Backstory:
Once upon a time in the small town of Exeter, four high-school friends – Cassie (vocals), Liam (guitar), Ethan (bass), and Finn (drums), found solace and a shared passion in music. This passion eventually led them to form their own band, which they named “Darling Nightmare”. The name was inspired by the paradoxical experiences they had while growing up – a delicate blend of sweet dreams and hard realities. They wanted their music to mirror this duality, so they started writing songs that balanced the line between joy and despair, love and heartbreak, truth and illusion.

As they gradually transitioned from school performances to local gigs, their music started gaining traction within the town, ultimately leading to a record deal with a major label. Despite their rise to fame, the group remained true to their roots, always finding their way back to Exeter and the very stages where they began their journey. Today, Darling Nightmare stands as a testament to the power of dreams, friendship, and above all, the transformative magic of music itself.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Through the Haze”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C#m E B A
In this town, we were just four dreamers,
C#m E B A
Lost in the haze, under the same old sky.
C#m E B A
Through the smoke and the burning embers,
C#m E B A
We found a song, a reason why.

(Chorus)
C#m E B A
Darling Nightmare, sweet and wild,
C#m E B A
Singing songs for every broken child.
C#m E B A
Through the haze, we found our way,
C#m E B A
Darling Nightmare, we’re here to stay.

(Verse 2)
C#m E B A
In this world, we’re just passing shadows,
C#m E B A
Chasing dreams, etched in black and white.
C#m E B A
Through the noise and the silent echoes,
C#m E B A
We found a voice, a guiding light.

(Repeat Chorus)

Fan Favorite:
Their biggest fan, Sarah, fell in love with Darling Nightmare’s music during her high school years. “Darling Nightmare isn’t just a band. It’s a movement, a beacon of hope for everyone who’s grappling with life’s contradictions,” she says. She was able to resonate with their lyrics, as they echoed her own experiences of struggle and triumph. They were her Darling Nightmare – a beautiful oasis of solace amidst the chaos of life. She’s seen them perform in every local gig, and even follows them during their tours. To Sarah, Darling Nightmare’s music is a source of comfort and strength, a reminder that it’s okay to embrace the beauty of life’s complexities.

Backstory:
Formed in the heart of New York City during the height of the punk resurgence in 2008, Anguished Merger is comprised of four childhood friends: lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Jasper Donovan, lead guitarist Victor Bellamy, bassist Noah Curtis, and drummer Hugo St. James. The band emerged out of a mutual passion for creating a unique fusion of punk-rock and grunge, inspired by the likes of Nirvana, Green Day, and The Clash. Their compelling lyrics often delve into themes of heartbreak, political unrest, and existential dread, resonating with listeners both young and old.

Genre:
Post-Punk/Grunge

Song Title:
“Dystopian Highways”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
C#m – A – G – B
Riding down Dystopian Highways, no end in sight,
Tried to escape the glaring city lights,
With my broken heart and my shattered dreams,
On this road, everything’s not what it seems.

(Chorus)
E – G – D – A
Dystopian Highways, you’re my escape,
In your vastness, my fears take shape,
But as I ride through the night, I’m no longer a slave,
To the crushing world that I couldn’t save.

(Verse)
C#m – A – G – B
Look around, all I see is a barren land,
No helping hand, just endless sand,
I remember the times, I used to smile,
But Dystopian Highways, made it a while.

(Chorus)
E – G – D – A
Dystopian Highways, you’re my muse,
In your solitude, I can’t refuse,
To let go of the past and face the new day,
On the Dystopian Highways, I’ll find my way.

Favorite Fan’s Name:
Emily Jenkins

Testimonial:
“Anguished Merger has been my favorite band since I first heard them in 2010. Their music speaks to me on levels most bands can’t reach. Their lyrics, especially in songs like ‘Dystopian Highways’, perfectly capture the struggles and hopes of my generation. The fusion of punk-rock and grunge they’ve created is something entirely unique and utterly captivating. Their energy is infectious, and their performances have a raw, emotional honesty that I’ve never seen in any other band. They’re not just making music; they’re making a statement, and that’s something I deeply respect and admire.”

Backstory:

Querulous Walk is an amalgamation of four individuals hailing from different parts of the Midwest, each bringing an unique flavor to the band. They met at a music festival in 2011, where they were all performing with their respective bands. A chaotic downpour caused a power outage, and while waiting for the electricity to return, they found themselves jamming together in a small backstage tent. The resultant chemistry was undeniable. Deciding to take a leap of faith, they left their respective bands and formed Querulous Walk, a name representing their shared love for late-night walks and deep, contentious conversations about life, music, and everything in between.

Despite the initial struggles, Querulous Walk’s persistence paid off when they were discovered by an independent record label at a local gig in 2013. Their unique sound and raw energy captivated audiences, and they quickly gained a loyal fan base. They have since released three studio albums and toured nationally, maintaining a level of authenticity that has become their trademark.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Title:

“Shadow’s Whisper”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C
Walking down the moonlit lane,
G D
Chasing shadows, playing games.
Em C
Voices whispering in the wind,
G D
Secrets hidden, tales untwinned.

(Chorus)
Em C
In the Shadow’s Whisper, we learn to live,
G D
In the Shadow’s Whisper, we forgive.
Em C
Through the hollow laughs and tears,
G D
In the Shadow’s Whisper, we confront our fears.

(Verse 2)
Em C
Stars winking from the silent sky,
G D
Their light reflected in your eyes.
Em C
Leaning on the old oak tree,
G D
We found solace, just you and me.

(Chorus)
Em C
In the Shadow’s Whisper, we find our way,
G D
In the Shadow’s Whisper, we choose to stay.
Em C
In the hush of the silent night,
G D
The Shadow’s Whisper guides our flight.

Favorite Fan Testimonial:

“My name is Sarah Thompson and Querulous Walk is my absolute favorite band. There is an honest depth in their music that speaks directly to my soul. Their lyrics are not just words, but stories that move with a rhythm reflecting the ebbs and flows of life. My favorite song, ‘Shadow’s Whisper’, is one I listen to on loop, especially when I’m feeling low. For me, it’s more than music; it’s therapy. It’s like the band understands my struggles and their songs hold my hand through tough times. I am proud to be a part of the Querulous Walk family.”

Backstory:

Previous Quarter started as a playful band in 2012 in the college dorm of Cambridge University. The band members – John, a Philosophy major, Emma, a Physics prodigy, and Nathan, an Art History enthusiast – were close friends, each with a deep passion for music. After a successful first performance at a local pub, which was initially just a means to earn free beer, they realized their unique fusion of styles was something special, something they could take to the world. So, they decided to develop and share their music, naming the band “Previous Quarter” to signify their respect for the past and their progress towards the future.

As word spread, the band quickly grew in popularity. They were known for their energetic performances, intricate compositions, and thought-provoking lyrics. However, it wasn’t always smooth sailing, they had their fair share of struggles. Yet, these difficulties became the source of their inspiration, helping them to create music that resonated with their audience.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Frozen Moment”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G]Sitting on the [D]edge of time
[Em]Lost in a [C]thought, sublime
[G]Chasing the [D]echoes of our [Em]laughter
[C]In this frozen [G]moment, after…

(Chorus)
[G]We’ve seen the [D]world through different [Em]eyes
[C]In the previous [G]quarter, our [D]spirits rise
[G]Time might [D]change but we [Em]remain
[C]Lost in this [G]frozen moment’s [D]frame…

(Verse 2)
[G]Walking down the [D]memory lane
[Em]Feeling the joy, the [C]pain
[G]Tasting the [D]past in every [Em]whisper
[C]In this frozen [G]moment, we [D]shimmer…

(Repeat Chorus)

Favorite Fan:

Their favorite fan is Sarah Collins. She discovered Previous Quarter at one of their earliest gigs and became an instant fan. She was drawn to their melodies and the depth of their lyrics. Through their music, she found an escape, a connection, and a source of encouragement during tough times.

Testimonial:

Sarah says, “Previous Quarter is more than just a band to me. Their music has guided me through some of the darkest moments of my life and celebrated with me during the brightest. The way they weave stories through their songs feels deeply personal. It’s as if they understand the emotions I could never put into words. I’ve never felt more connected to a band, and I know their music will be a part of my life forever.”

Backstory:

Frequent Belief was formed in 2010 by college roommates Howard “Howie” Keith and Jimmy “Jimmie” Lantana. The two met at a creative writing course at the University of California, Berkeley and quickly found a common interest in music. After hours spent jamming to their favorite songs in the dorms, they decided to start their own band. They began writing songs, influenced by their life experiences and the world around them. To expand their sound, they recruited two more members – drummer, Charlie ‘Chaz’ Langley, and bassist, Samuel ‘Sammy’ Murphy. They started playing at local bars and quickly gained a faithful following with their unique sound and lyrics.

Genre:

Frequent Belief plays alt-indie rock, with deep lyrical content that often explores themes of spirituality, self-discovery, and personal evolution.

Title:

“One Step Closer”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1: (C – G – Am – F)
I’ve been walking on this road, it’s a long way home (C – G)
I can’t see the end, but I’m not alone (Am – F)
Got my fears, got my doubts, but I keep them in control, (C – G)
Every step I take is one step closer to my soul. (Am – F)

Chorus : (Am – G – F – C)
One step closer, I’m one step closer, (Am – G)
To finding out who I truly am. (F – C)
One step closer, I’m one step closer, (Am – G)
To understanding, to believing, to being a man. (F – C)

Verse 2: (C – G – Am – F)
I’ve seen the highs, tasted the lows, been through it all (C – G)
But through every storm, I’ve managed not to fall. (Am – F)
I’m finding my faith, in the journey, in the unknown, (C – G)
Every step I take is one step closer to being whole. (Am – F)

Chorus : (Am – G – F – C)
One step closer, I’m one step closer, (Am – G)
To finding out who I truly am. (F – C)
One step closer, I’m one step closer, (Am – G)
To understanding, to believing, to being a man. (F – C)

Favorite Fan:

Their favorite fan is Emily Foster, a college student from Sacramento. Emily says, “Frequent Belief is my favorite because their music touches my soul. It’s as if they write songs about my life, my struggles, and my triumphs. Their music has helped me through some of the darkest times in my life. Plus, they put on an incredible live show. Their energy and passion are truly infectious. I’ll always be a die-hard Frequent Belief fan!”

Backstory:

Third Beam, an indie rock band, hails from the vibrant artistic city of Austin, Texas. The band came to life during a random jamming session in the basement of an old downtown record store. A group of four friends, all working different day jobs but sharing a common passion for music, found their unique creative harmony in the form of the band. Over the years, they have grown beyond the confines of their basement beginnings, carving out a distinctive sound that has gained them a loyal fan base.

Formed in 2012, Third Beam is composed of lead vocalist and guitarist Jake Matthews, bassist Sarah Davis, drummer Luke Miller, and keyboardist Paulie Thompson. The band’s music is heavily influenced by their shared love for 90s alternative rock, but with a fresh, modern twist. Their lyrics often explore themes of self-discovery, existential angst, and the beauty hidden in the chaos of modern life.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Title:

“Shadows in the Light”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1: Am, G, F, C)
In the corners of the day, shadows start to play,
Lost in the echoes, where the sun fades away.
Beneath the city rush, under the neon flush,
We search for the whispers, in the midnight hush.

(Chorus: C, G, Am, F)
Shadows in the light, dancing out of sight,
In the noise and the quiet, in the fear and the fight.
Trying to find a way, through the disarray,
We’re just shadows in the light, trying to find our way.

(Verse 2: Am, G, F, C)
In the maze of the crowd, voices talk so loud,
But it’s the silent moments, that make us proud.
Chasing the setting sun, when the day is done,
We’re just shadows in the light, never on the run.

(Chorus: C, G, Am, F)
Shadows in the light, in the wrong and the right,
In the hope and the fright, in the peace and the fight.
In the heart of the fray, at the break of the day,
We’re just shadows in the light, paving our own way.

(Outro: Am, G, F, C)
So here we stand, hand in hand,
Shadows in the light, in a no man’s land.
Searching for the dream, in the moon’s soft gleam,
We’re just shadows in the light, caught in life’s stream.

Band’s Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan’s name is Emily. Emily has been following Third Beam since our basement jamming days. She’s attended every single one of our concerts, regardless of the location, weather, or circumstances. Emily says, “Third Beam isn’t just my favorite band because of their amazing music, but because their songs speak to me on a personal level. They make me feel seen, understood. The lyrics, the melody, everything about their music touches my soul in a way that’s hard to put into words. They’re not just a band to me, they’re a lifeline.”

Backstory:

Educated Power is a band that emerged from the small town of Abington, Pennsylvania in 2011. The group is comprised of five childhood friends – Lenny (Lead Vocals), Brian (Lead Guitar), Rick (Bass), Ernie (Drums), and Charlie (Keyboards). After their high school graduation, they decided to pursue their shared passion for music, giving birth to the band, ‘Educated Power’. The name arose from a mutual understanding that knowledge is power, and they set out to use their music to educate and inspire their listeners. Their journey from practicing in their parents’ basements to playing at popular venues in Philadelphia has been a testament to their unwavering dedication and love for music.

Genre:

Educated Power plays rock music with a blend of blues.

Song Title:

“Pages of Life”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
D (Dmaj7) G
Wake up every morning,
D (Dmaj7) G
Look into the mirror,
D (Dmaj7) G A
Life is a journey, far from clearer.
D (Dmaj7) G
Pages of life, they turn so fast,
D (Dmaj7) G A
Memories linger, shadows of the past.

(Chorus)
D (Dmaj7) G A
Pages of life, lessons learned,
D (Dmaj7) G A
Through the fires, we have burned.
D (Dmaj7) G A
Every chapter, every line,
D (Dmaj7) G A
Pages of life, forever entwined.

(Verse 2)
D (Dmaj7) G
Dreams are seeds, sown in the mind,
D (Dmaj7) G A
With love and courage, truths we find.
D (Dmaj7) G
Pages of life, they tell a tale,
D (Dmaj7) G A
Of hopes and fears, in detail.

(Chorus)
D (Dmaj7) G A
Pages of life, lessons learned,
D (Dmaj7) G A
Through the storms, we have turned.
D (Dmaj7) G A
Every battle, every fight,
D (Dmaj7) G A
Pages of life, in the moonlight.

Fan Testimonial:

Educated Power’s most dedicated fan is a woman named Jenny. Jenny has been following the band since their early gigs in Abington. She states, “Educated Power is my favorite band because their music speaks to me on a personal level. Their lyrics are deep and meaningful, resonating with my own life experiences. The band’s journey from a small town to big city stages is inspiring and reassuring, reminding me to chase my own dreams. Their passion for their craft is palpable in every note, every chord, and every lyric.”

Backstory:

Aware Board originated in the serene town of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, in 2012. The band members – Jake Peterson (lead vocals, guitar), Sarah Monroe (bass, backing vocals), Mike Thompson (drums), and Liam Scott (keyboard, backing vocals) – started off as high school friends who shared a common love for music. They were known as the ‘jamming quartet’ in school, entertaining school events before finally deciding to turn their passion into a profession. Their journey began from underground gigs and small-time festivals, slowly gaining recognition in the local music scene. Their unique sound and profound lyrics resonated with listeners, eventually earning them a regional following that gradually expanded throughout the Midwest.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Title:

“Paperback Dreams”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C
Painted skies, restless nights,
G D
In a town where dreams are paperback.
Em C
We fought the tide, side by side,
G D
In search of a soundtrack for our lives.

(Chorus)
C G
Paperback dreams, keep us alive,
Am Em
In a world that doesn’t understand.
C G
In music we thrive, it’s where we hide,
D
In the melodies of our indie band.

(Verse 2)
Em C
The chords, the words, the silent verse,
G D
They tell a story no one hears.
Em C
We play it loud, we break the curse,
G D
In our songs, we conquer fears.

(Chorus)
C G
Paperback dreams, in the moonlight,
Am Em
They echo in the heart of the night.
C G
In music we breathe, in rhythms we fight,
D
In the tunes of our indie delight.

Band’s Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan is undoubtedly Rachel Barnes. She has been with us since our very first underground gig, and her unwavering support has been a constant source of motivation to us. Rachel has attended every one of our shows, regardless of how big or small. She even helps us promote our music on social media. Her commitment and passion for our music are truly heartwarming.

Rachel’s Testimonial:

“I came across Aware Board at a local festival in Cedar Rapids. Their unique sound immediately caught my attention and I’ve been hooked ever since. Their music resonates with me on a very deep level, it’s genuine and heartfelt. I’ve been to tons of their concerts, and every time, I’m blown away by their talent and dedication. They’re not just a band to me, they’re a part of my life. I can’t wait to see how far they go.”

Backstory:
Formed in a suburban garage in 2010, Open Guard is a group of four high school friends who bonded over their shared passion for music and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The band’s name pays homage to their martial arts background and represents their belief in openness, adaptability, and strength. Starting out by playing at local community events, Open Guard soon gained traction for their unique sound and energetic performances. The band has since released two albums, toured nationally, and managed to cultivate a loyal fan base.

Genre:
Open Guard’s music can best be described as a fusion of Alternative Rock and Punk, with a hint of Heavy Metal. Their sound is characterized by heavy guitar riffs, powerful drum solos, and lyrics that reflect personal struggles and experiences.

Title: “Sweeping the Sound”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[C] There’s a fire inside us, [G] burning strong and bright
[A] We’re the voice of the silent, [E] bringing dark to light
[C] Can’t contain this feeling, [G] it’s a force so wild
[A] Breaking down the barriers, [E] like an untamed child.

(Chorus)
[F] We’re Open Guard, [C] we stand so tall
[G] With every note, [A] we break the wall
[F] In this world of sound, [C] we will sweep the ground
[G] We’re Open Guard, [A] hear our call.

(Verse 2)
[C] We’re the echo in the night, [G] the rhythm in the storm
[A] Chasing every sunrise, [E] breaking every norm
[C] We’re the whispered secret, [G] the untold tale
[A] We’re the journey, we’re the fight, [E] we’re the wind in the sail.

(Chorus)
[F] We’re Open Guard, [C] we stand so tall
[G] With every note, [A] we break the wall
[F] In this world of sound, [C] we will sweep the ground
[G] We’re Open Guard, [A] hear our call.

Bands Favorite Fan’s Name: Jenny Thompson

Jenny’s Testimonial:
Open Guard is more than just a band for me. Their music has been a beacon during some of my darkest moments. It’s not just the powerful tunes, but the lyrics that truly move me. They write about real-life experiences and struggles, which I can relate to. Their energy on stage is infectious, leaving me feeling inspired and uplifted. Open Guard is not just my favorite band because of their music, but for what they represent – strength, resilience, and the power of friendship.

Backstory:
Ancient Fish was formed in the heart of Seattle’s grunge scene in the early ’90s. Despite the city’s seemingly saturated music scene, the band’s unique sound and charismatic stage presence set them apart. The band was composed of four members: lead vocalist and guitarist, Jake “The Shark” Sullivan; bassist, Finley “The Stingray” Harper; drummer, Oscar “The Octopus” DeLuca; and keyboardist, Luna “The Mermaid” Nelson. Their shared love for music and the deep ocean, symbolizing the mystery and depth of life, brought them together to form Ancient Fish.

As their popularity grew, Ancient Fish’s genre-bending sound developed a dedicated fanbase that followed them from grungy basement shows to sold-out arenas. Their music was eclectic, pulling from various inspirations to create a sound that was uniquely their own. The band’s journey wasn’t always smooth sailing, with several lineup changes and hiatuses marking their career, but their commitment to their art and each other kept them afloat, and they continue to make waves in the music industry.

Genre:
Ancient Fish’s music is primarily Psychedelic Rock, with undertones of Grunge and elements of Progressive Rock.

Title:
“Deep Sea Solitude”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em G D Am
The moon is up, the stars are bright, in the depths, we take flight,
Em G D Am
Underneath the waves so cold, are secrets waiting to be told.

(Chorus)
Em G D Am
In this deep-sea solitude, we find our own magnitude,
Em G D Am
Among the corals and the kelp, we discover our true self.

(Verse 2)
Em G D Am
Whales sing a lullaby, beneath the blackened sky,
Em G D Am
Echos of a world unseen, shrouded in a sapphire sheen.

(Repeat Chorus)
Em G D Am
In this deep-sea solitude, we find our own magnitude,
Em G D Am
Among the corals and the kelp, we discover our true self.

(Outro)
Em G D Am
In the heart of the abyss, we find a tranquil bliss,
Em G D Am
Deep sea solitude, an eternal interlude.

Fan Testimonial:
Their favorite fan’s name is Marcy. As a marine biologist, Marcy was drawn to Ancient Fish due to their oceanic themes and the mystery they associated with the sea. “Ancient Fish’s music is like a deep dive into the unknown,” Marcy says. “Their lyrics are like the ocean – beautiful, mysterious, sometimes dark but always inviting. The psychedelic rock tunes mixed with the grunge vibe makes me feel like I’m floating in the deep sea, discovering new species. It’s a feeling no other band can replicate.” The band holds Marcy in high regard for her dedication and her interesting interpretations of their music through her scientific lens, making her their favorite fan.