
Trading dreams for a barcode, we’re losing sight,
G D Am
Of what really matters in the cold, hard light.

(Chorus)
C G D Am
Receipts and regrets, we’re drowning in debt,
C G D Am
Chasing illusions in the market’s net.
C G D Am
Bought and sold, the truth unfolds,
C G D Am
In the end, what’s the cost of a soul?

(Outro)
C G D Am
In the end, it’s just immaterial marketing,
C G D Am
The real price, an insatiable yearning.

Favorite Fan’s Name, Their Testimonial:

Fan’s name: Emily Harper

Testimonial: “Immaterial Marketing isn’t just a band; it’s a revolution wrapped in melodies. Their music spoke to me, became an anthem for those of us who feel weary of the constant push of consumerism. It’s not just about the catchy tunes – it’s the message, the voice that dares to question. Their song ‘Receipts and Regrets’ is a masterpiece that resonates on so many levels. It’s my favorite because it’s a mirror to society’s superficiality. This band is my favorite because they’re raw, real and they’re not afraid to challenge norms.”

Backstory:

Giant Practitioner was born in the eclectic streets of Portland, Oregon, in 2013. The band members, frontman Dave Hatcher, guitarist Mick Stellar, bassist Jerry ‘Boom’ Thompson, and drummer Alice Chambers, met at a local open mic night. They shared an instant connection and cohesion, which led them to form Giant Practitioner. The band was initially a side project for its members, who had day jobs ranging from barista to software engineer. However, their shared passion for music led them to take a leap of faith and dedicate themselves fully to the band in 2015.

The band’s name, Giant Practitioner, was inspired by their belief in the power of constant practice and growth. Their music reflects this ideology, blending introspective lyrics with experimental soundscapes. In just a few years, they have made a name for themselves in the local music scene and beyond, captivating audiences with their profound lyrics, dynamic performances, and original sound.

Genre:

Alternative Rock, Indie Pop

Title:

“Shadows in The Rain”

Full song lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Gm Am D7
I found my heart hiding in the shadows,
Gm Am D7
Afraid of the path that lies in the rain
Gm Am D7
Fears whispering like ghosts in the corner,
Gm Am D7
Cautioning me against the untamed.

[Chorus]
Gm C Am D7
But the shadows in the rain, they call my name,
Gm C Am D7
With whispers of dreams, of love, and pain.
Gm C Am D7
The shadows dance, they spin and sway,
Gm C Am D7
In the rain they mold, clay to a beautiful play.

[Verse 2]
Gm Am D7
My soul feeds on these shadows, on the rain,
Gm Am D7
Drawing strength from the stories they contain,
Gm Am D7
Fear can’t hold me, I am a fire,
Gm Am D7
In the shadows, in the rain, I aspire.

[Chorus]
Gm C Am D7
For the shadows in the rain, they know my name,
Gm C Am D7
With echoes of courage, of life’s great game.
Gm C Am D7
The shadows allure, they pull and fray,
Gm C Am D7
In the rain they sing, a melody to the gray.

Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is Lucy Rivers, a bookstore owner from Portland. Lucy has been a supporter of the band since their inception, attending their gigs, promoting their music, and even hosting small concerts in her bookstore. According to Lucy, “Giant Practitioner’s music is like a journey into the human soul. Their lyrics explore life’s intricacies with such depth and honesty. Their music is not just a collection of sounds; it’s a cathartic experience. They are, without a doubt, my favorite band because their music speaks to me on so many levels.”

Backstory:
Handy Temper was formed in the mid-90s amidst the bustling streets of Portland, Oregon. Five friends from college, each with different musical tastes, decided to merge their distinct styles into one brand, and the band was born. These five friends – Steven, Ray, Mike, Gary, and Tom – started as a garage band, practicing their beats and notes after their day jobs. They were driven by their love for music and the dream of making it big in the music industry.

Their big break didn’t come until 1998, when their demo tape was heard by a music producer at an independent record label. Impressed by their unique sound, the producer signed them on the spot. Since then, Handy Temper has been known for its captivating performances and compelling lyrics that touch the heart and soul.

Genre:
Alternative Rock with a hint of Grunge

Title:
“Underneath the Rain”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1:
Am Em
Underneath the rain, I stand alone,
G D
With the echoes of your laughter in my bones.
Am Em
The streets are wet, the lights are dim,
G D
And I can’t help but wonder where you’ve been.

Chorus:
C G
Gone are the days, we used to play,
Am Em
Lost in love, in our own special way.
C G
Now I’m standing here, in the pouring rain,
Am Em
All alone, with nothing but your name.

Verse 2:
Am Em
The city sleeps, but I’m awake,
G D
Drowning in the memories, I can’t shake.
Am Em
Underneath the rain, I silently pray,
G D
For the sun to rise, and chase the pain away.

(Repeat Chorus)

Bridge:
F C
I’m underneath the rain, but I feel no cold,
G Em
Only the warmth of your love, I used to hold.
F C
I’m underneath the rain, but I’m not alone,
G Em
I have our memories, your laughter in my bones.

(Repeat Chorus)

End:
Am Em
Underneath the rain, I stand alone,
G D
With the echoes of your laughter in my bones.

Band’s Favorite Fan:
Our favorite fan is a guy named Daniel. Daniel has been to every one of our shows since our first gig in a small bar in Portland. He has always supported us, even when we were just starting out. Daniel has often said, “Handy Temper has a way of creating melodies and lyrics that resonate with my soul. Every song is a journey, a rollercoaster of emotions that leaves me feeling understood and less alone. They are not just a band, they are my escape, my solace.” Daniel’s support and love for our music make all the hard work worth it.

Backstory:

Messy Display was formed in the vibrant streets of New York City in 2012. The founding members, lead singer and guitarist Michael ‘Micky’ Stinson and drummer James ‘Jimmy’ McArthur, were high school friends who shared a passion for music and the vibrant local art scene. Even in the early days, they were known for their chaotic, energetic performances – a trademark that would eventually inspire their band name. After playing in local pubs and gaining a small following, they recruited bassist Lisa ‘Lulu’ Harper and keyboardist Sam ‘Smokey’ Jones to complete their lineup. This quartet would go on to take the indie rock world by storm with their distinctive sound and unapologetic lyrics.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Title:

“Neon Catastrophe”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1 – A, E, D, E)
In the neon glow of the city streets, (A, E)
She’s a vision, a walking masterpiece, (D, E)
But she’s caught in a world that’s too discrete, (A, E)
Like a bird confined, no chance to compete. (D, E)

(Chorus – Bm, D, A, E)
Neon catastrophe, it’s a sight to see, (Bm, D)
She’s trying to break free, she’s just like you and me, (A, E)
In the chaos of the night, we’ll ignite, (Bm, D)
Beneath the city lights, we’ll take flight. (A, E)

(Verse 2 – A, E, D, E)
In the cold concrete jungle, she roams, (A, E)
Seeking solace, a place she can call home, (D, E)
In the chaos, she feels so alone, (A, E)
Yet she stands tall, queen without a throne. (D, E)

(Chorus – Bm, D, A, E)
Neon catastrophe, can’t you see, (Bm, D)
She’s a symphony wrapped in mystery, (A, E)
In the heart of the night, we’ll unite, (Bm, D)
In the glow of the moonlight, we’ll find light. (A, E)

Fan’s Name and Testimonial:

Fan’s Name: Johnny ‘Jazz’ Thompson

Testimonial: “I’ve been along for the Messy Display ride since their early pub performances. I was instantly drawn to their raw and unfiltered sound. It wasn’t just about the music; it was the way they captured the chaos and beauty of our city in their lyrics. Their song “Neon Catastrophe” is my absolute favorite. It perfectly encapsulates the struggle of feeling lost in a big city while trying to find your own place. It’s a testament to their songwriting skills and their ability to connect with their audience. For me, Messy Display isn’t just a band, it’s a soundtrack to my life.”

Backstory:

Incomplete Chance is a four-member band hailing from the heart of Seattle’s indie music scene. The band was formed in 2014 when lead vocalist and guitarist, Max, met drummer, Danny, during a jam session at a local music shop. Their mutual love for storytelling through music led them to search for other kindred spirits, which led them to bassist, Jay, and keyboardist, Luna. The chemistry was instantaneous, and Incomplete Chance was born. They’ve swiftly made a name for themselves, tapping into the disquiet and disillusionment of the millennial generation, while celebrating their dreams and hopes.

Genre:

Indie Rock/Alternative

Title:

“Lost In The Echo”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C Am G F
In the city that never sleeps,
C Am G F
We found our dreams incomplete.
C Am G F
Lost like whispers in the wind,
C Am G F
We’re searching for where to begin.

(Chorus)
C Am G F
Lost in the echo, we’re screaming out loud,
C Am G F
Drowning in silence, lost in the crowd.
C Am G F
Our hearts are breaking, but we’re still proud,
C Am G F
Lost in the echo, we’re singing out loud.

(Verse 2)
C Am G F
In the corners of our mind,
C Am G F
We’re looking for what we can’t find.
C Am G F
Chasing shadows in the night,
C Am G F
We’re dancing in the moon’s soft light.

(Chorus)
C Am G F
Lost in the echo, we’re screaming out loud,
C Am G F
Drowning in silence, lost in the crowd.
C Am G F
Our hearts are breaking, but we’re still proud,
C Am G F
Lost in the echo, we’re singing out loud.

Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is a college student named Sarah. She discovered Incomplete Chance during a particularly challenging time in her life. The band’s raw, authentic lyrics and the emotional intensity of their indie rock sound resonated deeply with her. In her own words:

“I found Incomplete Chance during a time when everything seemed to be falling apart. Their music felt like a friend, understanding exactly what I was going through. The lyrics, the melody, the emotion – it was as if they were speaking directly to me. ‘Lost in The Echo’ will always be my anthem; it reminds me that even when times are tough, I am not alone. That’s why Incomplete Chance is my favorite band, they gave voice to what I couldn’t express.”