Backstory:
Elementary Exhibition originated at a small public school nestled within the heartland of the Midwest, where five high school friends found their shared passion for music and creativity. Tim Denver (vocals), Jake Allister (lead guitar), Monica Torres (drums), Sammy Hill (bass), and Amy Leeds (keyboard) formed the group on the spur of a moment, during one of their typical after-school jam sessions. The group derived their name from the humble beginnings of their musical journey, which started from the elementary school exhibitions where they used to perform. Their journey saw them transition from playing in school corridors to performing at local bars, eventually leading to a record deal that catapulted them to the national scene.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Echoes of Innocence”

Full song lyrics with chords progression:

Verse 1: [C] [G] [Am] [F]
(C) Back in the day (G) when the world was new,
(Am) We had dreams, (F) we had something to pursue.
(C) In that old schoolyard, (G) under the blue,
(Am) We played our song, (F) just for a chosen few.

Chorus: [G] [Am] [F] [C]
(G) Echoes of innocence, (Am) our symphony in the wind,
(F) Our melody of youth, (C) our anthem, we grinned.
(G) Through the pages of time, (Am) we may have thinned,
(F) But the echoes of innocence, (C) in our hearts, are pinned.

Verse 2: [C] [G] [Am] [F]
(C) With our beat-up guitars, (G) and a rusty old drum,
(Am) We strummed our dreams, (F) under the setting sun.
(C) In those echoing hallways, (G) where our journey begun,
(Am) We played our hearts out, (F) till the day was done.

Repeat Chorus: [G] [Am] [F] [C]

The Bands Favorite Fan:
Our favorite fan is undoubtedly Danny ‘D-Notes’ Johnson. Danny has been following our work since our high school days and has attended every single show we’ve performed. His dedication and affection towards our music have always motivated us to push our boundaries and strive for more. His testimonial is one we hold dear:

“Dudes, Elementary Exhibition is more than just a band to me. They’re like the soundtrack to my life. Every one of their songs resonates with a different phase of my life. Their raw energy, their authentic sound, and their real lyrics, man…they capture the essence of growing up, of dreams, of love and loss. They’re not just musicians, they’re poets, they’re storytellers. They truly are the echoes of innocence.”

Backstory:
Upbeat Milk was born in the vibrant heart of Austin, Texas, during the summer of 2009. The group was an eclectic gathering of four music-obsessed college students: Jamie, the charismatic frontman, was studying music technology, while Olivia, the band’s drummer, was deep into her environmental science degree. On bass was Ethan, a fine arts major, and rounding out the group was Lily, a classical guitar major, on lead guitar. They met during a campus jam session and instantly clicked, recognizing a shared passion for music that transcended boundaries and genres. They started playing together in their spare time, and soon their distinctive sound began to evolve.

After years of practice, basement gigs, and word-of-mouth promotion, the group released their debut album in 2016. Their unique merging of genres and captivating performances garnered the attention of music enthusiasts worldwide, transforming Upbeat Milk from a local sensation into a symbol of creative exploration and positive vibes.

Genre:
Upbeat Milk comfortably sit in the Alternative Indie Pop genre with a heavy influence of Funk and Soul.

Title:
Their hit song is titled “Groovin’ in the Gravy”.

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse]
Am C
Wake up, it’s a brand new day,
G F
Shake off the weight of yesterday,
Am C
Feeling the rhythm, feeling the flow,
G F
Ready to see where the day will go.

[Chorus]
C G
Groovin’ in the gravy,
Am F
Living in the now,
C G
Letting the music play,
Am F
And we don’t know how.

[Verse]
Am C
Sun shines, bright and high,
G F
We’re singing beneath the endless sky,
Am C
With every strum, every beat, every note,
G F
We’re sailing together in the music’s boat.

[Chorus]
C G
Groovin’ in the gravy,
Am F
Dancing in the sound,
C G
Letting the music play,
Am F
And we’re going round and round.

Favorite Fan:
Their favorite fan is a woman named Rachel, a dedicated follower since their college days.

Testimonial:
Rachel says, “I’ve been a fan of Upbeat Milk since they were playing at tiny college basement gigs. Their music is like a burst of sunshine – it’s uplifting, infectious, and always leaves me feeling better than before. They’ve always stayed true to their unique sound, and in a music landscape that can often feel repetitive, Upbeat Milk is like a breath of fresh air. They’re the perfect band for anyone who loves music that’s fun, funky, and full of heart.”

Backstory:

Sunny New is a dynamic and vibrant indie-rock band that originated in San Francisco, California. The band’s roots were established in a rundown garage, where childhood friends – lead vocalist, Benny, drummer, Mick, and bass player, Jamie, would jam every evening after school. Their shared love for music was evident and over the years they honed their skills, adding a fourth member, Lily, the enchanting keyboardist to their group. Their sound is a mix of euphoric melodies and poignant lyrics, blending the charm of the 90s with a modern twist.

Formed in 2013, Sunny New found their breakthrough in a local battle of the bands competition, where their unique and compelling sound left everyone stunned. Since then, they’ve been on a rollercoaster ride of music festivals and sold-out concerts, sharing their music with the world, building a passionate fanbase and captivating audiences everywhere with their vivacious energy.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Golden Rays”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Waking up [C] to the morning sun,
[G] Your smile’s brighter, [C] you’re the only one.
[D] Remembering the [Em] moments we shared,
[C] Felt so right, [D] I was never scared.

(Chorus)
[G] Golden rays [D] light our days,
[C] Love’s a maze, [D] but we found our ways.
[G] In your arms [D] is where I want to stay,
[Em] Under the golden [D] rays, [C] sunny new day.

(Verse 2)
[G] Walking down [C] the memory lane,
[G] Your laughter echoing, [C] easing all the pain.
[D] Dreaming of a [Em] future so bright,
[C] With you, [D] everything feels right.

(Chorus)
[G] Golden rays [D] light our days,
[C] Love’s a maze, [D] but we found our ways.
[G] In your arms [D] is where I want to stay,
[Em] Under the golden [D] rays, [C] sunny new day.

(Outro)
[G] As the sun [D] sets, and the stars play,
[C] I know we’ll [D] find our way.
[G] Hand in hand [D] under the moon’s gray,
[Em] Waiting for another [D] sunny new [C] day.

Fan Testimonial:

“I’m Sarah, and Sunny New is my favorite band! Their music has a way of reaching into my soul and making me feel alive. “Golden Rays” is my go-to song when I need a pick-me-up. Benny’s voice carries so much emotion, Mick’s rhythm sets my heart beating, Jamie’s bass is grounding, and Lily’s keys just pull it all together. They take me on a journey with their songs, and each tune feels like a ray of sunshine. Sunny New isn’t just a band, they’re a musical experience!”

Backstory:
Gifted Evaluation was born in the bustling metropolis of New York City, formed by four college friends who shared a love for music and a penchant for pushing boundaries. The band members, lead singer Jack Matthews, lead guitarist Ryan Wells, bassist Alex Chambers, and drummer Max Turner, all studied in differing fields, from philosophy to physics, yet found a common ground in their passion for music. Their unique educational backgrounds brought a fresh perspective to their songwriting, where they would tackle existential questions and societal observations within their rhythmically complex tunes.

Genre:
Gifted Evaluation is best known for their work in Progressive Rock, with elements of Jazz Fusion and Psychedelic Rock intertwined within their music.

Title:
“Fractals in the Sky”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] I look up to the [Am] sky, [C] endlessly wondering [D] why.
[G] Patterns unfold in the [Am] night, [C] fractals dancing in [D] flight.
[Am] Questions rise, [C] as stars align, [G] universe in [D] design.

(Chorus)
[G] Fractals in the sky, [Am] answers hidden high.
[C] Spiral out of sight, [D] in the quiet of the night.
[G] We’re mysteries [Am] in motion, [C] lost in this vast [D] ocean.

(Verse 2)
[G] Through the cosmic [Am] lens, [C] time and space [D] bends.
[G] We seek to [Am] understand, [C] hold the cosmos in our [D] hand.
[Am] In the fabric of [C] creation, [G] lies our gifted [D] evaluation.

(Chorus)
[G] Fractals in the sky, [Am] a universe to pry.
[C] Spirals of delight, [D] in the eternal night.
[G] We’re mysteries [Am] in motion, [C] swimming in this [D] cosmic ocean.

Fan Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Emily. Emily has been there from the beginning, even before they were known as Gifted Evaluation. She discovered the band at a small local gig, and was instantly captivated by their unique sound and thought-provoking lyrics. Emily is not only a fan, but a friend, who has supported the band through thick and thin, attending every concert and every release. Here’s what Emily has to say:
“Gifted Evaluation isn’t just a band to me; they’re a life-changing experience. Their music has not only been a source of entertainment but also of comfort and inspiration. The way they weave philosophy, science, and art into their sound is truly unique. They’re my favorite band because they’ve taught me to embrace the unknown, to question, and most importantly, to keep exploring. They’re more than just musicians, they’re storytellers and thinkers, and that’s why I love them.”

Backstory:
Grotesque Doctor is a power trio that first emerged from the basements of Cleveland, Ohio in 2014. The band members – lead vocalist and bassist Danny ‘Grim’ Miller, guitarist ‘Mad’ Max Lloyd, and drummer Jake ‘The Snake’ Stratton – were initially in separate bands, playing in various local venues. A chance meeting at a late-night party led to a spontaneous jam session and the realization that they shared a love for bold, hard-hitting music. They soon left their respective bands to form Grotesque Doctor, a group that would push boundaries and defy the status quo.

Grotesque Doctor quickly made a name for themselves in the local scene with their energetic live shows and distinctive sound. They have since gone on to play at various music festivals and opened for major acts, gaining a cult following along the way. Their music, a blend of rock, metal, and punk, resonates with fans who feel marginalized or unheard, a sentiment that Grotesque Doctor openly embraces and channels into their lyrics and performances.

Genre:
Alternative Rock/Metal

Title:
“Edge of Insanity”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am [C] I just a pawn in this grand scheme, [G]
A faceless figure in your twisted dream? [D]
In the [C] mirror all I see, [G]
Is a grotesque doctor staring back at me. [D]

(Chorus)
[C] On the edge of insanity, [G]
That’s where you’ll find me. [D]
In the [C] labyrinth of my mind, [G]
That’s where I’m confined. [D]

(Verse 2)
I’m the [C] patient and the doctor, [G]
Drowning in a sea of horror. [D]
In the [C] shadows, I see, [G]
A grotesque doctor, is that really me? [D]

(Chorus)
[C] On the edge of insanity, [G]
That’s where you’ll find me. [D]
In the [C] labyrinth of my mind, [G]
That’s where I’m confined. [D]

(Outro)
[C] I’m the grotesque doctor, [G]
On the edge of insanity, [D]
[C] In the labyrinth of my mind, [G]
That’s where you’ll find me. [D]

Favorite Fan Testimonial:
Name: Abby Mitchell

“I’ve been a fan of Grotesque Doctor since their underground days. Their music, especially ‘Edge of Insanity’, has always spoken to me. It’s raw, powerful, and unapologetically honest. The Grotesque Doctor has a way of articulating feelings of isolation, confusion, and desperation that’s both haunting and beautiful. Their music has helped me through some of the darkest times in my life. It’s like they understand what it’s like to feel lost and alone, and in a weird way, that makes me feel less alone. For me, their music is more than just entertainment; it’s a lifeline.”

Backstory:
Born in the back alleys of Detroit, the band Grimy Crime emerged from the gritty underbelly of the city’s robust music scene. The band was founded by lead vocalist Johnny “Slicks” Stiletto, a former mechanic who found solace in music after his garage was forcefully shut down by a corrupt city official. He recruited guitar virtuoso ‘Rusty’ Rhoades, a former construction worker, and drummer ‘Heavy’ Hank Harrison, an ex-bouncer. They found a shared passion for music and a mutual disdain for the seedy side of life they had experienced. These experiences fuelled their songwriting and formed the backbone of their raw, unfiltered sound.

Genre:
Grimy Crime is a blues-rock band with a unique blend of hard-hitting rhythms, earthy guitar riffs, and emotionally charged lyrics. Their music often tells stories of hardship and resilience, reflecting their upbringing and experiences.

Title:
“One-Way Ticket to Nowhere”

Full Song Lyrics:
[Verse 1]
[G] I got a pocket full of dreams, [D] but no dime to my name, [Em]
[C] Living on the edge, playing [D] life’s cruel game.
[G] I’ve seen the highs, I’ve seen the [D] lows,
[Em] I’ve felt the hurt that only a [C] broken man knows.

[Chorus]
[G] I’ve got a one-way ticket to [D] nowhere,
[Em] This train ain’t stopping, [C] nobody cares.
[G] I’m just a soul whom the world [D] forgot,
[Em] Riding this train till the [C] final stop.

[Verse2]
[G] I’ve seen the city lights, I’ve seen the [D] ghetto,
[Em] I’ve walked these streets with my heart [C] heavy and low.
[G] I’ve danced with the devil, I’ve [D] kissed the sun,
[Em] I’ve done things, boy, I can’t [C] outrun.

[Chorus]
[G] I’ve got a one-way ticket to [D] nowhere,
[Em] This train ain’t stopping, [C] nobody cares.
[G] I’m just a soul whom the world [D] forgot,
[Em] Riding this train till the [C] final stop.

[Bridge]
[G] Will someone take my hand, [D] show me the way,
[Em] Listen to my story, [C] help me pray.
[G] For this one-way ticket to [D] nowhere,
[Em] Is all I’ve got, [C] it’s just not fair.

[Chorus]
[G] I’ve got a one-way ticket to [D] nowhere,
[Em] This train ain’t stopping, [C] nobody cares.
[G] I’m just a soul whom the world [D] forgot,
[Em] Riding this train till the [C] final stop.

[Outro]
[G] So here’s my story, here’s my [D] song,
[Em] I’m just a man who’s been [C] done wrong.
[G] With my one-way ticket to [D] nowhere,
[Em] I’ll keep riding, [C] till I find somewhere.

Band’s Favorite Fan:
Our favorite fan is ‘Lonesome’ Larry, a long-time supporter from our early days. He’s been with us from our first basement gig to our main-stage performances. Larry says, “Grimy Crime is my favorite band because their music speaks to me. I’ve faced hardships, but their songs remind me that I’m not alone in this battle. Their raw energy, authentic lyrics, and the stellar musicianship make them stand out. Every time I listen to them, I feel seen and understood. They’re the real

Backstory:

Queasy Clock emerged from the colorful yet anarchic graffiti alleys of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in an era that was saturated with punk and rock-n-roll. The original line up consisted of lead vocalist, Connor ‘Crazy’ McAdams, guitarist Jamie ‘Jagged’ Stroud, bassist Arnold ‘Arctic’ Johnson, and drummer Terry ‘Tornado’ Fields, each of them contributing their unique flair to the band’s distinctive sound. They were drawn together by their shared love for edgy music and a desire to create something different that would disrupt the status quo. The name ‘Queasy Clock’ was an inside joke among the band, signifying the disoriented feeling they often experienced due to their nocturnal lifestyle.

Genre:

Alternative Rock with Heavy Psychedelic Influence

Title:

“Painted Echoes”

Full Song Lyrics with Chord Progression:

(Verse 1: G – D – Em – C)
Walking through this life, we’re chasing shadows,
Ghosts of our past, painted in echoes.
Empty words, hollow promises,
Bleeding hearts, in our hands, they rest.

(Chorus: C – G – D – Em)
In this queasy clock, time seems to stop,
We chase the night, till the morning drops.
In this restless world, our hearts unfold,
Through the ticking time, our stories told.

(Verse 2: G – D – Em – C)
Screaming silence, in the neon lights,
In the midst of chaos, we find our fights.
Broken dreams, shattered hopes,
In this clock’s rhythm, we find our ropes.

(Chorus: C – G – D – Em)
In this queasy clock, time seems to stop,
We chase the night, till the morning drops.
In this restless world, our hearts unfold,
Through the ticking time, our stories told.

(Bridge: Em – D – C – G)
With every tick, with every tock,
In the dance of life, we find our rock.
In these painted echoes, we see,
Shadows of our past, in the queasy sea.

(Chorus: C – G – D – Em – C)
In this queasy clock, time seems to stop,
We chase the night, till the morning drops.
In this restless world, our hearts unfold,
Through the ticking time, our stories told.

Fan’s Name:

Amy Thompson

Testimonial:

“I’ve been a diehard fan of Queasy Clock since their early days. Their music speaks to me on so many levels. ‘Painted Echoes’ literally saved my life once. I was going through a rough patch and the lyrics resonated with me. Queasy Clock’s music is raw, real, and filled with emotion. It’s like they’ve captured my deepest thoughts, fears, and dreams in their songs. I don’t think I’ll ever stop loving this band. They’ve become a part of my life, a part of me. Their music is my refuge, my sanctuary. Long live Queasy Clock!”

Backstory:

Born from the bustling music scene of Nashville, Tennessee, Ornery Lift is comprised of five multifaceted musicians who found a common ground in their love for idiosyncratic melodies and storytelling. The band was formed in 2010 when lead vocalist and guitarist, Jonathan ‘JD’ Davis, was introduced to drummer, Lauren ‘Lolo’ James, by a mutual friend. Finding an instant musical connection, the duo began collaborating and soon found themselves adding bassist, Ben ‘Benny’ Douglas, keyboardist, Emma ‘Emmy’ Lewis, and violinist, Robert ‘Bobby’ Taylor, to their lineup.

Despite their differing musical backgrounds and tastes – ranging from classical to punk rock – the band members of Ornery Lift managed to create a harmonious blend of their distinct styles. They found success locally and then nationally with their unique sound and lyrics, pulling in fans who appreciated their emotive and authentic storytelling, combined with their eclectic music.

Genre:

Folk-Rock

Title:

“Whiskey Rebellion”

Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Sittin’ in the corner of a [G] dusty bar,
[Am] Bottle of whiskey, [Em] playing my old guitar,
[F] Got the ghosts of the past, [C] whispering in my ear,
[G] Telling tales of love lost, [C] and the cost of a tear.

(Chorus)
[F] Whiskey rebellion, [C] in my heart,
[G] Torn between love, [Am] torn apart,
[F] Drownin’ sorrow, [C] in the dark,
[G] In the whiskey rebellion, [C] of my heart.

(Verse 2)
[C] The glow of the neon, [G] reflecting in my glass,
[Am] A myriad of memories, [Em] from a distant past,
[F] Shadows dance on the wall, [C] as the night unfolds,
[G] In the heart of the rebellion, [C] where the whiskey holds.

(Chorus)
[F] Whiskey rebellion, [C] in my soul,
[G] Love’s gambler’s dice, [Am] I’ve rolled,
[F] Lost in memories, [C] untold,
[G] In the whiskey rebellion, [C] growing old.

Favorite Fan:

Their favorite fan is a woman named Lily, a Nashville local who has attended every one of their shows since their first gig at a small neighborhood bar. Lily’s passionate support for Ornery Lift is deeply appreciated by the band, and they often dedicate their song, “Whiskey Rebellion,” to her at concerts.

Lily’s Testimonial:

“Ornery Lift’s music has a unique way of reaching deep within, touching on sentiments you thought you had forgotten. Their song, ‘Whiskey Rebellion,’ is my lifeline during tough times. The lyrics, combined with the soulful melody, express a raw, emotional turmoil that’s relatable and comforting. Their music is a journey – one that takes you through the highs and lows of life, leaving you stronger and more enriched. They’re not just a band to me, they’re an essential part of my life.”

Backstory:

Colossal Event was formed in the torrid summer of 2005 in the heart of Los Angeles, California. The band is an eclectic mix of four individuals who were drawn together by their shared passion for music and their desire to push boundaries. The lead vocalist, Jackson Peters, and drummer, Nate Turner, were childhood friends who used to drum on pots and pans, much to the chagrin of their parents. Their paths crossed with bassist, Sam Oliver during a local battle of the bands and later, they discovered the missing piece to their puzzle, lead guitarist, Riley Johnson, at a rundown music store.

Their journey began in Jackson’s garage, where they transformed their raw, unfiltered emotions into a unique blend of sounds that quickly resonated with the local crowd. The band managed to build a dedicated fanbase by performing in local pubs and music festivals, eventually catching the attention of a record label. Colossal Event’s music journey is a testament to their tenacity, creativity, and love for music.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Shadows in the Sun”

Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am
In the soft glow of the breaking dawn,
G
I see your face, but you’re already gone,
F
Lost in the echoes of a forgotten song,
C
In the shadows in the sun.

(Chorus)
G
We dance under the moonlight,
Em
In the rhythm of the fading night,
Am
We chase the morning light,
F
In the shadows in the sun.

(Verse 2)
Am
Beneath the stars that no longer shine,
G
I search for you in the sands of time,
F
Our love story, a forgotten rhyme,
C
In the shadows in the sun.

(Chorus)
G
We dance under the moonlight,
Em
In the rhythm of the fading night,
Am
We chase the morning light,
F
In the shadows in the sun.

(Outro)
C
In the shadows, in the sun, we become one,
G
Lost and found, our love story spun,
Am
In the echoes of a song unsung,
F
In the shadows in the sun.

Favorite Fan:

The name of Colossal Event’s favorite fan is Emma Richardson. Emma’s special connection with the band started at their very first gig at a small pub in Los Angeles. She has been to every show since then, cheering from the front row, and creating a bond that the band cherishes deeply. For Emma, Colossal Event is not just a band, but a group of artists who put their heart and soul into every note they play.

Emma’s Testimonial:

“There’s something incredibly raw and authentic about Colossal Event. Their music isn’t just sound; it’s emotion, art, and a glimpse into their souls. The first time I heard them, it was like they were speaking directly to me, about my fears, my dreams, my heartbreak, and my joy. Their song, ‘Shadows in the Sun,’ is my lifeline. It’s gotten me through the toughest times. I connect with their music on a level I can’t explain. It’s like home, familiar yet profound. For me, they’re not just a band, they’re family.”

Backstory:
Mixed Shame is an ensemble formed in the gritty streets of Brooklyn, New York in 2007. The band consists of four childhood friends – lead singer and guitarist, Matt Copeland, drummer, Leo Simmons, bassist, Danny Jones, and pianist, Clara Smith. Inspired by the diversity of their neighborhood, they decided to call themselves ‘Mixed Shame’ to represent the blend of their varied backgrounds and the shared struggles they faced growing up in a tough neighborhood. Their music reflects their experiences, expressing their mixed emotions of guilt, regret, and hard-fought triumphs.

Genre:
Mixed Shame specialize in Alternative Rock, with a unique fusion of blues and punk.

Title:
Their hit single is titled “Forgotten Alleys”.

Full song lyrics:

[Verse 1]
G Em C D
In the forgotten alleys, where we used to play,
G Em C D
We carved our dreams on dusty brick walls,
G Em C D
In the heart of the night, under the city’s gray,
G Em C D
We heard the music echoing in the halls.

[Chorus]
G Em C D
We’re the children of the forgotten alleys,
G Em C D
Our hearts beat to the rhythm of the street,
G Em C D
We’ve got mixed shame, but we’re holding steady,
G Em C D
This is our song, feel our heat.

[Verse 2]
G Em C D
We danced to the whispers of the dying light,
G Em C D
Our souls painted with the hues of the city’s plight,
G Em C D
In the forgotten alleys, we found our fight,
G Em C D
In the harsh echoes, we found our might.

[Chorus]
G Em C D
We’re the children of the forgotten alleys,
G Em C D
Our hearts beat to the rhythm of the street,
G Em C D
We’ve got mixed shame, but we’re holding steady,
G Em C D
This is our song, feel our heat.

The band’s favorite fan’s name:
Their most ardent fan is Katie Wilson.

Why and how this band is their favorite:
For Katie, Mixed Shame is more than just a band. Their music delivers a message that resonates with her own life experiences. Growing up in a neighborhood similar to the band members, their songs give voice to the beauty, pain, and resilience she witnessed and lived through. Katie says, “Their music feels like home, like someone finally understands my background and experiences. It’s raw, it’s real, and it speaks to my soul. ‘Forgotten Alleys’ is my anthem – it’s a song of survival, resilience, and pride, despite the odds. The mixed shame they sing about, I feel it too. It’s a connection, an understanding that bridges the gap between us.”