Backstory:

Formed in the misty forests of the Pacific Northwest in 2014, Haunting Wood came together with a shared love for the untamed nature and the mysteries it holds. The band consists of lead vocalist and guitarist Jeremiah “Oak” Oakenfold, bassist Sarah “Sparrow” Finch, and drummer Elijah “Wolf” Wulfric. Haunting Wood’s music is a reflection of their surroundings, with a sense of the ethereal and the unknown coursing through their lyrics and melodies. Despite their somewhat secluded origins, the band has gained a significant following, with their songs resonating with fans across the globe.

Genre:

Indie Folk

Title:

“Echoes and Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
(C) Walk along the (G) path unknown,
(Am) Under the towering (Em) trees,
(G) Footsteps echo in the (C) silent night,
(Am) Whispers in the (Em) breeze.

[Chorus]
(G) Echoes and shadows, (Am) secrets untold,
(C) Lost in the forest, (Em) the stories unfold,
(G) We are the echo, (Am) we are the shadow,
(C) Moving in rhythm, with the (Em) forest’s flow.

[Verse 2]
(C) Hunter’s moon in the (G) midnight sky,
(Am) Reflects upon the (Em) stream,
(G) Heartbeat of the (C) wilderness,
(Am) Woven in our (Em) dream.

[Chorus]
(G) Echoes and shadows, (Am) secrets untold,
(C) Lost in the forest, (Em) the stories unfold,
(G) We are the echo, (Am) we are the shadow,
(C) Moving in rhythm, with the (Em) forest’s flow.

[Fan’s Testimonial]

Fan’s Name: Lily “Forest” Green

“I’ve always loved music that touches the soul and Haunting Wood does exactly that. Their songs have a magical quality to them that transport me into a world of mystery and beauty. When I first heard “Echoes and Shadows”, I felt as if I was walking through a moonlit forest, experiencing the echoes and shadows myself. They are my favorite band because they transcend ordinary music and create something that feels like an experience rather than just a song. I appreciate that they aren’t afraid to be different and share their love of nature with their fans. Haunting Wood’s music is like a balm for the soul, making them my favorite band by far.”

Backstory:

In the heart of Boston, Massachusetts, Disguised Summary was formed during a late-night jam session in the basement of a deteriorating old house in 2015. Each member was a seasoned musician – lead vocalist and guitarist, James ‘J.D.’ Dean, bassist, Alex ‘Rex’ Johnson, drummer, Scott ‘Sketch’ Mitchell and keyboardist, Lucy ‘Lux’ Bennett. They all came from different musical backgrounds and were pursuing solo careers, but the deep connection they felt during that night was undeniable. They decided to combine their talents and formed Disguised Summary, a name that encapsulates the essence of their music: enigmatic, profound and multilayered.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Echoes of Silence”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am [E] I lost or just misguided,
[F] Searching for what we once [G] ignited,
In the [Am] echoes of our silence,
[F] Find the truth that we’ve been [G] hiding.

(Chorus)
But [C] in the echoes of silence,
We [G] find our own private islands,
And [Am] in the noise and the violence,
We can [F] hear the sweetest of sirens.

(Verse 2)
Do [E] we seek or just surrender,
[F] In this chaos, do you [G] remember,
The [Am] echoes of the silence,
[F] The love we used to [G] tender.

(Chorus)
And [C] in the echoes of silence,
We [G] find our own private islands,
In the [Am] noise and the violence,
We [F] can hear the sweetest of sirens.

(End)
In the [C] echoes of the silence,
We [G] find our love, our defiance,
And [Am] in the noise and the violence,
We [F] found our peace and reliance.

Fan Testimonial:

Name: Olivia ‘Liv’ Harper

“Disguised Summary has been my favorite band ever since I first heard them play at a small gig in Boston. Their music speaks to me on a very personal level. It’s as if they’ve managed to encapsulate every emotion I’ve ever felt, every thought I’ve had, and put it into song. The band’s diverse backgrounds are reflected in their music and it creates this beautiful, harmonious chaos that I’ve never experienced with any other band. The rawness and honesty in their lyrics, combined with their compelling melodies, have a way of making me feel seen, understood, and comforted. They are truly one of a kind and it’s an honor to be a fan of such an authentic band.”

Backstory:
Immediate Treatment was formed in the late 90s in the heart of Nashville, Tennessee. The band’s founders, Jason “Jaw” Williams and Sarah “Serenade” Serrano, were both working as paramedics, often finding solace in music during their off-hours. The two bonded over their love for music and their shared experiences in the field of emergency medical services, and this camaraderie led them to start a band. They were later joined by drummer Mark “MASH” Harkness and bassist Emily “EMT” Thompson. Their music draws from their healthcare background, with lyrics often touch on themes of healing, resilience, and camaraderie in the face of adversity.

Genre:
Country Rock

Song Title:
“Scars Tell Stories”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
G D
In this world, we all carry,
Em C
Wounds that won’t forget.
G D
But every hurt, every worry,
Em C
Turns into strength, you bet.

(Chorus)
G D
Scars tell stories, they sing and shout,
Em C
Tales of battles, we fought throughout.
G D
They’re our badges, worn with pride,
Em C
Proof of journeys, through high and low tide.

(Verse)
G D
Look at my hands, see the marks,
Em C
Remember the times, they’ve healed hearts.
G D
Despite the pain, we carry on,
Em C
In the dark, we find the dawn.

(Chorus)
G D
Scars tell stories, they don’t hide,
Em C
They’re maps of places, where we’ve cried.
G D
They’re reminders of how we fought,
Em C
And of the strength, every battle bought.

(Bridge)
Em C
So wear your scars, let them be seen,
G D
They’re proof you’re tough, you’ve always been.
Em C
Every line, every shade,
G D
Tells your tale, don’t let it fade.

(Chorus)
G D
Scars tell stories, loud and clear,
Em C
Of pain we faced, of love we bear.
G D
They’re not just marks, on our skin,
Em C
They’re our badges, of battles we win.

Favorite Fan’s Name:
Rebecca “Becky” Miller

Testimonial:
Becky, a nurse and proud fan of Immediate Treatment, notes, “Their music speaks to me on a level that goes beyond simply listening to songs. As a healthcare professional myself, the themes of resilience, strength, and hope resonate with me. Their music is genuinely therapeutic, providing comfort after a tough day at work. The song ‘Scars Tell Stories’ is particularly meaningful. It reminds us that our struggles only make us stronger. I believe everyone who is battling their own challenges, regardless of their profession, can find solace in their music. They’re truly the ‘Immediate Treatment’ for the soul!”

Backstory:

Skinny Lecture was formed in the mesmerizing city of Seattle back in 2006. The band consists of lead vocalist Greg Jones, guitarist Liam Matthews, bassist Sam Davis, and drummer Jake Reynolds. The quartet met during their college days at the University of Washington. Initially, they would perform in local bars and small gigs around the city. They bonded over their shared interest in blending traditional rock with contemporary lyrical styles. With the combination of Jones’ raw and soulful vocals, Matthews’ electrifying guitar riffs, Davis’ groovy bass, and Reynolds’ powerful drum solos, Skinny Lecture evolved into an iconoclastic symbol of Seattle’s vibrant music scene. After gaining popularity in the local music scene, they were signed by indie label, Rain City Records, and they haven’t looked back since.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Song Title:

“Bloodied But Unbowed”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am C G D
I’ve walked the lonely streets, faced the bitter defeat,
Tossed and turned in the wake of my own heartbeat,
Battles fought in the shadows, with my demons so deep,
Now I stand on the edge, but my spirit’s still free.

Chorus:
Em D G C
I am bloodied but unbowed, hear me sing it loud
In the face of despair, through the darkness and cloud,
Don’t count me out, I roar amidst the crowd,
Yes, I am bloodied, but unbowed.

(Verse 2)
Am C G D
With every stumble, every fall, I gather my strength,
I rise with grace, I match the world’s length,
In the mirror of the abyss, I see my own face,
Though the journey is twisted, I stay in the race.

(Chorus)
Em D G C
I am bloodied but unbowed, echoing through the cloud,
The world’s heavy weight, upon me endowed,
But I won’t be silenced, I won’t be cowed,
Yes, I am bloodied, but unbowed.

Favorite Fan:

Their most passionate fan is a teenager named Tommy Atkins. Tommy states, “I was going through a really tough time when I stumbled upon Skinny Lecture’s music. Their raw energy, deep lyrics, and unique sound resonated with me. They have a way of reaching into your soul and making you feel understood. Their song ‘Bloodied But Unbowed’ gave me the courage to face my struggles head-on. It’s more than just their music, Skinny Lecture is my inspiration and my solace.”

Backstory:
Plump Domain made their mark in the music industry in the late 90s. Formed in the heart of Seattle, the band was originally a trio of high school friends – lead vocalist and guitarist, Brian Smith; bassist and backing vocalist, Andy Jones; and drummer, Sam Mitchell. They were known for their impromptu jamming sessions in their basement which later turned into full-blown gigs at local bars and clubs. Their shared love for music made them drop out of college to pursue their dream. Over the years, they added a fourth member to the band – their school friend and keyboardist, Jenny Clark. With her, Plump Domain’s sound evolved further, bringing a unique blend to the music scene.

Genre:
Plump Domain’s music genre is an eclectic mix of Indie rock and Synthpop.

Title:
“One Last Ride”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1: C – G – Am – F]
Caught in the whirlwind of time, in the alley of broken dreams, (C-G)
Trapped in the web of life, things ain’t what they seem. (Am-F)
Staring at the night sky, counting falling stars, (C-G)
Searching for the missing piece, in far-flung bizarre bars. (Am-F)

[Chorus: F – G – C – Am]
Let’s go for one last ride, under the twilight tide, (F-G)
Where the moon is our guide, and the shadows can’t hide. (C-Am)
To the world unknown, where our secrets are sown, (F-G)
One last ride, just you and I in the cosmic tide. (C-Am)

[Verse 2: C – G – Am – F]
Walking through the memory lane, hand in hand, (C-G)
Struggling to comprehend, the shifting sand. (Am-F)
Conversing with the winds, whispering silent tales, (C-G)
Embarking on the voyage, setting the uncharted sails. (Am-F)

[Chorus: F – G – C – Am]
Let’s go for one last ride, under the twilight tide, (F-G)
Where the moon is our guide, and the shadows can’t hide. (C-Am)
To the world unknown, where our secrets are sown, (F-G)
One last ride, just you and I in the cosmic tide. (C-Am)

[Bridge: F – G – Am]
One last ride, breaking the stride, (F-G)
In the world outside, where love resides. (Am)

[Chorus: F – G – C – Am]
Let’s go for one last ride, under the twilight tide, (F-G)
Where the moon is our guide, and the shadows can’t hide. (C-Am)
To the world unknown, where our secrets are sown, (F-G)
One last ride, just you and I in the cosmic tide. (C-Am)

Fan Testimonial:
Plump Domain’s biggest fan is Katie Simmons, a librarian from their hometown. Katie has been following the band since their early basement jamming days. “Plump Domain is more than a band for me. Their music has been my companion in both happy and tough times. The blend of Indie rock and Synthpop they bring is unlike any other. And their song ‘One Last Ride’ just speaks to my soul,” says Katie. Despite their growing fame, the band never forgets their roots, often dropping by the library for surprise gigs, which Katie cherishes the most.

Backstory:
Grand Institute, an enigmatic ensemble of six gifted musicians, was born in the vibrant city of Denver, Colorado. What started as a casual jam session in the basement of an abandoned school building, soon morphed into a musical force to be reckoned with. The band’s unique name pays homage to this school, which was known as ‘The Grand Institute’. Their journey from a small garage band to a legendary musical entity was not a smooth ride but their unwavering dedication to their craft and their shared love for music never faded.

The band members, each possessing diverse musical influences, quickly found common ground in their shared desire to create music that transcends the ordinary. The band’s repertoire is a rich blend of their individual styles, resulting in a harmonious fusion that is both innovative and nostalgic. Grand Institute’s story is a testament to their belief in the transformative power of music and their relentless pursuit of musical excellence.

Genre:
Alternative Rock/Indie

Title:
“Echoes in the Hallway”

Full song lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Am – C – G – D
In the dim light of the moon, they started to play
Echoes from the old school, whispering away
Strumming on their heartstrings, lost in the fray
In the grand institute, where memories lay.

(Chorus)
F – C – G
Echoes in the hallway, bouncing off the wall
Singing in the shadows, answering the call
In the grand institute, they stand tall
Through the echoes in the hallway, they conquer all.

(Verse 2)
Am – C – G – D
Underneath the starlight, their melodies roam
In every chord and lyric, they’ve found a home
Through the highs and lows, through the unknown
In the grand institute, where seeds are sown.

(Chorus)
F – C – G
Echoes in the hallway, bouncing off the wall
Singing in the shadows, answering the call
In the grand institute, they stand tall
Through the echoes in the hallway, they conquer all.

Fan Name and testimonial:
Fan’s Name: Alice Chapman

“I’ve been following Grand Institute since their early days performing at local gigs in Denver. Their music, a perfect mix of nostalgia and innovation, is like a breath of fresh air. The way they infuse their unique personality into every song is truly inspiring. The song ‘Echoes in the Hallway’ is my absolute favorite. It’s a beautiful blend of haunting melodies and powerful lyrics that resonates with me on so many levels. Grand Institute is not just a band to me, they’re a source of inspiration and a testament to the power of dreams. Their music has been a constant companion in my journey through life, helping me find joy, solace, and strength. I can’t imagine my life without their music. Long live Grand Institute!”

Backstory:

Emotional Molecule was formed in the heart of New York City in 2010, by high school friends; lead vocalist, Sam ‘Sunny’ Daniels, guitarist, Leo ‘Lion’ Bellamy, bassist, Mike ‘Molecule’ Donahue, and drummer, Zach ‘Zero’ Rogers. Having grown up listening to various rock music genres, they found their common ground in their shared love for alternative rock. They initially practiced in garage set-ups, performing in small gigs, local festivals, and school events. The band’s big breakthrough came in 2012 when they were discovered by a talent scout at a music festival who was drawn in by their unique sound and raw, emotional lyrics.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Echoes of the Heart”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1:
[A] I’m staring at the [D] wall, shadows start to [E] fall
[A] Echoes of the [D] heart, tearing me [E] apart

Chorus:
[D] Echoes of the [A] heart, they’re tearing me [E] apart
[D] Unspoken words, like [A] fleeting birds, lost in the [E] dark
[D] Echoes of the [A] heart, why do they [E] start?
[D] Unanswered cries, [A] secret goodbyes, leaving a [E] mark

Verse 2:
[A] Memories on the [D] floor, can’t take it [E] anymore
[A] Echoes of the [D] heart, they’re tearing me [E] apart

(Repeat Chorus)

Bridge:
[D] Can you hear the [A] echoes, in the silence of the [E] night?
[D] Words left unsaid, [A] buried in the fight [E]

(Repeat Chorus)

Outro:
[A] I’m lost in the [D] echoes, echoes of the [E] heart
[A] Unspoken words, [D] they’re tearing me [E] apart

Fan’s Testimonial:

Hi, my name is Chelsea. I am, I admit, a die-hard fan of Emotional Molecule. Why I love them so much? Well, their songs seem to speak directly to my soul. Their lyrics touch on themes that are so raw, so real. “Echoes of the Heart”, for instance, is a song that I listened to over and over again after a really tough breakup. It felt like they understood my pain and put it into words. Their music is like a friend who gets what I’m going through. It’s impossible not to feel connected to them.

Backstory:

Dutiful Trail was born in the heartland of America, a seed sown in the fertile soils of Wichita, Kansas. The five-member band was formed in 2008 by childhood friends – Jenna Marks (lead vocalist), Mike Patrick (drummer), and the Henderson Brothers, Adam and Steve (guitarists). They were soon joined by their school music teacher, Dan Rogers (bassist), who left his job to chase the elusive dream of music with his talented students. On hot summer nights, they would practice in Mike’s garage, their passionate chords echoing through the quiet suburban streets, reaching the hearts of many.

Their big break came when they won a local battle of the bands competition, landing them a recording contract with a small, independent label. As they started touring, their raw and authentic sound, coupled with their heartfelt lyrics, quickly gained the attention of fans across the Midwest. Today, Dutiful Trail is revered as a voice of the heartland, their music a testament to the trials, tribulations, joys, and victories of everyday life.

Genre:
Country Rock

Title:
“Whispering Winds”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Down the old dirt road, where the [C] sun-kissed wheat fields sway,
[Em] Memories flood like a river, washing [D] over me.
[G] I recall those summer days, [C] laughter in the air,
[Em] The scent of your perfume, [D] dancing on a dare.

Chorus:
[C] Oh, whispering winds, carry [G] me home,
[D] To the place where I belong, where my [Em] heart has grown.
[C] In this ever-changing world, [G] you remain my constant song,
[D] Take me back, whispering winds, [G] to where I belong.

(Verse 2)
[G] Nights under the starlit sky, [C] secrets shared by the fire,
[Em] Hand in hand, love so grand, [D] fueled by our desire.
[G] In the mirror of the moon, [C] I saw our future clear,
[Em] But life’s a winding road, [D] leading far and near.

(Repeat Chorus)

Fan’s Name:
Sarah Thompson

Testimonial:

“There’s something about Dutiful Trail that’s so real and pure. Their music feels like a comforting blanket on a cold winter day, like a conversation with an old friend. As a kid growing up in a small town, I connect deeply with their lyrics; it’s as if they’ve walked a mile in my shoes. ‘Whispering Winds’ takes me back to my hometown, the open fields, the sense of belonging. Their songs are stories of my life, and for that, Dutiful Trail will always be my favorite band.”

Backstory:

Double Sweater stormed into the indie music scene in 2012. Composed of childhood friends Jeff ‘Jazzy’ Jenkins and Ben ‘Beatbox’ Bowers, the band’s name ‘Double Sweater’ symbolizes their shared passion for music, warmth, and a sense of welcome to their listeners. Raised in the cold climate of Ontario, Canada, the duo started their musical journey in their high school band. After years of perfecting their sound, the pair combined their strengths to form an indie, synth-pop team known for lyrical depth, and whimsical melodies that are both catchy and contemplative.

Genre:

Indie Synth-Pop

Title:

“Under The Knitted Sky”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em G
Underneath the knitted sky,
D Em
Two hearts beat in rhythm, you and I.
Em G
In the chill of the winter night,
D Em
Your warmth is my beacon light.

(Chorus)
G D
Together in our double sweater,
Em C
Under the stars, nothing feels better.
G D
In this knitted world, we are free,
Em C
Just you and me, under the knitted sky.

(Verse 2)
Em G
Your laughter echoes in the breeze,
D Em
A melody that puts my heart at ease.
Em G
Through seasons of change, in love we grow,
D Em
In our double sweater, beneath the snow.

(Chorus)
G D
Together in our double sweater,
Em C
Under the stars, nothing feels better.
G D
In this knitted world, we are free,
Em C
Just you and me, under the knitted sky.

Fan’s name and Testimonial:

Fan Name: Lisa Peterson

“I remember when I first heard Double Sweater’s ‘Under The Knitted Sky.’ I was going through a tough time, and their music just spoke to me. Their tunes are like a comforting hug – warm, soothing and full of love. Double Sweater isn’t just my favorite band because of their amazing music, but because through their songs, they’ve made me feel less alone in this world.”

Backstory:

Founded on the gritty streets of Detroit in 2005, Aggressive Emotion was formed by four childhood friends: Colin ‘Red’ Taylor (Lead Vocals), Eddie ‘Ripper’ Mills (Guitar), Kenny ‘Boombox’ Thompson (Bass), and Tommy ‘Madman’ Russo (Drums). Each member brought their unique musical influences and shared experiences, creating a rock-fueled, passion-driven sound that resonated with the disenchanted youth of their city. Through ups and downs, including Red’s brief stint in rehab, Aggressive Emotion has emerged stronger, their bond unbroken, and their music more visceral and emotive than ever.

Genre:

Hard Rock/Alternative Metal

Title:

“Steel City Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
[Em] In the heart of the city where the [G] steel towers rise,
[D] Shadows dance in the corners where the [A] truth lies,
[Em] We’re the forgotten voices in the [G] neon light,
[D] Dreaming of a future, out of [A] sight.

(Chorus)
[C] Steel City Shadows, [G] we’re living on the edge,
[D] Aggressive emotions, we’re [A] standing on the ledge,
[C] Fighting for a chance, against the [G] tide,
[D] With the power of rock, we [A] won’t hide.

(Verse)
[Em] Through the smoke and the sirens, we [G] find our way,
[D] Worn down but not broken, we’ll [A] have our day,
[Em] With the rhythm of the streets, and the [G] roar of the crowd,
[D] We’ll shake the foundations, loud and [A] proud.

(Chorus)
[C] Steel City Shadows, [G] caught in the grind,
[D] Aggressive emotions, [A] speaking our mind,
[C] Lighting the darkness, with our [G] song,
[D] In the heart of the city, we [A] belong.

(Bridge)
[Em] We’re not just faces in the [G] crowd,
[D] We’ve got a voice and we’ll [A] shout it loud,
[C] Steel city shadows, [G] we’ll rise above,
[D] Fueled by the music, and the [A] power of love.

(Chorus)
[C] Steel City Shadows, [G] we’re breaking free,
[D] Aggressive emotions, can’t you [A] see,
[C] We’re more than shadows, we’re [G] a roaring flame,
[D] In this steel city, we’ll make our [A] name.

Fan Testimonial:

“My name is Olivia, and I’ve followed Aggressive Emotion since their first neighborhood gig. Their music, especially ‘Steel City Shadows,’ speaks to my experience growing up in the city – the struggle, the dreams, the raw emotion. It’s like they’re narrating my life through their songs. Their music has given me strength during tough times and has made the good times even better. Aggressive Emotion isn’t just my favorite band, they’re part of who I am.”