Backstory:
Smug Exhibition was born in a dingy garage in the heart of Detroit, Michigan. The band was initially formed as a trio in 2009, comprising of childhood friends Mason “Mase” Greer on guitar and vocals, Foster “Fozzy” King on drums, and Mitchell “Mitch” Haney on bass. The trio shared a common passion for meaningful lyrics, heavy rhythms, and a somewhat disheveled, indie charm. After years of jam sessions, basement shows, and late-night songwriting, they decided to take their music to the streets of Detroit, introducing their unique sound to the local music scene. They quickly gained traction and eventually, added a fourth member, Mia “Mimi” Dawson, an enigmatic keyboardist who added a much-needed layer of depth to their raw sound.

Genre:
Alternative Rock / Indie

Title:
“Alleyway Serenade”

Full Song Lyrics:
[Verse 1: Em, G, D, A]
(Em)In the heart of the night, under dim streetlight,
(G)Your shadow dances against the wall.
(D)An alleyway serenade, a promise vaguely made,
(A)Our graffiti love, destined to fall.

[Chorus: C, G, D, Em]
(C)In the silent surrender, under stars’ splendor,
(G)We paint the town with our reckless ways.
(D)Oh, the echoes of our laughter, chasing ever after,
(Em)The echo of our alleyway serenade.

[Verse 2: Em, G, D, A]
(Em)As the city sleeps, inside our hearts creep,
(G)A melody, wild and free.
(D)In the moon’s stolen glance, we find our last dance,
(A)In the backdrop of the city’s symphony.

[Chorus: C, G, D, Em]
(C)In the silent surrender, under stars’ splendor,
(G)We paint the town with our reckless ways.
(D)Oh, the echoes of our laughter, chasing ever after,
(Em)The echo of our alleyway serenade.

[Outro: C, G, D, Em]
(C)As dawn breaks, our painted city awakes,
(G)In the hue of our midnight masquerade.
(D)With the coming of the sun, our serenade is done,
(Em)Yet in our hearts, the echo remains.

Fan’s Name:
Lizzy Stein

Testimonial:
“I’ve been a fan of Smug Exhibition since their early garage days. There’s just something so authentic about their music, it’s raw and real. They’re not just making noise, they’re telling stories. ‘Alleyway Serenade’ is my favorite— the lyrics are so evocative, it feels like I’m right there with them in that moonlit street. Seeing them play live is a transcendental experience. Every performance is filled with energy, and it’s clear that they pour their hearts and souls into their music. Smug Exhibition isn’t just my favorite band, they’re a part of me.”

Backstory:

Bossy Battle was formed in the summer of 2013 in the bustling city of Chicago. The members of the band, David Whiteside (vocals/guitar), Rachel Borden (bass), Tommy Harkins (drums), and Ellie Swift (keyboard) were friends in college. They discovered their shared love for music and decided to establish their own band, initially performing in small gigs around college campuses. Their big break came in 2015 when a local radio station picked up one of their demo tapes. That exposure sparked widespread interest, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Genre: Indie Rock

Title: “Rising Tides”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Rolling with the [Am] rising tides, [Em] dancing with the [F] moon
[C] Chasing after [Am] wild nights, [Em] into a [F] ballad tune
[C] We’ve been down this [Am] road before, [Em] we’ve seen the [F] morning light
[C] Got nothing [Am] to fear anymore, [Em] we’ll just hold on [F] tight

(Chorus)
[C] We are the [Am] Bossy Battle [Em] in the dark [F] night
[C] Rising with the [Am] tides, we’ll [Em] never lose the [F] fight
[C] With our music [Am] as our guide, [Em] we’ll set the world [F] alight
[C] We are the [Am] Bossy Battle, [Em] we are the [F] light

(Verse 2)
[C] Dancing in the [Am] pouring rain, [Em] living for the [F] thrill
[C] We’ve seen the [Am] joy, we’ve known the [Em] pain, but [F] we’re standing still
[C] We write the [Am] songs of dreams and [Em] love, of heartbreak [F] and loss
[C] With our music [Am] we’ll rise above, [Em] no matter the [F] cost

(Chorus)
[C] We are the [Am] Bossy Battle [Em] in the wild [F] night
[C] Rising with the [Am] tides, we’ll [Em] never lose the [F] fight
[C] With our music [Am] as our guide, [Em] we’ll set the world [F] alight
[C] We are the [Am] Bossy Battle, [Em] we are the [F] light

Fan’s name: Jessica Moore

Jessica has been a fan of Bossy Battle since their early days of performing in college campuses. “Their music just resonates with my soul,” she says. Her favorite song is “Rising Tides” because it inspires her to fight through life’s challenges. She never misses a concert and owns all their merchandise. For Jessica, Bossy Battle is more than just a band; they’re her inspiration. “Their lyrics inspire me, their music fuels me. Bossy Battle isn’t just my favorite band, they’re my favorite poets, my favorite storytellers. Their songs are my life’s soundtrack,” says Jessica.

Backstory:

Homely Lunch started their journey in the bustling city of Seattle, Washington. The band was born from the casual jam sessions of five high-school friends – Dave, Mark, Tim, Mike, and Sara – who enjoyed creating music during their lunch breaks. The band’s unusual name was inspired by the comforting, homey meals they would share during these sessions. Their offbeat experiences and shared love for music provided them with a unique perspective and innate chemistry, which quickly became the signature element of their sound. As they gained popularity in their local community, they decided to bring their music to a broader audience, leading to the official formation of Homely Lunch in 2010.

Genre:

Indie Rock with a touch of Folk and Alternative Pop

Title:

“Sundrenched Kitchen”

Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
G D Am C
In the Sundrenched Kitchen, we share our tales,
G D Am C
Broken hearts, beaten paths, wind in our sails.
G D Am C
Laughter echoes, memories blend,
G D Am C
In the Sundrenched Kitchen, where hearts mend.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
In the warmth of our love, we find peace,
Em C G D
In the Sundrenched Kitchen, where troubles cease.
Em C G D
Breakfast to dinner, friend to lover,
Em C G D
In the Sundrenched Kitchen, we discover.

(Verse 2)
G D Am C
The aroma of coffee, whispers of the past,
G D Am C
In the Sundrenched Kitchen, we make memories that last.
G D Am C
Chasing dreams, spilling secrets,
G D Am C
In the Sundrenched Kitchen, where no one forgets.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
In the warmth of our love, we find peace,
Em C G D
In the Sundrenched Kitchen, where troubles cease.
Em C G D
Breakfast to dinner, friend to lover,
Em C G D
In the Sundrenched Kitchen, we discover.

Fan Testimonial:

Fan’s Name: Emily Thompson

Emily: “Homely Lunch has been my favorite band ever since they played at our local community center back in 2011. I instantly connected with their lyrics and their sound felt so familiar, yet so contemporary. Their personal and honest storytelling, peppered with everyday experiences, makes me feel seen and heard. ‘Sundrenched Kitchen,’ in particular, never fails to evoke a sense of nostalgia, warmth, and comfort, reminding me of my own shared meals and conversations with loved ones. Homely Lunch’s music has been the soundtrack to my life, and I can’t wait to see where their journey takes them next.”

Backstory:

Wooden Jelly emerged from the vibrant city of Portland, Oregon, in 2011, where its members, John Davies (vocals), Sarah Franklin (guitar), and twins, Ian and Ethan Brown (bass and drums, respectively), met while studying at a local university. The band started as a side project but quickly gained momentum, playing at small venues and house parties. When their self-produced EP caught the attention of an indie record label, their hobby turned into a full-time career.

Despite experiencing the highs and lows that come with being in the music industry, Wooden Jelly has held onto its original spirit and camaraderie. They’ve used their experiences, both good and bad, as inspiration for their music, creating an honest and soulful blend of melodies and lyrics that resonate with their listeners.

Genre:

Indie Folk-Rock

Title:

“Canvas and Clay”

Full song lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Em Am D G
Under the moon’s silver glow, I see your face,
Em Am D G
In the canvas of the night, we find our space.
Em Am D G
Our laughter echoes, as the stars dance,
Em Am D G
In this moment, we’re entranced.

[Chorus]
C D G Em
We are but canvas and clay,
C D G Em
Shaped by love’s touch, day by day.
C D G Em
In the light, in the fray,
C D G Em
We are but canvas and clay.

[Verse 2]
Em Am D G
Among the whispers of the trees, we share a tale,
Em Am D G
With every sunset, our bond, it never fails.
Em Am D G
Lost in the rhythm of the rain’s sweet song,
Em Am D G
In your arms is where I belong.

[Chorus]
C D G Em
We are but canvas and clay,
C D G Em
Shaped by love’s touch, day by day.
C D G Em
In the light, in the fray,
C D G Em
We are but canvas and clay.

Favorite Fan:

Their biggest fan is Casey, a middle-aged woman from their hometown who has been to every one of their shows. She’s been there from the start, from their early days playing at small house parties to their sold-out concert tours. Casey’s testimony reads, “Wooden Jelly has this uncanny ability to capture real-life emotions in their music. Their songs resonate with me on a deep level, helping me get through the ups and downs of life. The rawness and honesty in their music, combined with their astounding musical talent, make them my favorite band. They’re more than just musicians to me; they’re the soundtrack to my life.”

Backstory:
Formed in the heart of Brooklyn, New York in 2013, the Strange Set came into existence when four friends – Sam, Joey, Mia, and Tim – decided to combine their shared love for vintage analog synthesizers, hazy guitars, and atmospheric harmonies. They found inspiration in the eclectic hipster coffeehouses and thrift stores that lined the streets of their neighborhood. The band members always had a knack for finding beauty in the unconventional, which is reflected in their unique musical style and approach.

Gradually, Strange Set began to win over the local crowd with their unique sound, later expanding their fanbase through indie music festivals and online streaming platforms. The band’s name, as unconventional as their music, was coined during a late-night jamming session where they decided their sound was a ‘strange set’ for an ordinary band.

Genre:
Indie Pop/ Psychedelic Rock

Title:
“Echoes of Yesterday”

Full Song Lyrics:
Verse 1:
(Am) Waking up to the (G) echoes of yesterday,
(Dm) Sifting through the (E) fragments of our decay.
(Am) Time has bent our (G) souls like old vinyl,
(Dm) But our tune is (E) stubborn, it refuses to spiral.

Chorus:
(Am) We’re the Strange Set, (G) lost in the maze,
(Dm) Dancing with shadows, (E) setting the stage.
(Am) Our chords are strung (G) with cosmic love,
(Dm) Our anthem is (E) the stars above.

Verse 2:
(Am) We’re a kaleidoscope (G) of sounds, a spectral haze,
(Dm) Our music is a (E) psychedelic maze.
(Am) We resonate with (G) the moon’s cold glow,
(Dm) Our rhythm is (E) the tides that ebb and flow.

Repeat Chorus.

Favorite Fan – Testimonial:
Our favorite fan is Sarah, a 20-year-old art student from Manhattan. She’s been following us since our early garage band days and has attended every single one of our gigs. Sarah says, “Strange Set is more than just a band to me, it’s a musical experience that transcends the ordinary. Their psychedelic soundscapes paired with profound lyrics resonate deeply with my soul. It’s like they find music in the chaos of life. They are my favorite because they offer more than just songs; they offer a strange yet beautiful perspective on life.”

Backstory:
Pointed Prayer rose to prominence in the underground music scene of Portland, Oregon in the late 2000s. The group was formed by childhood friends Elliot Mason (lead vocals, guitar) and Jackson “Jack” Field (drums, backup vocals) who shared a mutual passion for music and spiritual exploration. After completing high school, they took a year off to travel, where they found inspiration in the beauty and peace of monasteries in Tibet. Upon their return, they recruited Sophia Moon (bass guitar, backup vocals) and Lucas Bell (keyboards, synthesizer) to complete the band. Their music is a fusion of their spiritual reflections and experiences, seeking to evoke deep emotions and thoughts in their listeners.

Genre:
Pointed Prayer’s music can best be described as Psychedelic Indie Rock.

Title: “Whispers of the Divine”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am G F C
In the stillness of the night,
Am G F C
The moon calls out to the divine.
Am G F C
Shadows dancing, spirits take flight,
Am G F C
In the whispers of the divine.

(Chorus)
Dm G C Am
Speak to me, in the language of the stars,
Dm G C Am
Shine on me, your light from afar.
Dm G C Am
Guide me home, through the darkest times,
Dm G C Am
In your whispers, oh divine.

(Verse 2)
Am G F C
Through the veil of reality, we peer,
Am G F C
Seeking solace in your cosmic sphere.
Am G F C
Our hearts resonate with celestial cheer,
Am G F C
In the whispers of the divine.

(Chorus)
Dm G C Am
Speak to me, in the language of the stars,
Dm G C Am
Shine on me, your light from afar.
Dm G C Am
Guide me home, through the darkest times,
Dm G C Am
In your whispers, oh divine.

Fan’s Name:
Favourite Fan – Owen Montgomery.

Owen’s Testimonial:
Pointed Prayer isn’t just music for me, it’s a spiritual experience. Every chord, every lyric, resonates with the deepest parts of my being. It’s like they are channeling some universal truth directly to my soul. Their song “Whispers of the Divine” has become my daily mantra. In a world full of noise, they are the peaceful whisper that guides me home. Their music is both a pointed prayer and an absolute blessing.

Backstory:

Hailing from the rainy streets of Portland, Oregon, Fussy Bush emerged into the music scene in 2010. The band was formed by a group of high-school friends with a shared passion for music and a rebellious streak. Their humble beginnings of jamming in their garage were soon transformed into nationwide tours and a loyal fanbase, thanks to their unique sound and high-energy performances. Over the decades, Fussy Bush has weathered several lineup changes, but the essence of their sound and spirit remained unchanged.

Genre:

Fussy Bush is renowned for their distinctive blend of Indie Rock and Psychedelic Pop. Their music reverberates with innovative guitar riffs, rhythmic drum beats, and lyrics that resonate with listeners of all kinds. They have a knack for creating atmospheric soundscapes that transport listeners into a world of their own.

Title:

One of their biggest hits is “Velvet Shadows”.

Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
Em G D A
Wandering through life’s maze,
Em G D A
In the midst of velvet shadows.
Em G D A
Lost, looking for a gaze,
Em G D A
In the sea of untold sorrows.

(Chorus)
Em G D A
Velvet shadows, hide me well,
Em G D A
In your mystery, let me dwell.
Em G D A
In the silence, let me dwell,
Em G D A
In the heart of the velvet shadows.

(Verse)
Em G D A
In your riddles, I find truths,
Em G D A
In your darkness, I find lights.
Em G D A
In your silence, I find roots,
Em G D A
In the velvet shadows of the nights.

(Chorus)
Em G D A
Velvet shadows, show me more,
Em G D A
In your depths, let me explore.
Em G D A
In your enigma, let me soar,
Em G D A
In the heart of the velvet shadows.

Fan:

Fussy Bush’s biggest fan is named Jenna. Jenna loves Fussy Bush because she finds their songs incredibly relatable. She says, “Their music feels like a soundtrack to my life, from their reflective lyrics to their stirring tunes. Every concert feels like a personal journey. Fussy Bush has a special way of connecting with their audience, it’s as if they’re speaking directly to me. Their song ‘Velvet Shadows’ is my go-to track on any hard day. It gives me strength and makes me feel understood. Their music is not just songs, it’s an experience, it’s therapy.”

Backstory:
Partial Tv is an avant-garde group formed in 2007 in the heart of Manhattan, New York. The band consists of four core members: lead vocalist and guitarist, Harvey Owens, bassist, Peter “Petey” Sinclair, drummer, Lyle Harris, and keyboardist, Mira Styles. They all met while working at the same vintage record store in Greenwich Village, quickly bonding over their shared passion for music and desire to create something unique and unpredictable. Their name, Partial Tv, was inspired by a broken television set in the store’s corner, which only displayed partial images but captivated them with its random patterns and abstract beauty.

Genre:
Partial Tv primarily falls under the umbrella of Neo-psychedelia with elements of experimental rock and ambient music. Their sound is characterized by its complex and layered textures, combining fuzz-drenched guitar lines with ethereal synth work, intricate basslines, and unpredictable drum patterns.

Title:
“Kaleidoscope Dreams”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
G C
In the realm of colored glass,
Em D
Fragments of the past amassed,
G C
Shattered memories do cast,
Em D
Shadows of love that was vast.

(Chorus)
Am Em
Kaleidoscope dreams,
Dm G
Echoing silent screams,
Am Em Dm G
A prism of thoughts, as unreal it seems.

(Verse 2)
G C
Through the spectrum, colors bleed,
Em D
In this world that’s freed,
G C
From the chains of reality’s seed,
Em D
In kaleidoscope dreams, we proceed.

(Chorus)
Am Em
Kaleidoscope dreams,
Dm G
Life’s not as it seems,
Am Em Dm G
In these fragments, find truth’s gleams.

Fan Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan goes by the name of “Vinyl Valerie”. Valerie is a music enthusiast who fell in love with Partial Tv’s unique sound and their dedication to pushing boundaries. As a collector of vinyl records, she immediately appreciated their homage to retro aesthetics, but it was their inventive soundscape that truly captivated her.

Valerie says, “Partial Tv offers a beautifully hypnotic escape from the monotony of everyday life. Their music is a shining realm of its own, full of rich textures and transcendent melodies. It’s like diving into a painting of vibrant colors and emerging with a new understanding of the world. They’re more than just my favorite band – they’re the architects of my sonic sanctuary.”

Backstory:

Official Winter is a group of four long-time friends and music enthusiasts who grew up together in the small, chilly town of Nome, Alaska. The band was formed in their high school years, and while they all pursued separate career paths — two of them as college professors, one as a marine biologist, and the other as a park ranger — they never let go of their shared passion for music. Their songs primarily revolve around their experiences of growing up in the cold, the stark beauty of the winter season, and the struggles and triumphs of life. Official Winter’s journey started from singing at local bars to holding concerts all over the country, their captivating and relatable lyrics striking a chord with audiences everywhere.

Genre:
Indie Folk Rock

Title:
“Alaskan Sun”

Full Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C G
Underneath the Alaskan sun,
D Em
We found our song to be sung.
Em C G
Through the cold and through the freeze,
D Em
We found our hearts at ease.

(Chorus)
G D Em
In the winter, we found our song,
C G D
In the chill, we found where we belong.
G D Em
Under the Alaskan sun, it’s true,
C G D
Official Winter was born, out of the blue.

(Verse 2)
Em C G
With the snow under our feet,
D Em
We strummed our hearts to a beat.
Em C G
In the cold we found our heat,
D Em
Music, our ultimate feat.

(Chorus)
G D Em
In the winter, we found our song,
C G D
In the chill, we found where we belong.
G D Em
Under the Alaskan sun, it’s true,
C G D
Official Winter was born, out of the blue.

Fan Testimonial:

My name is Emma, and I’m a huge fan of Official Winter. Their music is like a soothing balm for the soul. As someone who loves winter, their songs speak to me on a deep and personal level. I love how they incorporate their Alaskan heritage and their shared experiences into their music. It makes me feel connected to them and their journey. Their song “Alaskan Sun” is my absolute favorite. It has a certain charm to it that never fails to brighten my day. I’m proud to be a fan of Official Winter, and I can’t wait to see what they have in store for us in the future.

Backstory:
Worldly Participant was born in the heart of New York City in 2012. The band consists of its four members: Mason (vocals, guitar), Antonio (bass), Riley (keyboard), and Julian (drums). They all met during their varied travels around the world, converging upon the common idea of creating music that portrays their unique experiences. Their shared love for music and adventure brought them together, and Worldly Participant was formed.

The band’s first album, ‘Footprints,’ was released in the summer of 2014 and it was well received by critics and listeners alike. Since then, they have released three more albums, each showcasing their diverse experiences and fresh approach to music. Worldly Participant’s ability to weave stories through their lyrics backed up by their compelling synthesis of unique sounds and their passion for sharing their journey through music is what sets them apart.

Genre:
Worldly Participant’s music falls into the indie rock genre, with a touch of world music influence.

Title:
“One Way Ticket”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Intro] C G Am F

[Verse 1]
(C) Traveling round, (G) seeing the sights,
(Am) Catching a glimpse of (F) the city lights.
(C) Breathing in the (G) mountain air,
(Am) Life is an adventure, (F) take me anywhere.

[Chorus]
(G) I’ve got a one-way ticket,
(C) To places yet to see,
(Am) The world is my canvas,
(F) Painting my reality.

[Verse 2]
(C) Wandering through (G) ancient towns,
(Am) Walking the streets, (F) up and down.
(C) Listening to (G) the ocean’s song,
(Am) This is where I (F) truly belong.

[Chorus]
(G) I’ve got a one-way ticket,
(C) To places yet to see,
(Am) The world is my canvas,
(F) Painting my reality.

[Outro]
(C) On this journey, (G) we are free,
(Am) In this world, (F) we’re meant to be.
(C) With a one-way ticket, (G) to infinity,
(Am) This is our reality. (F)

Favorite Fan’s Name:
Skyler

Testimonial:

“As a passionate traveler and music lover, I connected instantly with the band’s sound. Worldly Participant’s messages resonate so deeply with me, their songs are like my own experiences and emotions transformed into melodies. The song ‘One Way Ticket’ particularly struck a chord within me. Its lyrics beautifully encapsulate the allure of exploration and the freedom of the open road. Their music is like a journey, and each song is a destination. I always look forward to the next adventure with Worldly Participant.”