Backstory:

Calm Self is an indie rock band that began in the tucked-away town of Hidden Hollow, Oregon. The four members, Jason, Ben, Olivia and Hannah met in a small, local coffee shop with an open-mic night that they all frequented. Jason, the front-man, was a songwriter and guitarist. Ben, the drummer, was a baker by day and musician by night. Olivia, the bassist and backup vocalist, was a freelance graphic designer. Hannah, the keys player, was a high school music teacher. The four hit it off immediately, and thus, Calm Self was born.

They all shared a common desire to create music that resonated with those needing peace in their lives. Drawing from their personal experiences and the charm and tranquility of Hidden Hollow, they began crafting songs that encapsulated these feelings. The band gradually gained popularity and has since been recognized for their unique sound and meaningful lyrics.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Serenity’s Echo”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C#m – A – E – B
Sitting in the silence of the morning light,
I find a peace that’s so divine,
Walking through the pathways of my weary mind,
Serenity’s echo is what I find.

(Chorus)
A – E – B – C#m
In the stillness, in the quiet,
Hear the whispers of the wind,
In the chaos, midst the riot,
Serenity’s echo begins.

(Verse 2)
C#m – A – E – B
Calm Self, calm self, we ask,
Amidst life’s never-ending tasks,
Find the peace within the storm,
In love’s arms, we are reborn.

(Chorus)
A – E – B – C#m
In the stillness, in the quiet,
Hear the whispers of the wind,
In the chaos, midst the riot,
Serenity’s echo begins.

(Bridge)
E – B – A – C#m
Let the music soothe your soul,
Let the rhythm make you whole,
In this life, we’re not alone,
In Serenity’s echo, we find home.

Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is a lady named Clara. She has been with the band from their very early days, providing constant support and encouragement. Clara was going through a tough time when she first discovered Calm Self. She says, “Their music became my solace. It was like a balm for my soul, helping me find peace during my darkest days. I consider ‘Calm Self’ more than just a band. To me, they’re a beacon of hope. Their music has the power to heal and I am forever grateful for their existence.”

Backstory:

Appropriately named, Fabulous Coin, this eclectic band originated from the bustling city of New York in 2010. The four members – a quirky barista with a knack for words, a street performer who could make love to the guitar, a talented bassist from a local high school band, and a skillful drummer who had gotten lost in the rhythm of life, came together quite by accident. Their fateful meeting happened in the basement of an old record store during a power outage. Stranded together in the dimly lit store and with music as their common language, they decided to jam to pass time. The result was an unexpected harmony that started their musical journey together.

Ever since then, Fabulous Coin has gained a reputation for their unique sound and engaging performances. Their story is a testament to the power of fate, chance, and most importantly, music. They continue to explore their sound, each member bringing something unique to the table, their music standing as a testament to their odd yet fateful meeting in that dimly lit record store.

Genre:

Indie Rock/Alternative

Song Title:

“Flip of a Coin”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Wandering in the [D] city lights, [Em] lost in the [C] crowd,
[G] Strumming lonely [D] melodies, [Em] soft yet so [C] loud.
[G] Found a spark in the [D] darkest night, [Em] in an old record [C] shop,
[G] Strangers turned to [D] comrades, [Em] and the music didn’t [C] stop.

(Chorus)
[G] We are the flip of a [D] coin, [Em] landing on our [C] dreams,
[G] Stitching tales in [D] melody, [Em] drowning out the [C] screams.
[G] We are the flip of a [D] coin, [Em] echoing in [C] song,
[G] Through the highs and the [D] lows, [Em] together we belong. [C]

(Verse 2)
[G] In the heart of the [D] city’s pulse, [Em] we found our [C] beat,
[G] Four souls intertwined, [D] in that record store [C] meet.
[G] Spinning stories out of [D] rhythm, [Em] under the city’s [C] glow,
[G] We are the Fabulous [D] Coin, [Em] wherever we may [C] go.

(Chorus)
[G] We are the flip of a [D] coin, [Em] landing on our [C] dreams,
[G] Weaving lives in [D] harmony, [Em] every song a [C] seam.
[G] We are the flip of a [D] coin, [Em] finding our own [C] way,
[G] In the heart of the [D] city, [Em] where the music [C] plays.

Fan’s Name and Testimonial:

My name is Lily Rodriguez, and I’ve been a dedicated fan of Fabulous Coin since their early days. Their music feels personal, raw, and real – it’s like they’re telling my life story through their songs. As someone who’s always felt a bit out of sync with the world, Fabulous Coin’s music reassures me that it’s okay to be unique and different. Their blend of indie rock and alternative music is just the right amount of nostalgia and innovation. The power of their lyrics coupled with the harmony of their music is enough to make anyone fall in love with them. Their song, “Flip of a Coin”, is my anthem, a reminder that we all have an essential role to play in this symphony of life.

Backstory:

Hailing from a sleepy town in Northern Texas, Average Priest was born out of a shared love for music and a rebellion against the mundane. The band members, comprised of childhood best friends Andy (vocals/guitar), James (drums), and Peter (bass), grew up together attending the same schools, churches, and most significantly, the same dusty record stores. The trio were considered misfits in their conservative town, and they found solace in music. Following a heated discussion regarding the lack of originality in the modern music scene during their senior year, they decided to form their own band – Average Priest.

The band became a sensation in their local community, with their unconventional lyrics and music style resonating with the youth and the discontented. Their raw talent and energy caught the attention of a local record producer during one of their gigs at a local dive bar, and the rest is history. Average Priest continues to make music that thrums with emotional intensity and pushes boundaries, a testament to their humble beginnings and the journey they embarked on together.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Song Title:
“Sanctuary in the Dust”

Full song lyrics:

Verse 1:
[Em] Under a desert sky, I see your [G] face,
[D] Trapped between a forgotten place, and a [Em] lost grace.
[Em] Empty pews, filled with [G] echoes,
[D] We’re just Average Priests, against the [Em] cosmos.

Chorus:
[Em] Give me sanctuary in the [G] dust,
[D] We’re spinning vinyl, in our [Em] trust.
[Em] As an Average Priest, I [G] yield,
[D] To the sacred songs that life’s [Em] field.

Verse 2:
[Em] We’ve got a beat-up guitar and a [G] broken drum,
[D] Making music, under the setting [Em] sun.
[Em] We’re not saints, we’re just [G] boys,
[D] Lost, in a world of discarded [Em] toys.

(Repeat Chorus)

The band’s favorite fan’s name:
Sarah

Testimonial:

Sarah says, “Average Priest is more than just a band to me. I stumbled upon their music during a challenging time in my life, and their songs felt like a salve to my wounds. Their raw energy and genuine lyrics resonate with me deeply. It feels as if they’re speaking directly to people like me – those who feel misunderstood and yearn for something more. Their music has helped me find solace in my struggles and inspired me to face life with courage. I am forever grateful for their music and the impact they’ve had on my life.”

Backstory:
Both Bid, a unique two-piece band, was born in the heart of Portland, Oregon in 2015. The band members, childhood friends Elias White and Leo Gibson, initially started creating music as a hobby in Elias’s garage. Their shared passion for music and an unorthodox approach quickly drew attention in the local music scene. After their self-recorded demo went viral on social media, they caught the attention of a local indie record label, which helped them solidify their path as professional musicians.

The name ‘Both Bid’ represents their shared creative input and determination to outbid each other in terms of creativity and innovation. The band’s blend of electronic music combined with poetic lyrics creates a refreshing and original sound that appeals to a diverse audience.

Genre:
Electronica/Indie Pop

Song Title:
“Neon Dreams”

Full song lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Am (x4)
Twilight cityscape, we’re on the run,
F#m (x3), G
Chasing something just beyond the sun,
Am (x4)
Asphalt lullaby, the night is new,
F#m (x3), G
Illuminated by a neon hue.

[Chorus]
C (x2), G (x2), Am (x2), F (x2)
Neon dreams, and starlit streams,
C (x2), G (x2), Am (x2), F (x2)
Beneath the city’s heart, we’ll find our reams.

[Verse 2]
Am (x4)
Silhouettes dance on electric air,
F#m (x3), G
Underneath the stars, we lay our snare,
Am (x4)
In this urban sea, we cast our hooks,
F#m (x3), G
Caught in the rhythm of love’s crooks.

[Chorus]
C (x2), G (x2), Am (x2), F (x2)
Neon dreams, and cosmic beams,
C (x2), G (x2), Am (x2), F (x2)
In the city’s pulse, we sew our seams.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a creative writer named Elizabeth Greene. Elizabeth discovered Both Bid during a particularly challenging period in her life and their music became a sanctuary for her. She found a deep connection with their lyrics and the unique blend of electronic and indie pop music, finding it both soothing and inspiring. Elizabeth often expresses her love for the band through her writings and shares them on her blog, which has drawn more fans to the band. Her testimonial: “Both Bid’s music has a truly transformative power. It’s like a sonic escape, a place where the mundane meets the magical. Their songs are like stories that take you to another dimension. I’m grateful for their music, it’s a true companion in my journey.”

Backstory:
Distinct Advice formed in the gritty, underground music scene of Seattle in 2014, forged by the shared love of music among four college friends – Joel, Travis, Kim, and Ethan. Joel and Travis were roommates and started playing music together in their dorm room as a way to unwind during their hectic college days. Before long, they added Kim to their repertoire, who brought in a depth with her violin skills. The final addition was Ethan, who was a childhood friend of Travis and played the drums. Their shared experience and mutual respect for each other’s musical talent eventually evolved into Distinct Advice, a band that soon became the talk of the local music scene.

Their first EP, released in late 2014, was met with rave reviews, not just for their unique sound, but also for the profound and thought-provoking lyrics. They quickly gained a reputation for their live performances, blending energy, passion, and raw emotion that left audiences spellbound. Their growing popularity led them to tour across the country, sharing their music and their story with a wider audience.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Shades of Reality”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1) [C, Em, Am, F]
In the shadowed corners of my mind,
Where fear and hope intertwine,
I see a world painted in shades of grey,
A silent symphony that begins to play.

(Chorus) [G, Em, Am, F]
Shades of reality, mirror of our times,
In the silence of the night, we pen our rhymes.
Chasing dreams, chasing life, in this grand design,
In the shades of reality, we learn to shine.

(Verse 2) [C, Em, Am, F]
Through trials and tribulations, we make our way,
Battered and bruised, but never led astray.
In the depths of despair, we find our light,
Guided by the stars in the darkest night.

(Chorus) [G, Em, Am, F]
Shades of reality, mirror of our times,
In the quiet whispers of the wind, we find our lines.
Chasing dreams, chasing life, in this grand design,
In the shades of reality, we learn to shine.

(Outro) [C, Em, Am, F]
In this journey of life, we find our role,
In the shades of reality, we find our soul.

Fan’s Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan is Sara, a college student from Boston. Sara says, “Distinct Advice has been my favorite band ever since I saw them perform live in 2015. Their music speaks to me on so many levels and their lyrics often feel like they’re giving me advice. It’s like they understand what I’m going through and have found the perfect words to express it. Each song has a story that is so relatable and beautiful. Their music has been a source of comfort and inspiration for me during some really tough times. They are more than just a band to me, they are a beacon of hope in the chaos of life.”

Backstory:

Mysterious Leg was born in the heart of New York’s dynamic music scene in the summer of 2007. The band consists of four members, Barry O’Neil (Vocals), Andy Patterson (Guitar), Jake Simmons (Bass) and Ralph Henderson (Drums). The four friends met while working at the same music store and bonded over their shared love for experimental sounds and unconventional song structures. They began jamming after hours in the store, and their signature sound slowly came into being. Mysterious Leg was officially formed after they played their first impromptu gig at a local bar, and the enthusiastic response they received encouraged them to pursue this journey.

The band gained a local following with their energetic live performances and unique sound. After their debut album ‘Unseen Limb’ was released in 2010, Mysterious Leg shot to national fame. Despite facing several ups and downs, the band continues to explore new musical territories and push boundaries in the music industry.

Genre:
Alternative Rock / Indie

Title:
“Whispering Echoes”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Underneath the [G] city lights,
[Am] You’re a shadow [Em] moving in the night,
[F] Whispering [C] echoes, [G] traces of a life,
[Am] Lost in time, [Em] out of sight.

(Chorus)
[F] Whispering [C] echoes,
[G] Calling out your [Am] name,
[F] In the silence of the [C] night,
[G] We’re all part of the [Am] game.

(Verse 2)
[C] Drifting on the [G] crowded streets,
[Am] To the rhythm of the [Em] city beats,
[F] Whispering [C] echoes, [G] painting tales untold,
[Am] In the heart of the [Em] city bold.

(Chorus)
[F] Whispering [C] echoes,
[G] Illuminating [Am] lanes,
[F] In the labyrinth of the [C] city,
[G] Resonating [Am] pains.

Fan’s Name:
Emma Johnson

Testimonial:

“I’ve been a fan of Mysterious Leg since their earliest days, back when they were just a local band in New York. I remember the first time I saw them perform live at a bar, and I was blown away by their energy and distinctive sound. Their music has a unique blend of alternative rock and indie influences, yet they maintain a sense of freshness and originality. Their songs often reflect deep emotions and experiences, and their lyrics resonate with me on a personal level. ‘Whispering Echoes’ is my favorite track, and it perfectly encapsulates the band’s ability to create a vivid narrative through their music. Mysterious Leg is my favorite band because they constantly innovate and push boundaries, and their music always feels authentic and relatable. I can’t wait to see what they have in store for us in the future!”

Backstory:

Impressive Alcohol is a group formed in the quaint town of Springfield, Illinois. Childhood friends, vocalist Luke Wilson, drummer Alex Thompson, and bassist Jake Parker, used to pass long summer days jamming in Thompson’s garage. At the age of 17, they played their first gig at a local bar, where they were paid in beers rather than money. The crowd loved their raw energy and unique sound which they found fresh and unpretentious. Inspired by the reaction, they decided to take their music more seriously, and this marked the birth of ‘Impressive Alcohol.’ As they say, the rest is history.

The band took a year off after graduating high school to hone their sound and write music. During this time, they also found their fourth member, lead guitarist, Ethan Davis. They started off playing in small gigs and bars around Illinois before their music caught the attention of a local radio station. Soon their infectious tunes were being blasted on radio speakers, catapulting them into the local music scene.

Genre:

Impressive Alcohol has a distinct sound that is best classified as Indie Rock with a touch of blues. The band’s repertoire is a fusion of energetic rhythms, haunting melodies, and introspective lyrics that capture the essence of youth and the human condition.

Title:

“Cheers to Tomorrow”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1:
[Am] Waking up to a [G] broken dawn,
[F] Memories of the [G] night are drawn.
[Am] Empty bottles on the [G] floor,
[F] Echoes of laughter, [G] wanting more.

Chorus:
[C] Cheers to the [G] past, it’s [Am] already done,
[F] Cheers to the [G] present, it’s [Am] where we’ve begun.
[C] Let’s raise a toast, [G] to tomorrow unknown,
[F] Life’s a journey, [G] not a milestone.

Verse 2:
[Am] Shadows dancing in the [G] candlelight,
[F] Woven stories of the [G] reckless night.
[Am] The taste of whiskey, [G] bittersweet,
[F] To the rhythm of our [G] heartbeat.

(Repeat Chorus)

Bridge:
[Dm] In the haze of the [G] moment, lost in time,
[C] Chasing dreams with a [Am] bottle of wine.
[Dm] In the end, it’s just [G] you and I,
[C] Underneath the [Am] starlit sky.

(Repeat Chorus)

Favorite Fan’s Name:

Our biggest fan is undoubtedly Jenny Smith.

Testimonial:

“I fell in love with Impressive Alcohol during their first gig in a small bar in Springfield. Their music was raw, real, and connected with me on a personal level. From their high-energy performances to their introspective lyrics, they offered something different from what was out in the music scene. Over the years, they’ve only gotten better and despite their growing fame, they’ve remained humble and true to their roots. They’re not just a band to me, they’re the soundtrack of my life.” – Jenny Smith.

Backstory:
Detailed Grip came into existence in the early 2010s in a small garage in the suburbs of Seattle, Washington. The band was formed by two childhood friends, Charlie Davidson (lead vocals and guitar) and Michael “Micky” Barnes (drums). They shared a deep-rooted passion for music and a dream to play at the biggest music festivals. They soon roped in their old schoolmate, Lucy Green (bass and backing vocals), and Lucy’s elder brother, Jake Green (keyboard). The band started by playing at local pubs and small events, and the tight-knit group quickly gained attention for their unique approach to their style of music. Their sound is a fusion of their diverse influences, and they’ve managed to carve out a niche for themselves in the competitive music industry.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Ripples in the Rain”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Em] Walking down the [G] street, [D] under the neon [A] light
[Em] Rain dancing on the [G] pavement, [D] colors blending in the [A] night
[Em] Reflections whisper [G] stories, [D] of love lost and [A] gained
[Em] Life’s like these [G] ripples in the [D] rain. [A]

(Chorus)
[C] Ripples in the [G] rain, [D] moments we [A] sustain
[C] Love’s sweet melody, [G] in life’s changing [D] terrain.
[C] In these fleeting [G] moments, [D] let’s not abstain
Let’s dance like these [G] ripples in the [D] rain. [A]

(Verse 2)
[Em] Shadows come to [G] life, [D] as the city sleeps [A] tight
[Em] Love blooms in the [G] silence, [D] under the moon’s soft [A] light
[Em] Hearts sharing secrets, [G] in joy and in [A] pain
[Em] We’re just like these [G] ripples in the [D] rain. [A]

(Repeat Chorus)

(Fade Out)
[Em] Walking down the [G] street, [D] under the neon [A] light
[Em] We’re just like these [G] ripples in the [D] rain. [A]

Fan Testimonial:
Favorite Fan: Brian Thompson

“Ever since I heard Detailed Grip’s music at a local pub in Seattle, I’ve been hooked. Their music resonates with me on a deeply personal level. The way they blend different musical influences into their unique sound is incredible. ‘Ripples in the Rain’, their recent track, is so raw and so real, it’s as if they’ve given a voice to my own emotions. Their passion for music is evident in every chord, every melody, and every lyric. I think it’s this authenticity that sets Detailed Grip apart. There’s no other band that I would proudly call my favorite!”

Backstory:
Unnatural Stage was born out of the heart of Boston in the late 90s. The founding members, Violet St. James (vocals), and Brennan “Buzz” Riley (guitar), were originally theater performers who desired to create a musical platform that expressed their unique take on the world. They were soon joined by drummer Joe “Thunder” Fellows and bassist Pete “Bassman” Thomson. Though they began playing gigs in small, local venues, their raw talent and unique sound quickly garnered a following. Their unconventional blend of theatrical performance with rock music revolutionized the Boston music scene, creating a unique band that stood out from the crowd.

Genre: Theatrical Rock

Title: “Curtain Call in Disarray”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Come step up to the [D] stage, my dear
[Em] No need for fear, let’s [C] shed a tear,
[G] The lights are dim, the [D] crowd is near,
[Em] An echo of applause we [C] hold so dear.

(Chorus)
[G] It’s a curtain call in [D] disarray,
[Em] A final bow, we [C] fade away,
[G] A tale of love, a [D] heart’s dismay,
[Em] We’re Unnatural Stage, [C] and we’re here to stay.

(Verse 2)
[G] Strum the strings of [D] bittersweet,
[Em] Feel the rhythm, tap your [C] feet,
[G] The stage is set, take your [D] seat,
[Em] We’re spinning tales that we [C] can’t repeat.

(Chorus)
[G] It’s a curtain call in [D] disarray,
[Em] A final bow, we [C] fade away,
[G] A tale of love, a [D] heart’s dismay,
[Em] We’re Unnatural Stage, [C] and we’re here to stay.

(Outro)
[G] So sing along, lose the [D] night,
[Em] In the spotlight’s fading [C] light,
[G] Together we’ll make it [D] right,
[Em] We’re Unnatural Stage, [C] saying goodnight.

Fan Testimonial:
Fan’s Name: Samantha “Sammy” Lewis

“I have been a fan of Unnatural Stage since their first gig at the old Boston theater. Their music cuts deep, it’s more than just a song – it’s a story, a performance. Every lyric, every guitar riff, every drum beat tells a tale that resonates with me. They stand out in the music industry not just for their unique genre, but also for their authenticity. They remain true to who they are and what they believe in, and that is what I love the most about them. They have become a part of my life, a part of my own personal narrative.”

Backstory:

Powerless Human is a band that was formed in the small Midwest town of Wayne, Nebraska, in 2008. The four members, Derek, Hayden, Elliot, and Ollie, were childhood friends who found solace and connection through music. They started out playing in their parents’ garages and small local venues, but their unique sound and sincere lyrics quickly gained a local following. Eventually, their music reached a music producer in Los Angeles who saw potential in their unconventional approach and offered them a record deal.

The name ‘Powerless Human’ was chosen to reflect their belief that people are often made to feel powerless by societal expectations and norms, but through music, they can find a voice and strength. Their songs aim to inspire others to break free from the constraints put upon them and fully express their individuality.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Rise From The Ashes”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
C G Am F
Time keeps slipping through our hands,
C G Am F
Each moment fleeting like the sands.
C G Am F
But in our hearts, a silent plea,
C G Am F
A call to what we’re meant to be.

[Chorus]
C G Am F
Rise, rise from the ashes,
C G Am F
Break the chains, break the lashes.
C G Am F
We are powerless no more,
C G Am F
Hear our roar, hear our roar.

[Verse 2]
C G Am F
Underneath the weight of the world,
C G Am F
Our voices unheard, our spirits curled.
C G Am F
But in our souls, a burning fire,
C G Am F
A spark of unquenchable desire.

[Chorus]
C G Am F
Rise, rise from the ashes,
C G Am F
Break the chains, break the lashes.
C G Am F
We are powerless no more,
C G Am F
Hear our roar, hear our roar.

The Band’s Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is Lucy, a young girl from their hometown. Despite her shy demeanor, Lucy is always front and center at every Powerless Human concert within a 100-mile radius. She connects deeply with the band’s message of breaking free from societal constraints, having struggled with self-confidence and societal pressures herself.

Testimonial:

“Powerless Human’s music has been a lifeline for me. Their authenticity and raw emotion in their songs give me hope. I feel understood and accepted when I listen to their music. They inspire me to be true to myself, despite what others may think. Powerless Human is more than just a band to me, they are my reminder to always rise from the ashes.” – Lucy.