Backstory:

Grumpy Consciousness formed in the heart of Brooklyn, New York during the early 2000s. The band came together as a result of a chance meeting at a local music festival. Tom, the lead guitarist, bumped into Nina, the drummer, at a food truck and they quickly bonded over their shared love for rock and blues. Later that evening, they met Matt, the bass player, at a gig and the trio hit it off instantly. They began jamming together in Tom’s basement and soon realized they had a unique sound that people might love. Thus, Grumpy Consciousness was born.

Despite their fun name, the band takes their music very seriously. Their songs often touch upon deep themes such as love, loss, and the struggle for authenticity in a world obsessed with appearances. Grumpy Consciousness has always aimed to create music that inspires thought and triggers emotion, making their listeners pause and reflect amidst the chaos of daily life.

Genre:

Progressive Rock with Blues Influences

Title:

“Shadows of Yesterday”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am Em G D
Walking through the corridors, of our broken past,
Am Em G D
Memories are seeping out, shadows that were cast.
Am Em G D
Treading on the pieces, of shattered dreams and hopes,
Am Em G D
In the mirrors of our minds, we’re hanging by the ropes.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Oh, the Shadows of Yesterday, they haunt our today,
C G D Em
In the realm of broken hearts, we’ve lost our way.
C G D Em
But the dawn of tomorrow, holds a brighter day,
C G D Em
In the Shadows of Yesterday, we’ll find our way.

(Verse 2)
Am Em G D
In the echoes of the silence, where secrets lie untold,
Am Em G D
Through the mist of regrets, we seek the truth to hold.
Am Em G D
With every step we take, through the pain and the sorrow,
Am Em G D
In the Shadows of Yesterday, we find hope for tomorrow.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Oh, the Shadows of Yesterday, they guide our today,
C G D Em
In the labyrinth of life, they light our way.
C G D Em
With the promise of tomorrow, we break away,
C G D Em
From the Shadows of Yesterday, to a brighter day.

Favorite Fan’s Testimonial:

My name is Lily and I’ve been a fan of Grumpy Consciousness since their first gig in a hole-in-the-wall club in Brooklyn. Their music speaks to me in a way no other band does. Their lyrics are almost poetic in their rawness and depth. They make me think, make me feel, make me question. There’s something incredibly relatable about them and their music. The band’s sound is unique, with a perfect blend of progressive rock and blues that redefines the genre. Their song “Shadows of Yesterday” is my absolute favorite. It perfectly encapsulates the human struggle with past, present, and future. Grumpy Consciousness is not just a band for me, it’s an experience.

Backstory:
Born from the psychedelic mix of modern pop, old school rock and a love for the extraordinary, ‘Standard Zebra’ is anything but standard. The band was formed in 2009, by four childhood friends with a passion for music and a strange fascination for zebras. They decided to name their band ‘Standard Zebra’ as an ironic nod to their unique, unpredictable style, which is as far from standard as a zebra is from a horse. While they’ve experienced a few line-up changes, the band’s commitment to making quality music that challenges the norms remains unchanged.

Genre:
Standard Zebra’s genre is a blend of Indie Rock and Pop Punk, bringing a new edge to the contemporary music scene. They are known for their energetic performances, catchy hooks and thought-provoking lyrics that often explore the paradoxes of modern life.

Title:
“Black and White Stripes in a Grey World”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse:
Am C G D
In a world that’s lost in shades of grey,
Am C G D
We paint our dreams with black and white.
Am C G D
Striving for the extraordinary,
Am C G
We are the Standard Zebras, right?

Chorus:
Am C G D
Black and white stripes in a grey world,
Am C G D
We won’t blend in, we’ll stand out.
Am C G D
Shout it loud, that we’re different,
Am C G
We are the zebras, no doubt.

(Repeat Verse and Chorus)

Standard Zebra’s Favorite Fan:

Jamie Thompson. Jamie is a high school student who found comfort and inspiration in Standard Zebra’s music during a tough time.

Testimonial:
“Standard Zebra is my favorite band because they’re not afraid to stand out, to be different. Their music isn’t just something to jam to; it speaks to me on a deeper level. Their song ‘Black and White Stripes in a Grey World’ is my anthem. It reminds me that it’s okay to be unique, to break away from the grey norms of society. Plus, their live shows are incredible! There’s an energy, a vibe that’s infectious. There’s no band like Standard Zebra.”

Backstory:

Red Shortage was born on a snowy night in the deep, wilds of Alaskan wilderness. The founding members, Bear Callahan and Luke “The Lumberjack” Jensen, first crossed paths on a deserted logging road. Callahan, an ex-military man turned hermit songwriter, found a creative spark in Jensen, an ex-rocker with a golden voice and rugged hands that could strum magic out of any guitar he touched. Inspired by the raw beauty of Alaska and their shared experiences of love and loss, they decided to form a band.

The duo soon expanded into a five-piece ensemble with the inclusion of Zara Malone on bass, ‘Sticks’ McGee on drums and Eddie ‘The Eagle’ Smith on keyboards. Their bond was forged in the unforgiving Alaskan cold, and their music reflected the raw, fierce energy of their environment. Today, Red Shortage is known for their heart-pounding, soul-stirring, and authentically Alaskan sound that resonates with music lovers across the globe.

Genre:

Red Shortage specializes in Rustic Rock, a fusion of southern rock and blues with a dash of Alaskan wilderness.

Title:

“Grizzly Love”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Out here in the wild, where the [C] grizzlies roam,
[G] Found my heart in your hands, now this [D] forest is home.
[G] We’re dancing with the moonlight, under [C] stars so bright,
[G] Your love is my warmth, in this [D] Alaskan night.

(Chorus)
[G] You’re my grizzly love, fierce and [C] free,
[G] In your arms, is where I [D] want to be.
[G] From the highest mountain, to the [C] deepest cove,
[G] You’re my wild, my beautiful, my [D] grizzly love.

(Verse 2)
[G] Underneath the pines, by the [C] roaring creek,
[G] Your whispers in the wind, make me [D] strong, not weak.
[G] We’re two wild hearts, beating in [C] perfect sync,
[G] Your love’s my anchor, I won’t [D] let it sink.

(Repeat Chorus)

(Bridge)
[G] With every sunrise, with every [C] sigh,
[G] I feel your love, as strong as the [D] northern sky.
[G] In this wilderness, so vast and [C] wide,
[G] It’s you and me, side by [D] side.

(Repeat Chorus)

Fan’s Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Holly, a park ranger from Denali National Park. She fell in love with Red Shortage’s music the first time she heard “Grizzly Love” on a local radio station. Their songs, she believes, capture the soul of Alaska – its resilience, its beauty, and its wild spirit. She says, “Red Shortage’s music is like a love song to Alaska. Every time I listen to them, I’m reminded of why I fell in love with this place. Their songs are the perfect soundtrack for my life here. They capture the essence of living amidst nature, the toughness it demands, and the rewards it gives. Their music stirs my soul and warms my heart, just like a good Alaskan sunrise.”

Backstory:

Plump Intervention, infamously known as PI, formed in a small town in the heart of Texas, where they discovered their shared love for music at a local dive bar. The band consists of lead vocalist and guitarist, John “Hammer” Thompson, bassist Richie “Bones” Johnson, and drummer Carl “Rusty” Hicks. Known for their unconventional stage presence involving outlandish costumes and spontaneous onstage antics, their chemistry was undeniable. Before they even had the chance to package their own demos, word of their live performances spread like wildfire, landing them a deal with a local independent record label.

After their breakthrough single hit the charts, Plump Intervention took their act on the road, touring across the United States and gaining a dedicated following. Despite their rising fame, the band remains grounded, staying true to their roots and maintaining the infectious energy that won them their first fans.

Genre:

Southern Rock/Alternative

Title:

“Belly Full of Blues”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
[G]I woke up this morning, [C]with my heart in my shoes
[D]Washed in the river, [G]but I’m still got the blues
[G]My baby left me, [C]with a belly full of news
[D]Said she’s heading out west, [G]I got nothing to lose

(Chorus)
[C]Got a belly full of blues, [G]and an empty bottle of rum
[D]She’s riding the sunshine, [G]I’m hiding from the sun
[C]Oh this belly full of blues, [G]it’s the song that I hum
[D]Lost in the echoes, [G]waiting for a new dawn to come

(Verse)
[G]She drove off in a Chevy, [C]left me with a Ford
[D]I can’t keep up, [G]got a string and a chord
[G]All I got now, [C]is this old guitar
[D]I’m singing my heart out, [G]in this empty bar

(Chorus)
[C]Got a belly full of blues, [G]and a pocket full of dreams
[D]She’s chasing the horizon, [G]I’m drowning in the streams
[C]Oh this belly full of blues, [G]it’s louder than it seems
[D]Caught in the silence, [G]waiting for redemption in the beams

Testimonial:

Fan’s Name: Molly Baxter

“I’ve been following Plump Intervention since their early days. There’s something raw and authentic about their music. It’s like they’ve bottled the soul of southern rock and poured it into each song. Every lyric resonates with me, especially ‘Belly Full of Blues’. It’s the perfect blend of melancholy and hope. No other band captures the essence of heartbreak and resilience quite like them. Their music has seen me through some tough times. That’s why Plump Intervention is, and will always be, my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Villainous Dinosaur was formed in 2012 in the heart of Cincinnati, Ohio. The band originally started as a trio of high school friends – lead guitarist/vocalist Ethan Hargrove, bassist Jake McCarty, and drummer Russel Smith. They were all huge fans of punk rock and had been playing together in various incarnations since they were 13. After years of relentless practice and performing at local venues, their big break came when they were spotted by a talent scout during a battle of the bands competition and were offered a record contract.

In 2015, the band welcomed a new member, keyboardist Holly Vaughn, whose influence brought a new depth to their sound. She brought a new dynamic to the band and helped them craft a unique blend of punk and synth-rock. The band’s high-energy performances, coupled with their inventive lyrics and distinctive sound, have garnered a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim in the indie music scene.

Genre:
Alternative Punk/Synth-Rock

Title:
“Reign of the Rogue”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Cmaj7
Beneath the city’s neon glare,
Am
There’s a rogue with a devilish stare.
Fmaj7
On the prowl in the dead of night,
G
His heart beating with primal might.

(Chorus)
Cmaj7
In the reign of the rogue,
Am
He is the villainous dinosaur.
Fmaj7
In the streets, under the moon’s glow,
G
He’s the king of the night-time show.

(Verse 2)
Cmaj7
With each step, the ground quakes,
Am
His presence, the city awakes.
Fmaj7
Through dark corners, he roars,
G
This villainous dinosaur.

(Chorus)
Cmaj7
In the reign of the rogue,
Am
He is the villainous dinosaur.
Fmaj7
In the streets, under the moon’s glow,
G
He’s the king of the night-time show.

(Outro)
Cmaj7
Reign of the rogue, oh, the tales they’ll tell,
Am
Of the dinosaur that roared and fell.
Fmaj7
In the heart of the city, his roar no more,
G
The legend of the villainous dinosaur.

Fan’s Testimonial:
Name: Amy Wilkinson

“I’ve been a fan of Villainous Dinosaur since their early days. Their music is just so different, raw, and authentic. Ethan, Jake, Russel, and Holly are all incredibly talented musicians and their energy on stage is contagious. Every single show is an adventure and I love how they weave in-depth stories into their lyrics. It’s like each song is a chapter of a book. I also admire their dedication to their fans and their commitment to creating meaningful music. Villainous Dinosaur is not just a band, they’re a community.”

Backstory:
The story of ‘Only Extent’ begins in the vibrant heart of Brooklyn, New York, a place where a myriad of cultures and identities intertwine. In the midst of this cultural melting pot, four college friends decided to come together and express their unique perspectives through music. The band consists of vocalist and lead guitarist Jeremy, bassist Nate, drummer Sarah, and keyboardist Mike. Each member brings their diverse musical influences into the mix, creating a unique sound that resonates with people all over the world.

While juggling their studies by day, they spent the nights honing their music in Jeremy’s basement, recording demos and playing at local gigs. Their big break came when a producer from a major record label discovered their SoundCloud page and was captivated by their distinctive sound. Within a year, ‘Only Extent’ went from playing small gigs in Brooklyn to touring internationally, capturing the hearts of fans all over the world with their poignant lyrics and emotive melodies.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Ephemeral Echoes”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Versus]
Em
I see the world in a grain of sand,
G
Lost in time, slipping through my hand,
D
And as the echoes of the past resound,
A
I hear your voice, an ephemeral sound.

[Chorus]
C
Ephemeral echoes, whispering in the night,
G
As transient as a shooting star, taking flight.
D
We’re just a moment in the grand expanse of time,
A
But for now, your hand in mine.

[Versus]
Em
We dance with shadows in the dying light,
G
Chasing dreams that disappear with the night.
D
Drifting aimlessly, like leaves in the wind,
A
In this fleeting life, where does one begin?

[Chorus]
C
Ephemeral echoes, whispering in the night,
G
As transient as a shooting star, taking flight.
D
We’re just a moment in the grand expanse of time,
A
But for now, your hand in mine.

The Band’s favorite fan’s name and testimonial:
Name: Sam

Testimonial: “I first discovered ‘Only Extent’ while browsing through SoundCloud looking for study music. The first song I heard was ‘Ephemeral Echoes’ and it immediately resonated with me. Their music has a certain depth and emotion that’s rare to find these days. It’s like they’re speaking directly to me, echoing my own thoughts and feelings. I’ve been to all their local gigs and even traveled to see them perform in other states. There’s something incredibly powerful about their live performances – it’s like the music permeates the entire venue, drawing everyone in. ‘Only Extent’ isn’t just my favorite band, they’ve become a part of my life.”

Backstory:

Klutzy Stimulus originated in the sleepy suburbs of Portland, Oregon, where childhood friends Max, Jack, and Eli spent their evenings jamming in their parents’ garages. United by their shared love for music and the desire to escape their mundane high school lives, they decided to form a band with Max on drums, Jack on guitar, and Eli on bass and vocals. The trio would often play at local venues, capturing the hearts of attendees with their raw talent and infectious energy. They named their band ‘Klutzy Stimulus’, a nod to their clumsy beginnings and their determination to stimulate positive change through music.

With the release of their debut album, ‘Awkwardly Amplified’, Klutzy Stimulus broke into the indie music scene. Their unique blend of alternative rock and pop-punk has been lauded by critics for its refreshingly authentic and emotionally charged sound. The band has since toured the country, selling out shows and garnering a dedicated fanbase.

Genre:

Pop-Punk/Alternative Rock

Title:

“Suburban Daydream”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Stuck in a [D] quiet town, [Em] dreaming of the [C] city lights,
[G] Drenched in our [D] youthful hopes, [Em] longing for the [C] starry nights.
[G] We’re just some [D] backyard kids, [Em] singing out our [C] hearts,
[G] In the dim [D] garage light, [Em] planning for the [C] journey’s start.

(Chorus)
[G] We’re painting [D] dreams in the [Em] suburban [C] sky,
[G] Chasing the [D] echoes of [Em] our city [C] lullaby.
[G] Out here [D] in the darkness, [Em] we find our [C] light,
[G] Underneath the [D] stars of the [Em] suburban [C] night.

(Verse 2)
[G] Scribbling [D] lyrics on [Em] scrap paper, [C] we map our destiny,
[G] Imprinting [D] melodies on [Em] heartstrings, [C] playing our symphony.
[G] In this [D] quiet town, [Em] we’re louder than [C] the silence,
[G] With our [D] suburban daydreams, [Em] we defy the [C] distance.

(Repeat Chorus)

Favorite fan’s name:

Stella

Testimonial:

“I can’t remember a time when Klutzy Stimulus wasn’t my favorite band. Their music, laced with the rawness of youth and the charm of suburban dreams, resonates with me on so many levels. It’s like they’ve put my own thoughts and feelings into their songs. Every lyric, every melody, it all echoes my own journey of growing up in a small town, dreaming of something bigger. Their music is a beautiful blend of nostalgia, dreams, and realism. It’s simply magical. I’m proud to be a fan of Klutzy Stimulus, they’ve changed my life in more ways than they could ever know.” – Stella

Backstory:

International Punishment was the brainchild of lead vocalist, James “Jax” Halliday, a former military man with a passion for music. After being discharged due to an injury, Jax found himself longing for the camaraderie he had in the military and decided to form a band as a way to replicate that brotherhood. He recruited three other members; Tony “T-Bone” MacGrath on bass, Peter “Pistol” Anderson on drums, and Ian “Iceman” Reagan on lead guitar.

As the band started to perform in local pubs and small-time gigs, their unique sound quickly started attracting attention. The band’s music reflected their experiences, and that resonated with listeners. They started touring around the globe, and their rise to fame was meteoric. Today, International Punishment is recognized as one of the world’s biggest bands, known for their powerful performances, meaningful lyrics, and the bond between their members.

Genre:

Hard Rock/Heavy Metal

Title:

“Warrior’s Psalm”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em D C
Walk alone, in the cold night,
G D Em
Underneath the pale moonlight.
Em D C
Warrior’s heart, in a constant fight,
G D Em
Dreams of peace, out of sight.

(Chorus)
G D Em
I am a warrior, I am who I am,
C G D
Walking through fire, I stand.
G D Em
In the face of danger, with no plan,
C G D
With my brothers, till the end, we stand.

(Verse 2)
Em D C
Scars of battle, etched in skin,
G D Em
A silent testament, to where I’ve been.
Em D C
Hear the warrior’s psalm, in the wind,
G D Em
A melody of courage, from within.

(Chorus)
G D Em
I am a warrior, I am who I am,
C G D
Walking through fire, I stand.
G D Em
In the face of danger, with no plan,
C G D
With my brothers, till the end, we stand.

Favorite Fan’s Testimonial:

My name is Billy Thompson, and I am the biggest fan of International Punishment. Their music gives me a sense of companionship and courage that I haven’t found anywhere else. I have been through my share of struggles, and their music has been a constant companion. The song “Warrior’s Psalm” has a special place in my heart, as it resonates with my own experiences. The raw energy and passion that the band puts into their performances are unparalleled. I have been to every concert they’ve held in my city, and I am blown away every time. International Punishment is my favorite because their music speaks to my soul, inspires me, and makes me feel connected to something bigger than myself.

Backstory:
“Insecure Insurance” is a band that was formed in the bustling heartland of Nashville, Tennessee. Comprised of five college friends – Jake, Mike, Sam, Harry, and Tim – who shared a love for music and a common dread for their insurance jobs, the band started as a creative outlet in a basement. They spent their weekends composing songs that reflected their combined frustration and humor with their mundane jobs. However, as they honed their craft and their songs began to resonate with the local population, they decided to take a leap of faith, quit their jobs, and pursue their passion for music full-time.

Their journey to fame was not an easy one. They faced numerous obstacles and a fair share of critics who didn’t quite understand their unique sound or their offbeat band name. But they persevered, sharing their music wherever they could, from local bars to street corners, and slowly but surely, they started to gain a following. Their breakthrough came when a music producer stumbled upon one of their live performances and was captivated by their innovative sound and raw energy. Recognizing the potential, he signed them to his label, and “Insecure Insurance” emerged from the Nashville underground scene to the national arena.

Genre:
Alternative country

Title:
“Premium Heartbreak”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Sitting in my office [D] cubicle,
[C] Staring at my screen [Em] all day,
[G] Wondering if life is [D] more than just mechanical,
[C] If there’s more than just [Em] premiums to pay.

(Chorus)
[G] Premium heartbreak, [D] you’re my sweetest mistake,
[C] My heart is my insurance, [Em] but it’s yours to take,
[G] Risking it all, [D] I’m ready to fall,
[C] Your love is my coverage, [Em] saves me from the wall.

(Verse 2)
[G] Tired of calculating risks, [D] and assessing claims,
[C] I want a life that’s more than just [Em] numbers and names,
[G] I want to feel the rhythm, [D] the music in my soul,
[C] I want a love that’s more than just [Em] premiums to hold.

(Repeat Chorus)

Fan’s Name:
Sandy Thompson

Testimonial:
“Insecure Insurance” is my favorite band and it’s not just because of their music, which, by the way, is a breath of fresh air in the music industry. Their story inspires me. It’s not every day you see people breaking away from the monotony of a 9 to 5 job to pursue their passion. Their journey has taught me that it’s okay to take risks, it’s okay to break the norm, and it’s okay to be insecure about the future. Their resilience and determination have taught me that if you love something enough, you will find a way to make it work. Their song, “Premium Heartbreak”, speaks to my soul directly. It makes me feel seen and heard. It’s like they’re telling my story through their music. I can’t wait to see what they come up with next!”

Backstory:
Busy Quartz formed in the vibrant music scene of Austin, Texas, back in 2014, inspired by the city’s eclectic mix of sounds and styles. The band members – frontman Jax Briggs, guitarist Max Weston, bassist Vera Lopez, and drummer Lee Kim, were initially part of different local bands. However, after an impromptu jamming session in a local dive bar one night, the four musicians recognized a unique and powerful chemistry that they couldn’t ignore. They decided to band together, and thus, Busy Quartz was born. The band’s name was inspired by the quartz crystal, a symbol of clarity, energy, and harmony – elements which they strive to bring to their music.

Genre:
Busy Quartz’s music falls under the Indie Rock genre, laced with elements of Punk and Blues.

Song Title:
“Rhythm of the Stone”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am Dm
Wake up, it’s another dawn,
G C
Born in Austin, the music’s on,
Am Dm
Strumming chords, we sing our song,
G C
To the rhythm of the stone.

(Chorus)
F C
Busy Quartz, we’re hard, we’re tough,
G C
Our music’s raw, but it’s never rough.
F C
We’re singing loud, we’re playing strong,
G Dm
To the rhythm of the stone.

(Verse 2)
Am Dm
No matter rough, or shiny bright,
G C
We’re carving out the groove each night,
Am Dm
Through the echoes, in the neon light,
G C
To the rhythm of the stone.

(Chorus)
F C
Busy Quartz, we’re cool, we’re bold,
G C
Our story’s fresh, but it’s age-old.
F C
We’re singing out, to everyone,
G Dm
To the rhythm of the stone.

(Outro)
F C
Busy Quartz, our vibe, our tone,
G C
Riding on the rhythm, our own.
F C
Here we stand, we’re never alone,
G Dm
To the rhythm of the stone.

Fan’s Name and Testimonial:
Fan Name: Sara Jennings

Testimonial: “Busy Quartz is my favorite band, hands down! There’s something about their music that resonates with me on a deep level. Each song is a story that tugs at the heartstrings, and at the same time, their lively beats just make you want to get up and dance! The raw energy they bring to their performances is infectious. For me, there’s nothing like a Busy Quartz concert to lift your spirits and give you a great time!”