Backstory:
Huge Pet is an eclectic band formed in the summer of 2010 in Austin, Texas. The group consists of four childhood friends – Jimmy, Nick, Kelsey, and Olivia – who share a deep love for music and pets. The name of the band was inspired by Jimmy’s Great Dane, Max, who was always more of a family member than a pet. The band, known for their quirky music and infectious energy, was born in their garage, where they spent countless nights experimenting with sounds, lyrics, and melodies.

Making a breakthrough in their local scene was not easy, but Huge Pet’s refreshing take on music won hearts over time. Their songs often carry a deep message, reflecting their love for pets and how these warm creatures have helped them through difficult times. Today, the band is known for their energetic performances and signature stage antics that often involve Max.

Genre: Indie Pop Rock

Title: “Paws and Heartstrings”

Full Song Lyrics (Verse, Chorus):

(V)
Am C G D
Walking down the road with my best friend by my side,
Am C G D
His paws rhythmically hitting the pavement, our strides coincide.
Am C G D
His eyes filled with innocence, his heart so pure,
Am C G D
In his company, I find a calmness so secure.

(CH)
G D Am C
Paws and heartstrings, together we dance in the rain,
G D Am C
Through joy, through sorrow, through fun, through pain.
G D Am C
With his tail wagging high, and his spirit untamed,
G D Am C
Oh, my Huge Pet, together we’ve remained.

Favorite Fan Testimonial:
Our favorite fan is a 16-year-old girl named Amy from New York. Amy’s love for our band is nothing short of pure. She discovered our music during a difficult time in her life when she lost her beloved pet. She claims that our music provided her comfort and helped her cope with her loss. She wrote to us saying, “Huge Pet’s music has an inexplicable magic. They understand the deep love we have for our pets. Their song ‘Paws and Heartstrings’ is my anthem – it’s a beautiful tribute to every pet that has touched a human’s heart. Every time I see them perform, their energy is infectious, their love for pets unquestionable. They’re more than a band to me, they’re like my pet’s voice.” Amy follows us on every tour, and it’s her unflinching support that makes her our favorite.

Backstory:

“Earnest Painting” is a band that was formed in the bustling city of Brooklyn, New York, in 2013. The band comprises four childhood friends – Alfie (lead vocals and guitar), Charlie (bass), Ellie (keyboard), and Jake (drums). The group had always shared an unconditional love for music, which eventually culminated in the formation of their band during their college years. Their name, “Earnest Painting”, comes from their shared philosophy of creating music that is as genuine and profound as an artist’s earnest painting.

These four friends started by playing in small gigs and open mic nights across Brooklyn before getting their first big break in 2017. Their unique sound and the raw edginess of their lyrics started getting noticed, and they were soon signed by a record label. Their debut album, “Canvas of Sound”, was released in 2018 and received critical acclaim.

Genre:

Earnest Painting is best known for their soothing Indie Folk music combined with elements of Alternative Rock. They infuse their songs with melodic guitar riffs and strong bass lines, creating a unique blend of sounds that speak volumes about their diverse music influences.

Title:

One of Earnest Painting’s most popular songs is “Dusty Frames”.

Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G]In the attic of my memories, [D]where the sun seldom shines,
[G]There are dusty frames and forgotten names, [D]lost in the hands of time.

(Chorus)
[C]Pictures fading, [D] colors cascading,
[G]In these dusty frames of mine.
[C]Echoes of laughter, [D]of a time hereafter,
[G]In the silence, they chimed.

(Verse 2)
[G]Shadows dancing in the flickering light, [D]whispers in the dark,
[G]The attic holds a thousand tales, [D]each one leaving its mark.

(Chorus)
[C]Pictures fading, [D]colors cascading,
[G]In these dusty frames of mine.
[C]Echoes of longing, [D]of a love belonging,
[G]To a past that’s hard to find.

Favorite Fan:

Earnest Painting’s most passionate fan is undoubtedly Rachel Anderson. Rachel is a graphic designer based in Brooklyn who has been following the band since their early days. She feels a deep connection with their music and has attended each of their concerts in the city.

Testimonial:

“Discovering Earnest Painting was a game-changer for me. Their music resonates with me on a personal level, and I love the sincerity in their lyrics. Every song tells me a different story, and I find myself lost in their melodies. ‘Dusty Frames’ is my absolute favorite; it’s like a beautiful poem set to music. Earnest Painting is more than just a band to me – their music is an extension of my life’s soundtrack.”

Backstory:

Frosty Barrier was formed in the small town of Coldwater, Maine, where the winters are long and harsh, and the music was the only respite from the freezing elements. The band members – Jonah on vocals and guitar, Nick on drums, and twins Max and Sam on bass and keys respectively, turned their frosty environment into the fuel that would ignite their sound. The band first met in high school, where they were united by a shared love of music, and the desire to create something that would make the cold winters a little more bearable. They spent their school years refining their sound and style, playing at local bars and clubs before finally breaking into the national music scene with their unique icy sound.

Genre: Indie Rock/Alternative

Title: Icebound Melody

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Cold winds blowing, [Am] our hearts are roaming,
[Em] In this small town, [C] we are growing,
[G] Ice and snow, [Am] beneath our feet,
[Em] We find our rhythm, [C] in the winter beat.

(Chorus)
[G] We’re Frosty Barrier, [Am] breaking the silence,
[Em] Creating melodies, [C] in the cold defiance
[G] We are the [Am] ones, who [Em] sing the icebound melody, [C] bravely.

(Verse 2)
[G] Our souls are frozen, [Am] but music is our flame,
[Em] Through our song, [C] we stake our claim,
[G] The frost is our stage, [Am] the winter our muse,
[Em] We’re Frosty Barrier, [C] we have nothing to lose.

(Chorus)
[G] We’re Frosty Barrier, [Am] breaking the silence,
[Em] Creating melodies, [C] in the cold defiance
[G] We are the [Am] ones, who [Em] sing the icebound melody, [C] bravely.

Fan Testimonial:

My name is Zoe. I am Frosty Barrier’s number one fan. Their unique sound, inspired by the harsh winters of Coldwater, resonates with me because it reminds me of my small town beginnings. The raw emotion in their songs brings warmth to my soul and their icy melodies are unlike anything I’ve heard before. I’ve been following them since their first gig in our local bar, and they’ve only grown better with time. They’re not just a band to me, they’re a reminder of home, of resilience, and of the power of music to bring warmth even in the coldest of times.

Backstory:
Female Emperor emerged from the hazy, underground music scene of Seattle, Washington in the early 2010s. The band was formed by lead vocalist and keyboardist, Lila Robinson, who decided to turn her poetry into song lyrics. After teaming up with childhood friend and guitarist, Sam “Sledge” Rogers, bassist Clarissa “Clary” Sanchez and drummer Kit Parsons, the band truly found its unique sound. They gained local fame by performing in small venues and pubs, eventually catching the eye of a local record label, Highwave Records.

Their breakthrough occurred with their debut album ‘Chrysanthemum Throne’, which received critical acclaim for its experimental sound and thought-provoking lyrics. The band has since toured around the world, mesmerizing audiences with their ethereal performances and poetic masterpieces. Their sound has been described as a “modern blend of rock and pop with a dash of electronic”.

Genre:
Indie Pop

Song Title:
“Galaxy Threads”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1):
[C] In the echoes of the night, [G] under the lunar light,
[Am] I find you dancing, [E] lost in the galaxy threads.
[C] With every spin, every twirl, [G] you’re in another world,
[Am] Spinning, spinning, [E] until the world ends.

(Chorus):
[F] Galaxy threads, [C] holding you captive,
[G] In the cosmic dance, [Am] you’re interactive.
[F] The universe whispers, [C] and you listen,
[G] Among the stars, [Am] you glisten.

(Verse 2):
[C] Silver stardust in your hair, [G] nebula in your stare,
[Am] You’re a celestial being, [E] dancing, dancing in the air.
[C] Gravity holds no stake, [G] in the movements you make,
[Am] Dancing, dancing, [E] without a care.

(Chorus):
[F] Galaxy threads, [C] weaving your story,
[G] In the cosmic dance, [Am] you’re in glory.
[F] As the universe whispers, [C] you continue your mission,
[G] Among the stars, [Am] in a state of transition.

Fan’s Name:
Alex Kent

Testimonial:
“I’ve been a fan of Female Emperor since their first gig at Black Cat Pub in Seattle. I was immediately drawn to their unique sound and meaningful lyrics. The song ‘Galaxy Threads’ holds a special place in my heart. It was the first song I heard from them and it instantly resonated with me. Whenever I feel lost or overwhelmed, I find solace in their music. Female Emperor is not just a band, it’s a feeling, a comfort, an escape.”

Backstory:
Fussy Farm is a crew of four high school friends who, in their small farming community, found an escape through music. The band members, James, Charlie, Kevin, and Mike, originally bonded over their mutual love for folk rock and the simple but profound pleasures of country life. Each member of the band comes from generations of farmers, and they started the band in their senior year as a way to express the struggles and joys they’ve experienced growing up on a farm. Their music is a tribute to their roots, filled with themes of hard work, familial ties, and the beauty of rural life. Fussy Farm is a testament to their journey, from working the fields during the day to practicing in a dusty barn at night, the name itself a playful nod to the challenging yet fulfilling farm life they know.

Genre:
Folk Rock

Title:
“Under the Harvest Moon”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Out here under the [C] harvest moon,
[D] Workin’ the fields from [G] dawn till noon.
[G] Sweat on the brow but [C] love in the heart,
[D] From this old farm we’ll [G] never part.

(Chorus)
[C] Under the Harvest [G] moon we stand,
[D] Four boys turned to [Em] men in this land.
[C] Through the storms and the [G] summer’s heat,
[D] In this farm, our [G] dreams we meet.

(Verse 2)
[G] The corn grows high, and [C] so does our hope,
[D] On this fussy farm, we’ve [G] learned to cope.
[G] With the rhythm of nature, [C] we’re in tune,
[D] Dancing our dreams under the [G] harvest moon.

(Chorus)
[C] Under the Harvest [G] moon we stand,
[D] Four boys turned to [Em] men in this land.
[C] Through the storms and the [G] summer’s heat,
[D] In this farm, our [G] dreams we meet.

Favourite Fan:
Fussy Farm’s favorite fan is a girl named Hannah Thompson. She grew up in the same farming community and came across the band during a local county fair. She was instantly drawn to their authenticity and the way their lyrics resonated with her own experiences. Hannah has since attended every Fussy Farm gig within a hundred-mile radius, and her unwavering support has not gone unnoticed by the band. The band appreciates her genuine love for their music and the sense of home she brings to their shows.

As a testimonial, Hannah says, “Fussy Farm isn’t just a band; it’s a feeling. Their music is a journey back to my roots, and their lyrics capture exactly what it feels like to grow up on a farm. It’s the perfect balance of nostalgia and hope for the future. Their songs are stories that fill me with an overwhelming sense of belonging. I wouldn’t trade the experiences I’ve had at their concerts for anything!”

Backstory:
Awful Polytechnic formed in the bustling, artistic city of Portland, Oregon, in 2008. The band was born out of the shared frustration of four disillusioned engineering students at Portland State University. They were submerged knee-deep in the chaos of academia and sought refuge in the expansive world of music. The quartet—consisting of Julian ‘Jules’ McAllister on lead vocals and guitar, Bessie ‘Bess’ Holt on bass, Franklin ‘Frankie’ Jones on drums, and Ronald ‘Ronnie’ Smith on keyboard—decided to channel their academic frustrations into a form of artistic expression, resulting in the formation of Awful Polytechnic.

As the band members’ academic years neared their end, Awful Polytechnic slowly began to build a name for themselves in the Portland music scene. They became known for their intense, energetic performances and frank, complex lyrics that mirrored their experiences in the world of academia. Their unique sound and approach began to resonate with many young adults facing similar struggles, leading to a dedicated fan base that continues to grow.

Genre:
Indie Rock/Alternative

Title:
“Thermodynamic Heartbreak”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Chords: C, G, Am, F, Em, Dm)

(Verse 1: C, G, Am, F)
From the lecture halls to the dive bar stools,
We’ve been breaking all their precious rules.
With textbooks heavy and hearts so light,
We’ve been waiting for this all damn night.

(Chorus: Em, Am, Dm, G)
Thermodynamic heartbreak, it’s more than we can take,
This entropy of love that’s meant to break.
A chemical reaction, a classroom distraction,
We’re just awfully good at this thermodynamic heartbreak.

(Verse 2: C, G, Am, F)
In the swirl of equations and crumbling dreams,
We found a place where nothing’s as it seems.
With guitar strings and scribbled proofs,
We’ve woven truth beneath this roof.

(Chorus: Em, Am, Dm, G)
Thermodynamic heartbreak, it’s our favorite mistake,
This entropy of love that’s meant to shake.
A kinetic connection, seeking direction,
We’re just awfully good at this thermodynamic heartbreak.

(Bridge: F, C, G, Am)
Oh, the energy it takes to defy gravity,
Just to stay afloat in this academic sea.
But the melody and the math, they’ve carved a clear path,
And we’ll dance through this thermodynamic aftermath.

(Chorus: Em, Am, Dm, G)
Thermodynamic heartbreak, it’s more than we can take,
This entropy of love that’s meant to break.
A chemical reaction, a classroom distraction,
We’re just awfully good at this thermodynamic heartbreak.

Fan’s Name and Testimonial:
Fan Name: Amy Roberts

“Awful Polytechnic is my favorite band because they understand. They get the struggle of balancing school, work, life, and dreaming big. Their music speaks to those feelings in a way that’s raw, passionate, and deeply relatable. Every song feels like a direct conversation, a shared secret between me and the band. Being part of the Awful Polytechnic community means being part of a group that’s navigating the same chaotic, beautiful mess of youth and ambition. There’s no other band I’d rather have as the soundtrack to this period of my life.”

Backstory:

Formed in the year 2000, Timely Valley hails from a small town in the hills of North Carolina. The members met in their high school music class and realized they shared a deep passion for music and storytelling. They decided to name their band after the valley that cradled their hometown, a place where time seemed to move at its own pace. The band comprises five members – lead vocalist and guitarist Lucas, bassist Jake, keyboardist Heather, drummer Max, and backing vocalist and percussionist Ava. Over the years, Timely Valley has gone from playing in local bars and community centers to performing at major music festivals across the country. Their heartfelt lyrics and distinctive sound have won the hearts of audiences everywhere.

Genre:

Folk Rock

Song Title:

“Echoes of Our Home”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Down in the valley where the [C] river runs free,
[Em] We were kids just chasing [D] dreams.
[G] Hand in hand under the [C] old oak tree,
[Em] Life was simple, or so [D] it seemed.

(Chorus)
[G] Echoes of our home, [C] whispering in the wind,
[Em] Memories of a time, when [D] innocence wasn’t pretend.
[G] Now we’ve grown and [C] gone away,
[Em] But our hearts will always [D] stay,
[G] In the echoes of our [C] home, [Em] echoes of our [D] home.

(Verse 2)
[G] We’ve traveled far, seen the [C] world so wide,
[Em] But nothing compares to the [D] mountain side,
[G] The wild flowers, the [C] starry nights,
[Em] Those moments of pure [D] delight.

(Chorus)
[G] Echoes of our home, [C] whispering through the years,
[Em] The laughter, the love, and the [D] unshed tears.
[G] We carry it with us, [C] wherever we roam,
[Em] Engraved in our hearts, are the [D] echoes of our home.

(Guitar solo / Bridge)

(Chorus)
[G] Echoes of our home, [C] echoing so true,
[Em] As we journey on, we’ll always [D] find you.
[G] In the sunsets and [C] the morning dew,
[Em] The echoes of our [D] home, will [G] always pull us [C] through.

Fan Testimonial:

My name is Emily and I’m a lifelong fan of Timely Valley. Their music speaks directly to my soul. The beauty of their lyrics and the passion they put into their performance is incredibly moving. The song “Echoes of Our Home” resonates deeply with me, reminding me of my own small town upbringing. Their music has been a comforting companion through the ups and downs of life. For that, Timely Valley will always be my favorite band.

Backstory:
Formed in the quaint suburbs of York, England, Frightening Expense took root in 2012 when lead vocalist and guitarist, Vincent Straker, met drummer, Joshua Redwood, at a local pub’s open mic night. They bonded over their mutual adoration for punk rock music and shared financial struggles. Drawn to their raw energy and shared passion, local bassist Sarah Spade joined them, and the trio began creating music that combined their shared experiences and frustrations, naming their band ‘Frightening Expense’ as a snide comment on their financial struggles and the cost of pursuing their love for music.

The band’s first album, “Broken Piggy Bank,” brought them local recognition and the attention of indie music producer Julian Stratford, who helped the band refine their sound and establish a loyal cult following. Frightening Expense’s music, characterized by its raw energy, biting lyrics, and a dash of self-deprecating humor, resonated with fans facing the same struggles, turning them into a symbol of the ‘struggling artist’ in the local music scene.

Genre: Punk Rock

Title: “Empty Pockets, Full Hearts”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1 – G,Em,C,D)
In the city of dreams, with our torn-up jeans, (G, Em)
Chasing fame or bust, but it’s just dust. (C, D)
Empty pockets, but our hearts are full, (G, Em)
We’ve got the rhythm, we’ve got the pull. (C, D)

(Chorus – G,D,Em,C)
Empty pockets, full hearts, (G, D)
Never stopping, from dusk till dawn. (Em, C)
With a song in our heart, a dream in our sight, (G, D)
We’ll make it through, cutting through the night. (Em, C)

(Verse 2 – G,Em,C,D)
Dinner’s cheap ramen, in a room that’s crumbling, (G, Em)
No dollars in our hands, but we’ve got a band. (C, D)
Empty pockets, but our hearts are on fire, (G, Em)
With a song to sing, and a burning desire. (C, D)

(Chorus – G,D,Em,C)
Empty pockets, full hearts, (G, D)
Playing our music, tearing charts. (Em, C)
With a melody sweet, a rhythm so right, (G, D)
We’ll keep playing, till the morning light. (Em, C)

Fans Favorite: ‘Becky Thompson’

Testimonial:
“I discovered Frightening Expense during a low point in my life. I was jobless, penniless, and feeling pretty worthless. Their music, especially ‘Empty Pockets, Full Hearts,’ spoke directly to my soul. They transformed their struggles into something beautiful, which encouraged me to do the same. Frightening Expense is more than a band to me; they’re a symbol of resilience and hope. They remind me that even though I might have empty pockets, as long as my heart is full of dreams and determination, I can overcome anything.”

Backstory:
“Worthless Animal” was born out of the gritty urban landscape of Detroit, Michigan, in 2003. The founding members, vocalist Joaquin “Quin” Reyes, guitarist Danny “Riff” Rogers, bassist Ben “Beast” Bauer and drummer Tommy “Thunder” Thurman, were all steeped in the city’s robust punk scene before they decided to form a band that challenged the traditional punk boundaries. The name “Worthless Animal” was inspired by a graffiti tag they saw on a decaying wall in their neighborhood – it was gritty, raw and unapologetic, just like their music.

Their journey from underground local heroes to the national stage was a roller coaster ride of garage gigs, basement rehearsals, and relentless touring. Their raw energy, aggressive lyrics, and an unyielding commitment to authenticity set them apart from many other bands of the era. They soon gathered a dedicated fanbase that resonated with their defiant ethos and unfiltered sound.

Genre:
Punk Rock

Song Title:
“Concrete Jungle Symphony”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Am (F) / E (G) / Dm (Am)
In the city’s cold embrace, we found our home,
Lost in the concrete maze, but never alone.
We found beauty in the grime, in the urban decay,
Carved our names on the walls, made this jungle our domain.

[Chorus]
C (G) / Am (F) / Dm (E)
We’re the voice of the underdogs, the forgotten, the unseen,
Screaming loud in the Concrete Jungle Symphony.

[Verse 2]
Am (F) / E (G) / Dm (Am)
Skyscrapers cast long shadows, hiding the sun,
This is our playground, our battle has begun.
The city’s pulse under our feet, its rhythm in our veins,
Our anthem echoes off the walls, in the pouring rain.

[Chorus]
C (G) / Am (F) / Dm (E)
We’re the voice of the underdogs, the forgotten, the unseen,
Screaming loud in the Concrete Jungle Symphony.

Fan Testimonial:
Name: Lucy “Punkgirl” Thornton

“Worthless Animal isn’t just a band—it’s a movement. Their music speaks to me in a way nothing else has. It’s raw, it’s real, it’s unfiltered—just like life. From the first time I heard ‘Concrete Jungle Symphony’, I knew I was a fan for life. The way they capture the angst and the beauty of the city resonates with my own experiences. Worthless Animal gives a voice to people like me, who often feel unseen and unheard. This band is more than a favorite, it’s a lifeline.”

Backstory:
Greedy Question was born out of the smoky basement of a run-down apartment in the heart of New York City. Founders, and childhood friends, Max Reynolds (vocals and guitar) and Sam Harper (drums) spent countless nights jamming and writing songs fueled by their angst, their dreams, and a mutual love for rock music. After a few years of honing their craft, they were joined by Bella Robinson (bass) and Sarah Jacobs (keyboard), two talented musicians they met at a local gig. Their chemistry was undeniable from the start and Greedy Question quickly became a force to be reckoned with on the local underground music scene, winning hearts with their raw energy, compelling lyrics, and passionate performances.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Burning Bridges”

Full Song Lyrics:
[Verse 1]
Em G
Once upon a time, we were young and reckless,
D C
Burning bridges just to feel alive.
Em G
Chasing shadows in the dead of night,
D C
Lost in a world that was black and white.

[Chorus]
Em G
Now we’re older, a bit colder,
D C
But the fire inside still rages on.
Em G
Building bridges from the embers,
D C
Finding hope in the break of dawn.

[Verse 2]
Em G
Tales of love, tales of sorrow,
D C
We’ve all got our demons to fight.
Em G
Through the chaos, through the madness,
D C
We find strength in the darkest night.

[Chorus]
Em G
Now we’re wiser, the horizon’s brighter,
D C
But the storm inside still rages on.
Em G
Healing bridges from the ashes,
D C
Finding peace in the rising sun.

Fan Testimonial:
“I’m Jenny Thompson, probably the biggest Greedy Question fan you’ll ever meet. I’ve followed them from their early days playing small gigs in downtown New York. Their music resonates with me on such a deep level it’s like they’re singing my feelings, my story. ‘Burning Bridges’ has pulled me through some really tough times and made me feel less alone. Their raw energy, their passion for their art, and their authenticity make them not just my favorite band but my lifeline.”