Backstory:
Formed in 2015, Wise Suggestion is a band of four college roommates who stumbled upon their shared love for music one fateful night. This was during a late-night jam session in their dorm room at the University of California, Berkeley. The band comprises of lead vocalist and guitarist Jake Ward, drummer Andy Monroe, bassist Kevin Hartley, and keyboardist Lisa Dannel. They initially performed in college gigs, at local bars, and small underground music festivals. Their breakthrough came in 2017 when they were spotted by a talent scout at one such underground festival. Today, Wise Suggestion is one of the most sought after bands in the indie rock scene.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Shadows in the Night”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Stare at the [G] shadows in the [Am] night,
[F] Wondering if you’re doing [C] right.
[C] The world’s spinning [G] out of [Am] sight,
[F] Lost in the chaos, losing [C] fight.

(Chorus)
[C] But hold on [G] tight,
[Am] Amidst the shadows, you’re the [F] light.
[C] Don’t lose hope, don’t lose [G] sight,
[Am] In this journey, in this [F] endless night.

(Verse 2)
[C] Torn between the [G] wrong and [Am] right,
[F] Stars as guide, shining [C] bright.
[C] In the darkness, find your [G] light,
[Am] In the shadows of the [F] silent night.

(Chorus)
[C] But hold on [G] tight,
[Am] Amidst the shadows, you’re the [F] light.
[C] Don’t lose hope, don’t lose [G] sight,
[Am] In this journey, in this [F] endless night.

The band’s favorite fan:
Wise Suggestion’s favorite fan is a 19-year-old college student named Emily Thompson. Emily has been following the band since their early days, and she loves them for their raw energy and unique indie rock sound. Emily says, “I remember the first time I heard ‘Shadows in the Night’. It resonated with me so deeply that I found myself humming it for days. Their music speaks to me on a very personal level. It’s like they’ve put my thoughts and feelings into lyrics. Plus, their performances are always so full of life. They’re definitely my favorite band, and I can’t wait to see where their journey takes them.”

Backstory:

Smug Cake, a delightful aberration in the world of rock music, was born in the bustling streets of London. The band’s journey began in the winter of 2012 when the lead singer, Jack Harper, stumbled upon an old, dusty piano in the basement of a thrift shop. With his heart filled with an irresistible urge, he started to play. It was there, amidst the piles of unwanted items, where guitarist Tom O’Rielly, drummer Sam Bennett, and bassist Danny Collins found Jack. They bonded instantly over their shared love for music and the rest, as they say, is history.

Smug Cake is an electric blend of varied musical backgrounds, which creates a unique sound that resonates with their listeners. Their music often holds a mirror to the chaos of the modern world, balanced with a touch of nostalgia. With every strum, beat, and note, they paint vibrant pictures that blend reality with imagination.

Genre:

Alternative Rock with a sprinkle of Indie Pop.

Song Title:

“Crushed Velvet Dreams”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse)
C Am Em G
In the city night, under neon lights,
F C G Am
We built castles made of sand,
C Am Em G
Running wild, just children in disguise,
F C G Am
On streets that never understand.

(Chorus)
Em D G C
Crushed velvet dreams, and silent screams,
F C G Am
In this masquerade we’re living.
Em D G C
With broken hearts, we play our parts,
F C G Am
In this theatric dance of giving.

(Verse)
C Am Em G
Lost in time, we weave and wind,
F C G Am
Through the labyrinth of the mind.
C Am Em G
Chasing shadows, in search of light,
F C G Am
In the cruel maze of the night.

(Chorus)
Em D G C
Crushed velvet dreams, and silent screams,
F C G Am
Echo in this endless river.
Em D G C
With bated breath, we cheat our death,
F C G Am
In this ceaseless dance of quiver.

Fan’s Testimonial:

My name is Lucy Thompson, and I am without a doubt, Smug Cake’s number one fan. There’s this raw authenticity in their music that feels like it’s speaking directly to you. They don’t just play songs; they tell stories, they paint pictures, and they evoke emotions. Every chord, every lyric, every beat is a journey. Their song “Crushed Velvet Dreams” especially resonates with me. It’s like they’ve put my feelings into words, and it’s comforting to know that someone else understands. Their music is like a friend, a balm, a mirror, and an escape all at once. I can’t imagine a day without their music. It’s the soundtrack of my life.

Backstory:
Founded in the heart of Colorado, Tart Defeat is a band that came together through a shared love of music and a mutual desire to break the monotony of modern life. The band members – Ryan on vocals, Andrew on guitar, Jackson on drums, and Emily on bass – bonded over their love for alternative music and a shared dream of creating music that resonates with the listener’s soul. Ryan, a former architect, and Andrew, a graphic designer, met at a bar on a trivia night. Jackson, an IT specialist, and Emily, a yoga instructor, joined the crew after responding to an ad Ryan and Andrew posted in a local paper. They began playing gigs at local bars until their unique sound started to garner attention.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Crumbled Echoes”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Em [Am] – [G] – [D]
In the midst of the city’s noise, [Am]
I found my voice, lost and shattered. [G]
Solitude became my choice, [D]
In the echoes of love, I once mattered. [Am]

[Chorus]
Em [C] – [Am] – [G]
Crumbled echoes of a past, [C]
A love that was meant to last. [Am]
In every shadow, in every feat, [G]
I tasted the bitterness – a tart defeat. [C]

[Verse 2]
Em [Am] – [G] – [D]
Between the lines of every song, [Am]
Is where our story truly belong. [G]
In the melody, I find my peace, [D]
In the rhythm, my heartbeat cease. [Am]

[Chorus]
Em [C] – [Am] – [G]
Crumbled echoes of a past, [C]
A love that was meant to last. [Am]
In every shadow, in every feat, [G]
I tasted the bitterness – a tart defeat. [C]

[Bridge]
Em [Bm] – [D]
The strings of the guitar weep, [Bm]
As the drummer finds his beat. [D]
In the singer’s voice, you’d hear, [Bm]
The echo of a love, so clear. [D]

[Chorus]
Em [C] – [Am] – [G]
Crumbled echoes of a past, [C]
A love that was meant to last. [Am]
In every shadow, in every feat, [G]
I tasted the bitterness – a tart defeat. [C]

Fan’s Testimonial:
“I am Lila Brown, Tart Defeat’s ultimate fan. These guys saved my life with their music. They are my favourite band because their songs speak to my soul! Each lyric resonates with my life experience and their music has a therapeutic effect on me. I’ve traveled across states just to watch them perform. Their song ‘Crumbled Echoes’ feels like my personal anthem. They’re not just a band to me, they’re my lifeline.”

Backstory:

Academic Garage was born in the heart of Boston in 2013, a city famous for its rich history and prestigious universities. The core members, comprising of three graduate students – Adam (Vocalist), Ryan (Bass Guitarist) and Emma (Drummer), met at a local open-mic night in a small pub close to Harvard University. Sharing a common love for music and having the ability to see humor in their academic struggles, they decided to form a band. Juggling between research papers and jam sessions, the band developed its unique sound and lyrics inspired by their academic journey.

Genre:

Academic Garage is best known for their Indie Rock sound with a twist of Blues. Their music is often characterized by its energetic guitar riffs, powerful drum beats, and relatable lyrics that echo the voices of students worldwide.

Title:

“Thesis Blues”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
Em G
Late nights, coffee stains,
Am Em
Burning midnight oil again.
Em G
Chasing grades, meeting ends,
Am Em
In a world that just pretends.

(Chorus)
C G
Oh, I got the Thesis Blues,
Am Em
Buried under to-do’s.
C G
On this academic cruise,
Am Em
All I got are Thesis Blues.

(Verse)
Em G
Data fails, experiments bust,
Am Em
In my research, who to trust?
Em G
Deadlines loom, pressure mounts,
Am Em
In this academic fount.

(Chorus)
C G
Oh, I got the Thesis Blues,
Am Em
In the library, no views.
C G
On this scholarly ruse,
Am Em
All I got are Thesis Blues.

(Bridge)
C G
Yet, in this maze of books,
Am Em
There’s more than it looks.
C G
Knowledge, wisdom, truth,
Am Em
Juices of the eternal youth.

(Chorus)
C G
Yeah, I got the Thesis Blues,
Am Em
But ain’t it worth the dues?
C G
With each theory I peruse,
Em Em (End on Em)
I find my muse in the Thesis Blues.

Fan Testimonial:

“My name is Lily, and I’m a PhD candidate in literature. I can confidently say that Academic Garage is my favorite band. Their song, ‘Thesis Blues,’ speaks to my very soul. The lyrics perfectly capture the struggle and beauty of academic life. Their music not only provides me solace during the stressful times, but it also makes me realize that I’m not alone in the journey. The band’s unique blend of Indie Rock and Blues is refreshingly different and comforting. They have managed to carve a niche in the music world that resonates with students like me.”

Backstory:

Hailing from the gritty streets of Boston, Massachusetts, Long-Term Fear was initially formed as a trio in 2005. The band’s founding members, lead singer/bassist Marcus “Marky” O’Reilly, guitarist Danny Sullivan, and drummer Jamie “Grimmy” Grimm, were childhood friends who shared a mutual love for music. They started playing together in their parents’ garages, covering classic rock songs and gradually developing their sound. The band began to gain local attention and following the addition of keyboardist Liam “Keys” Kavanagh in 2008, Long-Term Fear solidified their lineup and took Boston by storm with their electrifying live performances and emotionally-charged original material.

Genre:

Long-Term Fear is a Hard Rock band with alternative and punk influences. Their unique sound is characterized by Marky’s gritty vocals, Danny’s hard-hitting guitar riffs, Grimmy’s vigorous drum beats, and Keys’ haunting keyboard melodies.

Title: “Shackles of Despair”

Full song lyrics:

[Verse]
Am – C – G – D
(AM) Look in the mirror, what do I see?
(C) A broken man staring back at me.
(G) Lost and alone in this endless fight,
(D) Is there any end to this long, lonely night?

[Chorus]
F – C – G
(F) Where is the light?
(C) In these shackles of despair,
(G) Can’t seem to make it right,
(F) In this darkness, no one cares.

[Verse]
Am – C – G – D
(AM) Down on my knees, I’m pleading for grace,
(C) In this cold world, I’m losing my place.
(G) These chains are heavy, can’t carry the weight,
(D) Stuck in this prison, is it too late?

[Chorus]
F – C – G
(F) Where is the light?
(C) In these shackles of despair,
(G) Can’t seem to make it right,
(F) In this darkness, no one cares.

[Outro]
Am – C – G – D
(AM) Shackles of despair,
(C) I’m screaming out, is anyone there?
(G) In this lonely night,
(D) Searching for a light, just a single flare.

Favorite Fan’s Name: Erin McCarthy

Erin’s Testimonial:
I stumbled upon Long-Term Fear at a small venue in Boston five years ago. I was captivated by their raw energy and the authenticity of their lyrics. Their songs, especially “Shackles of Despair,” hit me hard. They sing about the human experience, the struggles, the pain, but also the hope. Their music has helped me through some of the toughest times in my life. It’s the kind of band that feels like a friend, always there when you need them. That’s why Long-Term Fear is, and always will be, my favorite band.

Backstory:
Any Hold is the brainchild of four high school friends who found solace and connection through music. The band came to life in the suburban town of Rochester, New York. Lead vocalist and guitarist, Jesse Martin, joined forces with bassist, Jamie Hunter, drummer, Luke Thompson, and keyboardist, Mike Harrison, to create a unique musical tableau. They began their journey playing in school events, quickly gaining popularity. Their shared love for rock music and knack for creating unique rhythmic patterns led them to the creation of Any Hold. The name comes from the belief that in music, as in life, any hold (or chord) has its importance and can create a beautiful melody if hit at the right time.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Stars in Disarray”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Underneath the indigo sky, [C] where we used to lie,
[D] Dreams were written in our stars, [Em] now they’re in disarray.
[Bm] You said love’s a game for fools, [C] but I played by the rules,
[G] Now I’m lost in the echoes [D] of your yesterday.

(Chorus)
[G] I’m searching for our stars, [C] now in disarray,
[Em] Can we rewrite our constellations, [D] find our way?
[Bm] I’m here with a heart that’s bruised, [C] love’s a muse,
[G] Can we align these stars [D] and replay?

(Verse 2)
[G] The memories woven into [C] each falling star,
[D] Your laughter still resonates, [Em] though you’ve gone far.
[Bm] I still feel your presence, [C] in every guitar chord,
[G] In the silence of the night, [D] you’re the song that’s hard to discard.

(Chorus)
[G] I’m searching for our stars, [C] now in disarray,
[Em] Can we rewrite our constellations, [D] find our way?
[Bm] I’m here with a heart that’s bruised, [C] love’s a muse,
[G] Can we align these stars [D] and replay?

The band’s favorite fan’s name:
Megan Thompson

Testimonial:
Megan Thompson, a senior at Rochester High, fell in love with Any Hold’s music due to its raw emotional connectivity and unique sound. As she says, “Any Hold’s music speaks directly to my soul. It’s like they articulate my emotions when I can’t find the words. Their music has helped me through my toughest times, providing a solace that’s hard to describe. ‘Stars in Disarray’ is my go-to song; its melody and lyrics resonate deeply with me. Any Hold is definitely my favorite band and their music augments my day.”

Backstory:

Formed in the heart of New York City in the year 2007, ‘Insubstantial Touch’ was born out of the friendship and shared musical ambitions of college roommates, Aaron Brooks (lead vocalist) and Daniel McCoy (guitarist). The duo quickly expanded to include drummer Mickey Harris, bass guitarist Steve Thornton, and keyboardist Jamie O’Connell. The band started off playing small gigs around the city before earning a spot at the legendary CBGB’s. Their unique sound attracted the attention of indie music label, ‘Sonic Voyager’, which quickly signed them up. Over the years, ‘Insubstantial Touch’ has grown to become a force to be reckoned with in the indie music scene, renowned for their profound lyrics, talent for storytelling, and ability to explore the depth of human emotions through their music.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Empty Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1:
(Am) Walking through the city streets at night,
(G) Searching for what’s not in sight,
(F) Trapped in the echoes of our past,
(C) In shadows that were not meant to last.

Chorus:
(Dm) Empty shadows (G) in the night,
(C) Remnants of love lost in the fight,
(Am) Insubstantial touch, I miss you (G) so much,
(F) Come back to me, bring back the light.

Verse 2:
(Am) Underneath the city’s neon glow,
(G) I find traces of the love we used to know,
(F) Our whispers still linger in the air,
(C) A testament of a bond that’s rare.

Chorus:
(Dm) Empty shadows (G) in my heart,
(C) From your love, I can’t part,
(Am) Insubstantial touch, I need you (G) so much,
(F) Let’s mend what’s broken, make a new start.

Band’s Favorite Fan:
Insubstantial Touch’s favorite fan is undoubtedly Lucy Reynolds. Lucy has been with the band since their first show at a small bar in Brooklyn and has followed their journey ever since. She is known for her enthusiasm and loyalty, often traveling to see the band play in different cities.

Testimonial:
“Insubstantial Touch has a way of making you feel understood. Their music dives into the complexities of human emotions and experiences, making them tangible and easier to process. Every tune, every lyric resonates with me on a personal level. Their song ‘Empty Shadows’ helped me get through a tough break-up. The raw vulnerability and honesty in their music is something I’ve not found elsewhere. I’m proud to be their fan.” – Lucy Reynolds.

Backstory:

Born in the heartland of America, United Region is a group of four childhood friends who matured around the same time and shared a common passion for music. Their group was formed in their small hometown of Ames, Iowa, where they spent countless hours in their garage playing, writing, and dreaming of making it big. Their shared experiences of growing up in the countryside, working in their families’ farms, and dealing with the ups and downs of life in a small town became the core of their musical inspiration.

United Region hit the big time when they won a local talent show, catching the attention of a music producer on a scouting mission. Their authentic sound and heartfelt lyrics won the producer over, and he helped them rise to national fame. The band remains true to their roots, often returning to Ames for impromptu concerts and charity events.

Genre:
Country Rock

Title:
“Harvest Moon Dance”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
G Em C G
Underneath the harvest moon, we’d dance away the night,
G Em C D
In your eyes, I’d lose myself, in the glow of golden light.
Em C G D
In this small town, we found love, under the wide-open sky,
Em C D G
In your arms, I found my home, in the wink of your eye.

(Chorus)
G Em C G
So we danced, to the rhythm of the cornfields’ breeze,
G Em C D
And we loved, to the melody of the whispering trees.
Em C G D
In the heart of the heartland, where the wild prairie roams,
Em C D G
I fell in love with you, in the land we call home.

(Verse 2)
G Em C G
With the setting of the sun, the fireflies start to play,
G Em C D
Our hearts beat in harmony, as the stars lead the way.
Em C G D
In this simple life, we found joy, in the small things we share,
Em C D G
In the silence of the night, I found peace in your care.

(Repeat Chorus)

(Bridge)
Em C G D
Here’s to us, and the love we’ve sown,
Em C D G
Underneath the harvest moon, our story has grown.

(Repeat Chorus)

End on G

Fan Testimonial:

“I’m Frank Dawson, and I’m a diehard fan of United Region. There’s an authenticity in their music that captures the spirit of our heartland, and their songs are like a journey back home. “Harvest Moon Dance” takes me back to the time of young love, dancing under the moonlight, and the simple joy of small-town life. United Region isn’t just my favorite band because their music is brilliant, but their songs have a way of touching your soul and reminding you of what truly matters in life. They’re the sonic embodiment of our small town, and I couldn’t be prouder to support them.”

Backstory:

Admired Controversy was born in the bustling city of Seattle, a place known for its eclectic music scene. The band first met during an open mic night at a local coffee shop, each member drawn to the other’s unique sound and passion. Aiden, the lead vocalist and guitarist, was mesmerizing with his raw and soulful voice; Luka, the drummer, was a powerhouse, providing a rhythmic heartbeat that could be felt down to one’s bones; and Jay, on the bass, was the quiet force that held them together with his smooth and steady beats. They felt an immediate musical connection and decided to form a band, dedicating themselves to creating music that transcended traditional boundaries and ignited conversations.

Admired Controversy quickly gained recognition for their dynamic sound and thought-provoking lyrics. Their music was filled with bold statements about society, politics, and the human condition, earning them both admiration and controversy. Despite the mixed reactions, they stayed true to their vision, using their music as a platform to voice out their thoughts and beliefs about the world.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Identity Echo”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Em G D A
I see the world in monochrome,
Em G D A
Tinted by the lies we’ve been told.
Em G D A
We’re chasing shadows in our minds,
Em G D A
Stuck in the echo of our time.

[Chorus]
C G D Em
We scream, we shout, our voices loud,
C G D Em
In this identity echo, we’re lost then found.
C G D Em
We question, we doubt, we’re breaking out,
C G D Em
In this identity echo, we make our sound.

[Verse 2]
Em G D A
We’re not just faces in the crowd,
Em G D A
Our hearts beat strong, our spirits proud.
Em G D A
We wear our scars like a crown,
Em G D A
In this identity echo, we won’t back down.

(Repeat Chorus)

Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Sarah. Sarah was going through a tough time in her life when she first stumbled upon Admired Controversy’s music. The band’s lyrics resonated with her, giving her hope and strength during her darkest moments. She feels connected to the band, believing that their music has the power to inspire and provoke thought. “Admired Controversy is my favorite band because their music isn’t just entertainment, it’s a source of comfort and empowerment,” Sarah shares. “Their songs touch my soul and inspire me to stand up for what I believe in. They’re not just a band, they’re my heroes.”

Backstory:
Past Credit is a group of four childhood friends from the bohemian town of Asheville, North Carolina. Growing up in a musical environment, the group was heavily influenced by the town’s rich culture of folk music and storytelling. The band members, Mark (vocals, guitar), Ben (drums), Sarah (bass, vocals), and Pete (guitar, vocals) started out playing in local bars and coffee shops around town. They gained local fame for their unique blend of country, rock and folk music and soon began performing at larger venues across the states. The band’s name, Past Credit, is a reflection of their humble beginnings and the gratitude they feel for the experiences that brought them together.

Genre:
Country-Rock

Title:
“Shadows of Yesterday”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] You said you didn’t [D] need me, [Em] but I see it in your [C] eyes
[G] The way you look at [D] me now, [Em] full of regret and [C] lies
[G] We used to dream [D] together, [Em] under the Carolina [C] sky
[G] Now all we have are [D] memories, [Em] and the shadows of [C] yesterday

(Chorus)
[G] Oh, the shadows of [D] yesterday, [Em] still haunt me [C] today
[G] I see you in every [D] corner, [Em] in every old familiar [C] way
[G] We had a love that was [D] real, [Em] why did it fade [C] away?
[G] All that’s left are the [D] shadows, [Em] the shadows of [C] yesterday..

(Verse 2)
[G] I walk these empty [D] streets, [Em] where we used to [C] play
[G] The echoes of our [D] laughter, [Em] have long since faded [C] away
[G] I miss the way you [D] held me, [Em] under the moonlight’s [C] gentle sway
[G] All I have now are [D] memories, [Em] and the shadows of [C] yesterday

(Repeat Chorus)

Favorite Fan:
Our favorite fan has to be Missy Thompson. She’s been with us since our early days and has attended almost every one of our concerts. She once said, “Past Credit’s music speaks to my soul. Their songs are authentic, their lyrics are heartfelt, and I can feel a deep connection with their music. Their song ‘Shadows of Yesterday’ is a personal favorite, it just tells such a beautiful story of love and loss that I can’t help but relate to. They’re more than just a band to me, they’re like family.” We’re blessed to have fans like Missy.