Backstory:
Formed in the colorful heart of London’s music scene in 2019, Rectangular Start was born out of a mutual love for music and a shared belief in its power to reshape boundaries. The band members, Josiah on vocals and guitar, Reese on drums, and Callum on keys, are childhood friends who grew up in the same neighborhood. The band’s name, Rectangular Start, is a quirky tribute to their humble beginnings, practicing in Josiah’s small rectangular room, which they consider their ‘start.’ Their shared passion for creating something new and unique brought them together, leading them on a musical journey that transcends traditional genres.

Genre:
Indie Pop-Rock

Title:
“Dancing on the Edge of the Universe”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] I’m standing on the rooftop, [C] gazing at the stars,
[D] Wondering if you’re looking, [Em] from wherever you are.
[G] The city lights are twinkling, [C] like a guitar’s strum,
[D] I’m dancing on the edge of the universe, [Em] to the beat of my own drum.

(Chorus)
[G] We’re wild and free, [C] like a shooting star,
[D] Light up the sky, let’s [Em] show who we truly are.
[G] We’re dancing on the edge of the universe, [C] without a care,
[D] Embrace the rhythm, [Em] let the music fill the air.

(Verse 2)
[G] The rhythm of the city, [C] is a song to our ears,
[D] The echo of the dreams, [Em] we’ve chased for years.
[G] With every beat of our hearts, [C] every strum of the strings,
[D] We’re dancing on the edge of the universe, [Em] where the melody forever rings.

(Chorus)
[G] We’re wild and free, [C] like a shooting star,
[D] Light up the sky, let’s [Em] show who we truly are.
[G] We’re dancing on the edge of the universe, [C] without a care,
[D] Embrace the rhythm, [Em] let the music fill the air.

The band’s favorite fan’s name:
Lilly

Testimonial:
“I fell in love with Rectangular Start the moment I heard ‘Dancing on the Edge of the Universe’. Their music tells a story that reflects the struggles, joys, and simple beauties of life. What makes them my favorite band is not just their incredible talent but their authenticity. Their music isn’t just about catchy tunes; it’s about connecting people, inspiring them, and painting the world in vivid colors of emotions. They’re truly one of a kind, and their passion for music is contagious. I can’t wait to see where their journey takes them next.”

Backstory: Mean Video was born in the gritty back-alleys of San Francisco’s underground music scene in 2011. The band was formed by an eclectic group of friends; Johnny “Static” Evans, a tech-genius with a passion for sound mixing, Lucy “Lumen” James, a film school dropout with a knack for weaving tales through lyrics, and “Buzz” Benson, a graffiti artist turned drummer. They shared a common love for music and the visual medium, thus choosing the moniker ‘Mean Video’ to signify their vision of creating a synergy between powerful music and compelling visuals.

Their journey was filled with many ups and downs, but they stood their ground, pouring their hearts into their music and visuals. The band’s breakthrough moment arrived in 2014 with the release of their debut album ‘Tech Noir’. The album, coupled with its visually stunning videos, caught the attention of both the public and critics alike, marking the beginning of Mean Video’s rise to success.

Genre: Alternative Rock/Electronica

Title: “Static City”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C G D
Under the neon glow, we’re lost and found,
Em C G D
In the static city, noise is the only sound.
Em C G D
We’re just dreamers, in a kingdom made of bytes,
Em C G D
Chasing shadows, in the labyrinth of lights.

(Chorus)
G D Em C
Oh, Static City, promise land of the wired,
G D Em C
In your silicon heart, we are inspired.
G D Em C
Through your veins of fiber, pulses our desire,
G D Em C
Oh, Static City, set our hearts on fire.

(Verse 2)
Em C G D
In the alleys where the binary codes bloom,
Em C G D
We find solace, in the cold electronic room.
Em C G D
We’re just players, in this grand arcade,
Em C G D
In the Static City, where dreams don’t fade.

(Repeat Chorus)

Favorite Fan: The band’s favorite fan is a 23-year-old woman named Melissa. She discovered Mean Video during a particularly challenging period in her life. The band’s music and visual storytelling have not only helped her navigate through difficult times but also inspired her to pursue a career in digital graphics. In her testimonial, she states, “Mean Video is not just a band to me. Their music resonates with my soul, and their visuals spark a fire in my imagination. They’re the perfect blend of sound and sight. To me, they’re the epitome of creativity and resilience.”

Backstory:
Formed in the vibrant city of Seattle in 2012, Creative Estate emerged from a shared college dorm room and a love for eclectic sounds. The band consists of four members: lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Ben McAllister, bassist and backing vocalist Mike Henderson, drummer Jake Hargreaves, and lead guitarist Lucy Carlson. The four friends, each hailing from different parts of the country, found common ground through their shared affection for music that breaks traditional molds. They played their first gig at a small-time college event and never looked back. Named after their dilapidated apartment block, which they fondly referred to as their “creative estate,” the band prides itself on creating music that tells stories of their journey, struggles, and their unfazed determination.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Chasing Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Am Em G D
We were just kids, lost in the echoes
Am Em G D
Running wild, under neon rainbows
Am Em G D
Promises whispered, secrets we let go
Am Em G D
In the night, chasing shadows

[Chorus]
C G Am F
Hold on, we’re outrunning the dawn
C G Am F
Chasing shadows, until they’re gone
C G Am F
In this dance, we’re forever drawn
C G Am F
Chasing shadows, before the morning comes

[Verse 2]
Am Em G D
Dreams took flight, in our creative estate
Am Em G D
Strumming chords, defying fate
Am Em G D
In the reflection, we found our mates
Am Em G D
In the night, chasing shadows

(Repeat Chorus)

Fan’s Name:
Matthew Thomas

Testimonial:
As a longtime fan and follower of Creative Estate, the band’s music has been the soundtrack to my life. Every song resonates with me on a deep level and reflects experiences that I’ve personally lived through. I’ve traveled across state lines to catch their live performances and I’ve never been disappointed. Their energy on stage is unparalleled. My favorite song is “Chasing Shadows” because it reminds me of my own youth, the dreams I chased, and the friends I made along the way. There’s something incredibly genuine about their lyrics that I haven’t found in any other band yet. Creative Estate is more than just my favorite band, they’re a part of my life.

Backstory:
Unfortunate Creditor is a rock band that came to fruition in the underbelly of Chicago’s warehouse district. The band members, Jake Sorenson (vocals), Tom “Rusty” Baines (lead guitar), Louie Dietrich (bass), and Mickey “The Machine” Ortiz (drums) found each other through their shared love for music and their shared struggle with financial challenges. Their name, “Unfortunate Creditor,” pays homage to their financial struggles that they faced in their early days before they found solid ground in the music industry.

The band, after playing their heart out in dingy bars and underground clubs, was discovered by a record producer. Despite their hardships and constant struggle, their authentic and raw talent didn’t go unnoticed. Their lyrics, filled with stories of love, resistance, persistence, and heartbreak, resonate with people from all walks of life.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Drowning in Debts”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am F G C
Drowning in debts, lost in regret,
Am F G C
Living on the edge, we’re placing our bets
Am F G C
Looking for hope, in the midst of chaos
Am F G C
We’re Unfortunate Creditors, bearing our cross.

(Chorus)
F G C Am
Oh, we won’t back down, we won’t lose sight
F G C Am
In the darkest cloud, we’ll find the light
F G C Am
We’re Unfortunate Creditors, in this endless fight
F G C
But we’ll make our stand, with all our might.

(Verse 2)
Am F G C
Struggling to breathe, under the weight
Am F G C
In this gamble of life, we checkmate
Am F G C
With dreams in our eyes, and songs in our hearts
Am F G C
We’re Unfortunate Creditors, playing our parts.

(Repeat Chorus)

The band’s favorite fan’s name:
Sarah Thompson

Testimonial:
Sarah Thompson has been an avid fan of Unfortunate Creditor from their beginning days in the underground clubs of Chicago. She says, “There’s something incredibly real about their music. Their lyrics speak to my soul and their melodies touch my heart. The struggles and triumphs they sing about are so relatable. It’s like they’ve put my life’s story into their songs. Unfortunate Creditor isn’t just a band for me; they’re the voice of every person who’s ever struggled and fought to make it. They’ve given me strength in my darkest times. That’s why they’re my absolute favorite.”

Backstory:
Rotten Sin emerged from the gritty underground music scene of New York City in 2008. The band was formed by childhood friends, lead vocalist Johnny “Raven” Ravelle and guitarist Mark “Shred” Shredder, who shared a mutual love for rebellious music and a desire to shatter conventional norms. As they journeyed through life, the duo witnessed the harsh realities of the world, fueling their passion to voice their angst and disillusionment through their music. They were later joined by drummer ‘Boom’ Benny and bassist ‘Vibe’ Vincent. Rotten Sin earned a reputation for their raw energy, provocative lyrics and electrifying live performances, becoming the voice of the misunderstood and the underdogs.

Genre:
The band branched out into the genre of Punk Rock, tinged with a mix of Grunge and Alternative Metal. Their music is characterized by heavy guitar riffs, thunderous drumming, and emotive vocals.

Title:
The song is titled “Chains of Deceit”.

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
C G D Em
Walking down the street of broken dreams and lies,
C G D Em
Seeing through the veil, the world in disguise.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Chains of deceit, we’re born to resist,
C G D Em
Fighting the system, we persist.

(Verse 2)
C G D Em
Washed by the rain of hypocrisy and greed,
C G D Em
Bearing the pain, sowing the seed.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Chains of deceit, we’re born to resist,
C G D Em
Fighting the system, we persist.

(Outro)
C G D Em
Chains of deceit, break free or exist,
C G D Em
In the end, Rotten Sin will persist.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a young girl named Liza Smith. Liza found solace in Rotten Sin’s music during her toughest times. She shares: “Rotten Sin is not just a band for me, it’s a lifeline. Their music is raw, real, and relatable. It gives voice to feelings that I’ve often struggled to express. It’s like they know the chaos within me, and every song is a cathartic release. They are my favorite band because they make me feel seen, heard, and less alone in my struggles.”

Backstory:
Self-Assured Option is a band of five friends who have known each other since high school in the small town of Westchester, Pennsylvania. They started as a garage band, practicing after school and during weekends in the drummer’s basement. Their bond was formed from countless hours of jamming, sharing their dreams and fears, and a shared belief in the power of music to communicate life’s deepest emotions. Their music reflects their journey from adolescence to adulthood and mirrors the joys, heartbreaks, victories, and disappointments that each member has encountered.

After high school, all the band members decided to take a year off before heading to college. It was during this year that they decided to take a leap of faith and pursue their shared dream of turning their love for music into a career. They packed their bags and moved to Nashville, Tennessee, where they began to perform at local bars and clubs. Their music soon caught the attention of a local record label, which offered them a contract. From then on, they have made a name for themselves on the Nashville music scene and beyond.

Genre:
Alternate Rock Country

Title:
“Beneath the Whiskey Moon”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Beneath the whiskey moon, [D] her silhouette does sway,
[Em] Dancing to our song, [C] in that old familiar way.
[G] Her laughter fills the night, [D] as she looks into my eyes,
[Em] Amid the neon lights, [C] she’s my sweet surprise.

(Chorus)
[G] Beneath the whiskey moon, [D] where the stars don’t dare to shine,
[Em] She’s my saving grace, [C] in this crazy life of mine.
[G] With every strum of my guitar, [D] and every tune I croon,
[Em] I find myself right there with her, [C] beneath the whiskey moon.

(Verse 2)
[G] Her smile lights up the night, [D] like a beacon in the dark,
[Em] I’m lost in her eyes, [C] she’s left her mark.
[G] She sways to the rhythm, [D] of my lonely heart’s tune,
[Em] Every night it’s just us two, [C] beneath the whiskey moon.

(Chorus)
[G] Beneath the whiskey moon, [D] where the stars don’t dare to shine,
[Em] She’s my saving grace, [C] in this crazy life of mine.
[G] With every strum of my guitar, [D] and every tune I croon,
[Em] I find myself right there with her, [C] beneath the whiskey moon.

The band’s favorite fan’s name:
Maggie

Testimonial:
“I first stumbled upon Self-Assured Option at a small bar in Nashville. Their music has a unique depth and authenticity to it, filled with real emotions that resonate with me. As a fan, what makes this band my favourite is not just their amazing music, but their incredible humility and genuine love for their fans. You can feel their passion in each song they perform, and it’s that passion that keeps me coming back for more.”

BACKSTORY:

Clear-Cut Ceiling is a band composed of four childhood friends from a small town in Nebraska – Oliver, Max, Finn and Bailey. Growing up together, they developed a shared love for music and spent their afternoons practicing in Oliver’s garage. After graduating high school, the tight-knit group decided to take their passion for music to the next level and formed Clear-Cut Ceiling. The name signifying their collective dream to break through any boundaries or ceilings that may limit their creative expression.

The band started playing local gigs and soon their unique sound generated a buzz in the underground music community. A self-produced EP got the attention of a New York City-based record executive who signed them immediately. Since then, Clear-Cut Ceiling has been making their mark on the music scene, always staying true to their roots while bringing something fresh and raw to the table.

GENRE:

Indie Rock

TITLE:

“Cloudy Skies”

FULL SONG LYRICS:

(Verse 1)
Am Dm G C
Underneath the cloudy skies,
Am Dm G C
Dreams are lost but hopes are high.
Am Dm G C
Clear-Cut Ceiling, we sing our song,
Am Dm G C
Together, here’s where we belong.

(Chorus)
F C G Am
Echoes of our past, under the moonlight.
F C G Am
We’re breaking through, reaching the starlight.
F C G Am
Never backing down, come what might,
F C G Am
Clear-Cut Ceiling, we’ll set the night alight.

(Verse 2)
Am Dm G C
From the heartland, dreams unfurled,
Am Dm G C
Four friends against the world.
Am Dm G C
With each chord, each ringing note,
Am Dm G C
In our songs, our stories float.

(Repeat Chorus)

(Outro)
F C G Am
Underneath the cloudy skies,
F C G Am
Clear-Cut Ceiling, our spirits rise.

FAVORITE FAN:

Their favorite fan, Sarah, says, “Clear-Cut Ceiling isn’t just my favorite band because of their amazing music, but also because of their authenticity. They’re not just some music industry creation, but real musicians with real passion. And it’s that passion that comes through in every song they play. Their music has been a constant companion through the ups and downs of my life. As a Nebraskan myself, their story resonates with me on a deep level. They inspire me to break through my own boundaries and reach for the stars.”

Backstory:

Formed in the bustling city of Detroit in 2010, ‘Soupy Creature’ is an eccentric combination of high school friends: lead vocalist Sarah “Soupy” Campbell, guitarist Cooper “Creature” McCrae, drummer Eddie “Ed” Stevens, and bassist Kai “K” Jenkins. The foursome shared a common love for music, particularly the whimsical sounds of alternative rock and the soulful strains of blues. With Sarah’s soul-stirring vocals, Cooper’s electrifying guitar riffs, Eddie’s heart-thumping drum beats, and Kai’s bass lines that could move mountains, Soupy Creature was born.

Their debut album received mixed reviews, but the band’s dedication and passion for their craft did not waver. This perseverance paid off as their subsequent releases were met with critical acclaim, catapulting them to the forefront of the alternative blues scene. Today, Soupy Creature has carved out their niche in the music world, known for their fusion of alternative rock and blues, creating a unique sound that’s both edgy and soulful.

Genre:
Alternative Blues

Title:
“Anchor of My Soul”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Am F C G
In the whirlwind of life, where chaos unfolds,
Am F C G
You are the silence, the anchor of my soul.
Am F C G
When waves crash around, and I lose control,
Am F C G
You’re the lighthouse, guiding me back home.

(Chorus)
F C G Am
You’re the anchor of my soul, in the ocean’s ruthless hold,
F C G Am
In the darkness, in the cold, your love is pure gold.

(Verse 2)
Am F C G
The storms may rage, the winds may blow,
Am F C G
But I’m not afraid, for you are the anchor of my soul.
Am F C G
And in the quiet whispers, your love story is told,
Am F C G
I know I’m safe, you’re the anchor of my soul.

(Chorus)
F C G Am
You’re the anchor of my soul, in life’s relentless roll,
F C G Am
In the wreckage, in the toll, you mend my broken soul.

Fan Testimonial:

My name is Molly and Soupy Creature is my favorite band for so many reasons. Their lyrics resonate with me on a deep level. “Anchor of My Soul” helped me through some of the hardest times in my life. It offered comfort during my darkest hours and reminded me that I was not alone. Sarah’s voice is like a soothing balm, while Cooper, Eddie, and Kai’s musical prowess creates a soundscape that is both comforting and invigorating. The band’s collective passion for their craft is palpable in every song they create. Soupy Creature not only creates music, but they also create experiences that stay with you long after the song ends.

Backstory:

Formed in the bustling streets of Brooklyn, New York in 2010, Prudent Gang first got their start as a trio of high school friends performing at local dive bars and open mic nights. The members, comprised of lead vocalist/guitarist Rory “Rooster” O’Shea, drummer Andy “Bones” Anderson, and bassist Bonnie “Boom-Boom” Buchanan, initially bonded over their shared love of music and their mutual sense of responsibility towards their community. They chose the name Prudent Gang to reflect their wise and measured approach to life and music. Despite their calculated approach, the band is known for their exuberant performances and for pushing the boundaries of their genre.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Underneath Brooklyn Skies”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Intro: [C – Am – Em – G] x2)

Verse 1:
[C] Down by the river, [Am] under Brooklyn skies,
[Em] We found our freedom, [G] in each other’s eyes.
[C] We played our music, [Am] for the city’s soul,
[Em] And found our rhythm, [G] where the subway rolls.

Chorus:
[F] Underneath Brooklyn Skies, [C] we’re making our stand,
[G] With guitars in our hands, [Am] and dreams in our heads.
[F] In the heart of the night, [C] with the city’s heartbeat
[G] We sing our songs, [Am] on the concrete.

(Repeat Intro)

Verse 2:
[C] We’ve danced with shadows, [Am] and we’ve kissed the light,
[Em] We’ve painted stories, [G] in the heart of the night.
[C] We are the prudent gang, [Am] chasing our dreams,
[Em] Echoing our laughter, [G] in the city’s screams.

(Repeat Chorus)

Bridge:
[Dm] We are the poets, [F] we are the thieve,
[C] In the city that never sleeps, [G] we believe.

(Repeat Chorus)

Outro:
[C] Underneath Brooklyn Skies, [Am] we found our song,
[Em] We’re the Prudent Gang, [G] where we belong.

Fan Testimonial:

Name: Tiffany Martinez

“I’ve been a devout follower of Prudent Gang since their early days. Their music speaks to the soul of Brooklyn and resonates with my own experiences. The song ‘Underneath Brooklyn Skies’ particularly moves me because it embodies the enchanting, rough, and beautiful spirit of our city. Their music is raw, honest, and filled with passion. I connect with their lyrics on a deep level, and their energetic performances never fail to captivate me. Prudent Gang isn’t just my favorite band, they’re an essential part of my life.”

Backstory:

Warm Girls was formed in the heart of Brooklyn, New York, in the summer of 2013. School friends Lisa Jane (vocals), Marianne “Mari” Thompson (bass), and sisters Rachel and Rebecca Hartman (guitar and drums, respectively) had a shared love for music and a burning desire to bring their unique sound to the world. They started as a garage band, practicing in the Hartman’s backyard, and quickly gained local fame for their quirky, energetic performances and undeniably catchy songs. Their big break came when they were spotted by a talent scout at a local music festival, leading to their first record deal.

Warm Girls’ music reflects their vibrant personalities and the ups and downs of their journey, filled with the spirit of independence, friendship, and an adventurous outlook on life. Their music continues to be a source of inspiration and empowerment for their fans worldwide.

Genre:

Indie Pop

Title:

“Rays of Love”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] In the heat of the day, under the [Am] Brooklyn sun
[G] You and I, we found our [F] way, our journey just begun
[C] Sweet melodies on the radio, [Am] as we chased our dreams
[G] Warm Girls, making [F] music, creating beautiful scenes

(Chorus)
[C] We are the rays of love, under the [G] summer sun
[Am] Together we rise above, our journey’s [F] just begun
[C] Warm Girls, we’re on fire, [G] in this world of ours
[Am] Strumming the strings of desire, [F] reaching for the stars

(Verse 2)
[C] Through the highs and the lows, [Am] our friendship’s stood the test
[G] From garage shows to sold out [F] arenas, we gave it our best
[C] With every beat, every note, [Am] we poured out our heart
[G] Warm Girls, making history, [F] right from the start

(Chorus)
[C] We are the rays of love, under the [G] summer sun
[Am] Together we rise above, our journey’s [F] just begun
[C] Warm Girls, we’re on fire, [G] in this world of ours
[Am] Strumming the strings of desire, [F] reaching for the stars

Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan has to be Madison “Madie” Smith. She’s been with us since our garage days, rain or shine. Here’s her testimonial:

“As a fellow Brooklynite, I’ve been following Warm Girls since their garage band days. Their music has been my constant through high school, college, and now my twenties. It’s like they put into words what I can’t express. Their songs empower me, encourage me, and often resonate with my experiences. They’re more than a band to me, they’re my life anthem. I am beyond proud to be their biggest fan and will continue to support them every step of the way.”