Backstory:

Chilly Rule was born out of the freezing winter months of Duluth, Minnesota. The band, composed of childhood friends, Billy Thompson and Jason McAllen, was conceived in the thick of December 2015 when they found themselves snowed in with nothing more than their musical instruments and a formidable will. What started as a way to kill time quickly grew into a passion project as they discovered their shared love for creating a unique sound that was entirely their own.

Over the course of several months, they honed their musical skills and their unique sound, drawing from influences that ranged from classic rock to the indie scene. They began performing at local venues, quickly earning a reputation for their energetic live shows. As their popularity grew, so did their band. They added bassist Sarah Johnson and drummer Eric Grayson, both of whom brought a new level of depth and sophistication to their sound. Today, Chilly Rule has become a local sensation, their music resonating with listeners of all ages.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Title:

“Sub-Zero Heart”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Am] Driving through the snow, [G] feeling all alone
[Dm] Wishing you were here, but [E] you’re long gone
[Am] Your memory fades like [G] winter’s sun
[Dm] Even though your love was [E] colder than a gun

(Chorus)
[Am] Sub-zero heart, [G] you’re tearing me apart
[Dm] I’m frozen in your love, [E] right from the start
[Am] Your love was always chilly, [G] but I played the fool
[Dm] Sub-zero heart, I’m [E] just your tool

(Verse 2)
[Am] Frostbite kisses, [G] icy stares
[Dm] I can’t escape your love, [E] it’s everywhere
[Am] Trapped in the ice, [G] I can’t break free
[Dm] Your sub-zero heart [E] has captured me

(Chorus)
[Am] Sub-zero heart, [G] you’re tearing me apart
[Dm] I’m frozen in your love, [E] right from the start
[Am] Your love was always chilly, [G] but I played the fool
[Dm] Sub-zero heart, I’m [E] just your tool

Fan Testimonial:

Chilly Rule’s biggest fan is undoubtedly Laura Gibson. She was one of the first to discover their music and has been following their journey since their early days in Duluth. Laura explains, “I stumbled upon Chilly Rule during a local concert and was instantly hooked. Their sound is fresh and unique, and their lyrics are raw and relatable. The song “Sub-Zero Heart” really spoke to me during a tough breakup. I look up to them not just as musicians, but as people. They’re down-to-earth, genuine, and incredibly talented. Their music is a breath of fresh air in the world of indie rock, and I’m so excited to see where their journey takes them next.”

Backstory:

Valid Ban was formed in 2010, in the bustling heart of New York City. The group was originally made up of three childhood friends, Jared Allen (vocals, guitar), Mike Williams (bass), and Kevin Foster (drums). The trio started out playing music covers in small clubs and bars. After a couple of years, they were joined by an exceptional keyboardist, Emily Thompson, who brought a unique sound and dynamic to the band. Valid Ban quickly gained notoriety for their captivating stage performances and thoughtful lyrics.

The band’s music resonates with people across different walks of life, and their fan base has grown exponentially over the years. From stage performances in small bars to sold-out concerts at major venues, Valid Ban has proven to be one of the promising bands of the new generation.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Song Title:
“Whispers in the Wind”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C G
Walking down the lonely street,
Em C G
Haunted by your memory,
Em C G
Your laughter echoes through the air,
Em C G
Like whispers in the wind.

(Chorus)
D Em C
Whispers in the wind,
D Em C
Taking me back to where we’ve been,
D Em C
To the love we had, the pain within,
D Em C
They’re just whispers in the wind.

(Verse 2)
Em C G
I see your face in every crowd,
Em C G
Your voice, a ghostly sound,
Em C G
I may move on, but you remain,
Em C G
Like whispers in the wind.

(Chorus)
D Em C
Whispers in the wind,
D Em C
They speak of love that couldn’t win,
D Em C
Of broken hearts, of ruined kin,
D Em C
Yes, just whispers in the wind.

Fan’s Testimonial:

Fan’s Name: Lucy Morgan

Valid Ban is, without a doubt, my favorite band. Their music speaks to my soul, and their lyrics reflect the unspoken feelings we all carry within us. I love how each song tells a story, and the energy they bring to their performances is just remarkable. The song “Whispers in the Wind” is a testament to their musical brilliance. It’s a mix of haunting melodies and poignant lyrics that stir up a whirlpool of emotions. Their music has been a constant companion during my highs and lows, and I couldn’t be more grateful to have found them.

Backstory:
Envious Situation was born in the heart of Chicago in 2007, a brainchild of childhood friends, Ethan Cooper and Morgan Riley. Growing up together in the same neighborhood, the duo shared a passion for music at an early age. Ethan, a poetic soul, found his calling in lyrics and vocals, while Morgan, naturally gifted with his hands, chose to channel his energy through the strings of a bass guitar. In their early twenties, they both decided to turn their passion into a career, hence the birth of Envious Situation.

The band’s journey wasn’t always an easy one, but they believed in their music and vision. They performed in local bars, college festivals and even street fairs, building a strong local fanbase before being discovered by a talent scout in 2010. The band was signed under Whisper Records and has been creating music that resonates with their listeners ever since.

Genre:
Alternative Rock/Indie

Song Title:
“Flames of Desire”

Full Lyrics:
Verse 1:
[C]Looking through the [G]glass of time,
[A]Watching as the [E]world unwinds.
[C]Find a place to [G]hide our fears,
[A]In the rhythm, [E]we disappear.

Chorus:
[F]In the flames of [C]desire, we [G]burn so bright,
[A]Caught in the [E]fire of a [F]starry night.
[D]Let’s lose ourselves in the [E]music tonight,
[F]In the flames of [C]desire, we [G]ignite.

Verse 2:
[C]Hear the beating [G]heart of the night,
[A]In the shadows, [E]we take flight.
[C]Lost in the echoes [G]of our song,
[A]Through the rhythm, [E]we belong.

(Repeat Chorus)

Bridge:
[D]Through the rhythm, [A]we ignite,
[E]Burning brighter, [C]into the night.

End Chorus:
[F]In the flames of [C]desire, we [G]burn so bright,
[A]Caught in the [E]fire of a [F]starry night.
[D]Tonight we’ll set the [E]world alight,
[F]In the flames of [C]desire, we [G]ignite.

Favorite Fan Story:
Our favorite fan has to be Lucy Mendoza. An art student from Chicago, Lucy discovered us during our early gigs and has been our most avid supporter ever since. She once said, “Envious Situation’s music isn’t just a collection of songs, but a rollercoaster of emotions. Every chord, every lyric, it’s like they’re speaking my truth. Their music has helped me through some really tough times. It’s like a lifeline that I can always hold on to.” We’re forever grateful for fans like Lucy who believe in our music and continue to support us in our journey.

Backstory:
Jaunty Climate was formed in 2006, in the heartland of Columbus, Ohio. The band was conceived by childhood friends, lead vocalist Harvey Hilt and drummer Mason Turner. The duo, who had been creating music in their basement for years, decided it was time to take their passion to the next level. They were joined by bassist Rita Morgan and guitarist Sam Sanders, and Jaunty Climate was born. The band rapidly gained local popularity before making a splash on the national scene with their upbeat sound and thought-provoking lyrics.

Genre:
Jaunty Climate has a unique sound that combines elements of Indie Rock and Pop Punk.

Title:
“Rainbow in the Rain”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am F C G
Underneath the black clouds, there’s a rainbow in the rain,
Am F C G
When the world feels too loud, you’re my joy among the pain.

(Chorus)
F C G Am
You’re the rainbow, rainbow in the rain,
F C G Am
My beacon of color when skies are gray and plain.

(Verse 2)
Am F C G
In the storm of the night, your laughter is my dawn,
Am F C G
In the midst of the fight, you’re the song I play on.

(Chorus)
F C G Am
You’re the rainbow, rainbow in the rain,
F C G Am
A vibrant splash of hope when life’s a monochrome lane.

Fan Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan is 16-year-old Lucy O’Brien. Lucy was introduced to Jaunty Climate by her older brother, and she has been a dedicated fan ever since. She says, “I fell in love with Jaunty Climate’s music because it speaks volumes to my soul. Their lyrics are like poetry – they say the things that I often can’t find words for. I relate to their music in a profound way, and I feel like it understands me. It’s not just music; it’s a lifeline.” Lucy has attended every concert in her city and maintains an active fan blog where she shares her love for the band and connects with other fans.

Backstory:
Authentic Direction was born from the shared vision of three high school friends: Liam, Nick, and Austin. These three youngsters found solace in music, using it as an escape from the anxieties of teenage life while shaping their identity. Their bedrooms echoed with the sounds of their passion, nurturing the dream that one day they’d share their music with the world. The three friends stayed true to their dream, and after years of hard work and dedication, they formed Authentic Direction. They quickly gained a local following in their hometown of Nashville and soon, their music reached far beyond, capturing hearts worldwide.

The band’s sound was formed organically, influenced by their love for rock and pop music, and the authenticity of country storytelling. Their music morphed into a unique blend that resonated with fans, gaining them popularity at an exponential pace. Despite their success, Authentic Direction always prioritized their bond as friends, keeping them grounded and focused on their art, making their journey truly inspirational.

Genre:
Pop-rock meets Country

Title:
“Echoes of Our Hearts”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse)
E B
Down the winding roads of memory,
C#m A
We found the echoes of our hearts,
E B
In the rhythm of the rain,
C#m A
We danced away our pain.

(Chorus)
E B
Echoes of our hearts,
C#m A
Soundtrack to our starts,
E B
In the whispers of the wind,
C#m A
Found our home in a country hymn.

(Verse)
E B
Underneath the starry quilt,
C#m A
We sing the songs of dreams we’ve built,
E B
In the silence of the night,
C#m A
We found our hearts taking flight.

(Chorus)
E B
Echoes of our hearts,
C#m A
Melodies that never part,
E B
Hand in hand, we turn the page,
C#m A
In the chapter of love’s age.

Fan Testimonial:

Name – Daisy Carpenter

“Being a fan of Authentic Direction has been a life-changing experience for me. Their music has been my solace in hard times and a celebration in the good ones. From their heartfelt lyrics to their unique blend of pop-rock and country, everything resonates with me. The authenticity of their music, their bond as friends, and their passion for their craft makes them my favorite band. I’ve been following them since their humble beginnings in Nashville, and now they’ve become a worldwide phenomenon. I couldn’t be prouder of them. Authentic Direction isn’t just a band to me, they’re a beacon of hope and inspiration.”

Backstory:
Authentic Rain hails from the heartland of Minneapolis, Minnesota. The band was formed in the spring of 2006 by a group of college friends who shared a common love for music and expressing themselves through it. The band initially started as a hobby, practicing in their basement and doing gigs at local college events and small clubs. However, their unique blend of music started attracting a wider audience, leading to the release of their first EP in 2008. Their name, Authentic Rain, was inspired by the unpredictability of rain and the authenticity they wanted to bring to their music.

Genre:
Authentic Rain’s music falls under the genre of Alternative Rock, with elements of folk and indie rock subtly intertwined.

Title:
“Chasing Shadows”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Dark clouds gather, [Am] whispers in the night,
[Em] In your eyes, I [C] see the light.

[G] The storm is raging, [Am] our hearts collide,
[Em] In the silence, I [C] see your fight.

(Chorus)
[G] Chasing shadows, [D] in the pouring rain,
[Em] With you, I’m [C] home, I’m home again.
[G] Fear has no place, [D] in this sacred space,
[Em] Authentic Rain, [C] we leave no trace.

(Verse 2)
[G] Echoes in the alleyways, [Am] footprints in the snow,
[Em] Your love is a beacon, [C] where I go.

[G] Through the storm, [Am] through life’s unfair gain,
[Em] In the authenticity, [C] we remain.

(Chorus)
[G] Chasing shadows, [D] in the pouring rain,
[Em] With you, I’m [C] home, I’m home again.
[G] Fear has no place, [D] in this sacred space,
[Em] Authentic Rain, [C] we leave no trace.

Favorite fan’s name and testimonial:

Name: Sarah Thompson

Testimonial: “I’ve been following Authentic Rain since their earliest days and the journey has been nothing short of amazing. Their music has a raw, emotionally charged energy that really hits home. Every song they produce is a lyrical masterpiece that connects with me on a personal level like no other band does. ‘Chasing Shadows’ in particular speaks to me as it subtly deals with the struggles of navigating life’s challenges, which is something I relate to deeply. Authentic Rain isn’t just my favorite band, they’re a sanctuary where I feel understood and accepted.”

Backstory:
Unconventionally formed in a small retirement community on the outskirts of Austin, Texas, “Jealous Retirement” is a quirky four-piece band composed of a group of septuagenarians refusing to let their passion for music fade into obscurity. The band was formed in 2015 when its members met at a local bingo night. After discovering their mutual love for music, they decided to bring their old band dreams to life. Despite their life experiences, they found themselves envying the vibrance of contemporary music and hence the name “Jealous Retirement” was born. Their music demonstrates a unique fusion of the music they grew up with and modern sounds, creating an interesting mix that appeals to across generations.

Genre:
Their music genre is a fusion of Classic Rock and Modern Indie Pop.

Song Title:
“The Golden Years Aren’t So Golden”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C G
We were young, in the days of old,
Am Em
Lost in dreams, and stories told,
F C
Now we stand, with hearts so bold,
G C
Proving we’re not yet cold,

(Chorus)
C G
The Golden Years aren’t so golden,
Am Em
When you’ve dreams yet to unfold in,
F C
So we strum, and we keep holdin’,
G C
Our music screams, yet unspoken,

(Verse 2)
C G
Look at us, we’re not done,
Am Em
Chasing the setting sun,
F C
Our tunes, they still run,
G C
Under the moon, or the midday sun,

(Chorus)
C G
The Golden Years aren’t so golden,
Am Em
When you’ve stories yet to be woven,
F C
So we sing, our spirits unbroken,
G C
Our music, a timeless token,

Fan Testimonial:
Fan’s Name – Judy Thompson

“Jealous Retirement” is my absolute favorite! Despite being in their 70s, they’ve got more energy than most of the young bands I see these days. Their music is a breath of fresh air, a perfect blend of the classic rock I grew up with and modern pop melodies that my grandchildren listen to. It’s like they’ve bridged the generational gap with their songs. Plus, their story is so inspiring. It just goes to show, it’s never too late to follow your dreams!

Backstory:

Average Disc is a group of four high school friends hailing from the sleepy town of Middlebury, Vermont. The band members, Jake (lead vocals and guitar), Matt (bass), Tommy (drums), and Sarah (keyboard and backup vocals), initially found common ground on the football field rather than the music room. However, an unexpected turn of events in a high school talent show, where they were teamed up for a one-off musical performance, revealed their hidden passion and talent for music. Since then, they’ve transformed from football buddies into a cohesive musical group. Their shared love for 90’s alternative rock, coupled with their light-hearted camaraderie, forms their unique musical identity.

Genre: Alternative Rock

Title: “Suburbia’s Lullaby”

Verse1:
(G) I see the lights, (Am) shining so bright,
(C) In the heart of the (D) quiet night,
(G) Suburbia’s lullaby, (Am) under the pale moonlight,
(C) Whispering stories, (D) of love and fight.

Chorus:
(G) We’re riding on, (Am) under the neon glow,
(C) Lost in the rhythm, (D) of the radio,
(G) Chasing dreams, (Am) in the starry night,
(C) Suburbia’s lullaby, (D) our hearts ignite.

Verse2:
(G) Picket fences, (Am) and quiet streets,
(C) Where life unveils, (D) in subtle beats,
(G) Suburbia’s lullaby, (Am) echoes our tales,
(C) In this silent world, (D) where love prevails.

(Repeat Chorus)

Favorite Fan’s Testimonial:

“My name is Lucy, and I’ve been a fan of Average Disc right from the start. Their music resonates with my life in suburbia. The raw energy, the authentic lyrics, and their down-to-earth personalities just connect with me at a deeper level. ‘Suburbia’s Lullaby’ has become an anthem for me and my friends. It’s not just about the perfectly strummed guitars or the harmonized vocals; it’s about feeling seen, understood, and celebrated. That’s why Average Disc will always be my favorite band.”

Backstory:

Hailing from the picturesque landscapes of Montana, the four members of Mountainous Dollar discovered their shared passion for music in their high school years. Rob, the lead guitarist and songwriter, began experimenting with tunes that reflected their deep connection to their mountainous homeland, and with Harry on drums, Brandon on bass, and Eli as the vocalist, the band came to life. They began performing in local bars and music events, gaining recognition and popularity for their unique sound and earthy lyrics. Their music spoke of their shared experiences growing up in Montana and their heartfelt appreciation for the natural wonders that surrounded them. Their journey and unity as a band lead them to adopt the name ‘Mountainous Dollar’, a symbol of their roots in Montana and the value they placed on their shared experiences and love for music.

Genre:
Folk Rock/ Indie

Title:
“River Run Deep”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verses)
Em// G// D// A7
Em
Running through the valleys, under the open sky
G
Where the river runs deep and the mountains lie
D
Whispering secrets the wind carries high
A7
Mountainous Dollar’s got the rhythm, and it never lies

Em
Beneath the moonlight, by the river’s bend
G
Where the wildflowers grow, our music descends
D
In the stillness, our melodies blend
A7
Mountainous Dollar’s song, it never ends

(Chorus)
C// G// D
C
We strum the soul of the mountains, we sing the river’s tale
G
In the heart of Montana, where the wild spirits wail
D
Through the highs and the lows, in every detail
C
Mountainous Dollar, our spirit will never fail

Fan Testimonial:

“My name is Sarah and I’m possibly the biggest fan of Mountainous Dollar. Their music, it’s my solace, it’s my joy. I first heard their song “River Run Deep” at a local music festival years ago and I was instantly hooked. Their lyrics resonate with me, as I too grew up in Montana, and their music has a way of bringing me back home, no matter where I am. I love how genuine they are and how they’ve stayed true to their roots. Their music is a beautiful blend of folk and indie rock that creates a unique and captivating sound. Mountainous Dollar is my favorite band because they’ve brought the spirit of Montana to life through their music.”

Backstory:

Born from the vibrant, eclectic arts scene of Austin, Texas, Drab Other was formed in the Summer of 2017. A chance meeting at a local music festival brought together the diverse talents of seasoned guitarist and songwriter, Flynn Dawson, bassist and synth maestro, Lara Joseph, and powerhouse drummer, Max “Thumper” Reynolds. The synergy was instantaneous, and they decided to blend their influences from post-rock, psychedelia, and indie to form something uniquely their own. They named the band Drab Other to reflect their embrace of the unconventional and their rejection of the mainstream.

Genre:

Psychedelic Indie Rock

Title:

“Echoes in the Asylum”

Full Song Lyrics with Chord Progression:

(Verse 1)
Em G D A
In the silence, under the sycamore tree,
Em G D A
A whisper of a memory, a forgotten melody.
Em G D A
Echoes in the asylum, lost in space and time,
Em G D A
An octave of emotion, in a single, solitary rhyme.

(Chorus)
C Em Bm G
Ghosts of the past, singing in my ears,
C Em Bm G
Songs of love, songs of fears.
C Em Bm G
Wandering souls, in the castle of my mind,
C Em Bm G
An echo in the asylum, the song of the undefined.

(Verse 2)
Em G D A
Beneath the starlit canopy, a dance of shadows play,
Em G D A
On the canvas of the night, the colors fade to grey.
Em G D A
Echoes in the asylum, a symphony of dreams,
Em G D A
Drifting through dimensions, unraveling at the seams.

(Chorus)
C Em Bm G
Ghosts of the past, singing in my ears,
C Em Bm G
Songs of love, songs of fears.
C Em Bm G
Wandering souls, in the castle of my mind,
C Em Bm G
An echo in the asylum, the song of the undefined.

Favorite Fan:

The band’s most avid enthusiast is a woman named Jane Phillips, a local Austin artist and musician. In her words: “Drab Other isn’t just a band; it’s an experience. Their lyrics paint vivid pictures that take you on a beautiful, introspective journey. Their music has an intrinsic depth that resonates with my soul. Whenever I listen to them, I feel like I’m not just hearing them but truly understanding them. They aren’t just my favorite band; they’ve become a part of me.”