Backstory:

Strict Self was conceived in the heart of New York City amidst the eclectic backdrop of the thriving underground music scene. The band, composed of four friends – Kate Rodricks on vocals and guitar, Tony Williams on bass, Derrick Harvey on drums, and Charlie Palmer on keyboard, met while attending the prestigious Juilliard School. They discovered a shared love for music that wasn’t bound by the rules of traditional genres, a love that embodied the spirit of rebellion and individuality. Inspired by their surroundings and the complexities of the human condition, they decided to form Strict Self, a name symbolizing their quest for self-expression and authenticity.

Genre:

Strict Self’s music can be best described as Alternative Rock with a blend of Electronic elements. Their sound is a unique fusion of grungy guitar riffs, pulsating bass lines, intricate drum patterns, haunting keyboard melodies, and powerful, soulful vocals. They draw inspiration from various sub-genres of rock, electronica, and indie music, creating a fresh and distinctive soundscape.

Song Title:

“Boundless Chains”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] I walk alone in the [D] shadow of the night,
[Em] Searching for truth in the [C] flickering light.
[G] Life’s a maze, [D] twists and turns,
[Em] Got so lost, [C] it burns.

(Chorus)
[G] But I’m breaking free, [D] from these boundless chains,
[Em] Rising above, [C] through the joy and the pains.
[G] I will fight, [D] won’t bow to the reigns,
[Em] I am free, [C] from these boundless chains.

(Verse 2)
[G] Staring at reflections, [D] in mirrors of the past,
[Em] Unveiling masks, [C] shedding the cast.
[G] Now I see, [D] through the haze,
[Em] Embracing life, [C] in its myriad ways.

(Chorus)
[G] Cause I’m breaking free, [D] from these boundless chains,
[Em] Flying high, [C] like a bird unchains.
[G] I will rise, [D] from the ashes and remains,
[Em] I am free, [C] from these boundless chains.

Bands Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is a young woman named Amy Richards. Amy has been following Strict Self since their early days, attending their small local gigs, and proudly supporting them on social media. She appreciates the band’s unique sound and the depth of their lyrics that touch upon the struggles and triumphs of human life. She says, “Strict Self’s music resonates with my experience. Their song ‘Boundless Chains’ became my anthem during a difficult period in my life. Their music isn’t just entertainment, it’s therapy, it’s an awakening. I’ve found solace and strength in their songs, and for that, they will always be my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Handmade Pass came to life in a small, rustic town in Wisconsin where four childhood friends, Ben, Sam, Jason, and Steve, discovered their shared love for music. As teenagers, they would jam together in Steve’s old barn, experimenting with different sounds until they created something that truly resonated with them. After graduating from high school, they decided to take their passion a step further, forming “Handmade Pass”. The band’s name was a tribute to the scenic route they would often pass through during their summer road trips, a route that was known for the handmade wooden signs left by anonymous artists.

Genre:
Handmade Pass is an Indie Folk band. Their sound is a fusion of soothing guitar strums, warm harmonies, and poignant lyrics that often touch upon themes of life, love, and self-discovery.

Title:
“One More Sunset”

Lyrics:
Verse:
C G Am Em
“Underneath the crimson sky, we bid the day goodbye,
F C G
Memories woven into the night.
C G Am Em
With your hand in mine, we’ll cross the borderline,
F C G
Into the realm where dreams and love align.”

Chorus:
F C G Am
“One more sunset, don’t let it end yet,
F C G
These moments are ours to keep.
F C G Am
Hold me closer, as the night grows darker,
F C G
Promise me we’ll never sleep.”

Fan Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Emma Johnson. Emma has attended every single one of Handmade Pass’ shows since their very first gig at a local bar. She truly admires the band’s ability to weave stories within their songs that resonate with her on a profound level. Emma says, “Handmade Pass is my favorite band because their music feels like a journey. Every song is a new road, a new adventure. And it’s not just the lyrics – their melodies have a certain depth that just draws you in. I can’t help but feel a connection. They’re more than just a band to me – they’re storytellers, they’re poets, they’re friends.”

Backstory:

“Parched Detective” was formed in the heart of Brooklyn, New York in 2012. The band was the brainchild of college roommates Lucas Riddle and Hank O’Donnell, who discovered their shared love for music late into the night at dormitory jam sessions. Lucas, a graphic design student, and Hank, studying mechanical engineering, found solace and passion in their music against the rigorous college curriculum. After recruiting a talented drummer, Tara McGuire, a music major from across the campus, and bassist Mike Roberts, a childhood friend of Hank, the band officially became “Parched Detective”. The name, a seemingly unusual choice, came from a noir movie poster hanging in their dorm room, a constant reminder of their late-night jam sessions together.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Dry Ink”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C
Beneath the neon lights, she walks alone,
G D
Her shadow plays tricks on the cobblestone.
Em C
A parched detective in a city so cold,
G D
His heart’s a mystery, a story untold.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Dry ink, on a page that’s white,
C G D Em
He’s losing the battle, but he’ll continue the fight.
C G D Em
His pen might be running out, his vision unclear,
C G D Em
But he’ll keep on writing, less of fear, more of cheer.

(Verse 2)
Em C
She’s a riddle wrapped up in a melody,
G D
Singing songs of love, but she’s never free.
Em C
The detective listens, his hope rekindled,
G D
In her voice, his despair dwindled.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Dry ink, on a page that’s worn,
C G D Em
In a city of millions, he’s reborn.
C G D Em
In her song, he finds his clue,
C G D Em
In this city of love, he finds his truth too.

Fan Testimonial:

Name: Sara Thompson

“Parched Detective has been my favorite band for years. Their music is timeless, their lyrics are profound, and their energy is contagious. Every song feels like a story, a journey of emotions. ‘Dry Ink’ is my personal favorite. Its soulful melody and stirring lyrics resonate with my own experiences. I feel connected to the band and its music in a way that I’ve never felt with any other band. Their music isn’t just a collection of songs; it’s a soundtrack to my life.”

Backstory:
“Worn Operation” was birthed in the bustling backstreets of Liverpool, England, in the early 2000s. The band was originally a group of childhood friends – Ed McManus, Theo Patterson, and brothers Nate and Will Henderson – who shared a mutual passion for music. The quartet spent their early days experimenting with sounds in Patterson’s cramped attic, recording songs on an old 8-track tape deck. The name “Worn Operation” was inspired by the worn-out and sometimes malfunctioning equipment they initially used, which added a unique flavor to their sound. The band’s dedication to their craft helped them quickly gain traction in the underground music scene, and their unique blend of genres has won them a dedicated following.

Genre:
“Worn Operation” is best known for their innovative fusion of Indie Rock and Electronica, creating a unique, ambient yet raw sound that speaks to a wide spectrum of music lovers.

Title:
“Morning Glory Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Am – C – G – F
In the morning glory shadows, I found my reality,
Am – C – G – F
Underneath the stars of the pitch-black galaxy.
Am – C – G – F
The world feels hushed, but my heart’s a thunderstorm,
Am – C – G – F
In the morning glory shadows, I was reborn.

(Chorus)
Am – C – G – F
Oh, morning glory shadows, you’re my sanctuary,
Am – C – G – F
In your silent whisper, I find my clarity.
Am – C – G – F
And when the dawn breaks, when the night’s torn,
Am – C – G – F
I’ll still be dancing with the morning glory shadows, in the early morn.

(Verse 2)
F – C – G – Am
In the somber twilight, I see echoes of the day,
F – C – G – Am
In the morning glory shadows, I lose my way.
F – C – G – Am
It’s where the lost souls find solace, where dreams are worn,
F – C – G – Am
In the morning glory shadows, a new hope is born.

(Chorus)
Am – C – G – F
Oh, morning glory shadows, you’re my guiding light,
Am – C – G – F
Through the chaos and the darkness, you’re my silent fight.
Am – C – G – F
And when the world’s asleep, when the dreams are worn,
Am – C – G – F
I’ll be hiding in the morning glory shadows, where I was reborn.

Fan Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan is a young woman named Emily. She discovered “Worn Operation” during a difficult time in her life and found solace in their lyrics. “Their music has this unique ability to simultaneously energize and soothe. It’s like they’ve taken my thoughts, my fears, my hopes, and put them into lyrics. ‘Worn Operation’ is my favorite band because their music became the soundtrack to my healing process. ‘Morning Glory Shadows’ is the song that got me through my darkest days, and for that, I’ll forever be grateful,” Emily shared.

Backstory:

Staid Heaven, a compelling blend of childhood friends and musical enthusiasts, originated from the bustling streets of Brooklyn, New York. The band was conceived during an impromptu jam session in a deserted garage, where the four members discovered a shared passion for creating a unique, soul-stirring blend of music. They set out on a journey to communicate their profound thoughts and experiences through their songs, creating an unmistakable sound that resonates with their audience.

In the early days, the band experienced a grueling phase of trial and error. However, their dogged determination and shared artistic vision helped them navigate the murky waters of the music industry. Staid Heaven rose to popularity in the local scene following their debut performance at a renowned music festival, and they haven’t looked back since. Now, they are revered for their electric performances and heartfelt compositions – a testament to their musical prowess.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Broken Halos”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1) [C]G [C]D [C]Em
In the [G]quiet of the night, beneath the [C]broken halos,
[D]Whispers of the past, the stories [Em]we never told.
[G]Haunted by the ghosts, in the [C]theatre of our minds,
[D]Playing on repeat, [Em]scenes we’ve left behind.

(Chorus) [G]D [G]Am [G]C
[G]Now we wear [D]broken halos, [Am]can’t find the light,
[G]In the labyrinth of [C]sorrow, we lost the fight.
[G]With our [D]broken halos, we [Am]carry the night,
[G]Searching for redemption, [C]yearning for daylight.

(Verse 2)
In the [G]shadows of the dawn, with our [C]broken halos,
[D]Bearing silent wounds, hidden [Em]beneath our clothes.
[G]In the echoes of our laughter, [C]there’s a hint of pain,
[D]Caught in the crossfire, [Em]drenched in the rain.

(Chorus)

(Bridge) [Am]D [Am]G [Am]D [Am]G
[Am]Broken, yet we’re [D]brave, in the [G]face of the storm,
[Am]Hoping for a [D]miracle, in its [G]many forms.
[Am]With our [D]broken halos, we [G]rise again,
[Am]Ready to rewrite our [D]stories, to [G]begin again.

(Chorus)

(Outro)
With our [G]broken halos, we’ll [C]find the light,
[D]Reborn from the ashes, [Em]ready for the fight.

Fan Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan is a dedicated follower named Jenny Thompson. She has been with the band since their garage days, providing unwavering support and encouragement. As a profound testimony to her bond with the band, she shares, “Staid Heaven is more than just a band to me. They’re like a beacon in the storm, their music guiding me through challenging times. Their song ‘Broken Halos’ particularly resonates with my experiences, reminding me that it’s okay to be broken and that healing is a journey. The raw emotion, authenticity, and depth in their lyrics are simultaneously comforting and empowering. Being a part of their journey, watching them grow, and finding solace in their music has been a truly remarkable experience.”

Backstory:
Worthy Domain is a four-piece band hailing from the beautiful city of Portland, Oregon. The members – lead vocalist and guitarist Ryan, bassist Chris, drummer Alex, and keyboardist Sarah – met while attending the same college, where they found a common interest in creative expression through music. They officially formed the band in 2015, naming it ‘Worthy Domain’ as a nod to their humble beginnings in a rented garage, which they considered their ‘domain,’ and the ‘worthy’ dreams they had of making it big in the music industry.

Their journey was not without struggles, often performing in small gigs with minimal audiences. But with a deep-rooted passion for music and a profound belief in their craft, they continued to create and perform – building a small but loyal fan base. Their dedication eventually paid off, and they landed a recording deal in 2018, which skyrocketed them into the limelight and made them one of the emerging talents in the indie music scene.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Unseen Echoes”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Walking through the [D] empty streets, [Em] shadows at my [C] feet,
[G] Searching for a [D] memory, [Em] locked in time, [C] incomplete.

(Chorus)
[G] Unseen echoes, [D] silent cries,
[Em] Wandering through [C] life’s disguise,
[G] In the quiet, [D] we find the truth,
[Em] In unseen echoes, [C] I find you.

(Verse 2)
[G] Beneath the neon [D] lights we danced, [Em] lost in time, [C] entranced,
[G] Now all that’s left [D] are echoes of [Em] our past, [C] our lost romance.

(Repeat Chorus twice)

Fan Testimonial:
“Hi, I’m Kevin. I’ve been a fan of Worthy Domain since their early days in Portland. Their music has had a profound impact on my life. The lyrics, the melodies, the raw emotion – it’s all so genuine and relatable. I’ve been through some rough patches, but their music has been a constant source of comfort and strength. It’s like they have a song for every phase of my life. What makes them my favorite band is their authenticity; they pour their hearts into their music, and it shows. It’s not just music; it’s a shared experience, a connection. That’s what makes Worthy Domain special.”

Backstory:

Which Limit, a band that was born one fateful night in a quiet college town, traces its roots to a group of dorm mates from the University of California, Santa Cruz. They were all studying different majors, from astrophysics to literature, but their shared passion for music led them to form an impromptu band in their sophomore year. It started off as a stress-relieving hobby, but soon, they found themselves performing at local bars and college festivals. The name ‘Which Limit’ came from their belief that society often sets limits on people, and through their music, they aim to make listeners question these boundaries and explore their own potential.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Beyond the Horizon”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
C Am Em G
(Oh) Beneath the starry skies, where we used to lie,
C Am Em G
Dreaming of a world, beyond the horizon.
C Am Em G
We’d trace our dreams in the sands, with innocent hands,
C Am Em G
Not knowing what was to be, beyond the horizon.

[Chorus]
C Am Em G
So we ask, which limit holds us back?
C Am Em G
And we ask, which limit is our track?
C Am Em G
Oh, we keep pushing on, till our fears are gone,
C Am Em G
And we find our dawn, beyond the horizon.

[Verse 2]
C Am Em G
We’ve seen days of rain, days of pain,
C Am Em G
But never did we refrain, for there’s hope beyond the horizon.
C Am Em G
Through twists and turns, through burns and learns,
C Am Em G
We yearn to discern, what lies beyond the horizon.

[Chorus]
C Am Em G
So we ask, which limit makes us strong?
C Am Em G
And we ask, with which limit do we belong?
C Am Em G
Oh, we keep pushing forth, setting our course north,
C Am Em G
To find our worth, beyond the horizon.

[End]
C Am Em G
Beyond the horizon, beyond the horizon,
C Am Em G
There’s no limit, no limit, beyond the horizon.

Fan’s Name: Jessica Stevens

Testimonial:

“Which Limit’s music has been my guiding compass since college. The way their lyrics question societal norms and encourage us to break boundaries resonates so deeply with me. Their song ‘Beyond the Horizon’ inspired me to pursue my dreams, despite all odds. It’s like they’re speaking directly to me, urging me to seize my potential. Their music isn’t just entertainment, it’s a source of strength and motivation. There’s no other band that influences me the way Which Limit does.”

Backstory:
Formed in a tiny, humble loft of a vintage bookstore at the heart of London, “Long-Term Conservation” is the brainchild of four eclectic souls who share a deep passion for music and environmental conservation. The group consists of the charismatic lead vocalist, Ben Harper, the soulful guitarist, Lily Sullivan, the dynamic drummer, Max Wright, and the eccentric bassist, Tom Davis. The band metaphorically took its name from the notion of preserving the beauty of nature for future generations, an ideal that deeply resonates with all four members. They believe that through their music, they can help to inspire people to become more eco-conscious and make choices that respect the planet’s wellness.

Genre:
Indie Folk Rock

Title:
“Whispers of the Wind”

Full song lyrics:
(Verse 1)
C G
Hear the whispers of the wind,
Am Em
Calling for a change to begin,
F C
In the heart of every kin,
G F
Let’s stand together, let’s join in.

(Chorus)
C G
Walk with me in this journey,
Am Em
Towards long-term conservation,
F C
For our future generation,
G F
In love, in action.

(Verse 2)
C G
Underneath the moonlit sky,
Am Em
Let’s promise to never let this earth cry,
F C
Through storm or sunshine,
G F
Our commitment never declines.

(Chorus)
C G
Walk with me in this journey,
Am Em
Towards long-term conservation,
F C
For our future generation,
G F
In love, in action.

Favorite Fan Testimonial:
“My name is Emily, and I’ve been following Long-Term Conservation from the beginning. Their music isn’t just about beautiful melodies and lyrics, but it’s how they use their platform to advocate for the environment. I’ve always been passionate about protecting our planet, and finding a band that shares the same principles means the world to me. Their song ‘Whispers of the Wind’ touches my heart every time I hear it and reminds me of the importance of preserving nature. In a world where pop culture can often promote superficiality, it’s refreshing to see a band like Long-Term Conservation making music that has a deeper message. They are my absolute favorite!”

Backstory:
Specific Money was formed in the hazy heart of England’s music scene in Leeds in 2016. The founding members, childhood friends, Jared “Jay” Thompson (vocals, guitar) and Tom “TJ” Johnson (drums), met at a local record shop. They bonded over their shared love for experimental rock and unique lyrical narratives. As they began to jam together, they realized their musical chemistry was undeniable. They recruited bassist, Mia “Mimi” Clark and keyboardist, Charlie “Cheeks” Walker, both from their local music community, to complete the line-up.

Known for their energetic live performances and distinctive sound, Specific Money quickly gained a dedicated fan base. Their music has evolved over the years, transitioning from their original gritty garage rock sound to a more polished, yet still experimental vibe, blending elements of psychedelia, blues, and alternative rock.

Genre:
Alternative/Experimental Rock

Title:
“Paper Chains”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1
(Em – G – D – A)
Caught in the rotation, spinning around,
Lost in translation, in a breaking sound,
Waves crushing in, while we’re running out,
In this paper chains game, we’re playing, no doubt.

Chorus
(C – G – D – Em)
Paper chains, they’re pulling tighter,
In the echo of the silent night,
We’re just coins tossed in the water,
In the hope we might see the light.

Verse 2
(Em – G – D – A)
Dreaming in green, but we’re painted in red,
Living in scenes, that are better off dead,
Chasing the wind, while we’re tied to the ground,
In this paper chains game, we’re going round and round.

Chorus
(C – G – D – Em)
Paper chains, they’re pulling tighter,
In the echo of the silent night,
We’re just coins tossed in the water,
In the hope we might see the light.

Bridge
(Am – Bm – C – D)
Break the chains, shatter the silence,
Let’s be the sparks in the dark,
Fight the reign, rebel with defiance,
In this game, let’s leave a mark.

(Chorus repeats)

Band’s Favorite Fan:
Liam Gallagher is the band’s most dedicated fan. He first discovered Specific Money at a small pub gig in Manchester. He was immediately captivated by their unique sound and energy. In his words, “Specific Money is like a breath of fresh air. They’re not just another rock band. Their lyrics tell stories, their music takes you on a journey. Watching them perform live is an experience in itself. They pull you into their world and make you feel things you didn’t know you could. That’s what makes them my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Knobby Hat was born out of the dynamic friendship of four high school chums from a small town in Oregon. Max, Toby, Liam, and Dean spent countless hours in the school’s music room, honing their craft and dreaming of making it big one day. Max was the band’s lead vocalist with a bluesy voice that could make the heavens weep, Toby kept the rhythm with his drums, Liam strummed the bass with a finesse that belied his quirky personality, and Dean, the quietest of the lot, made his guitar weep and wail with abandon. After graduation, they decided to take the plunge and moved to Los Angeles to follow their dreams. The band was officially formed in 2012, with the name Knobby Hat, inspired by the unusual hat Max always wore.

Genre:
Knobby Hat’s music is best described as Indie Rock, with influences of grunge and blues. Their songs often have deep lyrics inspired by their personal experiences, with strong guitar riffs and powerful drumming.

Title: “Lost in the Echo”

Full song lyrics:
(Verse)
G#m – E – B – F#
As I walk through the valley of shadows,
G#m – E – B – F#
A knobby hat hides my hollow eyes,
G#m – E – B – F#
In the city of angels, I’m lost in the echo,
G#m – E – B – F#
In the silence, my heart cries.

(Chorus)
F# – B – E – G#m
Lost in the echo, can’t you hear my call?
F# – B – E – G#m
In this sea of faces, I’m just another fall.

(Verse)
G#m – E – B – F#
With my dreams in my pocket, I walk the lonely miles,
G#m – E – B – F#
The knobby hat keeps my secrets, hides my smiles,
G#m – E – B – F#
In the city of angels, I’m lost in the echo,
G#m – E – B – F#
In the silence, my heart flies.

(Chorus)
F# – B – E – G#m
Lost in the echo, can’t you see my fall?
F# – B – E – G#m
In this city of angels, I’m just another lost call.

Favorite fan’s testimonial:
My name is Sarah, and I am probably the biggest fan of Knobby Hat. Their music has been the soundtrack of my life for the past few years. I love their raw, authentic sound and the way they pour their souls into their music. “Lost in the Echo” particularly resonates with me because it perfectly captures the feeling of loneliness and longing in a vast city. It’s as if they have taken my own emotions and put them into a beautiful, haunting song. Their music has helped me through some tough times, and for that, I am eternally grateful. Knobby Hat isn’t just a band to me; they are a lifeline, a beacon of hope.