Backstory:
Born out of the eclectic music scene of Austin, Texas, Left Doctrine formed in the summer of 2008. The band is composed of four members: Travis Montgomery on vocals and guitar, Aaron ‘Ace’ Smith on the drums, Sarah Stone on bass, and Mike ‘Mikey’ Green on keyboard. Their passion for music and social issues led them to create a band known for its activist ethos. They started by playing in local bars and cafes, and their socially conscious lyrics and distinct sound soon gained them a loyal local following. In 2010, they gained national recognition when their track ‘The Silent March’ was featured in an independent documentary about social inequality.

Genre:
Indie Rock/Alternative

Song Title:
“Echoes of the Free”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1: (Em – G – D – A)
Em G
In the concrete jungle, we found our voice,
D A
In the whispers of the wind, we made our choice.
Em G
Through the cracks on the sidewalk, we’ve seen the truth,
D A
Underneath the starry sky, we’ve found our youth.

Chorus: (C – G – D)
C G
We are the echoes, echoes of the free,
D
Never silent, as loud as we can be.
C G
We’ll sing until the mountains crumble to the sea,
D
We are the echoes, echoes of the free.

Verse 2:
Em G
In the depths of the darkness, we found our light,
D A
In the face of adversity, we chose to fight.
Em G
With the rhythm of rebellion, we claim the night,
D A
In the echoes of the free, we find our might.

(Chorus)

Fan Profile:
The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Lisa Bennett. Lisa first discovered Left Doctrine at a small bar in Austin and has been a dedicated fan ever since. She has attended every concert they’ve held in Texas and has been instrumental in spreading their music through social media. Lisa loves Left Doctrine for their political activism and for their commitment to creating meaningful music. She says, “Left Doctrine isn’t just a band, they’re a movement. Their music resonates with people who believe in change. Every song is a call to action, every lyric a declaration of freedom. They remind us that music can be a powerful force for social change.”

Backstory:

Formed in 2003, Serpentine Requirement is an eclectic blend of childhood friends and college buddies hailing from the dynamic city of Seattle. The band initially came together as part of a casual music experiment, jamming together in garages and college dorm rooms. However, strong musical chemistry and a shared artistic vision soon led to the creation of a serious group. The name ‘Serpentine Requirement’ was a product of a late-night brainstorming session, chosen for its abstract yet enticing imagery. Since their formation, the band’s journey has been a thrilling roller coaster ride of electrifying performances, ground-breaking albums, and relentless touring, all the while maintaining a strong bond of friendship and creative collaboration.

Genre: Progressive Rock

Title: “Falling Through Infinity”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Wandering through the [G] labyrinth of life,
[Am] Searching for a [F] meaning, chasing after light,
[C] Shadows in the [G] darkness, whispers in the night,
[Am] Longing for a [F] truth that’s out of sight.

(Chorus)
[G] Falling, falling through [F] infinity,
[C] Lost in the [Am] cosmos, a [G] cosmic trinity.
[G] Riding on the [F] waves of serendipity,
[C] Finding our way [Am] in this [G] serpentine requirement.

(Verse 2)
[C] We’re prisoners of [G] time, bound by reality,
[Am] Far beyond the [F] reach of human vanity.
[C] Between the lines of [G] space and the shades of sanity,
[Am] Lies the essence [F] of our humanity.

(Chorus)
[G] Falling, falling through [F] infinity,
[C] Dancing with [Am] stardust, a cosmic [G] symphony.
[G] Riding on the [F] whispers of eternity,
[C] Making our place [Am] in this [G] serpentine requirement.

(Fan’s name and testimonial)

Fan Name: Sarah Thompson

Testimonial: For Sarah Thompson, Serpentine Requirement isn’t just a band – it’s an experience. Sarah, a Seattle local, first discovered their music during a small gig at a local pub six years ago. “Their songs are like a journey through space and time,” she says. “Every lyric, every chord, it connects with you on a deeply personal level.” Serpentine Requirement has become an integral part of Sarah’s life. The band’s progressive rock tunes provide the perfect soundtrack to her days, whether she’s working, driving, or just relaxing at home. For Sarah, the band’s music is a serpentine requirement for a meaningful life. “They’re not just my favorite band,” she says, “they’re my favorite part of every day.”

Backstory:

Formed in the bustling, artistic city of Austin, Texas, Itchy Drain was the lovechild of four childhood friends with a shared passion for music: lead vocalist and guitarist Nolan, bassist Mason, drummer Carter, and keyboard player Kai. They all grew up in the same neighborhood, spending countless summer days jamming in garages and performing impromptu concerts for anyone who would listen. It wasn’t until their high school years that they seriously considered forming a proper band, and Itchy Drain was born. The peculiar name was born from an inside joke, something only the four of them would understand, embodying their shared history and camaraderie.

Through their college years, the band honed their sound, performing in local venues and music festivals, gathering a dedicated fan base along the way. Their big break came when they were offered a record contract from a small indie label. Since then, Itchy Drain has released two successful albums, each one a step forward in their musical evolution, cementing their place in the indie rock scene.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Title:

“Rainy Sunday Blues”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1: E-Am-C-G)
E Am
Woke up to a rainy Sunday morn,
C G
With the smell of coffee and heart worn.
E Am
The melodies of yesterday, still ring in ears,
C G
While the rhythm of the rain, drowns out my fears.

(Chorus: A-E-B-C#m)
A E
Rainy Sunday Blues, washing away my clues,
B C#m
To another time, another me, another you.
A E
Rainy Sunday Blues, singing loud, singing true,
B C#m
In this grey world, only thing I knew.

(Verse 2: E-Am-C-G)
E Am
Raindrops tap dancing on the roof,
C G
Echoing stories of our lost youth.
E Am
The memories like the rain, soft and cold,
C G
In the quiet whispers, our secrets unfold.

(Chorus: A-E-B-C#m)
A E
Rainy Sunday Blues, washing away my clues,
B C#m
To another time, another me, another you.
A E
Rainy Sunday Blues, singing loud, singing true,
B C#m
In this grey world, only thing I knew.

Fan’s Testimonial:

My name is Sophie, and I am a die-hard fan of Itchy Drain. Their music feels personal, raw, and restorative. Their lyrics touch the depths of human emotions and experiences, wrapped up in beautifully haunting melodies. “Rainy Sunday Blues”, for example, is my go-to track, especially on days when I’m feeling nostalgic or introspective. It’s like having a friend who understands what you’re going through. The band’s authenticity is what makes them stand out, and that’s why they’re my favorite. They’re not just making music; they’re narrating life as they see it.

Backstory:

Lonely Notice was born in a sleepy, small town in Montana, where life was uneventful, and the only form of entertainment was the music emanating from old radios and parents’ vinyl collections. Comprising childhood friends Ethan Parker (vocals, guitar), Jake Morris (drums), and siblings Amelia and Oliver Green (bass guitar and keyboard, respectively), the core of the band was established in high-school. They spent countless afternoons in Ethan’s garage, jamming to classic rock, country, and a bit of folk, gradually finding their own unique sound. Post high-school, they moved to Austin, Texas, inspired by the city’s vibrant music scene. Their journey was marked by numerous performances at local bars and music festivals, where they slowly built a devoted fan base. The band name ‘Lonely Notice’ signifies their humble beginnings, reflecting their sense of isolation in their early days and the notice they desired from the world.

Genre:

Alternative Country / Indie Rock

Title:

“Shadows and Echoes”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] In the heart of a [C] small-town sunset,
[Em] Dreams took flight, [D] but we weren’t done yet.
[G] We found our sound in [C] solitude,
[Em] made music that [D] felt so true.

(Chorus)
[G] Shadows and echoes, [C] tales of our youth,
[Em] Lonely Notice, seeking [D] truth.
[G] Making melodies in [C] the twilight,
[Em] Singing songs in the [D] pale moonlight.

(Verse 2)
[G] Left our homes for the [C] city of blues,
[Em] Chasing dreams, with [D] nothing to lose.
[G] Austin nights on a [C] dusty stage,
[Em] Music was our [D] only wage.

(Chorus)
[G] Shadows and echoes, [C] tales of our youth,
[Em] Lonely Notice, seeking [D] truth.
[G] Making melodies in [C] a neon glow,
[Em] Finding our way in the [D] after-show.

(Testimonial)

Fan’s Name: Maggie Lawson

As a fan, I’ve been to every show Lonely Notice has played in Austin. Their music is like a throwback to simpler times, painted with raw authenticity and emotion. It’s like they’ve captured the essence of the small-town dreamer in all of us, that yearns for recognition yet cherishes the quiet solitude. They are my favorite band because their lyrics resonate with me on a deeply personal level. Their song “Shadows and Echoes” is my all-time favorite. It’s like an anthem for every unnoticed talent out there and a testament to their incredible journey. I’m proud to be a part of the Lonely Notice family, and I can’t wait to see where their music takes them next.

Backstory:
Overdue Database is a group of four tech-savvy music enthusiasts who met in a coding boot camp in Silicon Valley. They found a common bond in their shared love of music, coding, and databases, and decided to bring their passions together in a unique way. When they’re not working on making the world a more digitally advanced place, they’re creating music that reflects their tech-oriented lifestyle. The name “Overdue Database” is a nod to their day jobs and the fact that their musical creativity was long overdue.

Genre:
Overdue Database is an Indie Electronic band, where they fuse synthetic sounds with raw vocal performances to create a unique and captivating music experience.

Title:
“404 Not Found”

Full song lyrics:

[Verse]
Em Am D G
In the world of code so profound,
Em Am D G
Searching through data abound,
Em Am D G
We’re lost, but yet we’re bound,
Em Am D G
In this digital playground.

[Chorus]
C G D Em
Our love is a 404 not found,
Am Em D G
In the binary, we are drowned,
C G D Em
Our connection, no longer sound,
Am Em D G
Our love is a 404 not found.

[Verse]
Em Am D G
In this web of love, we’re entwined,
Em Am D G
Binary hearts, an algorithm designed,
Em Am D G
In a server room, our love confined,
Em Am D G
In this digital world, we’re inclined.

[Chorus]
C G D Em
Our love is a 404 not found,
Am Em D G
In the matrix, we’re tightly wound,
C G D Em
Our signals lost, never to be found,
Am Em D G
Our love is a 404 not found.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is Debbie, a computer science graduate and music enthusiast. “Overdue Database’s music hits me on two different levels. As a fellow coder, their tech-themed lyrics resonate with me. Their sound is also so unique and refreshing. It’s like they’ve found a way to translate the beauty of code into music. I’ve been to all their local shows and can’t wait to see where their journey takes them next.”

Backstory:
Nocturnal Throat hails from the eclectic music scene of Portland, Oregon. The band was formed in 2013 by lead vocalist and guitar player, Ethan Cole, and drummer, Tyler Avery. Both of them met in a local music festival and found a shared passion in creating music that pushes boundaries and defies traditional music genres. They found their missing piece a year later when bassist, Luke Ramirez, joined the band. Nocturnal Throat’s music mirrors the city’s famous weirdness and uniqueness, delivering an intense, yet melodious, auditory experience.

Genre:
Alternative Rock with a touch of Experimental Psychedelia

Title:
“Cosmic Lullaby”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Am] Underneath the [G] velvet sky,
[F] Lay a dreamer’s [Dm] heart and I,
[Am] Stars whisper [G] tales of old,
[F] As the night [Dm] unfolds.

(Chorus)
[Am] Sing to me, [C] cosmic lullaby,
[G] Take me on a [Dm] dreamer’s ride.
[Am] Swirl me in your [C] galaxy,
[G] I’m lost in your [Dm] nocturnity.

(Verse 2)
[Am] Among the shadows, [G] you and I,
[F] Dance to the [Dm] rhythm of the night.
[Am] Moonlight’s kiss on [G] our skin,
[F] As we breathe [Dm] the dark within.

(Chorus)
[Am] Sing to me, [C] cosmic lullaby,
[G] Drift me in your [Dm] mystic tide.
[Am] Wrap me in your [C] nebula,
[G] I’m found in your [Dm] spectacula.

(Bridge)
[Am] Echoing through the [G] silent air,
[F] Music of the spheres, [Dm] we share.
[Am] Under the curtain [G] of the night,
[F] We find our [Dm] cosmic light.

(Chorus)
[Am] Sing to me, [C] cosmic lullaby,
[G] We’re entwined in [Dm] starry guise.
[Am] Forever in your [C] universe,
[G] We’re lost and found in [Dm] Nocturnal Throat’s verses.

The Band’s Favorite Fan:
Hannah is Nocturnal Throat’s most beloved fan. In Hannah’s words, “Nocturnal Throat isn’t just a band. It’s a musical experience. Each song feels like a journey through unexplored galaxies. Their music connects to the soul and fills the heart with a kind of euphoria only true music lovers would understand. ‘Cosmic Lullaby’ is my lullaby. It’s my strength, my joy, and my comfort. I don’t just listen to their music, I live in it.”

Backstory:
Spry Safety was born from the ashes of a post-industrial town in the Midwest, where the echoes of factories and steel mills were as integral to the town’s identity as its inhabitants. The core members of the band, brothers Will and Daniel Thompson, started their journey in music by forming a garage band called ‘The Shimmering Shadows’. They earned their fame playing at local parties and high school proms. Over time, they evolved their sound, moving away from covers to original compositions. The brothers recruited Lily Stevens, a childhood friend and classically trained pianist, and the trio rebranded themselves as ‘Spry Safety’, a nod to the town’s history, resilience, and their commitment to exploring new sonic territories.

Their music reflects the raw energy of their hometown, fused with intricate harmonies and a compelling narrative of survival and reinvention. Their lyrics are often imbued with a sense of nostalgia, exploring themes of longing, remembrance, and the continuity of change. In just a few years, Spry Safety’s unique sound has resonated with thousands of fans across the globe, making them one of the most promising acts in recent times.

Genre:
Indie folk-rock

Title:
“Factory Echoes”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em G C D
Underneath the old smoke stacks, we learned to dream,
Em G C D
Echoes of the past, whispering what could be.
Em G C D
In the rust and grime, we found our melody,
Em G C D
With the factory echoes, in the rhythm of the city.

(Chorus)
Em G C D
Factory Echoes, singing of change and survival,
Em G C D
In the heart of the town, we found our revival.
Em G C D
In the silence of the night, hear the echoes of the steel,
Em G C D
Through the music and the lyrics, our stories we reveal.

(Verse 2)
Em G C D
Every note we play, every rhyme we weave,
Em G C D
Is a testament to this town, and what we believe.
Em G C D
From the ashes and dust, we rose to create,
Em G C D
With the factory echoes, we narrate our fate.

(Chorus)
Em G C D
Factory Echoes, singing of change and survival,
Em G C D
In the heart of the town, we found our revival.
Em G C D
In the silence of the night, hear the echoes of the steel,
Em G C D
Through the music and the lyrics, our stories we reveal.

Band’s Favorite Fan:
Our favorite fan is Mary Ann, a retired school teacher from our hometown.

Testimonial:
“I’ve watched Spry Safety grow from a small garage band to an amazing group adored by thousands. Their music, to me, is a beautiful representation of our town’s past, its resilience and its continuous evolution. Every time I listen to ‘Factory Echoes’, it’s like a walk through the town I love, with all its grit, charm, and warmth. Their music is a part of our town’s history now, and I couldn’t be prouder.” – Mary Ann

Backstory:

Affectionate Boot was birthed in the boisterous streets of Brooklyn, New York, during the great pop-punk resurgence of the early 2010s. The members, frontman Casey Bannister, bassist Jamie “Jam-Jam” Thompson, drummer “Slick” Rick Daniels, and lead guitarist “Vicious” Vince Russo, were all childhood friends who shared an unbreakable bond and an unwavering passion for music. Armed with their instruments and an unyielding determination to make a name for themselves, they began to play at local gigs, gaining popularity for their high-energy performances and charismatic stage presence.

Their breakthrough came in 2015 after their electrifying performance at the famed Brooklyn Bowl caught the attention of music industry scouts. This led to a record deal, propelling Affectionate Boot into the mainstream pop-punk scene. Since then, they’ve been known for their infectious melodies, poignant lyrics, and unapologetically punk sound.

Genre: Pop-Punk

Title: “Laces Unbound”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
E A
I lace them up tight, a routine in the light,
E A
Hoping they’ll guide me where I need to go.
F#m A
Through the streets, through the crowd,
E B
Waiting for the rhythm in the echo.

(Chorus)
E A
In the soles of the affectionate boot,
F#m B
We find strength, we find truth.
E A
In the unbound laces of our youth,
F#m B
We trip, we fall, but we reboot.

(Verse 2)
E A
The pavement is rough, the journey is tough,
E A
But the boot, it carries our dreams.
F#m A
Onwards we tread, with every step,
E B
Closer to reality, it seems.

(Chorus)
E A
In the soles of the affectionate boot,
F#m B
We find courage, we find truth.
E A
In the unbound laces of our youth,
F#m B
We stumble, we fall, but we reboot.

Fan’s Name: Grace Henderson

Testimonial:
“Affectionate Boot is more than just a band to me. Their music, their energy, their authenticity; it’s all so genuine and relatable. I’ve been through some tough times, and their songs, especially ‘Laces Unbound,’ always lift me up. Their lyrics speak directly to my heart and make me believe in myself again. I’ve been their fan since their first gig in Brooklyn, and I truly believe they’ve only gotten better over time. I’ll always be a loyal Boot fan!”

Backstory:
Annual Bottle emerged from the heart of New York City’s underground music scene in the late 90s. Consisting of lead vocalist, Jake Marlowe, drummer, Pete Ross, guitarist, Oliver Stone, and bassist, Harry Kent, the band quickly garnered a loyal fan base with their unique mix of infectious melodies and introspective lyrics. Drawing from their collective experiences of city life, they crafted songs that spanned a wide spectrum of themes, from the throbbing energy of the city streets to the quiet introspection of late-night loneliness.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Song Title:
“City Lights, Midnight Fights”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[Em]Underneath the city lights, [G] nothing seems clear,
[D]Trapped in the motion, [C] lost in the fear.
[Em]Walking a tightrope, [G] holding back tears,
[D]In the concrete jungle, [C] faced with the years.

(Chorus)
[G]City lights, midnight fights, [Em]lost in the throng,
[D]Annual bottle, [C] singing our song.
[G]Dreams take flight in the [Em] dead of the night,
[D]Underneath the city lights, [C]we remain strong.

(Verse 2)
[Em]Shadows on the pavement, [G] secrets untold,
[D]Lost in the rhythm, [C] stories unfold.
[Em]Living for the moment, [G] silver and gold,
[D]In the heart of the city, [C] we’re never old.

(Chorus)
[G]City lights, midnight fights, [Em]lost in the haze,
[D]Annual bottle, [C] counting the days.
[G]Hopes ignite in the [Em] pale moonlight,
[D]Underneath the city lights, [C]we find our ways.

Favorite Fan’s Name:
Sarah Thompson

Testimonial:
“I’ve been a dedicated fan of Annual Bottle since their early days. Their music speaks to me in a way no other band does, capturing the essence of city life with an honesty that’s hard to find. ‘City Lights, Midnight Fights’ is my favorite song – it perfectly encapsulates the struggle and beauty of life in the concrete jungle. Annual Bottle’s music has been the soundtrack to my life, giving voice to feelings I couldn’t express myself. Their authenticity, their raw energy, and their dedication to their craft make them my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Necessary Mother was formed in the heart of Portland, Oregon in 2012 by four university friends: Paul ‘Pops’ Martin, Jeremy ‘Jez’ Greene, David ‘Day’ O’Connor, and Nathan ‘Nate’ Lomax. The band started off as a mere pastime for the boys, but soon, their unique sound found recognition in Portland’s underground music scene. They combined their love for music and their shared experiences of growing up in diverse cultural environments, creating a unique sound.

Their rise to fame was unanticipated, ignited by a fan-recorded video of one of their performances at a local pub that went viral on YouTube. Their captivating stage presence and remarkable musicality quickly drew attention from both fans and labels alike. Necessary Mother signed with indie label ‘Fireside Records’ in 2014 and has been on a thrilling musical journey ever since.

Genre:
Indie Rock/ Folk

Title:
“Shadows and Echoes”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Em D
Underneath the sycamore tree,
G C
We were wild, we were free.
Em D
Dreams as wide as the open sea,
G C
We were young, we were glee.

(Chorus)
Em D
In shadows and echoes, we find our way,
G C
Praying for light at the end of the day.
Em D
In shadows and echoes, we carve our fate,
G C
Holding on tightly, it’s never too late.

(Verse 2)
Em D
Sipping on the sweet summer wine,
G C
Under stars, lovers intertwined.
Em D
Drinking in moments, lost in time,
G C
In this life, such things are divine.

(Chorus)
Em D
In shadows and echoes, we find our way,
G C
Chasing the dawn, keeping the night at bay.
Em D
In shadows and echoes, we carve our fate,
G C
With every heartbeat, every breath we take.

Band’s Favorite Fan:
Katie Palmer. Katie has been following Necessary Mother since their earliest performances in Portland’s pubs. She’s not only a fan but has become a friend to the band over the years. She was the one who initially uploaded their performance onto YouTube, which led to the band’s discovery.

Testimonial:
“Necessary Mother is more than just a band to me. Their music has a way of echoing the deepest feelings we all have but can’t articulate. Their songs have been there at my highest and lowest points, providing solace, inspiration, and above all, connection. I feel seen, heard, and understood when I listen to them, and that’s why they will always be my favorite.” – Katie Palmer.