Backstory:
Roasted Rule was conceived in the dark, gritty heart of downtown Chicago in 2008. Its founding members, Denny ‘The Roast’ Rollins, Eddie ‘Rule’ Ruiz and Tommy ‘T-bone’ Thompson, all hail from unique and colorful musical backgrounds. Denny, a classically trained guitarist, found his musical solace in the distorted chords of rock while Eddie, a self-taught drummer, drew inspiration from the rhythmic complexities of jazz. Tommy, on the other hand, with his sultry voice and charismatic stage presence, was a perfect fit for the role of frontman.

Together, they started jamming in garages, honing their sound and crafting lyrics that reflected their shared life experiences. Their journey was far from smooth, with countless late-night practices, countless extremely low profile gigs and countering financial struggles. Despite these challenges, their passion for music kept them united. It was not until 2012, when their demo got into the hands of a local radio DJ, that they gained some recognition. Their fan base began to grow rapidly, and Roasted Rule became a household name in the Chicago rock scene.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Shadows of Yesterday”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Looking back on the [D] days of old,
[Em] Trying to shelter from the [C] cold,
[G] Memories painted in [D] black and white,
[Em] Shadows of yesterday, in the [C] moonlight.

(Chorus)
[G] And we’ll keep on [D] fighting,
[Em] In the name of love, in the name of [C] right,
[G] Holding to the [D] memories,
[Em] Shadows of yesterday, in the [C] pale moonlight.

(Verse 2)
[G] Times have changed but [D] we’re the same,
[Em] Playing life’s little [C] game,
[G] We stand tall, we [D] stand proud,
[Em] Shadows of yesterday, speaking [C] loud.

(Chorus)
[G] And we’ll keep on [D] fighting,
[Em] In the name of love, in the name of [C] right,
[G] Holding to the [D] memories,
[Em] Shadows of yesterday, in the [C] pale moonlight.

Favorite Fan (Testimonial):
Her name is Jessie Mitchell. She fell in love with Roasted Rule when she first heard their demo on the local radio station. A passionate music lover, she was drawn to the band’s raw energy, practical lyrics and the unique blend of rock and alternative music. Jessie’s testimony, “Roasted Rule’s music was like a breath of fresh air in the stagnant world of mainstream music. It resonated with my life, my struggles and my victories. I’ve attended every single gig since I first heard them and their music has become my daily anthem.” Jessie’s enthusiasm and loyalty have made her a favorite among the band members.

Backstory:

Formed in the rolling hills of Vermont, Lucky View began as a trio of childhood friends – Eddie McGill (vocals/guitar), Jesse O’Donnell (bass), and Ruth Packer (drums) – who shared a love for music. They spent their high school years experimenting with different genres and playing gigs at local venues, before deciding to take their passion to the next level. They moved to New York City, where their unique sound and energetic performances quickly gained them a loyal following. From basement shows to sold-out venues, Lucky View have carved a niche in the music scene, and continue to push boundaries with their eclectic blend of styles.

Genre:
Adult Alternative / Indie Rock

Title:
“Streets of Gold”

Full Song Lyrics (with chord progression):

(Verse 1 – C, F, Am, G)
( C ) Down the streets of gold, ( F ) I wander,
( Am ) In search of tales ( G ) yet to be told,
( C ) Echoes of laughter, ( F ) whispers of sorrow,
( Am ) Dancing in the shadows of ( G ) tomorrow.

(Chorus – Em, F, C, G)
( Em ) Can you see it? ( F ) Can you feel it?
( C ) The rhythm of the city, ( G ) it’s a hidden beat,
( Em ) Can you hear it? ( F ) Can you taste it?
( C ) The sugar and the grit, ( G ) oh, it’s bittersweet.

(Verse 2 – C, F, Am, G)
( C ) Beneath the neon lights, ( F ) we wander,
( Am ) Dreamers lost in ( G ) a world of wonder,
( C ) Stories unfold, ( F ) secrets untether,
( Am ) We’re painting memories, ( G ) moments to remember.

(Chorus – Em, F, C, G)
(Em) Can you see it? ( F ) Can you feel it?
( C ) The rhythm of the city, ( G ) it’s a hidden beat,
(Em) Can you hear it? ( F ) Can you taste it?
( C ) The sugar and the grit, ( G ) oh, it’s bittersweet.

(Bridge – A, F, C, G)
( A ) And in the midst of it all, ( F ) we found our voice,
( C ) Singing loud, making noise,
( G ) A symphony in the chaos,
( A ) We are Lucky View, ( F ) this is our choice.

(Chorus – Em, F, C, G)
( Em ) Can you see it? ( F ) Can you feel it?
( C ) The rhythm of the city, ( G ) it’s a hidden beat,
( Em ) Can you hear it? ( F ) Can you taste it?
( C ) The sugar and the grit, ( G ) oh, it’s bittersweet.

Favorite Fan:

Meet Sam Martinez, a Brooklyn-based photographer who claims Lucky View as his favorite band. “Their music is like a soundtrack to New York City. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s incredibly honest. They capture the essence of living in the city – the highs, the lows, and everything in between. I’ve been to every one of their gigs in the city, and each show feels like a homecoming. Lucky View is not just a band, they are a musical experience!”

Backstory:
Sandy Dirt was born out of a small town in Arizona, where four childhood friends discovered their shared love for music. The group consisted of Tommy “T-Bone” Watkins on vocals, Jeremy “Jer” Mullins on guitar, Freddie “Fingers” Taylor on keyboard, and Danny “Dirt” Dawson on drum set. They started out by playing small gigs at local bars and clubs, their sound echoing through the dry desert air. As they grew older, their sound evolved, growing more complex and blending different influences from their surroundings. Despite various life changes and moving to different parts of the country, the band stayed together, committed to their passion for making music.

Genre:
Folk Rock with a hint of Country and Blues.

Title:
“Desert Sunrise”

Full song lyrics with chord progression:
Verse 1 (Am, D, G, Em):
(Am) Got a pocket full of dreams, (D) Desert by my side,
(G) Sun’s just peaking over, (Em) ready for the ride.

Verse 2 (Am, D, G, Em):
(Am) Dusty boots on a dirt road, (D) takes me where I need,
(G) There’s no place I’d rather be, (Em) where my heart is freed.

Chorus (C, G, D, Em):
(C) Desert Sunrise, (G) calling my name,
(D) With every new dawn, (Em) life’s not the same.
(C) Sandy Dirt under my feet, (G) I’m home once again,
(D) In the arms of the desert, (Em) where my heart’s always been.

Repeat: Verse 1, Verse 2 and Chorus twice.

Bridge (C, G):
(C) Daylight fades, (G) stars take the stage,
(C) The desert night whispers, (G) turning the page.

Chorus (C, G, D, Em):
(C) Desert Sunrise, (G) I’m home once again,
(D) With the break of dawn, (Em) where my heart’s always been.

Fan Testimonial:
Fan’s Name: Billy “The Kid” Carson
“Billy The Kid” Carson, a local bartender in their hometown, has been a fan of Sandy Dirt since their early days. For Billy, the band’s music is the soundtrack to his life, a companion through his highs and lows. He says, “Sandy Dirt isn’t just a band for me; it’s a feeling of home, a comfort that lingers no matter where I am. Their melodies echo my life’s journey, and their lyrics speak the language of my heart. Every new song feels like a letter from an old friend. That’s why they’ll always be my favorite.”

Backstory:

Jaded Cheese was formed in the basement of a tiny house in Bristol, England in 2012. The band consists of four members; lead vocalist and bassist Jack “Cheese” Chandler, guitarist Ryan “Jade” Jenkins, drummer Alex “Cheddar” Chapman, and keyboardist Lily “Gouda” Green. They came together through their shared love of music and cheese, deciding to combine the two into an unforgettable band name that would stick in people’s minds.

Despite their unique and slightly humorous name, the band’s journey has been anything but easy. They started by performing at local pubs and small music festivals, gradually building their audience through their energetic performances and innovative sound. They finally caught their big break in 2015 when a talent scout discovered them during a performance at the Glastonbury Festival. Since then, Jaded Cheese has released two successful albums, toured worldwide, and won multiple awards, making them one of the most exciting and creative bands to emerge from the UK in recent years.

Genre:

Jaded Cheese is best known for their intriguing blend of Indie Rock and Psychedelic Pop.

Title:

“Curdled Dreams”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am G
In the city light, under the neon sight,
F C
We traded dreams, like jaded cheese.
Am G
In the moonlit haze, through the smoky maze,
F C
We found our place, in curdled dreams.

(Chorus)
G Am
Curdled dreams and jaded cheese,
F C
That’s where I found my heart’s ease.
G Am
In the night’s sweet reprise,
F C
Underneath the starry skies.

(Verse 2)
Am G
As the music played, we danced and swayed,
F C
Love was our song, all night long.
Am G
In the laughter’s glow, we let go,
F C
Living our curdled dreams, in jaded scenes.

(Chorus)
G Am
Curdled dreams and jaded cheese,
F C
That’s where I found my heart’s ease.
G Am
In the night’s sweet reprise,
F C
Underneath the starry skies.

Fan’s Testimonial:

“Hi, my name is Tom, but my friends call me ‘Cheesy Tom’ because I’m the biggest Jaded Cheese fan out there. I’ve followed them since their early days, and I fell in love with their unique sound and energetic performances. Their style is like a breath of fresh air in the music industry. Their lyrics are so profound, and their music has a way of touching your soul. My favorite song, ‘Curdled Dreams,’ is a masterpiece that perfectly encapsulates their talent. I’ve seen them live multiple times, and every performance feels unique and special. I’ll forever be a proud fan of Jaded Cheese!”

Backstory:
‘Married Chalk’ was born out of the thriving music scene of Seattle in 2010. The four members, lead vocalist Jack Dawson, guitarist Lily Rivers, bassist Mark Stevens, and drummer Sam Wilson, initially met at a local Open Mic Night at ‘The Rusty Anchor’. Dawson’s soulful voice paired with River’s bluesy guitar licks caught the attention of Stevens, a classically trained bassist, and Wilson, a punk rock drummer. The combination of their different musical backgrounds created a unique fusion, and ‘Married Chalk’ was born. Since then, they have been entertaining audiences with their unique blend of music at various local and international venues.

Genre:
Indie Rock/Alternative

Title:
“Washed Out Memoirs”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G] Standing tall in this [C] sea of faces,
[D] Washed out memoirs, [Em] forgotten places,
[G]Painted pictures that [C] time erases,
[D] Captured moments in [Em] broken vases.

(Chorus)
[C]We are the [D] stories,
[G] That we [Em] tell,
[C] In the [D] end, it’s just [G] as well,
[C]We are the [D] songs,
[G] That we [Em] play,
[C] Tattered dreams in [D] colors of grey.

(Verse 2)
[G] Tracing lines on [C] old town maps,
[D] Tangled memories in [Em] time’s lapse,
[G] Echoes of laughter, [C] fleeting claps,
[D] Life’s strange music in [Em] silent gaps.

(Chorus)
[C]We are the [D] stories,
[G] That we [Em] tell,
[C] In the [D] end, it’s just [G] as well,
[C]We are the [D] songs,
[G] That we [Em] play,
[C] Stitching seams in [D] hues of grey.

Favorite Fan’s Name:
Rebecca

Rebecca’s Testimonial:
“Married Chalk is hands down my favorite band! Their music speaks to me on a profound level. It’s like they’ve somehow managed to put my deepest thoughts and emotions into words and melodies. Every song is different, yet there’s a familiar thread that runs through them all. They’ve got this raw, authentic sound that’s just so rare these days. Whether they’re playing at a huge concert or a small local bar, they always perform with such passion and intensity. I’ve been fortunate enough to see them live a few times, and I’m just blown away every time. Their music has gotten me through some tough times, and for that, I’m eternally grateful. ‘Washed Out Memoirs’ in particular has a special place in my heart. The lyrics really resonate with me and the melody is simply beautiful. I can’t wait to see what they come up with next!”

Backstory:
Emerging from the vibrant college town of Madison, Wisconsin, Knowledgeable Example started as a humble dorm room project. Founders, psychology major Ben Mitchell and philosophy major Jade Kinsley found their conversations during study breaks turning into impromptu jam sessions. Ben’s ability to strum the guitar complemented Jade’s soulful voice and soon, they discovered a unique synergy. Music became a way to express their academic explorations. Fellow students, enthralled by the duo’s captivating renditions at college festivals, encouraged them to take their talent to a broader audience. Ben and Jade, taking this advice to heart, took the leap to pursue music full-time, thus giving birth to Knowledgeable Example.

Genre: Indie Pop

Title: “Eclipse of Ignorance”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1: (Am C G F)
In the classroom of the world, we’re just another pair,
(Am C G F)
Learning about life, love, and how to care.
(Am C G F)
We’re like footnotes on a page, in this grand narrative,
(Am C G F)
Just a knowledgeable example, of how to live.

Chorus: (C G Am F)
We’re an eclipse of ignorance, in the light of truth we bask,
(C G Am F)
Unmasking the unknown, is our life’s task.

Verse 2: (Am C G F)
In the labyrinth of letters, we found our tune,
(Am C G F)
Under the moonlit sonnets, and the sun’s afternoon.
(Am C G F)
We’re just whispers in the wind, a transient ripple,
(Am C G F)
Just a knowledgeable example, in this universe so simple.

Chorus: (C G Am F)
We’re an eclipse of ignorance, bathing in knowledge’s glow,
(C G Am F)
Unraveling the mysteries, in this endless show.

Bridge: (C G Em F)
We’re the melody in the silence, a lyrical dance,
(C G Em F)
In the book of existence, on a grand romance.

Chorus: (C G Am F)
We’re an eclipse of ignorance, with wisdom’s torch we light,
(C G Am F)
In the face of the unknown, we ignite the fight.

Outro: (Am C G F)
Just a knowledgeable example, in this cosmic night.

Band’s Favorite Fan: The band’s favourite fan is Emily Thompson. Emily, a literature major from their alma mater, discovered the band during one of their earliest performances at a college festival. She resonates with the band’s unique amalgamation of learning and music, and their lyrics often become the topic of her academic essays. She states, “Knowledgeable Example isn’t just a band, it’s an experience. Their music is a unique fusion of intellect and emotions, making the listener think and feel simultaneously. As a literature student, their beautifully crafted lyrics resonate deeply with me. They’re not just making music, they’re making art for the soul.”

Backstory:

Impressionable Impression formed in the heart of Brooklyn, New York, where four childhood friends discovered their shared passion for music. The band consists of lead singer and keyboardist Anthony “Ant” MacAlister, guitarist and backup vocalist Frank Jenson, bassist Peter “Pete” Hall, and drummer James “Jimmy” Wills. They spent their high school days playing at local pubs and parties, honing their skills and developing a unique sound that captured the essence of city life and adolescent angst.

In 2010, the band took a leap of faith and started recording their music independently. Their debut album, “Under the Brooklyn Lights,” gained instant local recognition and was a hit on various online platforms. Impressionable Impression’s music truly resonated with their audience, and their genuine, heartfelt lyrics were praised for being relatable and raw. Their journey from performing at local gigs to selling out venues in New York City is a testament to their dedication and love for music.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Subway Stories”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Am, G, F, E
(AM) I see her every day, (G) on a crowded subway,
(F) She’s got a smile that could (E) light up this city’s haze.
(AM) She reads a book in peace, (G) unaware of my gaze,
(F) If only I could find the (E) courage to say hey.

[Chorus]
C, G, Am, F
(C) Subway stories, (G) city glories, (Am) words unspoken in this (F) maze.
(C) Captured moments, (G) stolen gazes, (Am) living a novel in a (F) city phrase.

[Verse 2]
Am, G, F, E
(AM) He strums his guitar, (G) in the corner so far,
(F) His melody speaks more than (E) words could spar.
(AM) His dreams in each chord, (G) his story unexplored,
(F) In the heart of the city, (E) he’s never ignored.

[Chorus]
C, G, Am, F
(C) Subway stories, (G) city glories, (Am) dreams unsung in this (F) busy phase.
(C) Silent struggles, (G) echoed laughters, (Am) living a ballad in a (F) city phrase.

Bands Favorite Fan Testimonial:

Name: Lisa Brown

Lisa Brown, a New York native and avid music lover, has been a fan of Impressionable Impression since their early days. She says, “Their music isn’t just something you listen to, it’s something you feel. ‘Subway Stories’ is my favorite song. I listen to it every day on my commute. It encapsulates the spirit of city life so beautifully, making every moment feel special. Impressionable Impression is my favorite band because their lyrics are relatable, their music is unforgettable, and their love for what they do is palpable in every performance.”

Backstory:

“Chubby Square” was born out of the garage of two high school friends, Mike “Chubby” Collins and Sam “Square” Jordan, in the heartland of Toledo, Ohio back in 2007. The duo spent their formative years refining their style, entertaining friends at house parties, and building a reputation for their energetic performances and catchy hooks. A chance encounter at a local talent show brought them to the attention of a small record label in 2012. Their debut album was a local hit, and their fan base grew rapidly, catapulting them onto the national stage. Despite the bright lights and busy schedules, they’ve stayed true to their roots, making music out of their love for the craft, with a touch of their unique humor and zest for life.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Title:

“Skinny Circles”

Lyrics:

(Verse)
C G Am
I used to be a skinny circle, rolling on my own
F C G
All around the square blocks of my home
C G Am
Then I met a chubby square, so solid and so true
F C G
He said “Come join me, let’s be something new”

(Chorus)
Am F C G
Chubby and square, skinny and round, we’re singing our song
Am F C G
Through ups and downs, highs and lows, we roll along

(Verse)
C G Am
We painted pictures on the pavement, with music as our hue
F C G
Creating colors unseen, tones so true
C G Am
Two shapes merged together, we found our groove
F C G
Chubby square and skinny circle, we’ve got nothing to prove

(Chorus)
Am F C G
Chubby and square, skinny and round, we’re singing our song
Am F C G
Through ups and downs, highs and lows, we roll along

Fan Testimonial:

Name: Riley Harrison

“Chubby Square’s music is the ultimate soundtrack of my life. It’s like they read my diary and turned it into a melody. Their songs encompass the highs and lows of life, and their unique blend of Indie Rock is infectious. Their lyrics are genuine, and they make you feel like you’re part of their journey. I’ve been to all their local concerts, and their energy on stage is just electric. I love how they’ve stayed grounded and connected to their fans despite their success. There’s a sense of camaraderie at their gigs, which makes them all the more special. Chubby Square is more than just a band to me; they’re like family, and their music has helped me through some tough times. They’re not just playing music; they’re making a difference. And that’s why they’re my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Giving Density is a band formed in the vibrant city of Seattle in 2005. The members, childhood friends, discovered their shared love for music at an early age. The band’s lead singer, Jared Mitchell, was the first to pick up a guitar, followed by his friend and now bandmate, drummer Kyle Frederickson. As they navigated through high school, they found like-minded individuals who shared their passion for music, Sarah Thompson, the bass player, and Tony Howard, the keyboardist. As they honed their skills, their dream of forming a band turned into reality, and Giving Density was born.

Their journey hasn’t always been smooth. They’ve had their fair share of struggles, from playing in small gigs with almost no audience to facing financial difficulties. But their love for music and their determination to share their stories with the world kept them going. Today, Giving Density is known for their raw, emotional lyrics and powerful performances, captivating audiences wherever they go.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Infinite Spaces”

Full song lyrics:
(Verse 1)
G C
In the infinite spaces of my heart,
Em D
I search for the echoes we left apart.
G C
The laughter, the tears, the love, the fears,
Em D
Are hidden in the corners, as the end nears.

(Chorus)
G C
In the realm of giving density,
Em D
I find your essence, the divine entity.
G C
The chords of existence strum softly,
Em D
In the song of life, we play it deftly.

(Verse 2)
G C
The shadows of the past linger on,
Em D
In the silent whispers of the dawn.
G C
Memories etched in the starlit sky,
Em D
In the infinite spaces, our spirits lie.

(Chorus)
G C
In the realm of giving density,
Em D
I find your essence, the divine entity.
G C
The chords of existence strum softly,
Em D
In the song of life, we play it deftly.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is Emily Reed. Emily is a native of Seattle and has been following the band since their early days. In fact, she still has the ticket from their first gig, which she attended when she was just 15. Emily’s favorite part of Giving Density is their ability to weave intricate, emotional stories through their music.

Testimonial:
“As a long-time fan, Giving Density has been a constant in my life through all its ups and downs. Their music speaks to me on a personal level. It’s as if they’ve captured my emotions and put them into words and melodies. Their songs have been my comfort, my strength, and my joy. I feel a connection with them that goes beyond fandom. They are more than just a band to me, they are a part of my life.”

Backstory:
Neighboring Region started as a pipe dream in the quiet, small town of Noden, Utah. Childhood friends Max Peters, Toby Lawrence, and Sam Howard used to get together in Toby’s garage, fiddling around with instruments they found at local yard sales. After high school, they all took different paths—Max went to college, Toby joined the military, and Sam began working at a local mechanic shop. But their love for music brought them back together in their hometown years later. They created Neighboring Region, a band that echoes the heart of their small-town roots while expressing their thirst for something bigger.

Genre:
Neighboring Region’s music can be best described as a blend of Indie and Folk Rock, with a hint of Americana.

Title:
“One Way Ticket Out of Noden”

Full Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G] Just a couple of [D] small town boys,
[Em] Dreaming under the [C] Utah skies.
[G] We found rhythm on [D] old garage doors,
[Em] Strummed guitars till [C] our fingers were sore.

(Chorus)
[G] We got a one-way [D] ticket out of Noden,
[Em] Chasing lights, leaving our [C] past unspoken.
[G] City dreams in our [D] back pocket,
[Em] But our hearts belong to [C] this dusty locket.

(Verse 2)
[G] High school diplomas, [D] dusty on a shelf,
[Em] Took different routes, found [C] ourselves.
[G] Met again on an [D] old crossroad,
[Em] Played our hearts out, let our [C] stories unfold.

(Chorus)
[G] We got a one-way [D] ticket out of Noden,
[Em] The night air, our anthem [C] golden.
[G] Life may pull us [D] apart, bit by bit,
[Em] But we’ll always have our [C] one-way ticket.

(Bridge)
[Am] We’re more than just [D] neighboring regions,
[Em] We’re echoes of shared [C] life seasons.
[Am] We strum the chords of [D] memories,
[Em] In every song, we [C] find release.

(Chorus)
[G] We got a one-way [D] ticket out of Noden,
[Em] But in our hearts, we’re forever [C] golden.
[G] Keep the memories [D] in a locket,
[Em] Even with a one-way [C] ticket out of Noden.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is Shelby, a greeting card writer from Salt Lake City. Shelby has been their most ardent supporter since their debut. “Neighboring Region isn’t just a band,” she once commented, “it’s a feeling. They make you miss the places and people you’ve never known, and yet, in their music, you find a home.” Their songs have inspired countless greeting card messages, making them Shelby’s favorite band.