Backstory:

Pointless Shop is a band that spawned from the chaotic depths of the Silicon Valley startup culture, where four software engineers with a shared love of music decided to take a break from coding and start jamming during their breaks. The band, consisting of lead vocalist and guitarist Andy, bassist Tim, drummer Raj, and keyboardist Clara, spent their nights and weekends in a small garage-turned-studio, filling the air with their eclectic and vibrant sounds. The band’s name, Pointless Shop, is a playful nod towards their day jobs – often working long hours on coding projects that sometimes felt pointless. Despite this, they have managed to find catharsis and meaning through their shared passion for music.

Genre:

Indie Rock/Electronic

Title:

“Screaming in Binary”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1: G, Em, C, D)
G
In the heart of the valley, where the coding’s our rally,
Em
We’re pounding on keys, till our brains feel all sally.
C
But when the sun goes down, and the moon takes the crown,
D
We’re a band of misfits, rocking this town.

(Chorus: Em, C, G, D)
Em
We’re screaming in binary, ones and zeroes align,
C
In the rhythm of the code, in this life we’ve designed.
G
In the pointless shop, we find our light,
D
In the harmonious chaos, every day and night.

(Verse 2: G, Em, C, D)
G
From algorithms and loops, to chords and hoops,
Em
We’re swapping out bugs, for rock and roll troops.
C
In the echo of the night, under the neon light,
D
We’re the pointless shop, and we’re taking flight.

(Chorus: Em, C, G, D)
Em
We’re screaming in binary, ones and zeroes combine,
C
In the rhythm of the music, in this life we’ve defined.
G
In the pointless shop, we find our fight,
D
In the sonic rebellion, every day and night.

Band’s Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is Mia, a software engineer who resonates deeply with the band’s story and their music. Mia, who also hails from the tech industry, finds the band’s music a perfect reflection of her life – a blend of the tech world’s relentless rhythm and the search for a creative outlet. She has attended all of their concerts and often refers to their hit, “Screaming in Binary” as her personal anthem. Mia testifies, “Pointless Shop embodies the daily struggle and release of working in tech. Their music isn’t just about the sound, it’s about the feeling, the experience, and the catharsis. It’s a daily reminder that even in our most stressful moments, there’s always a way to find purpose and passion.”

Backstory:

Formed in 2013 in the heart of Austin, Texas, Far-Flung Text is a group of four college friends who discovered their shared passion for music during their time in the University of Texas. They began their journey playing at local bars and college parties. After winning a local band competition, Far-Flung Text caught the attention of a local music producer who helped them record their first album. Their unique sound and meaningful lyrics earned them a strong following, catapulting them onto the national stage where they continue to captivate audiences.

Genre:

Far-Flung Text produces a remarkable blend of Indie Rock and Folk, using a mixture of acoustic and electric sounds to bring their poignant lyrics to life. Their music has been described as thought-provoking, soulful, and at times, hauntingly beautiful.

Title:

“Chasing Echoes”

Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em Am
In the silence of the night,
C G
Where the stars don’t shine so bright,
Em Am
We’re chasing echoes of a dream,
C G
In the shadows unseen.

(Chorus)
D Am
Chasing echoes of the past,
C G
Trying to make the moments last,
D Am
In the silence, in the noise,
C G
In our failures, in our joys.

(Verse 2)
Em Am
Through the silence, through the pain,
C G
We’re trying to catch the falling rain,
Em Am
Chasing echoes, we’re lost and found,
C G
In the rhythm of the sound.

(Chorus)
D Am
Chasing echoes of the past,
C G
Trying to make the moments last,
D Am
In the silence, in the noise,
C G
In our failures, in our joys.

Fan Testimonial:

“My name is Lucy and I am a massive fan of Far-Flung Text. To me, their music is more than just sound – it’s a journey, filled with emotions and experiences. I love how they blend different genres and create a unique sound that resonates with me. Their lyrics touch on themes that are universal and yet deeply personal. Every song feels like a story that I can relate to. Far-Flung Text is my favorite band because they inspire me to embrace my emotions, to celebrate my victories and to learn from my failures. They’ve put into words and music what I’ve often felt but couldn’t express.”

Backstory:
Passionate Leaflet was formed in a small college town of Maine. The core members of the band, lead vocalist and guitarist Adam Johnson, drummer Harry Stevens, and bassist Kyle Smith were childhood friends who grew up with a shared love for music. Their passion for creating music was reignited during their college years after they performed together at a local talent show. Their sound, raw and emotionally charged, quickly captured the hearts of the audience and they decided to form Passionate Leaflet. They got their name from a song lyric that Adam had written in high school about a love letter (or leaflet) filled with passion, just like their music.

Genre:
Alternative Folk-Rock

Title:
“Whispers in the Wind”

Lyrics:
(Verses)
Em G D A
I found a note, scrawled in your hand,
Em G D A
Words of love, drawn in the sand,
Em G D A
A passionate leaflet, borne on the wind,
Em G D A
A story of us, where do I begin?

(Chorus)
Em G D A
Whispers in the wind, secrets untold,
Em G D A
Our love is a story, beautifully bold,
Em G D A
In every word, in every line,
Em G D A
I feel your heart beat with mine.

(Verse)
Em G D A
Under the stars, we shared our dreams,
Em G D A
In your arms, love is as it seems,
Em G D A
With every sunset, with every dawn,
Em G D A
Our love shines on, it’s never gone.

(Chorus)
Em G D A
Whispers in the wind, secrets untold,
Em G D A
Our love is a story, beautifully bold,
Em G D A
In every word, in every line,
Em G D A
I feel your heart beat with mine.

Favorite Fan:
Passionate Leaflet’s favorite fan is Sarah Thompson. Sarah has been an ardent supporter of the band since their early college days. She can often be seen at the front row of their concerts, singing along to every song. She’s also known for her creative fan-art inspired by the band’s lyrics. She holds the record for attending the most Passionate Leaflet concerts within a single year.

Testimonial:
“I’ve been a fan of Passionate Leaflet since their first gig at our college fest. Their music isn’t just a bunch of notes and lyrics, it’s a genuine expression of emotions. It’s raw, it’s real, and it has a way of touching your soul. For me, they are not just a band, they are a source of inspiration. Their music has been my companion during my highs and lows. It’s like they understand exactly what you’re feeling and translate it into a beautiful song.”

Backstory:
Fearful Million, started as a garage band in the suburbs of Chicago in 2009, was a simple collaboration of four high school friends. Alexander “Lex” Sheppard (lead vocals), Robert “Robbie” Kennedy (guitar), Jeffrey “Jeff” Merton (bass), and Albert “Al” Johnson (drums) shared a common love for music and unspoken dreams. The name “Fearful Million” was coined from a late-night conversation about their fears of becoming rich and losing their artistic integrity.

Their breakthrough came when a local radio station picked up their demo and played it during prime time. The listeners fell in love with the band’s unique sound and the rest is history. Now, Fearful Million is known for sold-out concerts, chart-topping hits, and a loyal fan base that spans across the globe.

Genre:
Indie Rock/Alternative

Title:
“Lost in Affluence”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Gazing at the [G] skyline, [Am] neon light’s a [Em] blur,
[F] Trapped in opulence, [C] where I’m a [G] prisoner.
[C] Diamonds cut the [G] night, [Am] as I wish on a [Em] star,
[F] For simpler times, [C] when dreams weren’t [G] so far.

(Chorus)
[F] Lost in affluence, [C] where hearts turn [G] cold,
[F] Chasing shadows, [C] in a world [G] made of gold,
[F] Hold onto innocence, [C] and memories [G] old,
[F] Before we’re lost, [C] in affluence, [G] untold.

(Verse 2)
[C] Sailing on a [G] sea, [Am] of champagne [Em] dreams,
[F] The tides are high, [C] and silence [G] screams.
[C] Surrounded by [G] wealth, [Am] yet feeling so [Em] alone,
[F] Can’t find my way, [C] in this maze of [G] stone.

(Chorus)
[F] Lost in affluence, [C] where hearts turn [G] cold,
[F] Chasing shadows, [C] in a world [G] made of gold,
[F] Hold onto innocence, [C] and memories [G] old,
[F] Before we’re lost, [C] in affluence, [G] untold.

(Bridge)
[F] Money can’t buy, [C] the love we [G] need,
[F] Can’t fill the void, [C] or the soul [G] it feeds.

(Chorus)
[F] Lost in affluence, [C] where hearts turn [G] cold,
[F] Chasing shadows, [C] in a world [G] made of gold,
[F] Hold onto innocence, [C] and memories [G] old,
[F] Before we’re lost, [C] in affluence, [G] untold.

(Ending)
[C] Lost in [G] affluence, [Am] a fearful [Em] million souls,
[F] Yearning for simplicity, [C] as the story [G] unfolds.

Fan’s Name:
Emma Thompson

Testimonial:

“My name is Emma Thompson, and I am a dedicated fan of Fearful Million. Their music has an authenticity that is rare to find these days, and the lyrics resonate deeply with me. Their song, ‘Lost in Affluence,’ speaks volumes about the hollowness of material wealth, which is a thought-provoking topic in today’s society. Their music is not just notes and lyrics, it’s a mirror to the society we live in. Fear

Backstory:
First Cold had its humble beginnings at a serene college town, in the chilly Midwest. The group was formed by three childhood friends: Michael, a poet and vocalist, Greg, a gifted guitarist, and Peter, a multi-instrumentalist. Together, they shared a common fascination for the poetry of seasons, especially the harsh and beautiful winter. Inspired by the first cold, they named their band ‘First Cold’ in homage to the season which prompted their creativity. They started playing in local bars, their music resonating with the small but passionate community they belonged to. Their unique sound quickly caught the attention of a local recording studio, offering them an opportunity to record their first album.

Genre:
Indie Folk

Title:
“Frostbitten Love”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Under the light of the winter moon [G]
[Am] Your breath turned into frost, it was too soon [Em]
[F] Lost in the silver, we found our tune [Dm] [G]

(Chorus)
[C] Frostbitten love, where did we go wrong? [G]
[Am] Our warmth turned into chill, our harmony into a song [Em]
[F] A love as cold as ice, but it feels so strong [Dm] [G]
[C] Frostbitten love, in the heart of the winter’s throng [G]

(Verse 2)
[C] Dancing in the snowfall, we felt so free [G]
[Am] Our hearts humming the melody of the sea [Em]
[F] The stars reflected in your eyes, the key [Dm] [G]

(Chorus)
[C] Frostbitten love, where did we go wrong? [G]
[Am] The warmth turned into chill, our harmony into a song [Em]
[F] A love as cold as ice, but it feels so strong [Dm] [G]
[C] Frostbitten love, in the heart of the winter’s throng [G]

Fan’s Testimonial:
“My name is Emily, and I am an ardent fan of First Cold. Their unique sound is like the first bite of the winter, beautiful, refreshing, and not easily forgotten. The poetry in their lyrics and their beautiful melodies just resonate with me on a deep level. Listening to their music feels like a warm hearth in the middle of a snowy landscape. They have a way of capturing the essence of human emotions and presenting it in a raw and soulful way. I find myself constantly captivated by their music. ‘First Cold’, you have my heart!”

Backstory:

Limited Humor was formed in the heart of Brooklyn in 2011 when a group of college buddies decided to take their shared love for music to the next level. Brent Jones, the charismatic lead vocalist, and guitarist, met the equally talented drummer, Mike D’Amico, during a freshman year music class. The pair quickly bonded over their shared passion for witty, ironic lyrics and decided to start a band. They later recruited bassist Ryan Murphy and keyboardist Laura Adams, after hearing their impromptu jam sessions in the college dorms. The band, known for their tongue-in-cheek take on life’s oddities, got their big break when they won a local battle of the bands competition, which led to a record deal and their first EP.

Genre:

Indie Pop / Alternative Rock

Title:

“Bittersweet Irony”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] She paints a [G] picture with her [Am] words,
[E] But it’s all [F] shades of [C] grey.
[C] He laughs at [G] every joke she [Am] says,
[E] But he doesn’t [F] really feel that [C] way.

(Chorus)
[F] It’s a bittersweet [C] irony,
[G] Just like a tragic [Am] comedy.
[F] We’re just actors on this [C] stage,
[G] Playing out our [Am] lives in a strange [E] way.

(Verse 2)
[C] She pretends to [G] be strong, [Am]
[E] But inside she’s [F] falling [C] apart.
[C] He acts like [G] he’s aloof, [Am]
[E] But she’s broken his [F] heart.

(Chorus)
[F] It’s a bittersweet [C] irony,
[G] Just like a tragic [Am] comedy.
[F] We’re just actors on this [C] stage,
[G] Playing out our [Am] lives in a strange [E] way.

(Bridge)
[F] We’re all just [C] living in this [G] bittersweet irony,
[Am] Laughing through the [E] pain,
[F] Wearing our [C] masks, [G] hiding our [Am] tears.

(Chorus)
[F] It’s a bittersweet [C] irony,
[G] Just like a tragic [Am] comedy.
[F] We’re just actors on this [C] stage,
[G] Playing out our [Am] lives in a strange [E] way.

(Outro)
[C] It’s a bittersweet [G] irony,
[Am] A tragic [E] comedy,
[F] Our lives played [C] out on this stage,
[G] In a strangely beautiful [Am] way.

Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is a young woman named Emily, who has been a dedicated follower since their earliest days. Emily is an artist and has created several pieces influenced by Limited Humor’s music, even designing a few of their album covers. In return, the band has mentioned her in several interviews, even dedicating a song to her during their live performances.

Emily’s Testimonial:

“Every time I listen to Limited Humor, I feel like they’re speaking directly to me. Their lyrics echo my life experiences in a genuine and often humorous way. It’s like they’ve got this unique way of finding humor even in life’s harshest moments. And that’s what makes them so real, so relatable. I’ll be a fan for life!”

Backstory: Wan Board is a band that found its genesis in the sprawling suburbs of Sydney, Australia in the late 2000s. The members, consisting of childhood friends – Alex (vocals/guitar), Matty (drums), Ben (bass), and Eddie (lead guitar), were united by their shared passion for music and skateboarding. The band’s name, ‘Wan Board’, was inspired by a Chinese skateboard brand they all loved. Their friendship and shared experiences became the bedrock of their music, lending a raw, authentic vibe to their songs. They started off playing at local pubs and house parties, impressing their audience with their unique sound and energy. After a few years of gigging, they were discovered by a record label executive, and their journey to stardom began from there.

Genre: Alternative Rock

Title: “Suburban Echoes”

Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
C Am G
Hey, remember those days, under the sun’s blaze,
Dm F C
Skating down the street, without a care.
C Am G
We were just kids, living our own ways,
Dm F C
In a world that seemed so unfair.

[Chorus]
G Am F C
Suburban echoes, we heard them loud and clear,
G Am F C
In our hearts, they’ll always be near.

[Verse 2]
C Am G
Late nights, early morning fights,
Dm F C
We found solace in our strings and beats.
C Am G
Music was our escape, our guiding light,
Dm F C
It gave us courage, made us complete.

[Chorus]
G Am F C
Suburban echoes, resonating through the years,
G Am F C
They’re the music to our joys and our tears.

[Outro]
C Am G
Now we’re here, standing tall and proud,
Dm F C
Living our dreams, playing them loud.
C Am G
Raised by the suburb, we’re its sons,
Dm F C
Playing our echoes, till the last day comes.

Fan Testimonial: “My name is Lisa, and Wan Board is my all-time favorite band. I’ve been a fan since their early pub gig days. Their music speaks to me on a personal level. It’s raw, real and resonates with my own suburban experiences. Their song ‘Suburban Echoes’ is my anthem, it encapsulates my youth and the profound experiences that shaped me. Their music fills me with nostalgia but equally gives me hope and strength. I’ve seen them evolve over the years, but they’ve always stayed true to their roots. Their authenticity is what makes them stand out; they are not just a band for me, they are a part of my life.”

Backstory:
Shoddy Food was born out of the boisterous laughter and camaraderie of four college friends from the University of Michigan. The group members – lead vocalist and guitarist, Jake “Sloppy Joe” Mathers; bass guitarist, Max “Meatloaf” Montgomery; drummer, Sam “Spam” Sanders; and keyboardist, Ben “Biscuit” Baxter- started their journey in a grungy basement, crafting melodies out of their shared love for music and junk food. Their band name, a playful jab at their college diet, became an expression of their raw, unpolished yet endearing sound. Shoddy Food’s music is a blend of their experiences, struggles, and the comfort they found in each other and their shared meals throughout their college journey.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Fries Before Goodbyes”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G] Saw you crying, [D] in the corner booth,
[Em] Sorrow biting, [C] lost in the truth,
[G] We ordered fries, [D] and a shake to share,
[Em] Drowning sorrows, [C] in the diner’s glare.

(Chorus)
[G] Fries before goodbyes, [D] sugar coated lies,
[Em] Our love was a meal, [C] served with a side,
[G] Fries before goodbyes, [D] tears in our eyes,
[Em] We’re still savoring love, [C] under the neon lights.

(Verse 2)
[G] The jukebox playing, [D] our favorite tune,
[Em] In this moment, [C] it’s just me and you,
[G] Heart’s cooking, [D] on a grill of despair,
[Em] Memories served, [C] in the late-night air.

(Chorus)
[G] Fries before goodbyes, [D] love’s salted cries,
[Em] We’re a combo deal, [C] fading with time,
[G] Fries before goodbyes, [D] under the starry skies,
[Em] We’re still chewing on, [C] our love’s last bite.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a vibrant young woman named, Melissa “Mel” Johnson. Mel has been a die-hard supporter since their college days, following them from their first basement gig to their sold-out concerts. Mel’s support is unwavering, and her connection with their music is deeply personal.

Mel’s Testimonial:
“Shoddy Food isn’t just a band, they’re my escape. Their music speaks to me on a deeply visceral level. They have a unique way of combining raw emotion with humor and playfulness. Their songs, like ‘Fries Before Goodbyes’, encapsulate real-life experiences that are both personal yet universal. They’ve been with me through heartbreaks, midnight study sessions, and crazy college adventures. Shoddy Food is my ultimate comfort music, much like a plate of fries at 2am. Can’t wait to see what they cook up next!”

Backstory:
Formed in the sweltering summer of 2002 in a small, dusty town in Nevada, Parched Van is a trio of musicians who discovered their shared love for music in the most unexpected place – a run-down, makeshift garage. Named after the dilapidated van parked outside the garage, wherein they composed their first song, the name ‘Parched Van’ symbolizes their beginnings and their thirst for creating unique, soul-stirring music. The members, comprising of Hank (lead guitarist), Eddie (drummer), and Sam (vocalist and bassist), each bring their unique flavor to the band, making Parched Van a perfect blend of raw emotions and electrifying energy.

Genre:
Parched Van’s music falls in the Blues Rock genre with the band drawing heavy influence from the likes of Stevie Ray Vaughan, BB King, and Muddy Waters. Their music is characterized by potent, evocative lyrics, powerful guitar riffs, and the emotive rawness that is inherent to the blues.

Title:
“One More Mile”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G]Riding down the long highway, [C]under the burning sun,
[D]Looking at the endless road, [G]our journey’s just begun.
[G]With a guitar on my back, [C]and a song in my heart,
[D]We’re Parched Van, baby, [G]playing our part.

(Chorus)
[C]One More Mile, [G]under the blazing sky,
[D]One More Mile, [G]where dreams never die.
[C]One More Mile, [G]with music as our guide,
[D]One More Mile, [G]on this wild ride.

(Verse 2)
[G]In a town that’s all but forgotten, [C] we found our rhythm and blues,
[D]In the heat and the dust, [G]we got nothing to lose.
[G]From a van that’s old and parched, [C] we strummed our first note,
[D]We’re Parched Van, baby, [G]in our musical boat.

(Chorus)
[C]One More Mile, [G]under the starry night,
[D]One More Mile, [G]with our spirits taking flight.
[C]One More Mile, [G]with our hopes held high,
[D]One More Mile, [G]beneath the vast sky.

Fans Favorite Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan is a 35-year-old music enthusiast named Sarah. Sarah fell in love with Parched Van at their first gig in a small pub where she was captivated by their raw energy and the depth of their lyrics. She has attended every concert since and they even wrote a song about her relentless spirit. Her testimonial is, “There’s something so real and invigorating about Parched Van. Their music speaks to my soul and awakens my spirit. They’re more than a band. They’re a phenomenon, a movement. They remind me of the power of dreams and the magic that can stem from the most ordinary places.”

Backstory:

Ordinary Indication was born under the bright lights of New York City in the early 2000s. The band was formed by four college dropouts – lead singer Danny McCallister, guitarist Jay Stanley, drummer Tom “The Beat” Beatty, and bassist Pete Clemons. All four shared a mutual passion for music and a dissatisfaction with their ordinary lives, so they decided to form a band and pursue their dreams. Ordinary Indication started off playing at small gigs, then local festivals, before eventually attracting the attention of a talent scout who offered them a recording contract. Despite their newfound fame, the band has always remained connected to their roots and maintained their original passion and authenticity in their music.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Song Title:
“Chasing Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] In the streets of this city, [Em] under the neon lights,
[C] We’re painting our dreams [D] on the canvas of the night.
[G] Lost in the rhythm, [Em] caught in the flow,
[C] Searching for something, [D] a sign to show.

(Chorus)
[G] We are just chasing shadows, [Em] in the dead of the night,
[C] Trying to find our way, [D] searching for the light.
[G] Ordinary souls with [Em] extraordinary dreams,
[C] Nothing is ever [D] quite as it seems.

(Verse 2)
[G] We are the poets, [Em] we are the dreamers,
[C] Believers in magic, [D] ordinary schemers.
[G] In the concrete jungle, [Em] we find our song,
[C] With every heartbeat, [D] we grow strong.

(Chorus)
[G] We are just chasing shadows, [Em] in the dead of the night,
[C] Trying to find our way, [D] searching for the light.
[G] Ordinary souls with [Em] extraordinary dreams,
[C] Nothing is ever [D] quite as it seems.

(Outro)
[G] Chasing shadows, [Em] in the dead of the night,
[C] With every beat of our hearts, [D] we ignite.
[G] Ordinary souls with [Em] extraordinary dreams,
[C] Nothing is ever [D] quite as it seems.

Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Lucy Bennett. Lucy has been following the band since their early days and has attended almost all of their gigs, big or small. She loves Ordinary Indication because their music speaks to her soul and resonates with her own life experiences. Lucy’s testimonial reads, “Ordinary Indication is more than just a band to me. Their music has been a companion in my journey, helping me through the darkest times and elevating the best ones. Their authenticity and passion shine through in each track, making me feel seen and understood. They’re not just chasing shadows, they’re illuminating the path for all of us ordinary dreamers.”