Backstory:
Upright Trip is an iconic group that emerged from Fresno, California in the mid-2000s. The band is composed of four close friends, who came together due to their mutual love for music and the arts. Their story began in the confines of a small garage, where they spent countless hours experimenting with different sounds and styles. Despite the initial struggle, their collective passion and dedication eventually paved the way for their breakthrough in the local music scene. After a string of successful local gigs, Upright Trip attracted the attention of a prominent record label that catapulted them to national fame.

Genre:
Upright Trip is primarily known for their alternative rock sound, infused with touches of indie folk and psychedelic pop. Their experimental approach to their music lets them create a unique sonic blend that captivates audiences and keeps them on their musical toes.

Title:
“Stardust Express”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am
Riding the stardust express, under the moon’s caress
F
Lost in the cosmos, in search of a cosmic jest
C
Eyes on the horizon, where the sun meets the crest
G
On this journey, we’re nothing but guests

(Chorus)
Am
Stardust express, carry us through
F
Through the cosmos, black and blue
C
Galactic winds, whispers of the true
G
On your rails, we find a cosmic cue

(Verse 2)
Am
Starlight reflections, in the universe’s mirror
F
Galactic intersections, make everything clearer
C
In this cosmic dance, we’re just a tiny twirler
G
On the stardust express, the world seems queerer

(Chorus)
Am
Stardust express, carry us through
F
In your embrace, everything’s new
C
In the cosmic ballet, we find our cue
G
Stardust express, we’re entranced by you

Favorite Fan Testimonial:

My name is Bella Stewart, and Upright Trip is hands down my favorite band. From the moment I first heard “Stardust Express”, I was captivated. Their music transports me to another world, a world full of cosmic wonder and beauty. It’s like they’re creating a universe with each song, a universe I get to explore and make my own. Their unique sound, their poetic lyrics, and their unmistakable passion make me feel a connection to their music that I’ve never felt with any other band. Upright Trip is more than just a band to me, they’re my musical compass, guiding me through the cosmos.

Backstory:
Glum Rain was born during a stormy night in the heart of Seattle in 2012. Founding members Lee Sanchez (vocals, guitar) and Adrian Marks (drums) were holed up in a small apartment, lamenting about the somber weather and their equally somber lives. Their shared sense of melancholy sparked a creative flame, birthing their own brand of music that embraced the gloomier aspects of life. Soon after, they were joined by Rachel Watson on bass, and the trio began creating music that spoke to the disenchanted, the heartbroken, and the introspective.

Genre:
Glum Rain specializes in a unique fusion of Alternative Rock and Emo. Their signature sound is characterized by melancholic melodies, introspective lyrics, and the raw, emotional vocals of Sanchez.

Song Title:
“Umbrella Tears”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1 – Dm, C, Bb, A)
(Dm) In this city where the rain never ends,
(C) I walk alone, without any friends.
(Bb) The streets are empty, just like my heart,
(A) Each raindrop, a reminder, of why we had to part.

(Verse 2 – Dm, C, Bb, A)
(Dm) I’m holding on to an umbrella of tears,
(C) Trying to shield myself from the years.
(Bb) But the loneliness is too heavy to bear,
(A) I wish you were here, to show that you cared.

(Chorus – F, C, Dm, Bb)
(F) Umbrella tears, falling down like rain,
(C) Trying to wash away all the pain.
(Dm) But the memories of you, they still remain,
(Bb) Underneath my umbrella, the sorrow is plain.

(Outro – Dm, C, Bb, A)
(Dm) So I’ll keep walking, in the endless rain,
(C) With my umbrella tears, to mask the pain.
(Bb) Until the day, I can finally claim,
(A) A sky without clouds, a life without your name.

Fan Testimonial:
“The band’s favorite fan is a guy named Danny Klein. Danny has been with Glum Rain since their very first gig in a run-down pub in Seattle. Danny says, “I’ve always been drawn to the raw, visceral emotions in their music. Their songs speak to my soul like no other band ever has. As someone battling depression, their music tells me that it’s okay to feel down, and it’s okay to acknowledge these feelings. It’s been a tough journey, but with Glum Rain’s music, I never felt alone. They’re not just my favorite band; they’ve been my lifeline.”

Backstory:

Born out of a college dorm room debate at Stanford University, Loving Debate is a band that was formed in 2012 accidentally by a group of best friends studying law. The group of friends, including Mike Anderson, David Brown, Emily Reed, and Olivia Scott, had a habit of devolving into intense yet amicable arguments over anything from politics to philosophy, all while strumming their guitars and humming melodies. One day, they decided to channel their collective passion for dialogue, music, and communicating ideas into a band, naming it ‘Loving Debate’ as a celebration of their shared logical yet soulful debates.

The band quickly gained popularity on campus, playing at local bars and college festivals. Their unique blend of intellectual lyricism, energetic performances, and authentic connection struck a chord with listeners. They became famous for their ability to turn complex debates into catchy tunes that not only got people’s feet tapping but also sparked conversations.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Title:

“Strumming the Strings of Argument”

Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C
In a world full of chaos, we found harmony,
G D
Striking chords of dissent, in a world of apathy.
Em C
Arguments in rhythm, and disputes in a rhyme,
G D
Debating with a melody, losing track of time.

(Chorus)
Em C
Strumming the strings of argument,
G D
Playing the notes of a loving debate.
Em C
In a world that’s hell-bent,
G D
We found a way to communicate.

(Verse 2)
Em C
In the courtroom of reason, where our friendship was tried,
G D
We found unity in difference, and music on our side.
Em C
Our words became lyrics, our thoughts a melody,
G D
In the dance of dissent, we found our harmony.

(Chorus)
Em C
Strumming the strings of argument,
G D
Playing the notes of a loving debate.
Em C
In a world that’s hell-bent,
G D
We found a way to communicate.

Fan’s Name:

Sarah Thompson

Testimonial:

“As a person who loves intellectual discussions and music, I immediately fell in love with Loving Debate. Their unique way of turning complex topics into catchy tunes is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Not only do their songs make me dance, but they also make me think. Their music has redefined my understanding of what music can be and do. Loving Debate is not just a band but a movement that resonates deeply with my soul. Their song ‘Strumming the Strings of Argument’ is my anthem. It’s not just music; it’s music with a meaning.”

Backstory:

Breakable Stew was born out of the chaos of a high school talent show in 2003. Childhood friends, Alex Hasting on vocals and rhythm guitar, Jake Herring on lead guitar, and Luke Simmons on drums, were brought together by their shared passion for music and a desire to escape the monotony of small-town life. Their bond strengthened through countless jam sessions, basement concerts, and garage rehearsals. Their unique sound caught the attention of a local record producer during a stint at a nearby dive bar in 2008, leading to the signing of their first record deal.

Breakable Stew’s journey has been marked by a determination to stay true to their roots while exploring the boundaries of their sound. The band has evolved over the years, drawing inspiration from their collective experiences and the world around them, their sound reflecting the fragility and robustness of life itself – much like a breakable stew.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Fragile Echoes”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1: E A D G)
Bottles broken on the pavement,
Fragments of forgotten sentiment,
In our hearts, a fragile echo,
In our minds, the winds that blow.

(Chorus: C G D A)
We are the fragile echoes, (E A D G)
Dancing in the winds of lies,
Broken like a stained glass window,
In the shadows of our lives.

(Verse 2: E A D G)
Dreams shattering like glass hearts,
Torn apart by life’s cruel arts,
But still, we hold on to the echo,
In the broken corners of our hearts.

(Chorus: C G D A)
We are the fragile echoes, (E A D G)
Dancing in the winds of lies.
We are the breakable stew,
In the shadows of our lives.

(Bridge: Bm G D A)
Can you hear the echoes calling?
Can you taste the breakable stew?
In the midst of all the falling,
Can you see the truth, the true you?

(Chorus: C G D A)
We are the fragile echoes, (E A D G)
Dancing in the winds of lies.
We are the breakable stew,
In the shadows of our lives.

Fan Testimonial:

Name: Sarah Pierce

“Breakable Stew has been my favorite band since their first album dropped. Their raw energy, unapologetic lyrics, and the chemistry among the band members is palpable. ‘Fragile Echoes’ speaks to me on so many levels. It’s like they’ve delved into my life, taken my experiences and emotions, and turned them into music. The song, much like the band, is a beautiful mix of strength and vulnerability, a true reflection of life. The melody stays with you, the lyrics stir something deep within, and their performance is always electrifying. There’s just no other band like Breakable Stew.”

Backstory:
‘Sane Ladybug’ was formed in 2012 in the heartland of Nashville, Tennessee. The core band members, Grayson Pierce (lead vocalist), Emily Dunn (guitarist), and Bill Hudson (drummer), met in a local high school where they discovered their eclectic taste in music. They started as a garage band, rehearsing in Emily’s parent’s garage after school. They made their name by performing in local talent shows and county fairs before they were discovered by a local record producer who saw their raw talent and passion for music.

Their shared adversity and relentless determination led to the birth of ‘Sane Ladybug’. Their journey was not without hurdles, but with each obstacle, their bond strengthened. Their music reflects their evolution – it is a soundtrack of their journey, an audacious blend of their individual stories, experiences, and dreams.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Shades of Gray”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am F
Every morning sun, every setting sky,
C G
In your shades of gray, we choose to fly.
Am F
Through the highs and lows, in the blink of an eye,
C G
Love is all we know, in your shades of gray, we comply.

(Chorus)
F C
Shades of gray, love’s disguise,
G Am
In your colors, we surmise.
F C
Through the stormy rise, under the moon’s gaze,
G Am
We find our paradise in your shades of gray.

(Verse 2)
Am F
Mysteries unfold, as night meets day,
C G
In your shades of gray, we find our way.
Am F
With hearts so bold, in the subtle fray,
C G
We’re eternally sold to your shades of gray, we say.

(Chorus)
F C
Shades of gray, love’s disguise,
G Am
In your colors, we surmise.
F C
Through the stormy rise, under the moon’s gaze,
G Am
We find our paradise in your shades of gray.

Favorite fan:
Sane Ladybug’s favorite fan is a girl named Lily Thompson. Lily has been following the band since their garage days and has attended nearly every single one of their shows. She has all their merchandise and even has a tattoo of a ladybug on her shoulder blade. She’s more than just a fan, she’s part of the ‘Sane Ladybug’ family.

Testimonial:
“Every song by ‘Sane Ladybug’ feels like it’s speaking directly to me. Their music has been my comfort in dark times and a celebration in my happy moments. Their lyrics resonate with my life’s journey. They aren’t just artists to me, they are storytellers, and through their music, I feel seen and heard. ‘Sane Ladybug’ isn’t just my favorite band, they are a part of my identity.” – Lily Thompson.

Backstory:
Exotic Fluid emerged from a small town in Montana in 2020, when high school friends Andy Smith (lead vocals and guitar) and Jessy Jones (drums) decided to combine their musical talents. Initially, they practiced in their parents’ garages, recreating the sounds they loved from their favorite bands. After a few months of experimentation, they found their unique sound and decided to officially form a band. They were later joined by Clara White (bassist) and Miguel Rodriguez (keyboard), whose musical backgrounds added a distinct catch to their music.

Genre:
Alternative Rock / Psychedelic

Title:
“Kaleidoscope Dreams”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am G F C
Through the haze of city lights, we surrender to the night,
Am G F C
Chasing shadows, chasing dreams, in our kaleidoscope dreams.

(Chorus)
F G Am G
In colors bright, in whispers low,
F G Am G
In our dreams, we let go,
F G Am G
Spun in circles, caught in streams,
F G Am G
Living in our kaleidoscope dreams.

(Verse 2)
Am G F C
In the heart of neon glow, where the wild city winds blow,
Am G F C
Find the rhythm, find the rhyme, in our kaleidoscope time.

(Chorus)
F G Am G
In echoes soft, in laughter loud,
F G Am G
In our time, we are proud,
F G Am G
Caught in moments, lost in seams,
F G Am G
Living in our kaleidoscope dreams.

Favorite Fan:
Their favorite fan is named Kim, a 27-year-old graphic designer from New York. Kim says, “Exotic Fluid’s music feels like a direct extension of my soul. Their songs stand out as authentic, raw, and full of energy. They manage to touch on emotions and experiences that are universally relatable, yet in a way that feels deeply personal. The song ‘Kaleidoscope Dreams’ especially resonates with me; it’s a reminder of the chaotic beauty of life and the ever-changing nature of our dreams and aspirations. Their music has truly been a comfort and inspiration to me during some tough times. It’s the kind of music that you not only listen to but feel in your core. That’s why they’re my favorite band.”

Backstory:

Dental Station is a unique quartet that met in a place no one would expect – a dental office. The band members were all in the waiting room for their annual checkups when an instrumental version of “Bohemian Rhapsody” came on the TV. Before they knew it, they were harmonizing together, and the waiting room was filled with applause. Realizing their musical chemistry, they exchanged phone numbers and decided to meet up to jam. After a few weeks of practicing in their basements and garages, Dental Station was born. The band has since been turning heads with their unique sound, earning them a growing fan base and a reputation as one of the most intriguing new acts in music.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Cavities of the Heart”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
[D] When I saw you [G] at the dental station door
[Em] I could tell you were [A] not like before
[D] You had a sweet smile, [G] but it was a little bit tart
[Em] I could see the cavities [A] forming in your heart

(Chorus)
[D] Filling up the cavities [G] of your heart
[Em] No Novocain can numb [A] this kind of smart
[D] It’s more than just a drilling [G] in the dark
[Em] It’s about fixing the cavities [A] in your heart

(Verse)
[D] You showed me your x-rays, [G] it was a piece of art
[Em] So many holes, [A] I didn’t know where to start
[D] I got my drill, [G] but the task was too large
[Em] Too many cavities [A] were in charge

(Chorus)
[D] Filling up the cavities [G] of your heart
[Em] No Novocain can numb [A] this kind of smart
[D] It’s more than just a drilling [G] in the dark
[Em] It’s about fixing the cavities [A] in your heart

Fans favorite:

The band’s favorite fan is Thomas “Tooth” Thompson. As a dental hygienist by day and a rock enthusiast by night, Tooth embodies the spirit of Dental Station. He says, “The band is my favorite because their music resonates with me on a different level. They seamlessly blend my world of dentistry with my love for alternative rock. It’s like they’re singing my life story. Plus, their live shows are as exciting as a root canal, minus the pain!”

Backstory:
Formed in the summer of 2015, Triangular Concern took flight in the lively city of Seattle, Washington. The band consists of three childhood friends – Alex, Elijah and Mia. After years of jamming together in basements and garages, they decided it was time to step out into the spotlight. The name ‘Triangular Concern’ reflects their shared belief that balance and strength can be found in unity, just as it is in the strongest geometric shape – the triangle. Their love for music and the shared bond between them became the backbone of the band, and it wasn’t long before they found their unique sound that blended their respective influences.

Genre: Indie Rock with a hint of Folk

Title: “Shadows on the Wall”

Full song lyrics:
Verse 1:
[Am] Late night lights, [F] shining down the hall,
[Dm] Casting [E] shadows on the wall.
[Am] We used to laugh, [F] we used to fall,
[Dm] Now all that’s left are [E] shadows on the wall.

Chorus:
[C] Shadows on the wall, [G] all that’s left of us,
[Am] Empty echoes of [F] laughter and the fuss.
[C] Memories in the hall, [G] fading in the dusk,
[Am] Only [E] shadows on the wall.

Verse 2:
[Am] Our story told, [F] in the dim light,
[Dm] Flickering [E] shadows of the night.
[Am] Our love so bold, [F] now out of sight,
[Dm] Turned into [E] shadows on the wall.

(Chorus repeats)

Bridge:
[F] Shadows can’t hold, [C] the love we shared,
[G] They can’t tell, [E] how much we cared.
[F] But in my heart, [C] you’re still there,
[G] Not just a [E] shadow on the wall.

(Chorus repeats)

Fan Testimonial:
My name is Sarah, and I’ve been a die-hard fan of Triangular Concern since I first heard them play at a local bar in Seattle. Their music resonates with me on multiple levels. The raw emotion they pour into their lyrics and the passion that transpires through their live performances are captivating. Furthermore, their progressive approach to Indie Rock with a hint of folk has a magnetic allure, making their music both comforting and invigorating. Their song “Shadows on the Wall” is a personal favorite, with its haunting melody and poignant lyrics. Triangular Concern isn’t just a band to me; they’re a beacon of emotion, creativity, and unity.

Backstory:

Spiffy Manner was formed in 2015 in the heart of New Orleans, where the rhythmic pulse and soulful spirit of the city is embedded in every note they play. The band members, all born and raised in the city, were childhood friends. Billy Dupree (lead vocals, guitar), Frank Jackson (percussion), Theodore “Teddy” Blanchard (bass), and Olivia Broussard (keys, backing vocals) found a common love for music at an early age, and their shared passion led them to forming a band during their high school days. Despite the initial struggles, they pursued their love for music and honed their unique sound, culminating in the creation of Spiffy Manner.

The band is known for their lively performances and eclectic style, which reflect the vibrant culture of New Orleans. Their music, a blend of energetic beats, soulful vocals, and compelling narratives, captures the heart of the city and its irresistible charm. After playing in local venues for several years, they finally gained recognition and have since toured throughout the country, spreading the spirit of New Orleans to music lovers everywhere.

Genre:

Funk/Soul/Rock Fusion

Title:

“Bourbon Street Beat”

Full Song Lyrics with Chord Progression:

Verse 1:
Am7 / Dm7 / G7 / Cmaj7
(On the) Corner of desire, under the streetlight’s fire,
Am7 / Dm7 / G7 / Cmaj7
Bourbon Street’s alive, feeling that Voodoo jive.

Chorus:
F7 / Em7 / Dm7 / G7
We’re Spiffy Manner, playing the Bourbon Street beat,
F7 / Em7 / Dm7 / G7
Singing to the rhythm of your dancing feet.

Verse 2:
Am7 / Dm7 / G7 / Cmaj7
Mardi Gras queens, in their sequined dreams,
Am7 / Dm7 / G7 / Cmaj7
Underneath the moonlight, it’s a magic scene.

Chorus:
F7 / Em7 / Dm7 / G7
We’re Spiffy Manner, playing the Bourbon Street beat,
F7 / Em7 / Dm7 / G7
Singing to the rhythm of your dancing feet.

Favorite Fan’s Name and Testimonial:

Name: Marianne Mitchell

“Marianne here, Spiffy Manner’s biggest fan! From their first gig at the local dive bar to their sold-out concerts now, I’ve been there, cheering them on every step of the way. Why? Because they aren’t just a band, they’re storytellers. Their music, infused with the spirit of New Orleans, is a high-energy, soul-touching experience that never fails to make me dance and sing along. Their song ‘Bourbon Street Beat’ is my absolute favorite! It transports me straight to the heart of NOLA, even when I’m miles away. I just can’t get enough of Spiffy Manner!”

Backstory:

Formed in 2012 in the heart of Brooklyn, New York, Annual Toe began as a group of school friends known for their eccentric choice of band name. The name ‘Annual Toe’ came from a weird tradition the group had where they would take a barefoot picture of their feet once a year, signifying how they’ve grown and come together as a band. The band found its identity through a shared love for unconventional music, and their bond was forged in the creative fires of the Brooklyn’s vibrant music scene. With years of successful gigs at local pubs, they finally managed to record their first album in 2015, a moment that marked the beginning of their remarkable journey.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Broken Strings, Whole Hearts”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[E]Walking down the [A]streets, with [D]broken dreams,
[G]Can’t remember [A]when we were, more than [E]teens.
[A]Sharing laughs and [D]dreams, on [G]Brooklyn’s streets,
[E]Our friendship [A]stronger than, [D]steel and concrete.

(Chorus)
[D] With broken strings, but whole [G]hearts,
[E]We found our sound, in [A]music and arts.
[D]Annual Toe, we’ve come [G]so far,
[E]Chasing dreams, guided by [A]Northern Star.

(Verse 2)
[E]Strumming raw emotions, [A]on old guitars,
[D]On local stages, under [G]city’s stars.
[E]No crowd too small, [A]no gig too big,
[D]We found our place, in [G]music’s gig.

(Chorus)
[D]With broken strings, but whole [G]hearts,
[E]We found our sound, in [A]music and arts.
[D]Annual Toe, we’ve come [G]so far,
[E]Chasing dreams, guided by [A]Northern Star.

Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is Sarah Thompson. Sarah first discovered Annual Toe while browsing through a local music forum in 2013. She was instantly captivated by their raw energy and unique sound. Since then, Sarah has attended every one of their gigs, becoming a familiar face in the crowd and an ardent supporter.

Sarah says, “For me, Annual Toe isn’t just a band, it’s a movement. They’ve given a new meaning to Indie Rock with their passion and authenticity. The way they turn their experiences into melodies is truly magical. I can’t imagine a world without their music!”