Backstory:
Soft Ministry is a group that was formed in the heart of Los Angeles in 2015. The band members, consisting of lead singer, Melvin Cooper, guitarist, Sam Watts, drummer, Justin Harper, and bassist, Leo Mendez, originally met in a local music shop where they all separately worked. They bonded over their shared love of music and their unique perspective on creating a new sound in the industry. After a spontaneous jam session in the shop after hours, they discovered their undeniable musical chemistry, and thus, Soft Ministry was born. Their story is a testament that even in the vast metropolis of LA, like-minded souls can find each other and create something truly special.

Genre:
Soft Ministry is known for their unique spin on Indie Rock, blending it with undertones of Alternative and Ambient music. Their music is known for its emotionally charged lyrics, atmospheric soundscapes, and a fusion of nostalgic and modern sounds.

Song Title:
“Neon Haze”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am | C | G | F
In the city of neon lights, you’re the haze in the night
Am | C | G | F
A silhouette dancing in the dim lit corners of my sight

(Chorus)
Am | C | G | F
You’re the Neon Haze, a captivating maze
Am | C | G | F
Lost in the rhythm, in your enigmatic ways

(Verse 2)
Am | C | G | F
We sway in the rhythm, under the city’s starless gaze
Am | C | G | F
In the labyrinth of your soul, I’m lost, unphased

(Chorus)
Am | C | G | F
You’re the Neon Haze, a bewildering blaze
Am | C | G | F
In the mystery of you, I’m forever encased

Fan’s Name:
Betty

Testimonial:
“Soft Ministry and their music has been my guiding light in the darkest times. The raw emotions embedded in their lyrics speak to me on a personal level. The song ‘Neon Haze’ in particular, resonates with me deeply. There’s just something about the way their music makes me feel seen and understood. It’s like they’re narrating my own life’s story. The band members are not only incredibly talented but are also genuinely kind individuals. They always make the time to connect with their fans and that’s what makes them so special. Soft Ministry is not just a band to me, they’re like family.”

Backstory:
Born in the buzzing heart of Seattle, Deadly Green took root in the city’s burgeoning underground music scene in the early 2000s. The band’s three members, frontman Alex ‘Thorn’ Thorne, bassist Jemma ‘Blossom’ Harris, and drummer Cody ‘Vine’ Robertson, met at a local open mic night where they quickly bonded over their shared love of music and environmental activism. Seeing an opportunity to combine their passions, the trio formed Deadly Green, using their music as a platform for spreading environmental awareness. Over years of hard work and dedication, Deadly Green has grown from a local favorite to national sensation, their music resonating with fans across the country.

Genre:
Deadly Green’s music is a unique blend of Alternative Rock and Folk, often referred to as ‘Eco-Rock’ due to their emphasis on environmental themes.

Title:
“Underneath the Canopy”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse)
[C] Walking through the woods, [Am] the world feels so alive,
[F] Whispering trees, [G] under the vast blue sky,
[C] Footprints on the path, [Am] we exist side by side,
[F] Creatures of the wild, [G] under the moon’s soft light.

(Chorus)
[C] Underneath the canopy, [Am] nature sings her song,
[F] Telling tales of harmony, [G] where we all belong,
[C] Listen to the melody, [Am] let your heart respond,
[F] Underneath the canopy, [G] life goes on and on.

(Verse)
[C] Rivers flowing free, [Am] mountains standing tall,
[F] Dancing with the breeze, [G] autumn leaves do fall,
[C] Feel the Earth’s heartbeat, [Am] hear her gentle call,
[F] Underneath the canopy, [G] we’re a part of it all.

(Chorus)
[C] Underneath the canopy, [Am] nature sings her song,
[F] Telling tales of harmony, [G] where we all belong,
[C] Listen to the melody, [Am] let your heart respond,
[F] Underneath the canopy, [G] life goes on and on.

Fan Testimonial:
Deadly Green’s favorite fan is Maddie Thompson, a young environmental science student from Denver. Maddie first discovered Deadly Green during a high school science fair where their music was played during a presentation on climate change. Intrigued by their sound and their message, Maddie quickly became a dedicated fan, following the band’s journey and sharing their music with her friends and peers.

“I love Deadly Green because their music is more than just tunes to groove to; it’s a message, a call to action. They inspire me every day not only as a fan of rock music but also as an aspiring environmental scientist. Their music fuels my passion for my studies and reminds me that there’s hope for our planet. ‘Underneath the Canopy’ is my personal anthem!” – Maddie Thompson

Backstory:
Medical Grade was birthed from the creative depths of a group of medical students in the heart of Boston, Massachusetts, in 2015. The four members, Matt Conway (vocals/guitar), Aaron Foster (bass), Lily Wu (Drums), and Sami Noor (keyboards), found solace and shared their stress through music amid the grueling schedule of medical school. Their music was the ideal antidote to the long nights of studying and dissections; it was the perfect script for their sanity.

Their journey started from their makeshift dorm room studio, to open mics at local cafes, and then onto university concerts, where they found their rhythm and sound. Gradually, their music began to resonate with their peers and beyond, resulting in their decision to take the music scene seriously, even as they pursued their medical degrees. They took the name ‘Medical Grade’ as a nod to their origins and a testament to the quality of music they strive to create.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Prescription for My Heart”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1:
[Am] Late nights in the library [G]
[F] Drowned in books and anatomy [C]
[Am] Our eyes met over the microscope [G]
[F] Heart skipped a beat, I lost my hope [C]

Chorus:
[Am] You’re the prescription for my heart [G]
[F] In this life, we’re never apart [C]
[Am] You’re my cure, my antidote [G]
[F] With you, I’ll forever float [C]

Verse 2:
[Am] We danced in the halls, late at night [G]
[F] Underneath the fluorescent light [C]
[Am] You & I in our white coats [G]
[F] Strumming the rhythm, hitting the notes [C]

Chorus:
[Am] You’re the prescription for my heart [G]
[F] In this life, we’re never apart [C]
[Am] You’re my cure, my antidote [G]
[F] With you, I’ll forever float [C]

Favorite Fan’s Name and Testimonial:

Name: Jennifer “Jenny” Fields

Testimonial: “I first heard Medical Grade at a university concert, during one of the most challenging times in my life. Their music has a raw and honest quality that resonated with me. Their songs are like an aural panacea, healing me with their profound lyrics and soulful melodies. I also admire how they balance their passion for music and their medical careers. For me, Medical Grade isn’t just a band; they symbolize resilience, dedication, and the healing power of music.”

Backstory:
Formed in the eclectic music hub of Austin, Texas in 2011, Excited Parcel is the brainchild of three college roommates – Mark Thompson, Adam Davis, and Sam Franklin. The trio, initially just jamming in their dorm room, started to perform at local coffee shops and open mic nights, garnering a small but dedicated following. Their uncanny ability to blend their diverse influences into one cohesive sound made them stand out. Inspired by their experiences in the sometimes chaotic, often heartwarming process of sending and receiving parcels in the college mailroom, they took on the name Excited Parcel, symbolizing the anticipation and joy each new song brings.

Genre:
Indie pop-rock

Title:
“Postmarked Love”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Em]I wrote a letter to your heart, [C]sealed it with a kiss,
[G]Sent it across the miles, [D]hoping for some bliss.
[Em]My words, they flew like birds, [C]along the midnight sky,
[G]Landing on your doorstep, [D]underneath the moon’s cry.

(Chorus)
[G]This is my postmarked love, [D]sent from me to you,
[Em]A parcel of emotion, [C]only for you to view.
[G]Hold it close, feel the words, [D]in the silence of the night,
[Em]This is my postmarked love, [C]I hope it feels just right.

(Verse 2)
[Em]Across the coast and the storms, [C]flying through the wind,
[G]This letter from my soul, [D]of a love that’s never dimmed.
[Em]The ink may bleed, the paper tear, [C]but the words will stay,
[G]In this excited parcel, [D]my love is on the way.

(Chorus)
[G]This is my postmarked love, [D]sent with all my might,
[Em]A parcel of my heartbeats, [C]in the cold starlight.
[G]Hold it close, read the lines, [D]in the quiet of the dawn,
[Em]This is my postmarked love, [C]for you it’s drawn.

Favorite Fan Testimonial:
My name is Jenny and I’m a huge fan of Excited Parcel. I first heard them at a coffee shop gig in 2013 and have been hooked ever since. Their music resonates with me on a deep emotional level. It’s as if they’re able to put into words the feelings I’ve always struggled to express. Their song “Postmarked Love” is my absolute favorite – it’s like a love letter to everyone who’s ever been in a long-distance relationship. Every time I hear it, it reminds me of my own experiences and gives me a sense of comfort. Excited Parcel is my favorite band because their music is not just songs, it’s stories that speak to the soul.

Backstory:
Founded in the misty hills of Edinburgh, Scotland, in 2013, Impish Battle is the brainchild of four childhood friends: Liam, Euan, Gregor, and Finn. Their shared passion for music and storytelling led them to form a band that marries ancient Celtic lore with contemporary musical elements. The name ‘Impish Battle’ is a nod to their playful approach to the serious business of life and their deep-rooted Celt heritage. Their music speaks about ancient battles, mythical creatures, and the mysticism of rural Scotland.

Genre:
Impish Battle’s music is best described as Celtic Rock, blending traditional folk instruments with electric guitars and pounding drums. They incorporate a wide range of influences from rock, punk, and folk music, creating a unique sound that is both fresh and deeply rooted in Scottish heritage.

Song Title:
“Moonlit Skirmish”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Under the moonlit sky, an eerie [C] glow
[D] Creatures of the night, in the shadows they [G] sow
[G] The rustle of leaves, a chilling [C] call
[D] Ready for the battle, they stand tall, they stand [G] tall

(Chorus)
[G] Moonlit skirmish, under the starry [C] veil
[D] In the land of legends, where heroes [G] prevail
[G] Fighting the darkness, with hearts so [C] brave
[D] Singing tales of glory, it’s our heritage we [G] save

(Verse 2)
[G] Clashing of steel, echoes through the [C] night
[D] The impish warriors, in the moonlight they [G] fight
[G] With courage in their hearts, and fire in their [C] eyes
[D] They dance with death, under the starry [G] skies

(Chorus)
[G] Moonlit skirmish, under the starry [C] veil
[D] In the land of legends, where heroes [G] prevail
[G] Fighting the darkness, with hearts so [C] brave
[D] Singing tales of glory, it’s our heritage we [G] save

(Outro)
[G] When the dawn breaks, and the battle is [C] done
[D] We’ll sing of their bravery, under the rising [G] sun
[G] In the moonlit skirmish, with spirits so [C] wild
[D] We remember our heroes, in every story [G] we’ve compiled

Favorite Fan:
Impish Battle’s favorite fan is Abigail, a 25-year-old historian from their hometown of Edinburgh. Abigail says, “Their music is a perfect blend of the past and the present, connecting me to the roots of my beloved Scotland. The stories they tell through their songs resonate so deeply, reminding me of the tales my granny used to tell. Their song ‘Moonlit Skirmish’ is my favorite. It’s like a battle cry for our heritage, making me feel part of something bigger than myself. There’s nothing quite like an Impish Battle concert – it’s a place where history, music, and passion collide.”

Backstory:

Worldly Liability was formed in the busy streets of New York City in 2010. The band was composed of four passionate individuals – Jack, Larry, Mike, and Sam, who shared a common love for music. Jack, the lead vocalist, and Larry, the drummer, met in a local pub one night and soon discovered their shared musical taste. Mike, the bassist, was Larry’s childhood friend who was roped into the team due to his exceptional talent. Sam, the guitarist, was the last to join the band, but his innovative riffs gave Worldly Liability its unique sound.

The band started off by performing covers in small gigs but soon began writing and performing their own songs. Their music resonated with their audiences, and before they knew it, they were filling up concert halls. They called their sound “Worldly Rock” as an homage to their diverse influences from around the globe, and their music quickly became an outlet to express their point of view on world issues, hence the name “Worldly Liability.”

Genre:

World Rock

Title:

“Ocean of Dreams”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Am] Floating in the [G] sea of life, [F] dreams are the [E] wind in our sails.
[Am] Chasing the sunrise, [G] under the moon’s pale [F] gaze, [E] we never fail.
[Am] We set our course, [G] in the ocean of dreams, [F] where the stars unveil, [E] a tale.

(Chorus)
[Am] We are the worldly liability, [G] singing our reality,
[F] In this ocean of dreams, [E] nothing is as it seems.
[Am] We ride the waves, [G] in the endless sea,
[F] With our music, [E] we will always be free.

(Verse 2)
[Am] The world is a composition, [G] we play our own rendition,
[F] Tuning in to the rhythm, [E] of our hearts’ intuition.
[Am] We sing our stories, [G] in the ocean of dreams,
[F] Where every wave, [E] holds a new theme.

(Chorus)
[Am] We are the worldly liability, [G] voicing our creativity,
[F] In this ocean of dreams, [E] where nothing ever gleams.
[Am] We make our mark, [G] in the endless sea,
[F] With our music, [E] we will always see.

The band’s favorite fan’s name and why and how this band is their favorite as a testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan is Rose, a young woman from England. Rose discovered Worldly Liability during a difficult time in her life and found solace in their music. Here is her testimonial:

“Worldly Liability has given me more than just music; they’ve given me hope, strength, and a sense of belonging. Their lyrics resonate with real world issues, making me feel seen and understood. They’ve also introduced me to the beautiful diversity of music from around the world. I fondly remember travelling all the way from England to New York for their concert, and it was the best night of my life. Their music has truly made a difference in my life, and I will forever be a fan.”

Backstory:
Frizzy Expense was formed in 2005 when four high school friends, all followers of grunge music, decided to start a band in their small town of Spokane, Washington. The members, frontman Timmy ‘Frizz’ Freeman, guitarist Shawn ‘Spence’ Spencer, bassist Johnny ‘Expensive’ Goodman, and drummer Ricky ‘Warr’ Warren decided to combine their last names to form ‘Frizzy Expense’, a name as unique as their sound. The band played local gigs, building a reputation for their raw energy and heartfelt, sometimes dark lyrics. After several years of playing at local bars and clubs, they were discovered by a talent scout, leading to their first record deal in 2010.

Genre:
Frizzy Expense’s music can be classified under the Alternative Rock genre, leaning heavily into grunge influences. Their sound is a fusion of angsty lyrics, fuzzy guitar riffs, and powerful rhythm sections.

Title:
One of their most well-received songs is titled “Lost in the Shadows.”

Full song lyrics:
[Verse 1]
C Am
I’ve been walking these streets so long,
Em G
Feeling like I don’t belong.
C Am
I’m just a shadow in the crowd,
Em G
Feeling lost, feeling down.

[Chorus]
D C G
Lost in the shadows, I found myself,
Am Em G
In the darkness, I faced my hell.
D C G
Every echo, every hollow sound,
Am Em G
In the shadows, I am found.

[Verse 2]
C Am
Underneath the city lights,
Em G
I lost sight of wrong and right.
C Am
But in the shadows, I see clear,
Em G
My path, my purpose, my fear.

[Chorus]
D C G
Lost in the shadows, I found my way,
Am Em G
In the darkness, I found my day.
D C G
Every echo, every hollow sound,
Am Em G
In the shadows, I am found.

[Bridge]
F C G
In the shadows, I’m not alone,
Am F C G
I found my heart, I found my home.

[Chorus]
D C G
Lost in the shadows, I found my soul,
Am Em G
In the darkness, I found my role.
D C G
Every echo, every hollow sound,
Am Em G
In the shadows, I am found.

Fan Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan is Sarah Thompson, a middle-aged woman from their hometown of Spokane. Sarah has been following the band since their first gig at a local bar and has attended every concert since then. She says, “Frizzy Expense isn’t just a band, they are a lifeline. Their music speaks to the deepest, darkest, and also the most beautiful parts of my soul. Every song they’ve written feels like it was written for me. They are my favorite because they make me feel seen, even when I feel lost in the shadows.”

Backstory:
Detailed Concept is a band of three childhood friends: Tom, Jerry, and Sam. As high school students in the small town of Greenville, North Carolina, they found solace in each other’s company and their shared passion for music. The trio first started to play at local bars on weekend nights, covering songs from their favorite bands. Over time, their reputation grew, and they began writing and performing their own songs. The band was officially formed in 2008, calling themselves Detailed Concept as a nod to their meticulous approach to songwriting and crafting music.

Genre:
Detailed Concept’s music is heavily influenced by the Alternative Rock genre, with elements of Pop and Indie. Their sound is characterized by the fusion of distorted guitar riffs, pulsating drum beats, and melodic undertones, creating a unique sonic landscape that strikes a chord with their listeners.

Title:
“One Last Melody”

Full Song Lyrics with Chord Progression:
(Verse 1)
Em C G D
Sitting on the rooftop, under the midnight glow,
Em C G D
Counting the stars, letting the cool wind blow.
Em C G D
We were just kids, not a care in the world,
Em C G D
Dreaming of a future, where our stories would unfold.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
One last melody, under the moonlit sky,
Em C G D
With you by my side, we’ll let the time fly by.
Em C G D
Just like the old times, let’s relive the night,
Em C G D
One last melody, until the morning light.

(Verse 2)
Em C G D
The road was long, filled with twists and turns,
Em C G D
Through all the highs and lows, it’s you I yearn.
Em C G D
Now here we are, standing tall and strong,
Em C G D
Playing one last melody, our hearts filled with song.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
One last melody, under the moonlit sky,
Em C G D
With you by my side, we’ll let the time fly by.
Em C G D
Just like the old times, let’s relive the night,
Em C G D
One last melody, until the morning light.

The band’s favorite fan’s name:
Laura Thompson

Fan Testimonial:
“My name is Laura Thompson, and I can confidently say that Detailed Concept is my favorite band. Their music resonates with me on a personal level. It’s as if they’re narrating my life through their songs. I remember the first time I heard ‘One Last Melody’, I was going through a difficult time, and that song felt like a comforting hug. It’s not just their music, but also their dedication and authenticity that makes them stand out. I’ve been to all their concerts in my city, and every time, I’m amazed by their energy and passion. Detailed Concept is more than just a band for me; they’re a beacon of light in the dark, a source of inspiration and joy.”

Backstory:

Slow Leisure originated from a small coastal town in California, where high school friends Ethan Murray, Jace Donahue, and Harrison Lively first started playing music together in a dusty garage. To pass the time during those slow beach town summers, they would fiddle with their guitars, a second-hand drum kit, and a battered keyboard, slowly crafting their unique sound. Their music started catching the attention of their local community when they performed at school events and beach bonfire parties.

After graduation, the trio decided to pursue their passion for music and moved to Los Angeles. They rented a small apartment and converted it into a makeshift studio where they continued refining their sound. In a city known for its fast-paced lifestyle and cut-throat competitiveness, Slow Leisure served as a breath of fresh air, offering listeners a chance to unwind and slow down, hence their unique band name.

Genre:
Indie Folk

Title:
“Driftwood Dreams”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[E] Driftwood dreams on a [A] summer’s eve,
[D] Far from the city’s [G] constant heave,
[E] Salt air whispers and [A] ocean’s song,
[D] In this place, we [G] belong.

(Chorus)
[E] Driftwood dreams, [A] catch the breeze,
[D] Let’s take life slow, [G] just like the seas,
[E] With the waves, let’s [A] sway and weave,
[D] In our driftwood [G] dreams.

(Verse 2)
[E] Starlit tales on a [A] moonlit bay,
[D] Washing the world’s [G] worries away,
[E] Sand in our toes, [A] peace in our hearts,
[D] In this life, we’re [G] playing our parts.

(Chorus)
[E] Driftwood dreams, [A] under the stars,
[D] Playing music, [G] healing scars,
[E] In our hearts, the [A] ocean stirs,
[D] In our driftwood [G] dreams.

Fan Testimonial:

Name: Lily Hartman

“I just can’t get enough of Slow Leisure! Their music is like a soothing balm for my soul. I feel like they’ve put into words the emotions I’ve always felt but never knew how to express. ‘Driftwood Dreams’ is my absolute favorite. When I listen to it, I’m transported to a peaceful beach, far away from the chaos of my everyday life. Slow Leisure’s music represents freedom, calmness, and a celebration of the simple things in life. Their unique blend of indie folk sends soothing vibrations that resonate with my love for tranquility. Their music is my escape, my leisure, my breath of fresh air in a world that often feels too fast.”

Backstory:
Growling Crayon is a quirky band, formed in the heart of Brooklyn in 2010. The band was created when lead singer and guitarist, Jasper ‘Jaz’ Hendricks, met drummer, Lucas ‘Rusty’ Russell, in a local dive bar. Both were doodling on napkins with crayons supplied by the bar, and after a few shared laughs and pints, they decided to combine their love for music and art. They were later joined by bassist, Vanessa ‘Vee’ Alvarez, and keyboardist, Ethan ‘Echo’ Carter.

The band became popular in the local music scene for their eccentric performances and unique style. Their fan base grew as they toured around New York and their fame spread through word-of-mouth. Despite their growth, they still retain their whimsical origins, with each show featuring a segment where they create a piece of art live on stage while playing a song — this artwork is then gifted to a fan in the audience.

Genre:
Growling Crayon’s music can be described as Indie Rock, with a splash of experimental psychedelia.

Title:
“Colour Me Intrigued”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Intro]
Em C G D

(Verse 1)
Em C
In the corners of my mind,
G D
There’s a box of crayons you’ll find.
Em C
Each colour telling a tale,
G D
Of love, of joy, of times we’ve failed.

(Chorus)
Em C
So colour me intrigued, my dear,
G D
In hues of passion and of fear.
Em C
With each stroke, paint a memory,
G D
In our canvas of infinity.

(Verse 2)
Em C
In the spectrum of our life,
G D
There’s always space for more strife.
Em C
But each shade adds more depth,
G D
To our love, with each breath we’ve kept.

(Chorus)
Em C
So colour me intrigued, my love,
G D
With the azure of the sky above.
Em C
Let’s sketch our dreams, and trace our path,
G D
In hues of love that’ll forever last.

[Outro]
Em C G D
Em C G D

Fan’s Testimonial:
“My name is Tia Lawson, and I am a superfan of Growling Crayon. I was there at their first gig in Brooklyn and I’ve been hooked ever since. Their music is like a splash of colours on a blank canvas — intriguing, bold, and unexpectedly beautiful. The way they incorporate art into their performances is pure genius. I even won a piece of their art at a show once and it hangs pride of place in my apartment. But most importantly, their lyrics, they speak to me. Songs like ‘Colour Me Intrigued’ make me feel seen and understood. Growling Crayon is more than just a band to me, they are storytellers, artists, and creators of a musical experience like no other.”