Backstory:
Born in the chaotic corners of Brooklyn, Defenseless Colony is a tight-knit group of four friends who grew up together amidst the trials of city life. They were all part of a small community of artists and musicians who spent their days creating and imagining a world where their voices could be heard. Their bond grew stronger and their dreams bigger as they began to explore music as a way to express their shared struggles. Their unique approach to storytelling through rhythm and lyrics finally established them as Defenseless Colony.

Genre:
Defenseless Colony’s music can be best described as Alternative Rock with hints of grunge and punk.

Title:
“City Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Intro]
Em-C-G-D

[Verse 1]
Em C
City lights, in the dead of night,
G D
Where the shadows grow, beneath our sight,
Em C
With a melody, and rhythm tight,
G D
We weave our tales, in the black and white.

[Chorus]
Em C
Under the city shadows,
G D
We find our hushed reprieves,
Em C
In the echo of the gallows,
G D
Where our silent heart believes.

[Verse 2]
Em C
Corner store, graffiti lore,
G D
Speak of love, and urban war,
Em C
In the rubble, our dreams soar,
G D
Our songs become, a colony’s roar.

[Chorus]
Em C
Under the city shadows,
G D
We find our hushed reprieves,
Em C
In the echo of the gallows,
G D
Where our silent heart believes.

[Outro]
Em-C-G-D
Among the city shadows,
The Defenseless Colony thrives,
In the echo of the gallows,
Where the soul of music survives.

Fan’s Name: Joe Thompson

Testimonial:
“I’m Joe Thompson and I’ve been a die-hard fan of Defenseless Colony ever since they first started playing in the local bars of Brooklyn. I was captivated by the rawness and authenticity of their sound. Their music speaks directly to my soul, and their lyrics tell stories that resonate with my own experiences as a city dweller. There’s something uniquely moving about their songs; it’s as if they’ve managed to capture the spirit of urban life in a way that no other band has been able to do. Defenseless Colony isn’t just my favorite band, they are a necessary voice narrating our shared struggles and triumphs.”

Backstory:

Indolent Wrist formed in the gritty heart of Seattle in 2014, born from the shared dreams of two childhood friends, Eddie Kellerman and Larry Gordon. With Eddie’s soulful voice and rhythm guitar and Larry’s bass and lyrical prowess, they soon caught the attention of drummer Rebecca “Becky” Brooks. The trio spent many late nights in Eddie’s garage, honing their sound, creating music born from raw emotion and personal experiences. Self-taught and self-made, they managed to get their music out to the masses through guerilla gigs and homemade demo tapes, which eventually got them signed with a local indie record label.

Over the years, they’ve faced challenges, heartbreaks, and triumphs, all of which have shaped their music and their bond as a band. Eddie, Larry, and Becky of Indolent Wrist are more than just bandmates, they’re family. And they’ve vowed to stick it out together, pouring their hearts and souls into their music, for as long as they can strum, drum, and sing.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Song Title:

“Rusted Veins”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Em] Wrapped in a blanket of [G] inner chaos,
[D] can’t shake off the [A] feeling of loss.
[Em] Memories cut like a [G] shard of glass,
[D] buried deep in the [A] remnants of the past.

(Chorus)
[Em] Rusted veins and [G] hollow hearts,
[D] we’ve been broken from the [A] start.
[Em] But in the fading light, we [G] find
[D] fragments of love left [A] behind.

(Verse 2)
[Em] Wandering through the [G] corridors of time,
[D] intoxicated by a [A] past not kind.
[Em] Shadows cast by [G] ghosts unseen,
[D] are we prisoners of [A] silent screams?

(Chorus)
[Em] Rusted veins and [G] hollow hearts,
[D] we’ve been broken from the [A] start.
[Em] But in the ruins of our [G] pride,
[D] we learn to love, we learn to [A] fight.

(Bridge)
[Em] We’re the poets of [G] lost causes,
[D] writing verses in the [A] darkness.
[Em] With rusted veins, we [G] bleed,
[D] on this canvas of life, we [A] seethe.

(Chorus)
[Em] Rusted veins and [G] hollow hearts,
[D] we’ve been broken from the [A] start.
[Em] But in the echoes of our [G] pain,
[D] we find strength to love [A] again.

(Outro)
[Em] With rusted veins, we [G] journey on,
[D] in this symphony, we are [A] reborn.

Band’s Favorite Fan’s Name & Testimonial:

Fan’s Name: Hannah Miller

Testimonial: “I fell in love with Indolent Wrist the first time I heard ‘Rusted Veins’. Their music speaks to me in ways I can’t even begin to explain. It’s raw, emotional, and incredibly powerful. More than just a band, they’re a lifeline for those of us who have felt lost, forgotten, or broken. Each song is a piece of their heart, handed to us with no pretense. They’re not just my favorite band, they’re the soundtrack of my life.”

Backstory:
Formed in the back alleys of Birmingham, England, Imperfect Chancellor is a cluster of childhood friends who dared to dream big. Colin, the lead singer, who was also an accomplished guitarist, was an aspiring lawyer. Kevin, the drummer, and Nick, the bassist, were engineers, and Larry, the keyboardist, was an English professor. However, they all held a shared passion for music that superseded their professional obligations. The band was born out of this passion, with the name ‘Imperfect Chancellor’ symbolising the flaws of every ordinary individual who resides in the seat of power.

The band first gained attention with their street performances, brimming with raw energy and emotion. Their unique sound was an amalgamation of their individual influences, ranging from rock, folk, and blues. Their music caught the ears of a local record label who offered them a modest contract, kick-starting their professional music career. The band has since released two chart-topping albums and toured extensively across the UK and Europe, always staying true to their origins and their sound.

Genre:
Alternative rock

Title:
“Broken Crown”

Lyrics:
(Verse)
[G] Walked down the street with a [D] broken crown,
[Em] Shadows whispering, don’t [C] let us down.

[G] Night’s silver tears, falling [D] all around,
[Em] Walking on dreams, with a [C] broken crown.

(Chorus)
[G] Broken crown, you may [D] stumble and fall,
[Em] But the sun will rise, [C] stand tall.
[G] Broken crown, in your [D] heart is a song,
[Em] Sing it loud, [C] we’re all imperfect, we [G] all belong.

Verse:
[G] Light in your eyes, [D] dimmer tonight,
[Em] Dreams may shatter, but [C] keep up the fight.
[G] Your shoulders burdened, [D] under the weight,
[Em] The world may be harsh, [C] but it’s never too late.

(Chorus)
[G] Broken crown, you may [D] stumble and fall,
[Em] But the sun will rise, [C] stand tall.
[G] Broken crown, in your [D] heart is a song,
[Em] Sing it loud, [C] we’re all imperfect, we [G] all belong.

Fan Testimonial:
Meet Sam, the band’s most dedicated fan. He discovered Imperfect Chancellor when he accidentally stumbled upon a street performance during a trip to Birmingham. Sam was struggling with personal issues at the time, but the band’s music touched his soul. “Imperfect Chancellor’s songs, especially ‘Broken Crown,’ have helped me embrace my flaws and strive for improvement rather than perfection,” says Sam. “Their music is raw and authentic, and it resonates with my experiences. It’s my favorite band because they remind me that we’re all human, we all make mistakes, and there’s beauty in our imperfections.”

Backstory:

Born out of the eclectic music scene of Austin, Texas, Thoughtful Self formed in the summer of 2010. The band members – singer and guitarist James Dawson, bassist Laura Miller, and drummer Paul Dalton – were all part of different music projects but felt a connection with each other’s music that couldn’t be ignored. They decided to combine their creative forces to form Thoughtful Self, fueled by their shared love for introspection and deep, meaningful music. Their distinct sound has been shaped by their exploratory sessions and often philosophical discussions about life, love, and the universe.

Genre:

Thoughtful Self is a band that embraces the genre of indie rock with undertones of psychedelic and alternative influences. Their sound can be described as emotional, contemplative, and powerful, and it often leaves listeners in a state of thoughtful reflection.

Title:

“One Last Dreamer”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Am] Waking up to a [F] fading star,
[C] Trapped in a world [G] that’s gone too far.
[Am] In the mirror, [F] reflections lie,
[C] Can’t escape, [G] but we gotta try.

(Chorus)
[Am] We are the ones, [F] we are the dreamers,
[C] Fighting against the [G] time and its schemers.
[Am] Hold on tight, [F] don’t let it slip,
[C] We’re the last dreamers on this [G] sinking ship.

(Verse 2)
[Am] Chasing shadows [F] in the dark,
[C] Igniting sparks [G] from a tiny spark.
[Am] Hearts on fire, [F] souls on the line,
[C] It’s our time [G] to redefine.

(Chorus)
[Am] We are the ones, [F] we are the dreamers,
[C] Fighting against the [G] time and its schemers.
[Am] Hold on tight, [F] don’t let it slip,
[C] We’re the last dreamers on this [G] sinking ship.

Loyal Fan Testimonial:

Thoughtful Self’s biggest fan goes by the name of Sam Henderson. Sam discovered Thoughtful Self at a local gig back in 2011 and has been their fan ever since. According to Sam, Thoughtful Self’s introspective lyrics and melodies resonate deeply with her, and she feels a deep connection with their music. “Thoughtful Self’s music has been my constant companion through all the highs and lows of my life,” says Sam. “Their songs often reflect feelings I’m going through, and it’s like they’re speaking directly to me. I’ve been to every one of their shows within 200 miles of my hometown. They’re more than just a band to me; they’re a lifeline.”

Backstory:
Pertinent Voice came to life in a small garage in Tulsa, Oklahoma in 2015. Long time friends, lead singer and guitarist, Jack Canfield, drummer, Toby Gray, and bassist, Sam Rhodes, found themselves drawn together by their mutual love for music. They began to jam together on weekends, and before long, their powerful sound started attracting attention in their local community. Their rise to fame was swift, thanks to the profound messages they delivered through their music, resonating with their listeners on a deeper level. They became known for their ability to weave together authentic and thought-provoking narratives with a blend of fresh yet nostalgic soundscapes.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Echoes of Tomorrow”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Walking on this road alone, [G] dreams as heavy as a stone.
[Am] Reflections of a past so bright, [F] now they’re just shadows in the night.

[E] Echoes of tomorrow, [F] echoes of the past,
[G] We laughed and we cried, [C] wished it all could last.

(Chorus)
[C] Echoes of tomorrow, [G] seems so far away,
[Am] Wish we could go back, [F] make the moments stay.
[E] Lost in the rhythm, [F] of this life’s sweet sorrow,
[G] Living for today, [C] dreaming of tomorrow.

(Verse 2)
[C] Looking back at all we’ve done, [G] battles lost and battles won.
[Am] The smiles, the tears, the joy, the pain, [F] only memories remain.

[E] Echoes of tomorrow, [F] echoes of the past,
[G] We danced in the rain, [C] wish it all could last.

(Chorus)
[C] Echoes of tomorrow, [G] seems so far away,
[Am] Wish we could go back, [F] make the moments stay.
[E] Lost in the rhythm, [F] of this life’s sweet sorrow,
[G] Living for today, [C] dreaming of tomorrow.

Fan Testimonial:
My name is Emily Dawson, and Pertinent Voice is my favorite band. Their music speaks to me on a personal level, the lyrics are profound, and the sound is a perfect blend of classic and contemporary. Each song seems to narrate a piece of my life, making me feel understood and less alone in my struggles. Their song “Echoes of Tomorrow” has gotten me through some tough times, and it’s comforting to know that others are feeling what I’m feeling. This band is more than just music to me, it’s an emotional support system. They’re not just a band, they’re a voice for all of us who are trying to figure out life, and I can’t thank them enough for that.

Backstory:

Super Muscle was born in the bustling heart of New York City in the early 2000s. The founders and frontmen, Keith ‘Kong’ Thompson and Johnny ‘Jolt’ Jackson, met in a run-down but vibrant Brooklyn gym. Their shared passion for weightlifting quickly turned into a passion for music when they discovered that they could create a unique and strong sound together. The band’s name, Super Muscle, symbolizes their connection with relentless strength and the aspiration to make an indomitable impact on the music scene.

The band started out performing in small pubs around Brooklyn, but their unique sound and energy caught the attention of a talent scout who happened to be in the crowd one night. Since then, Super Muscle has achieved international fame, with their strong beats and powerful lyrics resonating with people around the world.

Genre:

Rock/Hard Rock

Title:

“Steel and Thunder”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C F C G
On this road, paved with regret,
C F C G
Find my strength, in sweat and fret,
C F C G
In the mirror, what I see,
C F C G
Is a beast, wild and free.

(Chorus)
F C G Am
Steel and Thunder, loud and bright,
F C G Am
Pumping Iron, in the night,
F C G Am
In the gym, where we belong,
F C G Am
This is where, we write our song.

(Verse 2)
C F C G
Grit and grind, till the end,
C F C G
Break the chains, rules we bend,
C F C G
Feeling the burn, pain is my friend,
C F C G
On this journey, that never ends.

(Chorus)
F C G Am
Steel and Thunder, loud and clear,
F C G Am
Muscle-bound, have no fear,
F C G Am
In the gym, we find our peace,
F C G Am
This is where, our spirits release.

Fan’s Name:

Billy ‘Bulldozer’ Barnes

Testimonial:

“I’ve been a diehard fan of Super Muscle ever since I saw them for the first time in a small pub in Brooklyn. Their music resonates with me on a personal level. As a bodybuilder myself, I find their lyrics inspiring and relatable. It’s not just about hitting the gym and lifting weights, it’s about the journey, the struggle, and ultimately, the triumph. I can feel their energy and passion in every beat and it pushes me to work harder and be stronger. Their song ‘Steel and Thunder’ is my go-to workout anthem. Super Muscle isn’t just a band to me, it’s a way of life.”

Backstory:
Illiterate Interpretation formed in the quaint town of Jerome, Arizona back in 2010. The band originated when lead vocalist and songwriter, Trenton Mitchell, met drummer, Dylan Grace, in a local record store. They clicked over a shared love of unconventional music and a mutual fascination with literature and philosophy, despite being school dropouts. They quickly discovered a unique chemistry and began to write songs together. They were later joined by bassist, Lucy Kinnear, and guitarist, Ethan Hart, who respectively brought a prodigious talent for bass and a penchant for creating wildly inventive guitar parts to the mix. From then on, the four band members were inseparable, drawing inspiration from the town’s eccentricities and their shared experiences.

The band made their first breakthrough after their performance at the local arts festival caught the attention of a music scout. Their distinctive sound, raw energy, and lyrical depth resonated with the scout, and Illiterate Interpretation was soon signed to an indie label. The band embarked on a musical journey that soon saw them playing at major festivals and becoming a beloved name in the underground music scene.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Echoes of Yesterday”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Am – F
(Whispered voices call my name, I douse the flames with my regrets
C – G
The twilight dances in my veins, in the echoes of yesterday)

[Verse 2]
Am – F
(Shadows stretch and bend in time, my words they falter, lose their rhyme
C – G
A mirage of memories align, in the echoes of yesterday)

[Chorus]
Em – Dm
(Echoes of yesterday, you’re a song I used to play
C – G
Canvas painted in monochrome, you’re a place I used to call home)

[Verse 1]
Am – F
(Truth and lies, they intertwine, in the corners of my mind
C – G
Broken hearts, they tend to find, the echoes of yesterday)

[Chorus]
Em – Dm
(Echoes of yesterday, you’re a melody that strays
C – G
A silent film that won’t replay, in the echoes of yesterday)

Fan’s Name:

Jamie Stanton

Testimonial:

“Illiterate Interpretation is my favorite band because their songs articulate all the messy and beautiful aspects of existence that most people struggle to express. Trenton’s raw and evocative lyrics, combined with Dylan’s tight drumming, Lucy’s pulsating bass lines, and Ethan’s innovative guitar work create a sonic landscape that takes me on an emotional journey every time I listen to their music. It’s cathartic, it’s real, it’s raw, and there’s nothing quite like it. The ‘Echoes of Yesterday’ is a song that particularly resonates with me; its melancholic beauty and profound lyrics never fail to leave a lasting impression. Their music, in essence, is a poignant illiterate interpretation of life, and I love every bit of it.”

Backstory:
Hateful Morning, a band originating from the lively music scene of Austin, Texas, was formed in 2005 by a group of high school friends with a shared passion for music and a unique perspective on life. The lead vocalist, Robert ‘Robby’ Turner, guitarist, Jonathan ‘Johnny’ Keller, bassist, Brian ‘Breezy’ Lee, and drummer, Mark ‘Shark’ Adams, all hailed from drastically different backgrounds but found unity in their love for music. Their bond became stronger as they started playing at local clubs, open mics, and garage parties, and soon, they were able to create a unique musical style that quickly resonated with listeners.

Over the years, the band gained a dedicated following, which led them to sign a contract with a leading record label in 2010. Even with mainstream success, Hateful Morning has always remained true to their roots, delivering meaningful and honest music that resonates with listeners on a personal level.

Genre:
Post-Hardcore

Title:
“Burned Bridges”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Em] I woke up today, [G] with a heavy heart,
[D] Burned bridges behind me, [A] torn apart,
[Em] Memories haunt me, [G] like a ghost,
[D] Of the ones I loved, [A] I miss the most.

(Chorus)
[C] Burned bridges, [G] hateful morning,
[D] A new day dawns, [Em] without any warning.
[C] Lost friendships, [G] love that’s died,
[D] I’m still here, [Em] with nowhere to hide.

(Verse 2)
[Em] Life goes on, [G] or so they say,
[D] But what’s the point, [A] when you’re led astray?
[Em] Pain and regret, [G] my only company,
[D] In this world that’s lost, [A] its sense of harmony.

(Chorus)
[C] Burned bridges, [G] hateful morning,
[D] A broken heart, [Em] continuously mourning.
[C] Time heals all, [G] but it’s a lie,
[D] Underneath this mask, [Em] I slowly die.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Sarah, an English teacher from Dallas. Sarah first discovered Hateful Morning during a challenging time in her life and their music provided a sense of solace and understanding. Sarah is fondly known by the band as the “First Morning Light,” as she is often the first person at their gigs, waiting in line hours before doors open, and staying till the end to help clean up. She travels often, following the band on tours and becoming a familiar, friendly presence.

Testimonial: “Hateful Morning’s music resonates with me on an emotional level that no other band has managed to reach. Their lyrics feel true, raw, and genuine, like they’re sharing a piece of their souls with us in each song. As an English teacher, I appreciate the depth of their storytelling and the poetic nature of their words. They’ve gotten me through some of the toughest times in my life, and for that, I will always be their number one fan.”

Backstory:

Noxious Murder was formed in the grimy basement of a derelict building in 2001, somewhere in the gritty outskirts of London. The band was composed of four childhood friends: Max ‘Raven’ Ravenscroft, a clerk by day and a guitarist by night; Johnny ‘Skull’ Sullivan, a tattoo artist with a flair for thrashing drum beats; Lenny ‘Venom’ Venn, a mechanic with a gift for deep, guttural vocals; and Terry ‘Fury’ Furlong, an eccentric bassist with a knack for creating a thick, heavy atmosphere with his innovative bass lines. Their shared love for heavy music and their distaste for the corporate music industry led to the formation of Noxious Murder – a band that perfectly encapsulated their rebellious spirit and dark musical vision.

Despite the band’s unconventional origin, Noxious Murder quickly gained momentum on the underground metal scene. They were known for their rambunctious live performances, dark, cryptic lyrics, and a unique blend of heavy, aggressive riffs combined with atmospheric, eerie melodies. They released their debut album, “Breathe the Darkness,” in 2005, which garnered a cult following and solidified their presence in the underground metal community.

Genre:
Heavy Metal/Thrash Metal

Title:
“Shadows of the Mind”

Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am – G – F – E7
In the valley of the forgotten, in the shadows of the mind,
Tread lightly, my dear, for what you seek, you may not like what you find.
The echoes of the past speak tales of sorrow and regret,
In this place, no sun does rise, in this realm, all debts are met.

(Chorus)
Dm – Am – C – G
Proceed with caution, embrace the fear,
Trapped in the shadows of the mind, the end is near.
Who can escape the demons they keep?
In the silent chambers of the mind, where secrets sleep.

(Verse 2)
Am – G – F – E7
Beyond the veil of sanity, where darkness meets the light,
The clock ticks on relentlessly, through the endless, sleepless night.
The labyrinth within us all, the maze of twisted dreams,
Where reality unravels, and nothing is as it seems.

(Chorus)
Dm – Am – C – G
Dive into the abyss, surrender to the night,
In the shadows of the mind, where truth takes flight.
Can you face what lies within, the monster beneath the skin?
In the shadows of the mind, where the journey begins.

Favorite Fan’s Testimonial:

Name: Anna ‘BlackRose’ McKenzie

“Noxious Murder is more than just a band to me – they’re a lifeline. Their raw, unfiltered sound resonates deep within me, and their lyrics speak to my soul. Their music has seen me through the darkest of times – it’s a constant reminder that I’m not alone. I relate to their struggle, their rebellion, and their refusal to conform. And let’s not forget their live performances – an explosive, cathartic experience that leaves you breathless and craving for more. Noxious Murder is not just a band – they’re a force to be reckoned with, an embodiment of freedom and rebellion in a world that’s constantly trying to put us in a box. I owe them more than I can ever express.”

Backstory:

Competent Phase began in the bustling streets of Seattle, Washington in 2014 when lead vocalist and guitarist, Jon ‘Ripcord’ Radley, crossed paths with drummer, Max ‘Thundersticks’ Thompson. Both passionate about music and yearning for a platform to share their unique compositions, they decided to form a band. The duo was soon joined by Anna ‘Bass Boss’ Kennington, a talented bassist and Jake ‘Melody Maker’ Silver, a skilled keyboardist. The four musicians found a shared language in their music, bringing together their diverse influences to create a sound all their own.

Genre:

Competent Phase is best known for their unique fusion of Alternative Rock and Electro Pop, creating a vibrant soundscape that resonates with audiences of all ages.

Title:

“Our Shattered Dreams”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] There I was, [D] standing on the edge,
[Em] Looking for a meaning, [C] beyond the ledge.
[G] You came along, [D] with a sparkle in your eyes,
[Em] Promised me forever, [C] beneath the skies.

(Chorus)
[G] But here we are, [D] our shattered dreams,
[Em] In the fragments, [C] we are the seams.
[G] Holding on, [D] to what once was,
[Em] In the silence, [C] hear a silent pause.

(Verse 2)
[G] We walked the road, [D] hand in hand,
[Em] Left our footprints, [C] in the sand.
[G] As the tide turns, [D] washed away,
[Em] All we had, [C] in yesterday.

(Chorus)
[G] But here we are, [D] our shattered dreams,
[Em] In the fragments, [C] we are the seams.
[G] Holding on, [D] to what once was,
[Em] In the silence, [C] hear a silent pause.

The Bands Favorite Fan:

Caroline Peters is a die-hard fan of Competent Phase, having followed their journey from the very beginning. She says, “Competent Phase is my favorite band because their music speaks to me on a profound level. Their innovative blend of Alternative Rock and Electro Pop is like nothing I’ve ever heard before. I find their lyrics truly compelling; they explore themes that are so relatable yet thought-provoking. In particular, ‘Our Shattered Dreams’ is a song that touched my soul, it’s a poignant reflection on love and loss. I can’t wait to see where their musical journey takes them next!”