Backstory:
Joint Topic was formed in the bustling heart of New York City in the early 2000s. The band, comprising of four members – lead vocalist and guitarist, Jonah, drummer, Timothy, bassist, Sam, and keyboardist, Alex, all met during their years at the Manhattan School of Music. Their common love for music’s ability to connect people and initiate discussions on complex issues led to the formation of Joint Topic. Their name itself reflects their mission: to create music that triggers dialogue and encourages shared understanding on various topics that they feel strongly about.

Genre:
Alternative Indie Rock

Title:
“Songs from the Sidewalk”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Am E
Walking down the New York streets,
G D
Graffiti tales and the city beats.
Am E
Lost souls we meet, stories we greet,
G D
In the heart of the city that never sleeps.

(Chorus)
C G
These are our songs from the sidewalk,
Am E
Painted in notes, sketched in chalk.
C G
Voices that talk, in melodies they walk,
Am E
These are our songs from the sidewalk.

(Verse 2)
Am E
Under the city lights, amid the buzzing sights,
G D
We weave stories of love and fights.
Am E
Each chord strikes, a new tale ignites,
G D
Singing the city’s highs and its plights.

(Chorus)
C G
These are our songs from the sidewalk,
Am E
Echoing in alleys, around the clock.
C G
In the rhythm of the heart that we unlock,
Am E
These are our songs from the sidewalk.

Favorite fan’s name and testimonial:
Name: Sara Brown

Testimonial: “Joint Topic is more than just a band to me. They’re story-tellers, truth-seekers, and creators of a musical universe that is so raw, so real, and so relatable. Their songs are like anthems for our generation, addressing issues we all face but often struggle to articulate. The lyrics are thoughtful and profound, and the music strikes the perfect chord of emotion. They make me feel seen, heard, and understood. Joint Topic is my favorite band because they’re not just making music, they’re starting a conversation, and I feel honored to be a part of it.”

Backstory:
Composed Man is a band that came together in the bustling streets of Seattle. They are not your typical garage band; they did not meet in school or through friends, but rather through a chance encounter in a music store. The quartet was individually soaking in the music of different genres when their eyes met across the store. A connection was formed, conversation sparked and before long, they discovered their shared love for creating music that resonates with the soul and transcends the boundaries of societal norms. Featuring frontman and lead vocalist, James Blackwood, guitarist and backup vocalist, Leo Tobias, bassist, Alan Smith, and drummer, Sean Parker, Composed Man has been making waves in the music industry since their inception in 2014.

Genre:
Folk Rock/Indie

Title:
“Monochrome Dreams”

Full Song Lyrics with Chord Progression:

[Intro]
G – C – G – D

[Verse 1]
G
Under the glow of the streetlight,
C
Stands a man, in black and white,
G
Lost in thought, lost in sight,
D
Of his monochrome dreams taking flight.

[Verse 2]
G
His hopes, his fears, his undying cheers,
C
Echo in the night, whisper in his ears,
G
As he embarks on a journey, leaving behind his years,
D
In the realm of his monochrome dreams, he steers.

[Chorus]
Em
Monochrome dreams, black and white streams,
C
Where reality blurs and fantasy gleams,
Em
A world of contrast, or so it seems,
D
In the mosaic of his monochrome dreams.

[Repeat Verse 1 and 2 with Chorus]

[Outro]
G – C
In the depths of the night, under the moon’s beam,
G – D
He dances in the melody, of his monochrome dreams.

Fan Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan is Olivia Peterson. She fell in love with Composed Man when she first heard their song “Monochrome Dreams” at a local bar in Seattle. As an aspiring artist, she connected with their music on a deeper level, finding inspiration and solace in their lyrics.

“I can’t express how much Composed Man means to me,” she says, “Their music speaks to me. It’s like they’ve put my thoughts, my dreams, and my emotions into words and melodies. Every time I listen to ‘Monochrome Dreams,’ it feels like a journey, a journey of self-discovery and understanding. For me, Composed Man isn’t just a band, it’s a safe haven, it’s the voice of my soul.”

Backstory:

Complicated Passenger was formed in the heart of Austin, Texas, back in 2012. The band members, who were high school friends, experimented with music in their garage until they found a sound that was uniquely theirs. The band initially struggled to gain recognition for their talent. However, the tide turned when they won a local university music contest, which led to their first record deal.

Lizzy, the lead vocalist, brings a soulful voice that contrasts perfectly with Dave’s jazzy guitar riffs, while the rhythmic foundation of the band is strongly held by Eddie’s powerful drumming skills and Leo’s groovy bass lines. Their shared love for music and their bond of friendship has kept them going through all the highs and lows on their journey to stardom.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Dancing in the Maze”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am F C G
Lost in time, lost in space,
Am F C G
Circling around in this endless race
Am F C G
Your love, it feels like a haunted place
Am F C G
I’m just a complicated passenger, lost in your maze

(Chorus)
Am F C G
Dancing, dancing in the maze
Am F C G
I’m the fool, lost in your gaze
Am F C G
Love’s a game we endlessly play,
Am F C G
I’m just a complicated passenger, dancing in the maze

(Verse 2)
Am F C G
Crowded streets, lonely hearts,
Am F C G
Chasing shadows in the dark
Am F C G
Your love cuts deeper than a shark
Am F C G
I’m just a complicated passenger, a clueless ark

(Chorus)
Am F C G
Dancing, dancing in the maze
Am F C G
I’m the fool, lost in your gaze
Am F C G
Love’s a game we endlessly play,
Am F C G
I’m just a complicated passenger, dancing in the maze

(Bridge)
Am F C G
In this labyrinth of love, I find my way
Am F C G
A path that leads to you, come what may
Am F C G
I’m just a complicated passenger, dancing in the daze

Favorite Fan Testimonial:

My name is Samantha, and I first heard Complicated Passenger at a small gig in Austin. Their energy was infectious, and I was instantly captivated by the raw emotional power in their music. I’ve been to every show in Texas since then. Their songs resonate with my life, making me feel understood and less alone. From their dynamic performances to their genuine interaction with fans, they embody true music and authenticity. They’re not just my favorite band; they’re my lifeline.

Backstory:
Born and raised in the dingy bars and clubs of Seattle, Wilted Exclusion found their footing in the grunge revival era of the late 2010s. The four members, Jay Monroe (vocals/guitar), Lenny Barker (drums), Regan McAlister (bass), and Sarah “Siren” Silverman (lead guitar), met at an alternative music festival and immediately bonded over a shared love for old school grunge, punk, and an ethos that screamed a desire to be excluded from mainstream music. They embarked on a mission to bring back the raw, powerful sound of the 90s grunge era while adding their contemporary spin to it.

The band initially had a rough start with a series of failed gigs that nearly led to their break up. However, a chance encounter with a local radio DJ at a dive bar gave them the break they needed. Their first single, “Daisy Chains”, aired on local radio and quickly garnered a cult following of dedicated fans who resonated with their raw and emotive sound. Since then, Wilted Exclusion has released two full-length albums and toured nationally, becoming an influential voice in the alternative music scene.

Genre: Grunge Revival/Alternative Rock

Title: “Sidewalk Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Em G D A
I walk alone, through the sidewalk shadows,
Em G D A
In the heart of the city, where no one knows.
Em G D A
Chasing the echoes of my hollow yesterdays,
Em G D A
Underneath the neon lights, that fade away.

(Chorus)
Em G D A
Sidewalk shadows, reflecting my pain,
Em G D A
Lost in the labyrinth, drenched in the rain.
Em G D A
These city streets are my only confession,
Em G D A
In the waning moonlight, of my seclusion.

(Verse 2)
Em G D A
These skyscraper giants, their silent screams,
Em G D A
Masking my sorrow, breaking my dreams.
Em G D A
In the alleyways of despair, I search for redemption,
Em G D A
But all I find, is wilted exclusion.

(Chorus)
Em G D A
Sidewalk shadows, whispering my name,
Em G D A
Graffiti tales, of glory and shame.
Em G D A
In this urban jungle, I find my connection,
Em G D A
Bearing the weight, of my introspection.

(Outro)
Em G D A
Sidewalk shadows, under a silver sky,
Em G D A
I find solace, in the will to defy.
Em G D A
A rebel anthem, echoes in my exclusion,
Em G D A
In the heart of the city, I find my revolution.

Favorite Fan:
Mark “Moshpit” Johnson is Wilted Exclusion’s favorite fan. Mark has attended every single one of their gigs since their first radio debut. He’s the one who’s always at the front row, passionately moshing and singing their lyrics back to them. Mark says, “Wilted Exclusion is my favorite band because they’re not just making music, they’re creating an experience. Their raw, powerful sound speaks to the rebellion in all of us and their lyrics tell stories that need to be heard. In a world where everything feels so polished and produced, it’s refreshing to see a band that’s not afraid to be real, raw, and vulnerable.”

Backstory:
Dramatic Bridge is a group of four childhood friends from the small seaside town of Hastings, England. Initially, the band’s members, Callum Wright, Jake Davies, Leo Baxter, and Harry Quinn, were individually pursuing their own musical endeavors until they coincidentally met at a local music festival. Recognizing the synchronicity and harmony in their varied musical styles, they decided to form Dramatic Bridge in 2012. Over the years, their unique sound and evocative lyrics have found a place in the heart of listeners who enjoy deep and thought-provoking music. They’ve been known to perform impromptu gigs on the iconic Hastings Pier, building their reputation as the ‘Seaside storytellers’.

Genre:
Dramatic Bridge’s music falls into the indie folk-rock genre, with a strong influence of British pop music. Their sound is characterized by a harmonious blend of acoustic and electric guitars, coupled with reflective lyrics and emotionally resonating vocal performances.

Title:
“One More Dance”

Full Song Lyrics with Chord Progression:

Verse (G, C, Em, D)
[G] Lonely streets and [C] silent nights,
[Em] Waiting for a [D] change, a moment’s light.
[G] Craving for your [C] touch, your glance,
[Em] Hoping for a chance at [D] one more dance.

Chorus (C, G, D, Em)
[C] One more dance under the [G] moonlight,
[D] Feel our hearts beat in the [Em] still of the night.
[C] Just to hold you close, in this [G] infinite expanse,
[D] Let’s steal the night with [Em] one more dance.

Verse (G, C, Em, D)
[G] Drifting waves and [C] empty shores,
[Em] Echoes of our laughter [D] from before.
[G] In the rhythm of the [C] sea, your trace,
[Em] Yearning for the warmth of [D] your embrace.

(Repeat Chorus)

Bridge (Em, D, C, G)
[Em] Even if the stars lose their [D] shine,
[C] Even if destiny denies,
[Em] I’ll hold onto this [D] memory,
[C] Our love story painted on the [G] seaside.

(Repeat Chorus)

The Band’s Favorite Fan:
Our favorite fan is Emma Thompson, a charming lady who’s been with us since our early days. She’s attended every single one of our shows and even followed us on our recent tour across England. Emma once said in a heartfelt testimonial, “The raw emotion in Dramatic Bridge’s music touches my soul. There’s a beautiful melancholy in their songs that resonates with me deeply. Despite the sadness, their music also brings a sense of comfort. It’s like they’re telling you, ‘Hey, it’s okay to feel this way.’ I’ve never connected more with any other band than I have with Dramatic Bridge. Their music has been my solace during some tough times, and for that, they’ll always be my favourite band.”

Backstory:

Plaintive Lunchroom was born in the eclectic music scene of Austin, Texas, in the early 2000s. Founding members, lead vocalist, and guitarist Liam “Rooster” Crawford and drummer Oliver “Ollie” Malone, were childhood friends who shared a passion for music. After high school, they moved to Austin, where they met bassist Mariah “Moon” Simmons and keyboardist “Doc” Sullivan while working in a quirky, arts-filled cafe called The Lunchroom. The band officially formed in 2006, choosing the name Plaintive Lunchroom, inspired by their meeting place and a shared sense of nostalgia for a simpler time.

Plaintive Lunchroom’s music reflects their shared love of the unique and the commonplace, blending together individual stories with universal experiences. Despite experiencing ups and downs, including a brief breakup in 2012, the band has remained a constant in the Austin music scene, and their fans eagerly await each new release.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Song Title:

“Paper Bag Dreams”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G]Looking out the window, [C]under the neon lights,
[G]Scribbling down dreams on [D]old brown paper bags.
[G]Coffee rings and lipstick stains, [C]trace our weary fights,
[D]In this corner of the world, [C]our dreams don’t sag.

(Chorus)
[G]We’re just paper bag dreamers, [D]caught in life’s great stream,
[C]Anchored by love, [G]swept up in the theme.
[G]Oh, life can be a nightmare, [D]but we still dare to dream,
[C]In our Plaintive Lunchroom, [D]where nothing’s as it seems.

(Verse 2)
[G]Laughter echoes through the room, [C]under the setting sun,
[G]Our songs of hope are born from [D]the mundane.
[G]In the hidden nooks of life, [C]where the lost ones run,
[D]We find solace in music, [C]freedom from the pain.

(Chorus)
[G]We’re just paper bag dreamers, [D]caught in life’s great stream,
[C]Anchored by love, [G]swept up in the theme.
[G]Oh, life can be a nightmare, [D]but we still dare to dream,
[C]In our Plaintive Lunchroom, [D]where nothing’s as it seems.

The band’s favorite fan’s name:

Emily Thompson

Testimonial:

“I first heard Plaintive Lunchroom at a local music festival in Austin’s Zilker Park. I was immediately drawn to their unique sound and heartfelt lyrics. Their song ‘Paper Bag Dreams’ became an anthem for my group of friends and me. We were all in the midst of figuring out our lives and the band’s music truly resonated with us. I have been a die-hard fan ever since, attending every local show. Plaintive Lunchroom’s music has been a soundtrack to my life, helping me navigate through the highs and lows. Their authenticity and soulful performances make them stand out in a crowd. They are more than a band to me, they are a lifeline.”

Backstory:
Miniature Sneeze is an unlikely quartet of music enthusiasts who met in the most unexpected place – an allergist’s office. Each member was having a routine allergy test when, one after another, they all released a comically small sneeze, prompting laughter from the entire room and forging an immediate bond. The group started as a casual, weekly jam session at local coffee shops and slowly evolved into a full-fledged band with a solid following. Their shared experience with allergies and the humor born from their encounter is what gives Miniature Sneeze its unique vibe, creating an atmosphere of humor and camaraderie that is infectious to all who listen.

Genre:
Alternative Indie Pop

Title:
“Pet Dander Serenade”

Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G]Waking up in the [Am]morning,
[C]With a fuzzy friend [D]by my side,
[G]Despite the allergy [Am]warnin’,
[C]I simply cannot [D]hide.

(Chorus)
[G]It’s a pet dander [Am]serenade,
[C]A love song my [D]sinuses have made,
[G]With every miniature [Am]sneeze,
[C]I’m begging you [D]please,
[G]Don’t take my furry [Am]friend away,
[C]I’ll live with the [D]allergy any day.

(Verse 2)
[G]Scratchy eyes and [Am]runny nose,
[C]It’s the path that [D]I chose,
[G]Just to have you [Am]near,
[C]My dear, have no [D]fear.

(Chorus)
[G]It’s a pet dander [Am]serenade,
[C]A love song my [D]sinuses have made,
[G]With every miniature [Am]sneeze,
[C]I’m begging you [D]please,
[G]Don’t take my furry [Am]friend away,
[C]I’ll live with the [D]allergy any day.

Fan Testimonial:
Samantha, a 22-year-old university student from Illinois, is their favorite fan. She discovered Miniature Sneeze at an open mic during her freshman year and has attended over 20 of their performances since. Samantha loves the band because their music speaks to her, their lyrics are relatable, and their sound is unique. She’s also a huge animal lover, which only makes her identify more with their songs. Samantha says, “Miniature Sneeze is hands-down my favorite band. Their music is not just fun and catchy, but it’s also real and honest. I love how they can turn a simple everyday experience like dealing with allergies into a beautiful, heartfelt song. It’s like they’re singing my life!”

Backstory:

Born in the heart of Minnesota in 2014, ‘Frayed Teacher’ was conceived in a small garage by three high school teachers who shared an intense passion for music. The original members included a math teacher, a literature teacher, and a physics instructor who each found refuge in the rhythm and melodies of their musings after an arduous day of grading papers and lectures. Their unique blend of musicality and lyrical wit, which started as a side hobby, soon garnered attention from the local community, eventually catapulting them into the limelight of the indie music scene.

Although the trio initially played at school events and regional festivals, they soon found themselves gracing bigger stages and larger audiences. Their music, filled with clever wordplay and thoughtful, emotionally charged lyrics, resonated with listeners, which led to their inevitable signing with a record label. Despite their newfound fame, ‘Frayed Teacher’ has maintained their grounded demeanor, always operating with the same authentic spirit they had in their teaching days.

Genre: Indie Rock

Title: Mathematic Romance

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am Em G Dm
I’m just a teacher, with a frayed coat of charm,
Am Em G Dm
Whispering equations, into your ears so warm.
Am Em G Dm
You’re my sweet variable, the x in my heart,
Am Em G Dm
Together, we’re a sum, never to be torn apart.

(Chorus)
C G Am F
You’re my mathematic romance, my algebraic dance,
C G Am F
In the geometry of love, we found our chance.
C G Am F
Under the calculus stars, I find you,
C G Am F
Our love is a theorem, forever true.

(Verse 2)
Am Em G Dm
In the classroom of life, you’re my favorite lesson,
Am Em G Dm
With you, every moment’s an intriguing session.
Am Em G Dm
Our love story, as beautiful as Pi,
Am Em G Dm
A mathematic romance, under the grand sky.

(Repeat Chorus)

Fan’s Favorite Testimonial:

“My name’s Emily Bower, and Frayed Teacher is my favorite band for many reasons. Their music combines the melodious symphony of life with profound wisdom, something that truly resonates with me. Being a teacher myself, I feel seen and heard when I listen to their songs. ‘Mathematic Romance’ in particular is a favorite. I find the metaphorical blending of teaching and love incredibly relatable and beautiful. Plus, the indie rock vibe is just my style. They remind me of the beauty in our ordinary lives and the extraordinary love found therein.”

Backstory:

Tall New forms a picture of an eclectic band that emerged from the streets of New York City in early 2016. The band was founded by childhood friends Jake Harrington and Aaron Hudson, both 6’5” and towering above the crowd, hence the name ‘Tall New’. They soon welcomed multi-instrumentalist Lisa Marie, bringing their raw, energetic sound to life. From impromptu performances in subways to gracing stage at music festivals, Tall New’s journey has been nothing short of spectacular. They quickly gained a vast fan base, with their music resonating with the youth.

Genre:

Tall New is best known for their unique blend of Indie pop and electronic dance music, creating a distinctive sound that’s high-energy, vibrant, and infectious.

Title:

“Neon Streets”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G]Walking through the [D]neon streets [Em]
[C]Lost in city’s [D]dizzy beats [Em]
[G]Holding on to [D]dreams so fleet [Em]
[C]Searching for our [D]destiny [Em]

(Chorus)
[G]Neon streets, [D]bright and bold [Em]
[C]We’re young, we’re fierce, [D]we’re gold [Em]
[G]In the city’s [D]heart we unfold [Em]
[C]Our tale, our story, [D]yet untold [Em]

(Verse 2)
[G]We dance to the [D]rising sun [Em]
[C]The night is young, [D]our journey’s begun [Em]
[G]Underneath the [D]city’s hum [Em]
[C]We find our rhythm, [D]we become one [Em]

(Chorus)
[G]Neon streets, [D]bright and bold [Em]
[C]We’re young, we’re fierce, [D]we’re gold [Em]
[G]In the city’s [D]heart we unfold [Em]
[C]Our tale, our story, [D]yet untold [Em]

(Outro)
[G]In the neon [D]streets we blend [Em]
[C]Our story has no [D]end [Em]
[G]In the city’s [D]heart we send [Em]
[C]Our love, our music, [D]our eternal trend [Em]

Fan Testimonial:

“My name is Amy, and I am the biggest fan of Tall New. I first heard their song ‘Neon Streets’ at a local music festival, and it was love at first sound. Their unique blend of Indie pop and electronic dance music is like a breath of fresh air. Their lyrics resonate with me, and their vibrant energy is contagious. I feel like their music tells my story, it’s like they’re singing my feelings out loud. Their concerts are always the highlight of my year. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for this band. Tall New is more than just my favorite band; they’re my lifeline, my inspiration.”

Backstory: Kooky Fraud, a San Francisco-based band, was born in the heart of the city’s buzzing music scene in 2005. The band members, quirky siblings Jake and Wendy Parks, and their childhood friend Rex Simmons, were inspired by the punk rock scene that thrived in their city. They decided to create a band that was not afraid to blend elements of punk, rock, and blues, with lyrics that speak to the human condition, change, and the absurdity of life. Their live shows, known for their raw energy and unpredictability, resonate with audiences and reflect the band’s commitment to authenticity.

Genre: Punk Rock/Blues Fusion

Title: “Absurdity’s Waltz”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
G C G D
Life’s a dance we’re spinning in,
G C G D
A waltz of joy, a twist of sin.
G C G D
We laugh, we cry, we lose, we win,
G C G D
In this absurdity’s waltz, we’re in.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
Kooky Fraud, we play the tune,
Em C G D
Underneath the laughing moon.
Em C G D
Come join, before it ends too soon,
Em C G D
In this absurdity’s waltz, under the moon.

(Verse 2)
G C G D
Fate’s hand deals cards we cannot see,
G C G D
In this game of life, what will be, will be.
G C G D
Kooky Fraud, we sing the decree,
G C G D
In this absurdity’s waltz, we’re free.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
Kooky Fraud, we play the tune,
Em C G D
Underneath the laughing moon.
Em C G D
Come join, before it ends too soon,
Em C G D
In this absurdity’s waltz, under the moon.

Favorite Fan: Kooky Fraud’s most dedicated fan goes by the name of Larry “The Lizard” Hopkins. Larry claims that Kooky Fraud is his favorite band because they are “as authentic as it gets. They’re not just making music, they’re creating an experience.” Larry has attended every gig the band has played in the Bay Area and has become something of a mascot for the band. Larry says, “Kooky Fraud’s music speaks to my soul. Their punk rock blues fusion is like listening to the world’s most beautiful chaos. Their lyrics are poetic yet raw, and their energy is infectious. I will always be a proud Fraudster!”