Backstory:

Optimal Time is a band that has its roots in the bustling music scene of Austin, Texas. The four members, Ethan, Alex, Riley, and Sarah, met in high school and began playing together during their lunch breaks. What started as an excuse to avoid the cafeteria food quickly transformed into a passion project, with each member drawing from their unique musical backgrounds to create a fresh sound. After graduation, the group decided to pursue music full time, playing gigs around Austin and eventually landing a record deal. Their dedication to their craft and love for music have allowed them to build a dedicated fan base that stretches across the globe.

Genre:
Optimal Time is known for their eclectic blend of Indie Rock and Synth Pop.

Title:
Optimal Time’s most popular song is titled “Hourglass Hearts”.

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Am Em
We’re racing against an hourglass, running on dreams,
F C
In the city lights, where nothing’s as it seems.
Am Em
Our hearts beaten by time, still we dare to dream,
F C
In a world gone cold, your love’s the only warmth I’ve seen.

(Chorus)
G D
Hourglass Hearts, don’t let time tear us apart.
Am Em
We’re more than ticking clocks, we’re a rhythm, we’re an art.
F C
Hourglass Hearts, let’s make each moment a start,
G D
In this Optimal Time, let’s dance under the stars.

(Verse 2)
Am Em
Each grain of sand, is a moment we’ve shared,
F C
In the hustle of life, we’ve shown how much we cared.
Am Em
With every tick and tock, we’ve danced without a care,
F C
With our Hourglass Hearts, and a love that’s rare.

(Chorus)
G D
Hourglass Hearts, don’t let time tear us apart.
Am Em
We’re more than ticking clocks, we’re a rhythm, we’re an art.
F C
Hourglass Hearts, let’s make each moment a start,
G D
In this Optimal Time, let’s dance under the stars.

Fan Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan is named Lucy, who has been following them since their earliest days in Austin. In her own words, “Optimal Time isn’t just a band to me, they’re my lifeline. Their music has gotten me through some of my darkest days, and I’m beyond grateful for their existence. ‘Hourglass Hearts’ speaks to me on such a deep level, it’s as though they’ve translated my emotions into song. I’ve never felt so seen and understood by a band before. Their passion for their craft shines through in every single note, and it’s an honor to be a fan.”

Backstory:
Necessary Fuel was formed in the small town of Ellensburg, Washington in the late 90s. The band comprised of five friends: lead singer Jake Harper, guitarists Sam Miller and Levi Smith, bassist Ben Gomez, and drummer Lucas Mills, who all shared a love for music and a disdain for the mundanity of small-town life. Vowing to escape their routine existence, they began to write songs that mirrored their aspirations and frustrations. They played local gigs, slowly building a following and their unique sound began to resonate with listeners, eventually getting them noticed by a local record label.

Over the years, Necessary Fuel has experienced highs and lows. They’ve toured nationally, opened for some of the biggest names in their genre, and had a hit single that reached the top of the charts. However, they’ve also faced band disagreements, hiatuses, and challenges in their personal lives. Despite all, they remain a tight-knit group, continually drawing strength from their friendship and shared passion for music.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Empty Highways”

Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C G D
Driving down the empty highways, searching for a spark,
Em C G D
Underneath the starlit sky, strumming in the dark.
Em C G D
We’ve got dreams too big for this town, we’re meant to ignite,
Em C G D
Necessary Fuel on a journey, into the endless night.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
We’re the anthem for the lost, the voice for the found
Em C G D
Playing on through every city, every hallowed ground
Em C G D
We’re Necessary Fuel, burning bright and hot,
Em C G D
We’re gonna set the world on fire, ready or not.

(Verse 2)
Em C G D
Turned our backs on comfort, traded it for the road,
Em C G D
Every lyric, every chord, tells a tale untold.
Em C G D
Fuelled by passion, guided by stars, we’ve got nothing to lose,
Em C G D
We’re the soundtrack of rebellion, singing the blues.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
We’re the anthem for the lost, the voice for the found
Em C G D
Playing on through every city, every hallowed ground
Em C G D
We’re Necessary Fuel, burning bright and hot,
Em C G D
We’re gonna set the world on fire, ready or not.

Fan Testimonial:
My name’s Sarah Thompson, and my life has been shaped by Necessary Fuel’s music. As a teenager, I felt out of place in my hometown. Their songs became my solace, their lyrics, my language. They taught me to dream, to aspire, and to resist conformity. Though I’ve aged, their music remains timeless to me, and they continue to be my favorite band. No concert is quite like a Necessary Fuel concert – their energy, their authenticity, and their passion, it’s contagious. They’re not just a band, they’re a testament to the power of dreams and the resilience of friendship.

Backstory:

Idealistic Copy is a band that began its journey in the eclectic and vibrant music scene of Austin, Texas. Formed by four friends – Jack, Ricky, Mia, and Tim in their college dorm room, the band started as a fun, creative outlet which soon evolved into something much more serious. Beginning with small gigs at local bars and coffee shops, they soon found their unique sound resonating with the crowd. The band decided to take a leap of faith, dropping out of college to pursue their shared passion for music.

It wasn’t an easy journey but their persistence paid off. After years of late-night jam sessions, constant tours, and several lineup changes, Idealistic Copy finally broke through the music industry in 2016 with their hit single ‘Mirror of Dreams’. Their music, which is a blend of ethereal melodies and thought-provoking lyrics, struck a chord with listeners worldwide, leading to a solid fanbase and their first record deal.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Song Title:

“Ripples in the Chaos”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[E] Wandering in the maze of time,
[A] Lost, trying to find,
[E] A hint of truth in this deceitful world,
[A] A silent whisper within the whirl.

(Chorus)
[G] Ripples in the chaos,
[D] Echoes of our past,
[A] We are but a reflection,
[E] In dreams that couldn’t last.

(Verse 2)
[E] Drowning in a sea of thoughts,
[A] Fighting battles, we never fought,
[E] Chasing shadows that don’t belong,
[A] In a world that seems so wrong.

(Chorus)
[G] Ripples in the chaos,
[D] Echoes of our pain,
[A] We’re trapped inside a mirror,
[E] In a world that’s gone insane.

(Outro)
[G] So, we’ll keep searching for that light,
[D] In the depths of our darkest night,
[A] An Idealistic Copy of hope,
[E] It’s the only way we’ll ever cope.

Fan’s Testimonial:

Name: Rebecca Davis

“Dear Idealistic Copy – I can’t begin to express how much your music means to me. Your lyrics, the melodies, everything just speaks to my soul. I first heard ‘Mirror of Dreams’ during a really tough time in my life and it instantly resonated with me. I felt understood, I felt seen. That’s when I knew I’d found my favorite band. Your songs are like a sanctuary where I find peace and comfort. Thank you for creating music that feels like home.”

Backstory:
Knotty Bench was formed in the small town of Brooksville, Mississippi, in 2010. Childhood friends Jack ‘Strummer’ Peterson and Billy ‘Bass’ Thompson were both working mundane jobs in the local sawmill when they decided to use their shared passion for music as their escape. They named their band ‘Knotty Bench’ in honor of their favorite meeting spot – an old bench made from knotted pine in Jack’s backyard. They soon recruited Amy ‘Drumsticks’ Collins, the cashier from the grocery store who had a penchant for drumming on the checkout counter, and the band was complete.

Knotty Bench started playing local gigs, gaining a devoted following for their heart-tugging lyrics and gritty sound. Their big break came in 2013 when a talent scout from a renowned recording studio spotted them performing at the Brooksville County Fair. Since then, Knotty Bench has been delivering soulful melodies and unforgettable performances across the nation.

Genre:
American Folk Rock

Title:
“Mississippi Moonlight”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
G C
Under the Mississippi moonlight,
G D
We found our melody and rhythm,
G C D
On the old knotty bench, carving dreams.

(Chorus)
C D G
Singing songs of the simple life,
C D G
In the glow of the Mississippi moonlight.

(Verse 2)
G C
With a guitar string and a drum beat,
G D
We painted the town with our anthem,
G C D
On the sidewalks, under the starry stream.

(Chorus)
C D G
Singing songs of love and strife,
C D G
In the whispers of the Mississippi moonlight.

Fan’s name:
Lucy Thompson

Lucy’s testimonial:
“I’ve been a fan of Knotty Bench since their early days, playing at the county fair. The rawness and authenticity in their folk-rock tunes are what makes them stand out. Their song ‘Mississippi Moonlight’ is my personal favorite. It encapsulates the essence of small-town life and the yearning for dreams. It’s like they’re singing my story, our story. They’re down to earth, just like their music, and that’s why Knotty Bench is and will always be my favorite band.”

Backstory:

Unwritten Budget was formed in the bustling town of Austin, Texas in 2005. The four-piece outfit was an unlikely gathering of artists who were initially just trying to pay the bills. Frontman and guitarist, Jake Thompson, a high school dropout, joined forces with bassist, Maria Sanchez, a former music teacher, drummer, Tony “The Bear” Barnes, an ex-Marine, and the classically trained pianist, Emily Wong, to create what is now an iconic rock band. Over time, they found common ground in their shared love for music, and the quartet began writing songs that reflected their unique backgrounds and life experiences.

They garnered attention quite early in their career with their raw lyrics and infectious sound. Unwritten Budget’s journey has seen them play in dilapidated bars, grand theaters, and even some of the biggest music festivals. Despite the fluctuations in their journey, their commitment to their craft and their fans has never dwindled. The band’s unique blend of rock and folk elements with relatable lyrics has propelled them into the hearts of fans worldwide.

Genre:
Alternative Rock with Folk Influences

Title:
“Loose Change”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Pockets full of dreams, [G] a heart filled with song
[Am] Running on the loose change, [F] we’ve been counting on.
[C] Streets of Austin under our feet, [G] Texas stars our only light
[Am] We’ve got an unwritten budget, [F] and a will to fight.

(Chorus)
[G] We’re the band with [C] no plan,
[Am] Strumming chords in a [F] beat up van.
[G] Living on hope and [C] coffee cans,
[Am] Lost in music, we’re [F] Unwritten Budget’s fans.

(Verse 2)
[C] Maria on the bass, [G] Tony on the drums,
[Am] Emily’s keys weave magic, [F] Jake’s voice overcomes.
[C] We’re more than misfits, [G] we’re a paradox,
[Am] Turning life into melodies, [F] outside the orthodox.

(Chorus)
[G] We’re the band with [C] no plan,
[Am] Strumming chords in a [F] beat up van.
[G] Living on hope and [C] coffee cans,
[Am] Lost in music, we’re [F] Unwritten Budget’s fans.

(Bridge)
[Dm] We’ve got no roadmap, [G] no strategy,
[C] But we’ve got a song, [Am] and that’s the key.

(Chorus)
[G] We’re the band with [C] no plan,
[Am] Strumming chords in a [F] beat up van.
[G] Living on hope and [C] coffee cans,
[Am] Lost in music, we’re [F] Unwritten Budget’s fans.

Outro:
[G] Yes, we’re the band with [C] no plan,
[Am] But we’ve got music, [F] yes we can.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Kathy. A school teacher from Miami, Kathy discovered Unwritten Budget during a tough time in her life and their music became her solace. The lyrics of their songs resonated with her, and their music became a beacon of hope. Kathy’s testimonial reflects her love for the band: “Unwritten Budget’s music is raw, honest, and full of life. It’s like they’ve taken pieces of my own story and woven it into their songs. I feel a connection to their music that I haven’t with any other band. It’s as if every song was written for me.”

Backstory:
Forthright Veil was born in the eclectic music scene of Portland, Oregon in 2015. The band is composed of four friends – Max (vocals and guitar), Jenny (bass), Luke (drums) and Aaron (keyboard and backing vocals) – who met in high school and bonded over their shared love for music that pushes boundaries and challenges the status quo. They spent their teenage years honing their musical skills in their parents’ garages, until they decided to form a band after graduation. They took their unique blend of musical influences and created a sound that is both familiar and fresh.

Forthright Veil’s journey has been one of experimentation and growth. The band has evolved from playing in small local venues to headlining music festivals around the country. Despite their rise to fame, they have remained committed to their creative vision, crafting music that resonates with their fans and reflects their personal experiences.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Whispers in the Rain”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Cmaj G Em D
Walking through the city lights, under a cold, dark sky
Cmaj G Em D
The echoes of your laughter, I still remember why
Cmaj G Em D
We used to dance in rain, fearless and so free
Cmaj G Em D
Now I’m dancing alone, but your ghost is all I see

(Chorus)
Cmaj G Em
Whispers in the rain, lost in the refrain
Dmaj Cmaj G
Your love was my song, but now it’s gone

(Verse 2)
Cmaj G Em D
The streets are empty now, just like my broken heart
Cmaj G Em D
In every drop of rain, I see a piece of our shattered art
Cmaj G Em D
Each puddle a mirror, showing me your face
Cmaj G Em D
Our love story drowned, lost without a trace

(Chorus)
Cmaj G Em
Whispers in the rain, lost in the refrain
Dmaj Cmaj G
Your love was my song, but now it’s gone

Favorite Fan:
Their favorite fan is Sarah. She connected with Forthright Veil’s music during a difficult period in her life. Sarah says, “Forthright Veil’s music has been my solace, my comfort, my strength. It’s like they understand my struggles, my hopes, my dreams. Their songs have a way of reaching into the depths of my soul and touching the rawest parts of me. Their music has been a lifeline for me. They are more than just a band to me, they are a beacon of hope in the chaos of life.”

Backstory:

Perky Activity is an alternative rock band hailing from the vibrant city of Austin, Texas. Band members Toby “TJ” Johnson, Mia Striker, Zach Turner, and Danny “D” Richards first met during their college days at the University of Texas. It all started in 2006 when TJ, an aspiring rock star, heard Mia, a talented pianist/singer, performing solo in a local bar. Captivated by her vibrant voice and mesmerizing piano skills, TJ wasted no time in proposing a musical collaboration.

They began their musical journey by performing at small clubs and local festivals. Soon, Zach, an old friend and drummer, and D, a bassist they met at one of their gigs, joined the duo, giving birth to Perky Activity. Their shared love for alternative rock and their drive to create music that was anything but ordinary allowed them to quickly rise through the ranks of Austin’s live music scene.

Genre: Alternative Rock

Title: “Ripple in the Echo”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C
I’m just a ripple in the echo, a whisper in the wind,
G D
A fading light in the horizon, that you could barely see.
Em C
As the stars begin to twinkle, shadows start to creep,
G D
I’m just a ripple in the echo, but I’m more than what you see.

(Chorus)
Am C
I am the storm, I am the fire,
G D
I am the laughter, I am the desire.
Am C
I am the echo, I am the ripple,
G D
In the vastness of the world, I am the giggle.

(Verse 2)
Em C
In the quiet of the evening, under the moon’s gentle glow,
G D
I’m just a ripple in the echo, letting my essence flow.
Em C
In the silence of the night, under the star’s soft glow,
G D
I’m just a ripple in the echo, a secret only we know.

(Chorus)
Am C
I am the dream, I am the hope,
G D
I am the mountain, I am the slope.
Am C
I am the echo, I am the ripple,
G D
In the melody of life, I am the simple.

Fan Testimonial:

My name is Lily Thompson, and I am the biggest fan of Perky Activity! Their music struck a chord in my heart the first time I heard it. The raw emotions and the depth in their lyrics are intoxicating. They are not just a band for me; they are a source of strength, a reservoir of inspiration, and an oasis of tranquility. Their song, “Ripple in the Echo,” is my personal favorite. It reminds me that I am more than just a face in the crowd, that I have a voice, an identity, and a purpose. Perky Activity, you rock my world!

Backstory:
Antique Cap was formed in the rustic old town of Laurel, Mississippi, in 2012. The band was initially made up of childhood friends – lead singer and guitarist, Maddy Johnson, drummer, Liam Gray, and bassist, Kelsey Meyers. The trio had always shared a love for music and cherished the memories of their after-school jamming sessions in Maddy’s old, dusty garage. After attending a local open mic night in their late teens and receiving overwhelming applause, they decided to officially form Antique Cap. Their name was inspired by an old navy cap Maddy’s grandpa had given to him, a keepsake from his days as a sailor which the band considered an emblem of their journey, their friendship, and their shared dream.

Their journey wasn’t always smooth, with each member facing personal hurdles. However, their music remained a constant source of solace and strength, helping them overcome their adversities. They played at local bars, small festivals, and even on the streets, gradually carving a niche for themselves in the local music community. Their music evolved over the years and connected deeply with their audience, enabling them to gain a loyal fan base that has stuck with them as they’ve grown, both as musicians and individuals.

Genre:
Folk-Rock

Title:
“Rusty Dreams”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C G Am Em
Starry nights, city lights, flashing by my eyes,
F C G
Dreams of old, tales untold, under the moonlit skies.

(Chorus)
C G Am Em
Rusty dreams, in denim seams, singing our soulful cry,
F C G
In this old town, we’re wearing our crown, under the starry sky.

(Verse 2)
C G Am Em
Cracked guitars, unknown stars, echo in our hearts,
F C G
Old friend’s cheer, music clear, playing our parts.

(Chorus)
C G Am Em
Rusty dreams, in denim seams, singing our soulful cry,
F C G
In this old town, we’re wearing our crown, under the starry sky.

(Outro)
C G Am Em
Antique cap, on the journey’s map, our stories will never die,
F C G
In this old town, we found our sound, under the starry sky.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Clara Thompson. Clara, a nurse in her late twenties, first heard Antique Cap at a local bar in Laurel. Their music resonated with her, providing her comfort during the toughest of times. As a testimonial, Clara shares, “Antique Cap’s music is more than just melodies to me, it’s a form of therapy. Their soulful tunes have seen me through long, daunting nights and exhausting days. Their music feels personal, like it was written just for me. I feel a profound connection with their songs, and it’s because of this connection that Antique Cap will always be my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Established in the heart of Chicago in 2010, Wry Issue emerged from the vibrant independent music scene as a quartet of likeminded souls united by their shared passion for creating something distinct and unique. Band members Kieran (lead vocals, guitar), Mike (bass), Alex (drums), and Lily (keyboard, backing vocals) met at a local open mic night, where they realized a shared love for multi-layered musical narratives and evocative lyrics. The band achieved regional fame with their first EP, but it was their second, “Unsettled Echoes” that thrust them into the national spotlight.

Genre:
Wry Issue has carved out a unique niche in the Indie Rock scene, blending evocative storytelling and multifaceted melodies with their fluid fusion of acoustic and electric sounds that often transcend the traditional boundaries of the genre.

Title:
“Shadows of Yesterday”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C G
In the echoes of laughter, we held our truth,
Am D G
Running wild in the moonlight, just me and you.
Em C G
Whispers of love in the shadows of yesterday,
Am D G
Memories fade but the feelings stay.

(Chorus)
C G D
Shadows of Yesterday, don’t fade away,
Am Em G
Chasing sunsets, lost in your gaze.
C G D
Shadows of Yesterday, a sweet charade,
Am Em G
In the twilight, we’ll find our way.

(Verse 2)
Em C G
Underneath the starlight, we carved our names,
Am D G
Promises etched in the sand, love’s games.
Em C G
Time can’t erase the shadows of yesterday,
Am D G
We’ll dance in the moonlight, come what may.

(Repeat Chorus)

Band’s Favorite Fan:
Our favorite fan is a vibrant young woman named Sarah. She’s been with us since our first open mic night, always front row and center, showing her enduring support. She says, “Wry Issue is more than just a band to me. Their lyrics echo my experiences and feelings; they’ve created a soundtrack to my life. Their music is raw, real, and resonates on a level that’s hard to find in mainstream music today.” We love Sarah for her unwavering support and continued enthusiasm – she embodies the spirit of our fan base.

Backstory:
Modest Head was formed in the heart of Brooklyn, New York, when childhood friends and music enthusiasts, Chris Baylor and Liam Frey unexpectedly reunited at a local gig in 2014. Chris, a talented guitarist with a penchant for blues, and Liam, a percussionist with a love for alternative rock, decided to blend their distinct musical styles to create something fresh and exciting. They soon recruited vocalist, Emma Shultz, who brought an edgy, soulful dimension to their sound. After two years of intense rehearsals, late-night jam sessions, and local performances, Modest Head was officially born.

Genre:
Modest Head’s unique sound is best described as Indie Rock with a blend of Blues and Soul.

Title:
“Love in Shades of Blue”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G]Wandering down the [C]streets tonight,
[D]Under the city’s [G]neon light,
[C]Aching for you, [D]my sweet delight,
[G]Lost in love’s [C]mystical sight.

(Chorus)
[G]Drowning in the [C]shades of blue,
[D]The color I remember [G]you.
[C]In every beat, [D]in every hue,
[G]I find myself [C]coming back to you.

(Verse 2)
[G]Echoes of your [C]laugh, they haunt,
[D]In this lonely avenue, I [G]flaunt,
[C]My love for you, [D]its every taunt,
[G]Your memory, its [C]eternal jaunt.

(Chorus)
[G]Drowning in the [C]shades of blue,
[D]The color I remember [G]you.
[C]In every beat, [D]in every hue,
[G]I find myself [C]coming back to you.

(Testimonial)
Fan’s Name: Jake Matthews

Jake Matthews has been an ardent fan of Modest Head since their earliest performances in local bars. According to Jake, “Modest Head isn’t just a band; they’re a musical journey. Their unique blend of indie rock, blues, and soul has created a sound that resonates with me on a deep, emotional level. ‘Love in Shades of Blue’ always tugs at my heartstrings – it’s a perfect expression of longing and love. I can’t wait to see where their music takes them and us, their fans, next.”