Backstory:

In the vibrant music scene of Austin, Texas, a unique sound was born, and it came from an up-and-coming band named Buttery Jar. Its members – charismatic lead vocalist, Matt Davis; moody bass guitarist, Rachel James; eccentric drummer, Pete Harvey; and introverted keyboardist, Sam Wilson – all met in college while studying different degrees. With shared interests in music, philosophy, and jars of peanut butter, the group started jamming as a form of creative release. Unexpectedly, their diverse musical influences and shared love for strange, abstract concepts gelled into something distinctive. With their music first catching local attention at house parties and then spreading throughout the state, Buttery Jar has become a band with a unique story and charm.

Genre:

Psychedelic Pop

Title:

“Velvet Moonlight”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am C G D
Velvet moonlight, in your eyes,
Am C G D
Lost in starlight, in the sky.
Am C G D
Chase the feeling, through the night,
Am C G D
Under the cover of the pale moonlight.

(Chorus)
F C G D
Let’s dance, dance, dance under the velvet moon,
F C G D
Feel the rhythm, the melody, our hearts in tune.
F C G D
Beneath the stars, in the velvet glow,
F C G D
We’re lost in time, where no one else can go.

(Verse 2)
Am C G D
Golden whispers, in the air,
Am C G D
Magic moments, that we share.
Am C G D
In the twilight, we will roam,
Am C G D
Under the velvet moon, we find our home.

(Chorus)
F C G D
Let’s dance, dance, dance under the velvet moon,
F C G D
Feel the rhythm, the melody, our hearts in tune.
F C G D
Beneath the stars, in the velvet glow,
F C G D
We’re lost in time, where no one else can go.

Favorite Fan Testimonial:

Fan’s Name: Jenny Thompson

Testimonial: “Buttery Jar is a band that truly transcends boundaries. Their music has a very distinct, quirky, yet deeply moving vibe that somehow manages to touch the soul. The genuine passion the members put into their music is evident in every song, be it the lyrics, the rhythm, or the melody. ‘Velvet Moonlight’ is my favorite because the song speaks to the romantic in me, and I can’t help but dance every time it plays. Their music is like a jar of butter – smooth, rich, and filling my heart with warmth. It’s hard not to be a fan!”

Backstory:
Repentant Classroom, the provocative art-rock quartet, originated from the bustling streets of Los Angeles. The band was formed in 2015 when lead vocalist and guitarist, Benny Granger, met drummer, Izzy Kline, at a local open mic night. The two instantly bonded over their shared disaffection with the educational system and the urgent need for mental health awareness. They recruited synth player, Avery Lillard, and bassist, Milo Greaves, completing the line-up. The band’s name, Repentant Classroom, comes from their shared desire to redeem their negative educational experiences through their music and engage in a constructive dialogue around mental health.

Genre:
Indie Rock/Art Rock

Song Title:
“Chalk Dust Whispers”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am
In the corner of a classroom, silent as a ghost,
G
Reaching out to the blackboard, teacher’s fading boast,
F
Chalk dust whispers fill the air, secrets hard to share,
C
Beneath the fluorescent lights, the truth laid bare.

(Chorus)
Am
We are the Repentant Classroom, hear our silent plea,
G
Lost in the echoes of the bell, longing to be free.
F
Counting the empty hours, beneath the weight we cower,
C
We are the Repentant Classroom, in the midnight hour.

(Verse 2)
Am
Arithmetics and alphabets, stains on our soul,
G
Through the window, dreams escape, we pay the toll.
F
A symphony of scribbles, a sonnet of despair,
C
Captive in the four-walled cell, gasping for air.

(Chorus)
Am
We are the Repentant Classroom, hear our silent plea,
G
Lost in the echoes of the bell, longing to be free.
F
Counting the empty hours, beneath the weight we cower,
C
We are the Repentant Classroom, in the midnight hour.

Favorite Fan Testimonial:
“My name is Jenna Mathers and I am, without a doubt, Repentant Classroom’s biggest fan. Their music touched my soul in ways I never thought possible. I was a misfit in high school, struggling with anxiety and depression. Their song, ‘Chalk Dust Whispers’, gave a voice to my feelings. It’s like they took my experience, put it to a spellbinding melody, and made me feel seen. Their music has been a beacon of hope in my darkest times and I am forever grateful for that.”

Backstory:

In the heart of Glasgow, Scotland, a punk rock revolution was budding in the underground music scene. Among the gritty, rebellious voices was a band that would come to be known as Grubby Dog. Originally, the band was formed by two childhood friends, Malcolm ‘Mac’ O’Donnell and Rory ‘Rusty’ McClure, who shared a mutual love for punk rock and a desire to voice their socio-political frustrations. They spent years practicing in a damp, abandoned warehouse, scribbling lyrics on napkins, and dreaming up their first album. By the time they were ready, they had recruited bassist Fiona ‘Fizzy’ Riddell and drummer Seamus ‘Shambles’ Duffy, completing the Grubby Dog line-up.

Their journey wasn’t easy. They faced numerous rejections and countless nights of playing to empty rooms. Still, they never wavered in their passion for music and their staunch punk rock beliefs. The turning point came when they were discovered by a talent scout from an independent record label during one of their raucous gigs. Their raw energy, fiery lyrics, and rebellious spirit resonated with the disillusioned youth, eventually earning them a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim.

Genre:

Punk Rock

Title:

“Riot of the Silent”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G]Lost on the streets, [C]left to decay,
[D]Silent voices, [Em]pushed away.
[G]In the shadows, [C]we find our might,
[D]We’re the riot, [Em]of the silent night.

(Chorus)
[A]We’re the Grubby Dogs, [E]barking loud,
[D]We stand, we fight, lost but [A]proud.
[E]We’re the echo, of the silent [A]fight,
[D]We are the riot, [E]of the silent night.

(Verse 2)
[G]Shattered dreams, [C]on cold, stone floors,
[D]We’re the rebels, [Em]breaking doors.
[G]With our music, [C]we ignite,
[D]The riot of the, [Em]silent night.

(Chorus)
[A]We’re the Grubby Dogs, [E]barking loud,
[D]We stand, we fight, lost but [A]proud.
[E]We’re the echo, of the silent [A]fight,
[D]We are the riot, [E]of the silent night.

Fan Testimonial:

Name: Ewan Bell

“Grubby Dog isn’t just a band for me; they’re a beacon of hope, a revolution. I remember the first time I saw them; they were playing to a half-empty room, but their energy was electric. Their raw, honest lyrics resonated with my feelings of alienation and frustration, and I’ve been a fan ever since. For me, they’re not just musicians, they’re the voices of a generation that refuses to be silenced. Their song ‘Riot of the Silent’ became an anthem for me and many others. Grubby Dog doesn’t just play music; they start conversations, challenge norms, and inspire change. That’s why they’re my favorite band.”

Backstory:

Fond Paste was formed in the bustling hub of New York City’s underground music scene in 2013. The band members, lead singer Kevin ‘Kaz’ Miller, guitarist Jimmy ‘Jazz’ Jefferson, bassist, ‘Big’ Benny Thompson, and drummer, ‘Silent’ Sammie Hawkins, were all working various jobs in the city, from pizza delivery to session musicians, but all shared a deep-seated love for music. One fated night, they all met at a local open mic session and decided to jam together. The chemistry was palpable and Fond Paste was born. With their infectious energy and unique sound, they quickly became a popular feature in the local music scene, playing at various popular venues and even bagging a few opening slots for bigger bands.

Genre:

Fond Paste’s music can best be described as a fusion of Indie Pop and Alternative Rock with a dash of folk influences.

Title:

One of their most popular songs is “Riding the Comet”.

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Walking down the [D] Brooklyn streets at [Em] midnight,
[C] Saw a shooting [G] star streaking in the [D] twilight.
[G] You looked at me, [D] I looked at [Em] you,
[C] Under the neon [G] lights and the sky so [D] blue.

(Chorus)
[G] We’re just riding the [D] comet,
[Em] Lost in a world, don’t [C] wanna be on it.
[G] We’ll chase our dreams [D] to the end,
[Em] With you, my love, my [C] best friend.

(Verse 2)
[G] Far from the [D] maddening crowd’s [Em] ignoble strife,
[C] We’ll find a [G] place that’s just right for our [D] life.
[G] With love and [D] laughter, [Em] freedom and song,
[C] This journey [G] with you, I [D] belong.

(Chorus)
[G] We’re just riding the [D] comet,
[Em] Lost in a world, don’t [C] wanna be on it.
[G] We’ll chase our dreams [D] to the end,
[Em] With you, my love, my [C] best friend.

Fan Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Lucy. She says, “The first time I heard Fond Paste at a small gig in downtown Brooklyn, I was captivated. Their lyrics spoke to me on a personal level, and their unique sound was unlike anything I had ever heard. I’ve been to every show since then and even travel to see them when they perform out of state. Their music has become the soundtrack to my life, and I couldn’t imagine a day without their songs. They’re more than just a band to me; they’re like family.”

Backstory:
Free Burn was formed in the heart of the Brooklyn underground music scene in 2012. The band’s four members – frontman and lead guitarist Nicky ‘Blaze’ Russo, drummer Bucky ‘Beat’ Henderson, bassist Lenny ‘Low’ Davis, and keyboardist Leila ‘Harmony’ Kargan – had all been part of the bustling indie scene in their own right before crossing paths at an open mic night. Drawn together by a shared love for classic rock, blues and a desire to create something fresh, they combined their unique talents, creating a powerful and distinct sound that’s been turning heads ever since.

Their journey to success was not a smooth one. They faced countless rejections and hardships, but their passion and determination for creating music never wavered. Despite the odds, their perseverance paid off when their breakthrough hit “Burn Free” topped the charts, establishing Free Burn as a force to reckoned within the music industry.

Genre:
Blues Rock

Title:
“Fuel to the Flame”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Am] You walked in, [Dm] like a midnight train
[G] Heart on your sleeve, [C] love in your veins
[Am] I was a moth, [Dm] you were my flame
[G] Drawn to your light, [C] in joy and pain

(Chorus)
[F] You’re the fuel to my flame,
[C] In the darkness you’re my name
[G] You’re the beat in my insane heart,
[Dm] You’re the masterpiece, I’m just the art
[F] With every burn, [C] I rise again
[G] You’re the love in all my pain,
[Dm] You’re the fuel to my flame

(Verse 2)
[Am] In your eyes, [Dm] I see the fire
[G] Burning brighter, [C] taking me higher
[Am] Your love’s a song, [Dm] my heart’s the choir
[G] Singing out loud, [C] to your desire

(Chorus)
[F] You’re the fuel to my flame,
[C] In the darkness you’re my name
[G] You’re the beat in my insane heart,
[Dm] You’re the masterpiece, I’m just the art
[F] With every burn, [C] I rise again
[G] You’re the love in all my pain,
[Dm] You’re the fuel to my flame

Fan’s Name:
Lucy ‘Rock chic’ Turner

Testimonial:
“Free Burn is my favorite band because they speak to my soul. Their music is raw, emotional, and incredibly powerful. Their lyrics tell stories that resonate with me, and the energy they bring on stage is breathtaking. I’ve been following them since their early days in the Brooklyn scene and it’s been incredible to see them evolve into the band they are today. Their song ‘Fuel to the Flame’ is my personal anthem. I’ve seen them live five times and each show is a unique, unforgettable experience. Free Burn is more than just a band to me, they’re my inspiration.”

Backstory

Next Dance is a dynamic, four-piece band formed in 2012 in the heart of Los Angeles, California. The band comprises of lead vocalist and keyboardist Matt Dae, guitarist and backup vocalist Lila Ray, bassist Derek Storm, and drummer Alex Zane. When they first met at a random jam session in a local music shop, they discovered a unique chemistry that blended seamlessly. This fusion of their diverse musical backgrounds birthed a new sound that has been capturing hearts ever since.

Inspired by the struggles and triumphs of everyday life, Next Dance speaks directly to their audience, delivering messages of resilience, love, and hope. Through their music, they’ve been able to share their own stories, and in return, they’ve heard countless stories from their fans. They believe this connection is the soul of their music and propels their creative journey.

Genre

Next Dance’s music can mainly be described as Pop Rock with a hint of Electronic Dance Music (EDM).

Title

“Among the Stars”

Full Song Lyrics

(Verse 1)
Am [E] I lost or have I found,
[G] among the stars you were around.
[D] I close my eyes, I feel you [A] near,
[E] In every beat, you’re all I [G] hear.

(Chorus)
[E] Among the stars, we [G] dance tonight,
[D] Underneath the moon’s soft [A] light.
[E] Next to you, everything feels [G] right,
[D] In this moment, we are infinite, [A] we take flight.

(Verse 2)
[E] The rhythm of your heart syncs with [G] mine,
[D] In this moment, we’re lost in time.
[A] Your touch ignites, a fire so [E] clear,
[G] It’s your voice in the music, that I [D] hear.

(Chorus)
[E] Among the stars, we [G] dance tonight,
[D] Underneath the moon’s soft [A] light.
[E] Next to you, everything feels [G] right,
[D] In this moment, we are infinite, [A] we take flight.

(Bridge)
[A] We dance to the rhythm, we [G] dance to the beat,
[E] With every step, we’re feeling so [D] complete.
[A] Among the stars, forever we will [G] meet,
[D] With every note, we make our love [A] concrete.

(Chorus)
[E] Among the stars, we [G] dance tonight,
[D] Underneath the moon’s soft [A] light.
[E] Next to you, everything feels [G] right,
[D] In this moment, we are infinite, [A] we take flight.

Band’s Favorite Fan

Next Dance’s favorite fan is Emily Thompson. Emily first discovered Next Dance at one of their early gigs in a small dive bar in LA. She was captivated by their energy, passion, and the raw emotion they brought to their performance. Since that night, Emily has been to every single show, traveled across states for their concerts, and even brings new fans to experience their music.

Emily says, “Next Dance’s music resonates with me on a personal level. It’s like they’re telling my story through their songs. They inspire me every day and remind me to keep pushing through, no matter what. They are more than just a band to me; they are my lifeline.”

Backstory:
“Jealous Hunting” is the brainchild of four school friends from the lesser known town of Oakwood, Ohio. The band came together around the shared love of music, campfire jams, and the thrill of creating something unique. Their story starts back in 2011 when Jake and Mark, two high school buddies, discovered their shared passion for songwriting. They both hailed from musical families, so it didn’t take long before they started crafting their own songs. Soon, they recruited Ryan and Danny, two more friends from school, and “Jealous Hunting” was born. The band is known for their eclectic and experimental sound, combining different genres to carve out their own niche in the music industry.

Genre:
Alternative Rock with elements of Folk and Indie.

Title:
“Gunpowder Hearts”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse)
[G]She walks in moonlight, [D]underneath the stars,
[Em]With gunpowder hearts, [C]they ignited from afar.
[G]Caught in a wildfire, [D]burning through the night,
[Em]It’s a jealous hunt, [C]in the flickering light.

(Chorus)
[G]Oh, we are the hunters [D]deep in the night,
[Em]Lost in the echo of [C]our gunpowder hearts’ fight.
[G]Burning in silence, [D]lost in the sparks,
[Em]We are the hunters [C]with gunpowder hearts.

(Verse)
[G]In the forest of desire, [D]where shadows play,
[Em]We find our fire, [C] as the night turns to day.
[G]Chasing echoes, [D]as the world tears apart,
[Em]In the jealous hunt, [C]of our gunpowder hearts.

(Chorus)
[G]Oh, we are the hunters [D]deep in the night,
[Em]Lost in the echo of [C]our gunpowder hearts’ fight.
[G]Burning in silence, [D]lost in the sparks,
[Em]We are the hunters [C]with gunpowder hearts.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a girl named Megan who hails from their hometown of Oakwood. Megan was their first fan and has been following their journey since the band’s inception. She is known for her unyielding support and is often seen front row at their concerts.

Testimonial:
“I came across Jealous Hunting during a local gig in Oakwood and was instantly hooked. Their unique blend of alternative rock with a touch of folk and indie resonated with me. The lyrics are deep and meaningful and their live performances are electrifying. They’ve created a sound that’s truly their own in this crowded industry. I can say without a doubt, Jealous Hunting is my favorite band.” – Megan.

Backstory:
Hailing from the vibrant city of Liverpool, England, Cheery Stick was formed in the summer of 2010 by four friends: lead vocalist Oliver Reed, guitarist Jamie Taylor, bassist Drake Brighton, and drummer Luke Henshaw. Oliver and Jamie were childhood friends who found a shared passion for music in their teenage years and decided to form their own band in college, recruiting Drake and Luke through auditions. With their unique sound and infectious energy, Cheery Stick quickly gained a local following, performing in small venues and college fests, and eventually landed a record deal in 2013.

Cheery Stick is known for their lively performances, engaging stage presence, and the tight-knit bond evident both on and off stage. Their music often resonates with themes of friendship, love, and the joys and sorrows of everyday life. They continue to charm audiences all over the globe with their music, wit, and undeniable charm.

Genre: Indie Pop-Rock

Title: “Candy-Coated Dreams”

Full Song Lyrics with Chord Progression:

Verse 1:
[Am] In this city of lights, [G] lost in the crowd,
[F] You and I, we’re just [C] dreamers aloud.
[Am] With a pocket full of dreams, [G] and a heart that beats,
[F] In the rhythm of the city’s [C] streets.

Chorus:
[Am] Here’s to the candy-coated [G] dreams,
[F] The joy, the laughter, and [C] tears it seems.
[Am] Here’s to the night’s sparkling [G] gleam,
[F] To the love, to the life, to the [C] candy-coated dreams.

Verse 2:
[Am] As the city sleeps, [G] under the moon’s glow,
[F] We dance, we sing, we [C] let ourselves go.
[Am] With a song in our hearts, [G] and stars in our eyes,
[F] We’re living in a dreamer’s [C] disguise.

(Repeat Chorus:)

Favorite Fan’s Name: Emily

Testimonial:
Emily, a self-acclaimed superfan of Cheery Stick, says, “I’ve loved Cheery Stick since their early days. Their music is not just catchy and fun, but it’s also incredibly relatable. It’s like they’ve managed to capture the essence of life, love, and friendship in their songs. Their song ‘Candy-Coated Dreams’ is my anthem; it reminds me that it’s okay to dream and to keep pursuing my passions. I feel like I’ve grown up with them, and their music has been a comforting constant in my life. Cheery Stick isn’t just a band for me, they’re like friends telling me their stories through music.”

Backstory:
Slippery Page began as a late-night hobby of childhood friends, Jonny Hart and Tommy Turner. The duo started experimenting with tunes and lyrics in Jonny’s parent’s garage while they were still in high school. The name Slippery Page was inspired by their struggles with writing songs on paper, which would often slip off their music stand, a name they found fitting for their unpredictable and ever-evolving sound. Their music steadily began to resonate with their peers, and their acoustic jams at local coffee shops soon turned into larger gigs. After high school, they decided to pursue their passion and dedicated their time to creating music that fuelled the soul. Their music is a testament to their friendship and a reflection of their shared experiences.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Song Title:
“Under the Whispering Skies”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse:
[Am] Under the whispering skies,
[G] We found our rhythm, our highs,
[F] The cold wind brought us dreams,
[C] Woven in threads of moonbeams.

[Am] Our melodies rode the night,
[G] Singing stories of love and fight,
[F] The echoes danced in the breeze,
[C] In the music of the rustling trees.

Chorus:
[Em] Whispers of the skies,
[D] Flowing through our veins,
[Am] Telling tales of the ties,
[C] That hold us in life’s lanes.

[Em] Under the starry guise,
[D] We lost and found our claims,
[Am] Echoing in our harmonious cries,
[C] In the symphony of life’s games.

Repeat Verse & Chorus

Fan’s Testimonial:
Our biggest fan is a 22-year-old nursing student named Abby Reynolds. Abby stumbled upon Slippery Page’s music during a difficult time in her life. She was dealing with the pressures of nursing school and personal issues. One day, while seeking solace in a nearby coffee shop, she heard Slippery Page performing their song “Under the Whispering Skies”. The lyrics spoke to her, and she felt a deep connection with the song. She says, “The song felt like a friend, understanding my struggles and echoing my feelings in ways words never could. Slippery Page isn’t just a band to me; they’re a lifeline. Their music has been a constant source of comfort and strength for me. They have a unique way of conveying emotions, making you feel understood and validated. I am forever grateful to Jonny and Tommy for their music. They’ll forever be my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Impressionable Attempt is a band that originated from the small but spirited town of Stillwater, Oklahoma. High school friends – Luke Davis (vocals), Brian Cohen (lead guitar), Tim Jordan (bass), and Jeff Simmons (drums) – found a common thread in their shared love for music. They spent their afternoons in Luke’s garage, jamming after school, their music, a form of rebellion against the humdrum of their small-town life. Their shared dream of breaking out of their monotonous lives and making it big in the world of music led them to form Impressionable Attempt in 2010.

Their first performance was at a local bar, which caused a small stir in their town. Their music resonated with the townsfolk, and they quickly grew a close-knit fan base that followed them on their journey from a garage band to a locally recognized name. Their songs, embodying a sense of yearning and an earnest desire to break free, became anthems for those who’ve ever felt stuck in life.

Genre:
Impressionable Attempt’s music can be best described as Indie Rock with hints of folk influences. They have a unique way of blending profound lyrics with catchy melodies that evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing.

Title:
One of their most popular songs is titled, “Beneath the Willow”.

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse)
C Am
Beneath the willow, we carved our name,
F G
In the throbbing heart of the old town’s fame.
C Am
Sketched dreams in the warm summer haze,
F G
Oh, those were the golden days.

(Chorus)
Am G
We were wild, we were free,
F C
Chasing shadows, you and me.
Am G
In our hearts, we knew,
F C
Beneath the willow, our dreams would come true.

(Verse)
C Am
The years rolled by, we moved away,
F G
In the hustle of life, lost our way.
C Am
But beneath the willow, those dreams stay,
F G
Calling us back, whispering our names.

(Chorus)
Am G
We were bold, we were young,
F C
Beneath the willow, our song was sung.
Am G
Even now, under the moon’s soft glow,
F C
Beneath the willow, our hearts still echo.

Favorite Fan’s Name and Testimonial:
The band’s favourite fan is Katie Sullivan. Katie has been a fan since their early days and has attended every show. “Impressionable Attempt’s music speaks to me on a personal level,” Katie says. “Their song, ‘Beneath the Willow’, is more than just music to my ears. It’s a journey, a fresh perspective, a comforting friend when I’m alone. The unique blend of indie rock and folk influences creates a raw and authentic sound that is both refreshing and relatable. Their music is like a beacon to all us small-town dreamers, a reminder that it’s okay to yearn for more. They’ve grown from our local garage band to a name known by all, but their music remains as personal and heartfelt as ever. That’s what makes them my favorite band.”