Backstory:

Flat Agent was born in the heart of Austin, Texas, a city teeming with live music and cultural vibrance. The band was formed by childhood friends, lead singer and guitarist Kiefer “Keys” Morton and drummer Brendan “Breezy” Jones. The duo, after years of jamming in their basements, decided to take their music to the streets in 2010. Their performances caught the attention of bassist and backup vocalist, Emily “Em” Walker, who instantly felt a connection with their eclectic sound. She joined the band, bringing her unique style and musical talent, solidifying Flat Agent’s distinct sound.

Their music, though rooted in their love for rock, began to incorporate elements from various genres. This led to a surge in their local popularity and they quickly became a staple in Austin’s bustling live music scene. Their breakthrough came in 2014 after a performance at the SXSW festival, which led to their first record deal and a wider fan base.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Rusty Chains”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1, E minor, G, D, A)
In the cold, cold heart of Texas, (E minor)
Underneath the blazing sun, (G)
We found our rhythm, we found our voices, (D)
Flat Agent, we’ve just begun. (A)

(Chorus, C, G, D, E minor)
Rusty Chains can’t hold us, (C)
Neither can borders or walls, (G)
We’re Flat Agent, born in Austin, (D)
And we’re here to enthrall. (E minor)

(Verse 2)
From basements to the streets, (E minor)
Music is our beat, (G)
With Em’s bass and Breezy’s drums, (D)
Flat Agent can’t be beat. (A)

(Chorus)
Rusty Chains can’t stop us, (C)
We’re breaking free and standing tall, (G)
We’re Flat Agent, born in Austin, (D)
Ready to take the fall. (E minor)

(Bridge, B minor, A, G, D)
We’ve got the power, we’ve got the sound, (B minor)
Flat Agent, we’re Texas bound. (A)
With Rusty Chains, we break apart, (G)
Flat Agent, we’re just at the start. (D)

(Chorus)
Rusty Chains won’t bind us, (C)
Flat Agent, we’re on the ball, (G)
Born in Austin, we are rising, (D)
Against the odds, we stand tall. (E minor)

Favourite Fan Testimonial:
My name is Lily. Flat Agent is, hands down, my favorite band for so many reasons. Their distinct sound, a blend of rock, blues, and a dash of country, resonates with me. No other band has managed to capture the spirit of Austin like they have. Their song, “Rusty Chains”, speaks to the resilience and spirit of not just the band, but every individual who has faced adversity. Every time I hear it, I feel like I can conquer the world. Flat Agent is more than just a band to me, they represent the spirit of perseverance and they inspire me to break my own ‘Rusty Chains’.

Backstory:

Known Location is a band that emerged from the vibrant music scene of Austin, Texas in 2015. The band consists of lead vocalist and guitarist Derek Henderson, bassist Jennifer ‘Jen’ Collins, and drummer Mike Richardson. All three members were individually active musicians, playing in various local bands, before they crossed paths at a music festival and decided to form a band. The name “Known Location” was inspired by the idea that regardless of where their music takes them, they’re rooted in their home city, their ‘known location’.

Known Location became famous for their electrifying live performances and soulful lyrics. They quickly garnered a loyal following, and their popularity soared after their debut album was released. Despite their sudden success, the band members remain firmly committed to their humble beginnings, often playing surprise gigs in small local venues and maintaining a close relationship with their fans.

Genre:

Known Location’s music can be described as a blend of Indie Rock and Folk, with strong Southern Rock influences. The band’s sound is characterized by heartfelt lyrics, strong rhythms, and a distinctive mix of electric and acoustic guitar.

Title:
“Lost in the Known”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am C G D
Daylight’s breakin’,
Am C G D
We’re on the road, chasing the unknown,
Am C G D
Leaving our hearts in a place, we call home,
Am C G D
In the rearview mirror, a silhouette of known.

(Chorus)
Am C G D
Lost in the known, found in the mystery,
Am C G D
Chasing the wind, writing our history,
Am C G D
Every beat of the heart, every breath we take,
Am C G D
Is a step away from the comfort, a step into the break.

(Verse 2)
Am C G D
These city lights, they don’t shine like the stars,
Am C G D
In that Texas sky, where we strummed our guitars,
Am C G D
In every corner, in every bar,
Am C G D
We’re lost in the known, wherever we are.

(Chorus)
Am C G D
Lost in the known, found in the journey,
Am C G D
Riding the wave, no hurry,
Am C G D
Every mile, every day we make,
Am C G D
Is a step away from the known, a step into the stake.

(Bridge)
Am C G D
We’re just a band, we’re just a sound,
Am C G D
In the vast universe, just spinning around,
Am C G D
But in every chord, in every song we’ve known,
Am C G D
We’re finding our way, in the lost, in the known.

The Band’s Favorite Fan:

Known Location’s favorite fan is a young woman named Lucy Miller. Lucy has been following the band since their first Austin gig and has attended every show since. She knows every lyric to every song and is known for her enthusiastic spirit in the front row. Lucy says, “Known Location is my favorite because their music speaks directly to my soul. It’s raw, it’s real, and it always takes me on a journey. Even though they’re gaining popularity, they’ve kept their authenticity, and that makes them even more special to me. I feel like I’m part of their journey, and I can’t wait to see where they go next.”

Backstory:

Uncommon Oatmeal was formed in the small town of Avena, Iowa in 2009. The band’s members, lead vocalist and guitarist Joey “Oat” Oates, bassist Sam “Bran” Branigan, and drummer Kelly “Grain” Grainsworth, met at a local farmer’s market where they bonded over a shared love for music and, of course, oatmeal. They decided to turn their passion into reality and started playing at local bars and cafes, quickly gaining a loyal following.

Their breakthrough came in 2012 when they were discovered by a famous music producer who happened to stumble into one of their shows while passing through Avena. He was so captivated by their unique sound and engaging performances that he decided to sign them to his label. Since then, Uncommon Oatmeal has been pouring their heart and soul into creating music that resonates with their fans and continues to rise in popularity.

Genre:

Indie Folk Rock

Title:

“Morning Harmony”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Wake up, it’s a brand new day, [C] sun is shining in a [G] charming way
[D] Spoonfuls of love and a [C] bowl of dreams, [G] life is more than what it [D] seems
[G] Kitchen smells like warmth and cheer, [C] as the day’s dawn is drawing [G] near
[D] Hear the sound of the morning dove, [C] it’s another day to [G] love [D]

(Chorus)
[G] Morning harmony, [C] in a bowl of oatmeal [G] rising
[D] With every spoonful I [C] take, there’s a new day [G] dawning
[C] Uncommon, but it’s ours, [G] everyday starts with these hours
[D] Morning harmony, the [C] sweetest thing in [G] life [D]

(Verse 2 repeats verse 1’s chord progression)
Wake up, it’s a melody, life is singing in a perfect key
Bowl of oatmeal, a cup of joe, ready to face the day and go
Sunrise colors the world anew, every day is a different hue
Taste the sweetness of the dawn, another day to be reborn

(Chorus repeats)

Favorite Fan’s Name:

Linda Thompson

Testimonial:

“I’ve always been a fan of music that speaks to the simple things in life and when I first heard Uncommon Oatmeal, I knew I had found something special. Their music is so relatable and comforting, like a warm bowl of oatmeal on a cold morning. It’s an essential part of my day now. I just love how their songs can turn ordinary moments into something magical. They’re not just a band to me, they’re like family.”

Backstory:
Jagged Chain formed in the heart of Detroit, Michigan, in 2008, when four friends decided to turn their passion for music into a tangible reality. The bandmembers, Jack “Jazz” Johnson, Andy “Twister” Tisdale, Greg “Grit” Greene, and Nate “Nail” Norton, all came from different musical backgrounds, making their fusion unique and electrifying. Jazz, a former church choir singer, brought a soulful touch to their sound, Twister, a classically trained pianist, added depth, while Grit and Nail, both self-taught musicians, contributed raw, powerful energy. Their shared ambition and love for their hometown propelled them into the local music scene, where they quickly made a name for themselves.

The band’s big break came when their energetic performance at a local music festival caught the attention of a record label executive. Since then, Jagged Chain has released three albums, each reflecting their gritty, emotional sound and their evolution as artists. Their music, often described as a unique blend of rock, soul, and blues, resonates with their fans, who appreciate their authenticity and down-to-earth approach.

Genre:
Blues-Rock

Title:
“Steel City Blues”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
E A E
Steel city’s burnin’, burnin’ down to the ground
C#m B7 E
Feels like my whole world is tumblin’ down
E A E
Workin’ long hours, just to make ends meet
C#m B7 E
Dreamin’ of a life away from this heat

(Chorus)
A E
I’ve got those steel city blues
B7 E
Ain’t got nothing left to lose
A E
Shackles tying me down
B7 E
In this old industrial town

(Repeat Verse and Chorus)

Favorite Fan Testimonial:
Name: Sarah “Chainlink” Thompson

Sarah, known among the Jagged Chain community as “Chainlink,” has been a diehard fan since their first performance. “I was there at their first gig in a rundown bar in Detroit. What drew me to them was their raw energy, passion, and the way they captured the struggles of our city in their music. ‘Steel City Blues,’ in particular, spoke to me. It was like they took the heartache, dreams, and resilience of our city and turned it into a song. Over the years, I’ve watched them grow and evolve, but they’ve always remained true to their roots. Jagged Chain isn’t just a band; they’re a symbol of our city, our struggles, and our hopes. They’re my favorite because their music is real, and it speaks to my soul.”

Backstory:
Hailing from the rain-soaked city of Seattle, Washington, Harsh Cemetery formed in the fall of 1999 through childhood friends and music enthusiasts: Malcolm Riley (Lead Vocals), Elliot Brown (Lead Guitar), Thomas Harington (Bass), and Aaron Mathis (Drums). The four of them found solace in music amidst the chaos of their tumultuous teenage years. Malcolm’s hauntingly beautiful lyrics, often inspired by the macabre, paired with Elliot’s atmospheric guitar riffs, Thomas’s brooding basslines, and Aaron’s thunderous drumming, quickly gained a cult following in the Pacific Northwest’s vibrant music scene. They were known for their raw and intense live performances that left audiences in an emotional tornado.

Genre:
Post-Grunge with a tint of Gothic Rock

Title:
“Echoes in the Graveyard”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1:
[Am] In the heart of dark, where shadows lie [E]
[G] You’ll find me wandering, beneath the moonlit sky [D]
[Am] Among the tombstones, where the silence screams [E]
[G] I trace the names of forgotten dreams [D]

Chorus:
[Am] Echoes in the graveyard, whisper to the night [E]
[G] Lost souls humming lullabies, in the pale moonlight [D]
[Am] In this harsh cemetery, we find our peace [E]
[G] Where the world’s chaos, finally cease [D]

Verse 2:
[Am] The wind carries stories, of love and despair [E]
[G] In the cold night air, there’s a mournful prayer [D]
[Am] I etch my heartache, on the marble stone [E]
[G] In this sea of death, I’m not alone [D]

Chorus:
[Am] Echoes in the graveyard, whisper to the night [E]
[G] Lost souls humming lullabies, in the pale moonlight [D]
[Am] In this harsh cemetery, we find our peace [E]
[G] Where the world’s chaos, finally cease [D]

Favorite Fan Testimonial:
Lisa Marie, a 30-year-old from Olympia, Washington, has been following the band since their early days. “Harsh Cemetery’s music is a cathartic experience,” she says. “Their lyrics are incredibly profound, and their raw energy is truly mesmerizing. I’ve been to dozens of their concerts, and each time, I come out feeling emotionally purged. I’ve even got their lyrics tattooed on me. They’ve helped me through some tough times, and for that, they’ll always be my favorite band.”

Backstory:

Sardonic Tower, a band of five close friends, emerged from the gloomy bayous of Louisiana. The band was formed in 2010 when lead-singer and guitarist, Jaxon Locke, convinced his childhood friends to take their high school jam sessions to a professional level. The group, made up of Locke, drummer Eli Hardy, bassist Max Silver, keyboardist Lara Finch, and backup vocalist and rhythm guitarist, Seth Morton, began honing their skills in a dilapidated tower Locke inherited from his eccentric uncle. The tower, known for its history and mystery, inspired the name, ‘Sardonic Tower.’ The band started playing gigs at local bars and clubs, gaining a reputation for their haunting melodies and sardonic lyrics. Their breakthrough came when a recording of their performance went viral on social media, leading to a record deal and solidifying their place in the music industry.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Climbing Shadows”

Full song lyrics with chord progression:

(Verse)
Am Em G D
In the shadow of the tower, beneath the moonlight’s glower,
Am Em G D
Barefoot and wild, running like a child.
Am Em G D
Tales of old, secrets left untold,
Am Em G D
In the heart of the night, we ignite.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Climbing shadows, chasing echoes,
C G D Em
In sardonic tower, we find our power.
C G D Em
Rising higher, fueled by desire,
C G D Em
In the heart of the night, we take flight.

(Verse)
Am Em G D
Eyes wide open, words unspoken,
Am Em G D
Guided by stars, bearing our scars.
Am Em G D
Lost in this maze, set ablaze,
Am Em G D
In the heart of the night, we ignite.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Climbing shadows, chasing echoes,
C G D Em
In sardonic tower, we find our power.
C G D Em
Rising higher, fueled by desire,
C G D Em
In the heart of the night, we take flight.

Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is a girl named Harper, a Louisiana native who has been following the band since their early days of playing at local venues. She is not just a fan but a part of their journey, always front and center at every show, cheering them on. Her dedication has been instrumental in the band’s rise to fame.

Testimonial:

“Sardonic Tower embodies everything I love about music. Their lyrics are like poetry, and their melodies are hauntingly beautiful. I’ve been with them from the start, and to see their progression has been amazing. The way their music connects with the audience, it’s like they’re telling your story. For me, there’s no band quite like Sardonic Tower.” – Harper.

Backstory:
Querulous Authority sprouted from the foggy streets of London, England in the year 2002. The band was formed by four art college mates, all of whom shared a passion for music that pushes boundaries and challenges the status quo. The original members of the band, lead vocalist and guitarist Dominic Prince, bass guitarist Arthur Hyde, drummer Robbie Clare, and keyboardist Leo Hargrove, bonded over their shared dissatisfaction with the mainstream music scene. They decided to create their own sound, one that expressed their distinctive perspectives and beliefs, calling into question the authority of societal norms and policies. Querulous Authority has since then become a significant part of the underground music scene, gaining a cult following with their unique sound and unabashed lyrical themes.

Genre:
Post-punk / Experimental Rock

Title:
“Vagrant Voices”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Gm / F / C / C
In a world where silence breeds,
Gm / F / C / C
Vagrant voices, we do heed.
Bb / F / C / D
In the shadows, we find light,
Bb / F / C / D
Screaming at the endless night.

[Chorus]
Gm / F / C / C
We are the querulous authority,
Gm / F / C / C
Rising from the ashes of conformity.
Bb / F / C / D
We won’t be silenced, we won’t be tamed,
Bb / F / C / D
We are the fire, we are the flame.

[Verse 2]
Gm / F / C / C
In a world where the truth is sold,
Gm / F / C / C
We weave stories, bold and bold.
Bb / F / C / D
Through our music, through our verse,
Bb / F / C / D
We aim to heal the universe.

(Repeat Chorus)

Fan Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan is a passionate music-lover named Sophie Turner. Sophie has been a die-hard fan of Querulous Authority since their inception. She has attended every single one of their concerts and is known for her dedication, even traveling across countries to see them perform. Sophie praises Querulous Authority for their raw and rebellious sound, as well as their thought-provoking lyrics.

“Querulous Authority isn’t just a band to me, they are a revolution. Their music speaks to me on a personal level, challenging the norms and questioning the authority. They represent the voice of the unheard, the underrepresented. Every lyric, every chord progression speaks volumes about their commitment to incite change through their music. And that’s why they will always be my favorite band.” – Sophie Turner.

Backstory:

Tender Border was born during a time when a group of close friends from high school found themselves at different ends of the country for college. The longing for their home and their shared memories sparked the creation of this band. Comprised of lead vocalist Jeremy Hopkins, guitarist Mark Whitman, drummer Lily Marshall, and bassist Hugo Turner, Tender Border’s journey began in their own backyards on balmy summer nights, transitioning into jamming sessions in their dorm rooms. The band’s emotional connection and shared experiences became the soul of their music, leading them to deliver heartfelt performances that resonated with audiences everywhere.

Genre:

Their music can best be described as indie folk-rock, with a touch of Americana. They have a knack for blending mellow acoustic melodies with heartfelt lyrics, echoing reflections of their own personal experiences and the broader human condition. Tender Border’s unique sound is characterized by a blend of rhythmic guitar strumming, powerful drum beats, and resonant bass lines, complemented perfectly by Hopkins’ rich, emotive vocals.

Title:

“One More Summer”

Full song lyrics:

Verse 1:
(G) They say the past is just a (D) memory,
(Em) And tomorrow is an (C) unwritten song.
(G) But I’m stuck in the middle, (D)
(Em) Feeling lost in a riddle, (C)

Chorus:
(G) Give me one more summer,
(D) One more laugh under the twilight.
(Em) Let’s relive the joy and the blunder,
(C) Before we say goodnight.
(G) One more summer,
(D) Underneath the endless sky,
(Em) Chasing dreams before they asunder,
(C) Before we say goodbye.

Verse 2:
(G) The road stretches like a (D) dream,
(Em) And home feels like a (C) distant star.
(G) The city lights don’t (D) glow the same,
(Em) I long for our old town’s (C) charm.

(Repeat Chorus)

Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan is Emily Patterson. She’s been with us since the beginning, faithfully attending every single gig we’ve played, whether it was in a crowded bar or at a small town festival. Emily’s testimonial is, “Tender Border is more than just a band for me. Their music resonates with my life experiences. It’s almost as if they’ve stolen pages from my diary and composed tunes around them. The raw emotion they project through their songs is not just heard, but felt. They are my favorite because they have the uncanny ability to transport me back to my own ‘one more summer’ and they do it with such grace and authenticity. They are a gem in the world of music.”

Backstory:
Motionless Potato was born out of a shared dorm room in a quirky New England liberal arts college. The founding members -guitarist Henry “Hank” Reilly, drummer Simon “Sy” Goldberg, and bassist Lily “Liz” Zhang- were all majoring in different fields, but found a common love for music and creativity. Their unique band name came about during a marathon late-night study session, when they spotted a forgotten bag of potatoes that had sat motionless in the corner of their room for weeks. The trio found humor in the randomness of the name and decided to embrace it, hoping that it would reflect their unconventional approach to music.

The band spent the initial years playing at college festivals and local pubs, gradually building a fanbase. Following their graduation, they moved to Brooklyn and began recording their music while working part-time jobs. Their unique blend of psychedelia and folk-rock, coupled with their tongue-in-cheek lyrics, began to resonate with a larger audience. As they climbed the ladder of indie music, Motionless Potato remained true to their roots, maintaining their signature quirkiness and commitment to artistic expression.

Genre:
Psychedelic Folk-Rock

Song Title:
“A Glimpse of the Cosmic Spud”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C G Am Em
Look at the sky, it’s a velvet kind of night
F C G
Stars drawing pictures for the colorblind
C G Am Em
In the distance, an echo of a lullaby
F C G
Bouncing off the walls of the Spacetime

(Chorus)
F C G
Oh shining, cosmic spud
Am Em F
Unmoved in the celestial flood
C G Am
Teach us to be still yet fly
F C G
In the vast theater of the sky

(Verse 2)
C G Am Em
Through the kaleidoscope of the universe
F C G
We find humor in the poignant verse
C G Am Em
A motionless potato in the cosmic stir
F C G
Symbol of tranquility we so prefer

(Chorus)
F C G
Oh shining, cosmic spud
Am Em F
Unmoved in the celestial flood
C G Am
Teach us to be still yet soar
F C G
In the cosmic maze evermore

Bridge:
Dm Em F G
May we find peace, in the quiet
Dm Em F G
May we flourish, in the riot

(Chorus)
F C G
Oh shining, cosmic spud
Am Em F
Unmoved in the celestial flood
C G Am
Teach us to be still yet glide
F C G
In the cosmic dance, be our guide

Fan’s Name and Testimonial:
Fan’s Name: Jenny Masterson

Testimonial: “Motionless Potato is my absolute favorite band because they offer something truly unique. Their music is not just a combination of pleasing sounds, it’s a creative journey that takes you to unexpected places. Every song is an adventure that makes you think, laugh, cry, and most importantly, feel. Their lyrics are profound yet playful, and their overall vibe is refreshingly authentic. There’s a certain comfort in their music, like a warm, familiar blanket in the cold unknown of the universe. As a fan, it feels like I am part of this fantastic journey of exploring humanity through music.”

Backstory:
Unlined Income is a band that started in the vibrant city of Seattle during the late 90s. The founding members, Alex Grafton (lead vocals, rhythm guitar) and Mark Plank (drums, backing vocals), were high school friends who found solace in music during their tumultuous teenage years. After finishing college, they decided to form a band and express their thoughts on society, freedom, and their mutual disdain for the 9-5 grind. They were later joined by Sarah Jones (bass) and Tom Helms (lead guitar), both of whom brought a new depth and complexity to the band’s sound. Unlined Income became known for their electric performances and their thought-provoking lyrics, garnering a dedicated fanbase.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Paper Chains”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em G
Trapped in the cage of corporate race
Em C
Freedom’s a memory we barely trace
Am Em
Chasing after the gleaming gold
Am Em
Are we just doing as we are told?

(Chorus)
C G Em
Paper chains, Unlined Income
C G Em
In this game, are we really free?
C G Em
Paper Chains, Unlined Income
C G Em
Is this life just a life decree?

(Verse 2)
Em G
Dreams sold in the market place
Em C
Reality’s a pill we often brace
Am Em
Living life in the paper chase
Am Em
Is this the human race’s grace?

(Repeat Chorus)
C G Em
Paper chains, Unlined Income
C G Em
In this game, are we really free?
C G Em
Paper Chains, Unlined Income
C G Em
Is this life just a life decree?

Fan’s Name:
Julie Simmons

Testimonial:
“I’ve followed Unlined Income since their first gig in the local bar. Their music has always resonated with me because it talks about real life, the grind, and the sometimes soul-crushing monotony. It’s not easy to find a band that can so beautifully articulate your thoughts and emotions. Their song ‘Paper Chains’ is my anthem; it gets me through the tough days. Unlined Income isn’t just my favorite band, they’re my lifeline.”