Backstory:
Alarming Middle is the brainchild of four childhood friends hailing from Minneapolis, Minnesota. Their shared passion for music and storytelling eventually led them to form a band in their late teens. Comprising frontman, Riley Clark, guitarist, Matthew Cohen, bassist, Noah Gibson, and drummer, Ethan Davis, Alarming Middle started to create music from the garage of Clark’s house. Their music was first discovered by an indie record label scout while performing at a local music festival, and they were signed on the spot. The band’s foundational chemistry has always been their common love for the ‘alarming middle’ of life, that twilight zone between dreams and reality, youth and maturity, freedom and responsibility.

Genre:
Alarming Middle is known for its unique blend of alternative rock and post-punk revival, with strong influences from 90s grunge.

Title:
“Chasing Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1: C-G-Am-F)
In the middle of the night, C
Hunting dreams, we take flight, G
Running to the edge of what’s known, Am
Lost in thoughts, all alone. F

(Chorus: C-G-Am-F)
Chasing shadows, burning bright, C
In the corners of the night. G
Lost in echoes of what’s right, Am
Chasing shadows, out of sight. F

(Verse 2: C-G-Am-F)
We wear our hearts on a sleeve, C
In the truths that we weave. G
Caught in the middle, we bleed, Am
Yearning for what we need. F

(Chorus: C-G-Am-F)
Chasing shadows, losing sight, C
In the labyrinth of the night. G
Following echoes of moonlight, Am
Chasing shadows, taking flight. F

Bridge: Em-Am-Dm-G
In the alarming middle we dwell, Em
Caught in a timeless spell. Am
Our secrets to tell, Dm
In the shadows we fell. G

Outro: C-G-Am-F
In the end, it’s just us, C
Chasing shadows, in the dust. G
Caught in between lust and trust, Am
In the middle, we adjust. F

Fan Testimonial:
“I’m Sarah, and I’ve been a fan of Alarming Middle since their first gig at the local festival in Minneapolis. I love their music because it speaks to me on a personal level. It’s like they’ve captured the essence of the struggles, dreams, and hopes of our generation and translated them into a beautiful symphony of sounds. Their song, “Chasing Shadows,” especially resonates with me. It’s about the journey of self-discovery, the battle to find our place in the world. Alarming Middle is my favorite band because their music helps me feel understood and less alone in my journey through the ‘alarming middle’ of life.”

Backstory:

Authentic Guardian emerged from the heart of Seattle, Washington, with its roots deeply embedded in the city’s vibrant music scene. The band was formed in 2008 by lead vocalist and bassist, Liam O’Conner, and guitarist, Alex Pierce, who were high school friends sharing a mutual admiration for alternative rock. A few months later, they were joined by drummer, Mike Lawson, who was an old friend of Alex from their college days. Together, they started creating music that would challenge the status quo and redefine the boundaries of alternative rock.

The band found instant success with their debut album ‘Breaking Barriers’ and quickly garnered a devoted fan base. Authentic Guardian’s powerful lyrics, unique sound, and electrifying live performances soon saw them gracing some of the most prestigious stages worldwide. Their journey from being local heroes to international rock icons is a testament to their passion for music and unyielding determination.

Genre: Alternative Rock

Title: Shadows & Echoes

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Walking down this [D] lonesome road, [Em] feelings that I [C] cannot decode
[G] Echoes of the [D] past resound, [Em] in my heart where [C] they abound

[Am] Shadows of our [D] love still haunt [G] me [Em], [Am] Echoes of your [D] laughter taunt [G] me [Em]

(Chorus)
[C] Shadows and [G] echoes, [D] love’s mementos
[Em] They’re all that’s [C] left, of our [D] love’s test

(Verse 2)
[G] In the mirror of the [D] past, [Em] images that [C] didn’t last
[G] Shadows of our [D] love remain, [Em] Echoes of our [C] joy and pain

[Am] Shadows of your [D] smile so dear [G] [Em], [Am] Echoes of your [D] voice I hear [G] [Em]

(Chorus)
[C] Shadows and [G] echoes, [D] love’s mementos
[Em] I’m left with these [C] reminders, of our [D] love’s binders

(Outro)
[G] Shadows and [D] echoes, [Em] love’s mementos
[C] They’re all I’ve [G] got, of a [D] love that was [Em] fought

Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan is undoubtedly Jenny Johnson. Jenny has been following Authentic Guardian since our early days and has attended almost every concert we’ve given. She has been instrumental in promoting our music and has always stood by us, even during our toughest times.

Jenny’s testimonial: “Authentic Guardian isn’t just a band to me; they are like family. Their music has always been there for me during my highs and lows. Their soulful lyrics and powerful melodies have a raw, emotional intensity that resonates with me. I feel like every song they write is a chapter of my life. They aren’t just musicians; they are storytellers and poets. Authentic Guardian is my favorite band because they make music that speaks to my soul.”

Backstory:
Idle Honour was formed in the heart of Seattle, Washington, in the spring of 2010 by childhood friends, lead vocalist and guitarist, James Sullivan, and drummer, Max Anderson. They both shared a common interest in music and dreamt of forming their own band since their high school days. After several local performances and talent shows, they were joined by bassist, Lily Rodgers, and lead guitarist, Ryan Mitchell. Together, they started their journey from small gigs to establishing themselves as one of the most dynamic and original bands in the Pacific Northwest. Their journey has always been about staying true to their music and giving their fans the best time of their lives.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Song Title:
“Twilight Fall”

Full Song Lyrics with chord progression:

(C) Twilight’s (G) fall, (Am) you’re all I (Em) recall,
(F) Nightmare’s (C) call, (G) against the wall,
(Am) Memories (Em) fade, (F) but you’re my (C) all,
(G) Love’s charming (Am) brawl, in twilight’s (Em) fall.

(Chorus)
(C) In the (G) twilight (Am) fall, I (Em) gave it all,
(F) Your (C) name, I’d (G) always call,
(Am) We were (Em) standing tall, (F) until the (C) fall,
(G) In the twilight (Am) fall, (Em) we lost it all.

(C)Rising (G) sun, (Am) a new day (Em) begun,
(F) Our love (C) was on the (G) run,
(Am) We thought (Em) we’d won, (F) but it was (C) undone,
(G) By the twilight (Am) fall, (Em) love’s setting sun.

(Chorus)
(C) In the (G) twilight (Am) fall, I (Em) gave it all,
(F) Your (C) name, I’d (G) always call,
(Am) We were (Em) standing tall, (F) until the (C) fall,
(G) In the twilight (Am) fall, (Em) we lost it all.

Favorite Fan’s Testimonial:
Name: Rebecca Grant

“My name is Rebecca, but my friends know me as ‘The Idle Honour Queen.’ I first heard their song ‘Twilight Fall’ at a local bar in Seattle. It was a tough time for me; I was stuck in a dark place. The emotion and raw energy in their music, specifically that song, resonated with me. I felt like they understood my pain. I’ve been to every single show since then. Their lyrics, stage presence, and their unwavering dedication to their music and fans are why Idle Honour is my absolute favorite. Their music is my refuge, my escape, and I can’t imagine a world without their songs echoing in my ears.”

Backstory:

Clumsy Letter was born out of the fusion and collision of five childhood friends who had grown up together in the rural farmlands of Nebraska. The band includes lead vocalist and guitar player Ethan Micah, bassist Johnny Strom, keyboardist Louis Parker, drummer Alex Orion, and lead guitarist Stanley Davis. They started their journey playing in local bars and at county fairs, eventually gaining popularity for their raw talent and unique sound. Their big break came when a small-time record producer from Los Angeles happened to be in Nebraska for personal reasons, heard their music, and was immediately struck by it.

The boys of Clumsy Letter had a shared fondness for their small-town roots and their music reflects their struggles and triumphs, their love stories, and their dreams, giving listeners a sense of pure authenticity. They have stayed true to their origin and have not let fame change their humble nature. The band’s name, Clumsy Letter, reflects their journey from a small town to a big city, where every step felt like writing a clumsy letter to the world.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Broken Compass”

Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Em G
Down the winding road, under a sky so vast,
D Em
Lost and alone, clinging to a broken compass.
Em G
Small town dreams, in a big city’s rush,
D Em
Looking for a familiar face in the crowd’s hush.

[Chorus]
C G
We are the words in a clumsy letter,
D Em
Stumbling, tripping, trying to be better.
C G
Spelled out dreams and unspoken fears,
D Em
Chasing echoes, fighting tears.

[Verse 2]
Em G
Strumming chords on a quiet night,
D Em
Underneath the city lights, holding on tight.
Em G
Every note, every strum, every line,
D Em
Is our story, in the hands of time.

[Chorus]
C G
We are the words in a clumsy letter,
D Em
Stumbling, tripping, trying to be better.
C G
Penning tales of love and sorrow,
D Em
Living today, dreaming tomorrow.

Fan Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan is a 16-year-old girl named Lilly. Lilly said, “I’ve been a hardcore fan of Clumsy Letter since I first heard their song ‘Broken Compass’ on a local radio station two years ago. Their songs resonate with me on a deeper level, and it’s like they narrate my life’s story. Their music gives me strength and hope, and I feel a sense of connection with them. I appreciate their authenticity and humility. Being from a small town myself, their journey is an inspiration to me. They are, by far, my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Fancy Control started as an ambitious group of five high school friends in the heart of Boston. The band initially played in high school gigs, coffee shops, and small local venues – places where the echo of their passion-filled music would bounce off the walls, invigorating everyone present. The path wasn’t easy, as they had to juggle their studies, part-time jobs, and their music. But their dedication paid off when a producer discovered them during a local charity event. Ever since they have been producing soul-stirring music, treating their fans to a journey of emotional exploration.

Genre:
Fancy Control is known for their unique blend of Pop Rock with a hint of Neo-psychedelia.

Title:
“Vivid Rainbows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C#m E A B
Underneath the city lights, we’re chasing dreams,
C#m E A B
Dancing with the stars, weaving vivid rainbows.
C#m E A B
Time is fleeting, yet our hearts are beating,
C#m E A B
In sync with the rhythm, the rhythm of love.

(Chorus)
A E B
Vivid rainbows, in the night sky,
A E B
Your smile, my lullaby.
A E B
In this dance of colors, we intertwine,
A E B
In your arms, the universe aligns.

(Verse 2)
C#m E A B
Through the highs and the lows, we paint our story,
C#m E A B
In hues of passion, and whispers of glory.
C#m E A B
With every heartbeat, every moment fleeting,
C#m E A B
We’re creating vivid rainbows, our love never ceasing.

(Chorus)
A E B
Vivid rainbows, in the night sky,
A E B
Your smile, my lullaby.
A E B
In this dance of colors, we intertwine,
A E B
In your arms, the universe aligns.

Fan Testimonial:
Fancy Control’s biggest fan is undoubtedly Heather Jenkins. Heather, a resident of Boston, has followed the band since their high school days. She is fond of their unique music style that brings a fresh perspective to pop rock. Heather claims that their music helps her find solace and navigate her life’s ups and downs. The band’s dedication to their art and their humble beginnings resonates with her. She says, “Fancy Control’s music is a vibrant splash of colors to the canvas of my life. Their songs are not just music to my ears but a balm to my soul. The lyrics speak to me on so many levels, helping me make sense of my emotions. They’re not just a band to me; they’re my lifeline.”

Backstory:

Unpleasant Nest came into existence when three high school buddies – Liam, Jasper, and Nate from Lancaster, Pennsylvania, decided to turn their garage jamming sessions into something more serious. Liam, the lead vocalist and guitarist, was the driving force behind the formation. Jasper, who played the bass guitar, often found himself lost in the rhythm section, while Nate was a natural at pounding the drums. They called themselves “Unpleasant Nest,” a term that represented their chaotic, unfiltered, and raw music style.

Despite starting off as just another local band, they quickly gained recognition for their electrifying performances. They used their music to voice out the struggles of the everyday man, which resonated with their audience. As they grew more popular, they began traveling across the country, taking their music wherever they could. Their journey wasn’t always smooth, but every bump along the way only added to their collective experiences and further inspired their music.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Song Title:

“Dusk till Dawn”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
[G] Wandering through the city lights, [D] lost in a sea of strangers,
[Em] Searching for that ray of hope, [C] midst the looming dangers.
[G] Echoes of a thousand voices, [D] yet none that I recognize,
[Em] Aiming for the stars above, [C] longing for the sunrise.

(Chorus)
[G] From Dusk till Dawn, [D] I walk this lonely road,
[Em] A heart of stone, [C] with tales untold.
[G] From Dusk till Dawn, [D] I fight my silent war,
[Em] Bound by a promise, [C] made long before.

(Verse)
[G] The city sleeps, but I am awake, [D] painting pictures of tomorrow,
[Em] Holding on to fleeting dreams, [C] to let go of my sorrow.
[G] I see the sun begin to rise, [D] a new day dawns, a new chase,
[Em] With every step, I’m closer to, [C] my destined place.

(Chorus)
[G] From Dusk till Dawn, [D] I walk this lonely road,
[Em] A heart of stone, [C] with tales untold.
[G] From Dusk till Dawn, [D] I fight my silent war,
[Em] Bound by a promise, [C] made long before.

Fan Testimonial:

My name is Samantha, but my friends call me Sam. I’ve been a hardcore fan of Unpleasant Nest ever since their Lancaster days. I connect with their music on a level that words can’t express. Their lyrics speak to me, their music moves me, and their performances electrify me. The rawness, the honesty, and the authenticity of their work is inspiring, and it’s a testament to their genuine love for music. Their song ‘Dusk till Dawn’ is my personal anthem. I’ve gone through a lot and this song has been my rock, inspiring me to keep going. Unpleasant Nest isn’t just my favorite band, they’re my lifeline.

Backstory:
Grandiose Battle, a group of five childhood friends, was born out of the suburban landscapes of Minnesota in 2011. Band members – Travis “Taco” Douglas, Kevin “Killer” Kowalski, Lilly “Lil’ Lady” Peterson, Mike “Monster” Mikkelsen, and Sam “Scorpio” Schofield, spent their formative years playing in each other’s garages and basement, bonded by their shared love of music and societal rebellion. Their music represents their struggle against the mundanity of suburban life and their longing for a grander existence. Grandiose Battle has evolved from a group of rebellious teenagers to a band whose music has inspired and touched the lives of thousands across the country.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Phoenix in the Ashes”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Am, G, D, Em
In the suburbs under the silent night,
Empty hearts in pain, seeking the light,
We’re the misfits, the rebels, no glory, no fame,
Just a burning desire, to rise in this game.

(Chorus)
C, G, D, Em
We are the Phoenix in the Ashes, rising high,
Defying the world, touching the sky.
Shattering the silence, with our battle cry,
We are the Phoenix in the Ashes, learning to fly.

(Verse 2)
Am, G, D, Em
Invisible chains, breaking free,
In the mirror, our enemy we see.
The mundanity of life, we forever defy,
Riding the winds of change, we’re learning to fly.

(Chorus)
C, G, D, Em
We are the Phoenix in the Ashes, rising high,
Defying the world, touching the sky.
With the music as our armor, and passion our guide,
We are the Phoenix in the Ashes, along for the ride.

Fan Testimonial:
Grandiose Battle is the favorite band of 17-year-old Jenna Thompson. Jenna first discovered their music during a difficult time in her life, and she found solace in their raw lyrics and passionate delivery. “Their music is like a lifeline to me,” she says. “In their words, I find my own struggles, my own desires, my own fight. Grandiose Battle isn’t just a band to me, they’ve become a part of who I am.” Jenna has been to all their local shows, owns all their merchandise, and proudly calls herself their biggest fan. She believes that in their music, she finds the strength to keep fighting, just like the Phoenix in their song “Phoenix in the Ashes”.

Backstory:
Rundown Symbol burst onto the music scene in the mid 90s, made up of four small-town friends: lead singer Jonas Reynolds, guitarist Paul “Storm” Durant, bassist Billy “The Kid” McAllister and drummer Lenny “Sticks” Mickelson. Hailing from the remote corners of New Hampshire, they all shared a common dream of making it big in the world of music. Their tight-knit friendship and shared passion for music helped them navigate the ups and downs of the industry and their early struggles. The band’s name, Rundown Symbol, is a tribute to their roots, reflecting the crumbling industrial town they come from, yet the hopes it still carries.

Genre: Alternative Rock

Title: “Echoes of Silence”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em7 G
Wandering down the lonely road,
C9 D
Searching for the stories untold.
Em7 G
Broken homes, fallen stars,
C9 D
These are the echoes of silence.

(Chorus)
G D
Echoes of silence, we are hearing,
Em7 C9
In the heart of the night, it’s searing.
G D
Echoes of silence, we keep bearing,
Em7 C9
In our hearts, the wounds are tearing.

(Verse 2)
Em7 G
On the ruins, in the mist,
C9 D
Carries a dream, we can’t resist.
Em7 G
Through the shadows, far and wide,
C9 D
Echoes of silence, can no longer hide.

(Chorus)
G D
Echoes of silence, piercing and clear,
Em7 C9
In the cold wind, it’s all we hear.
G D
Echoes of silence, in fear we kneel,
Em7 C9
In the echoes, our souls reveal.

Fan’s Name: Sarah Thompson

Testimonial:
“I’ve always loved music, but the first time I heard Rundown Symbol, it was different. Their raw emotion, the haunting melodies, and the way their lyrics spoke to me, it was like they were telling my own stories. They’ve become the soundtrack to my life. Their song ‘Echoes of Silence’ helped me through a lot of hard times. It’s more than just a band for me. They’re like the friends I’ve never met, telling me it’s okay to feel, to hurt, to hope. Rundown Symbol is not just my favorite band, it’s a part of who I am.”

Backstory:
Conscious Meal was born in a small town in Oregon, where four college friends decided to combine their passion for music and environmental activism into a unique sound experience. The band members, Jack “Sage” Henson, Leon “Lentil” Daniels, Katy “Kale” Thompson, and Ian “Indigo” Parker, all shared a common love for organic farming and a sustainable lifestyle. Their unique perspective and lifestyle became the foundation for Conscious Meal, a band that not only entertains but educates its audience about conscious living. The band started performing at local farmers markets, quickly gaining a small but dedicated following. They vowed to spread their music and message beyond their small town, dreaming of a world filled with conscious choices and sustainable living.

Genre:
Conscious Meal’s music is a fusion of Indie rock and Folk with a hint of Jazz, creating a genre of their own – Eco Melodic Rock.

Title:
“Harvest Moon Serenade”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[C] Under the harvest moon we [G] find,
[Am] Songs of the Earth on my [Em] mind.
[F] Footsteps on the fertile [C] ground,
[G] Echoing a rhythmic sound.

(Chorus)
[C] Serenade the moon, [G] sing to the stars,
[Am] Love the Earth, bear [Em] its scars.
[F] Show the world what [C] we are made,
[G] In this Harvest Moon Serenade.

(Verse 2)
[C] Seeds of hope in [G] our hands,
[Am] Nourished by the [Em] forest’s band.
[F] We reap what we [C] sow,
[G] In the Earth’s perpetual glow.

(Chorus)
[C] Serenade the moon, [G] sing to the stars,
[Am] Love the Earth, bear [Em] its scars.
[F] Show the world what [C] we are made,
[G] In this Harvest Moon Serenade.

(Outro)
[C] Under the harvest moon’s [G] glow,
[Am] Seeds of change we [Em] sow.
[F] With love, and tears, and [C] sweat,
[G] This is a serenade we’ll never forget.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is Emily “Eco Em” Saunders. Emily has been following Conscious Meal since their very first performance at the local farmer’s market. She describes Conscious Meal as “Pure magic. The way they blend their music with their message is mesmerizing. They don’t just sing about conscious living, they live it. The authenticity in their music is palpable. Their song ‘Harvest Moon Serenade’ is my anthem. I think it’s time we all listen to the Earth’s rhythm and live in harmony with nature. Conscious Meal is not just my favorite band; they are my inspiration.”

Backstory:
Amusing Conduct began as a group of friends, just five college roommates in the dorms of Berkeley who shared a passion for music and a penchant for bizarre. Each member was studying a different field, which resulted in a unique blend of influences and styles that ultimately shaped their music. Over time, these friends became a family of musicians who found great joy in creating music that is unpredictable, playful, and brimming with energy.

In 2010, they began performing at local venues, offering an experiential journey for audiences with their peculiar sound and lively performances. Their ability to improvise and experiment came from their diverse backgrounds, which included neuroscience, visual arts, philosophy, astrophysics, and theater. Their strength truly shone when they harnessed these differing perspectives to create something that was uniquely their own.

Genre:
Alternative Rock with a blend of Jazz and Punk.

Title:
“Synaptic Fizz”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Tangled up in a melody, [G] fireflies in my brain,
[Am] Nervous system dancing, [F] a synaptic champagne.
[C] Thoughts weave into dreams, [G] painting pictures bright,
[Am] under the starlit canvas, [F] of the cerebral night.

(Chorus)
[G] Pop the cork, let it out,
[Am] this is what we’re all about.
[C] Synaptic fizz, in our minds,
[F] Where chaos and clarity binds.

(Verse 2)
[C] Ideas colliding, [G] in the corners of my head,
[Am] Thoughts lost in translation, [F] in the words unsaid.
[C] A universe within, [G] galaxies yet unseen,
[Am] In the cosmic playground, [F] of the mental machine.

(Chorus)
[G] Pop the cork, let it out,
[Am] this is what we’re all about.
[C] Synaptic fizz, in our minds,
[F] Let’s ride the waves, of our cerebral tides.

Favorite Fan Testimonial:
My name is Marianne and I am an Astrophysics student. Amusing Conduct is my favorite band not just because they create music that is an absolute delight to listen to, but because they manage to weave complex scientific and philosophical concepts into their lyrics. They make my academic passions feel cool and relatable, and that’s not something every band can do. Every time I listen to their songs, I find myself getting lost in the melody, but also in the thoughts and ideas they present. Their music is a constant source of motivation and inspiration for me.