Backstory:

United Prison was born from the rough and tumble background of a maximum-security prison in Arizona. The four band members were all serving time for non-violent crimes when they discovered a shared passion for music. Utilizing the limited resources they had, they managed to craft makeshift instruments and started creating sounds that resonated with their fellow inmates. Over time, they began performing at the prison’s monthly talent shows, their music offering a brief respite from the harsh reality of life behind bars. Upon their release, the guys decided to continue their musical journey, their band name serving as a stark reminder of where they’d come from.

Genre:

United Prison’s music can be best described as blues rock. Their gritty, raw sounds, infused with soulful melodies, are a direct reflection of their life experiences.

Title:

“Shackled Melody”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
(Am) Woke up this morning, (E7) shackles on my feet,
(Dm) The sun was still dawning, (Am) no retreat.
(Am) Locked in this cage, (E7) my spirit won’t break,
(Dm) I’m writing my freedom (Am) in every note I make.

(Chorus)
(G) Singing the shackled melody, (F) the blues of life within these walls,
(Am) Our united prison symphony, (E7) rises above the guard’s calls.

(Verse 2)
(Am) Bars and brick walls, (E7) they confine my body,
(Dm) But my voice rings out, (Am) loud and free.
(Am) Music’s my escape, (E7) it’s my key,
(Dm) Unlocks the chains, (Am) sets my spirit free.

(Chorus)
(G) Singing the shackled melody, (F) the rhythm of life behind bars,
(Am) Our united prison symphony, (E7) reaches beyond the stars.

Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Emily Thompson. Emily first heard United Prison during a prison outreach program and was instantly moved by their raw passion and unique sound. In her own words, “United Prison is more than just a band, they’re a testament to resilience and the power of music. Their songs capture the essence of struggle, but always hint at hope and redemption. Their music has helped me through some tough times, reminding me that even in the darkest of places, you can find beauty and strength.”

Backstory:
In the heart of the financial district in New York City, four friends in the world of corporate finance found solace in music during their break hours. Sharing a mutual dissatisfaction with their conventional 9-to-5 lives, they decided to form a band in 2009. They named themselves the “Spiteful Shareholder” to reflect their relentless dissatisfaction and also as an inside joke to their unfulfilled lives in the corporate world.

The band, comprised of lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Daniel Lombardi, lead guitarist Jeremy Marks, bass guitarist Philip Turner, and drummer Aaron Hunter, quickly found a unique voice in their music. Their shared experiences in the corporate world gave them a unique perspective and a distinct voice that resonated with many who felt trapped in their own professional lives. Their songs became anthems for the disenchanted corporate drones looking for a release from their mundane lives.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Fiscal Cliff”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am – C – G – F
Trapped in the monotone, suffocated by ties,
Caged in the cubicles under fluorescent skies. (x2)

(Chorus)
Em – G – D – A
Falling, falling, from a fiscal cliff,
No golden parachutes, just a sour stiff. (x2)

(Verse 2)
Am – C – G – F
Numbers drowning in the shroud, a corporate bereft,
In the mirror of Wall Street, there’s no self left. (x2)

(Chorus)
Em – G – D – A
Falling, falling, from a fiscal cliff,
No golden parachutes, just a sour stiff. (x2)

(Bridge)
F – C – G – Em
In the shadows of skyscrapers, hearts turned cold,
Profits are prophets, humanity sold.

(Chorus)
Em – G – D – A
Falling, falling, from a fiscal cliff,
No golden parachutes, just a sour stiff. (x2)

(Outro)
Am – C – G – F
Trapped in the monotone, suffocated by ties,
Caged in the cubicles under fluorescent skies. (x2)

Fan’s testimonial:
Fan’s Name: Tim Hawkins

“I’ve been following Spiteful Shareholder since their first gig at a small pub in Manhattan. Their music speaks directly to me. As a corporate professional, I could instantly connect with their lyrics. They aren’t just a band to me, they’re my release, my sanctuary. They remind me that it’s okay to feel dissatisfied and lost in the corporate world. They inspired me to pick up the guitar again and to remember who I am outside of my job title. Every song is a reflection of my life. They are, without a doubt, my favorite band.”

Backstory:

Filthy Glass was formed in a cramped garage in Portland, Oregon during the summer of 2013. The band consists of childhood best friends Ronald “Ringo” Simmons on lead vocals and guitar, Jeremy “JJ” Johnson on bass, and Billy “Buckshot” Williams on drums. Their name, Filthy Glass, came from an inside joke about a dirty pint glass they found at their school cafeteria. This trio took their shared love for music and channeled it into creating a distinctive sound that captures their camaraderie, youthful exuberance, and rebellious spirit.

Ringo, JJ, and Buckshot spent countless hours honing their craft, playing at local bars and small venues, grabbing every opportunity that came their way. Their dedication paid off when they were discovered by a talent scout from a record label in 2016. Since then, Filthy Glass has released three successful studio albums and gained a loyal fan base. They continue to rock the music scene with their electrifying performances and innovative music.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Title:

“Shattered Reflections”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
G Am Em C
She found a letter I thought I tossed away,
G Am Em C
An old relic of yesterday,
G Am Em C
Her eyes, they filled with sorrow and dismay.

(Chorus)
D Em C G
Shattered reflections in the mirror,
D Em C G
In her eyes, I see the fear.
D Em C G
In this filthy glass, our love’s unclear,
D Em C G
Shattered reflections of you, my dear.

(Verse 2)
G Am Em C
Memories held, in this glass of wine,
G Am Em C
In its depths, I watch our love decline,
G Am Em C
Into the abyss, where the sun no longer shines.

(Chorus)
D Em C G
Shattered reflections in the mirror,
D Em C G
In her eyes, I see the fear.
D Em C G
In this filthy glass, our love’s unclear,
D Em C G
Shattered reflections of you, my dear.

End with
D Em C G
Shattered reflections, but we’re still here.

Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan, Tina Henderson, is a 28-year-old barista from Eugene, Oregon. A die-hard fan from the beginning, Tina has attended every Filthy Glass concert within a 200-mile radius. Tina says, “I’ve grown up with Filthy Glass. Their music is a soundtrack to my life, a reflection of my own experiences and emotions. From their raw, passionate lyrics to their energetic performances, they never fail to captivate me. Their track ‘Shattered Reflections’ speaks volumes about love and loss in a way that I believe anyone can identify with. They’ve made a significant impact on my life, and I can’t imagine my music playlist without Filthy Glass. They’re more than a band, they’re like friends I’ve never met, yet know so well.”

Backstory:
Wealthy Investigation emerged from the unlikely setting of a Wall Street brokerage house. Its members, a group of analysts and traders, found solace in their shared love of music amid the high-stakes pressure of their day jobs. Their lunchtime jamming sessions became a creative outlet, leading to the formation of the band in 2010. They brought their analytical skills to their music, meticulously crafting their tunes and lyrics, which reflect their unique experiences in the financial world. Their songs often weave together narratives of money, power, ambition, and the human spirit.

Genre:
Rock and Blues with a dash of Indie Pop

Title:
“Golden Handcuffs Blues.”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1:
(Am) Wake up in the morning, (D) put on my suit and tie,
(G) Grind the numbers, (C) under the city sky.
(Am) I got a Wall Street job, (D) all shiny and new,
(G) But I can’t shake off these, (C) Golden Handcuffs Blues.

Chorus:
(G) This ain’t about the money, (D) it ain’t about the fame,
(Am) It’s about the passion, (C) that’s burning like a flame.
(G) I want to break free, (D) got nothing to lose,
(Am) Escape the clutches of these, (C) Golden Handcuffs Blues.

Verse 2:
(Am) Trapped in a corner office, (D) behind a glass wall,
(G) The ticker tape’s running, (C) but I’m feeling small.
(Am) This velvet prison, (D) is just a ruse,
(G) Anchored by the weight of these, (C) Golden Handcuffs Blues.

Chorus:
(G) Don’t want to be a puppet, (D) in this corporate game,
(Am) I want to live my dreams, (C) not just in name.
(G) Gonna cut these chains, (D) in my shiny shoes,
(Am) Walk right out of these, (C) Golden Handcuffs Blues.

Fan’s Name:
Sarah Turner

Testimonial:
I’ve been a fan of Wealthy Investigation since they first started playing in local bars in Manhattan. I was drawn in by their authentic narratives that resonate with me as a working professional. It’s not every day you find music that understands the struggles of balancing ambition with personal happiness. The song “Golden Handcuffs Blues” perfectly encapsulates this sentiment. The band brings together rock, blues, and pop in a way that’s catchy and instantly appealing. They’ve got a unique sound and a refreshing perspective, which makes them my favorite band.

Backstory:
Double Tree is a band forged out of passion and serendipity. The band was formed in the heart of Seattle, Washington in 2010 when the two lead members, James Clarke and Leo Miller, met at a local music festival. Both were solo performers at the time, but the duo quickly realized they shared a similar musical vision and decided to join forces. They named the band ‘Double Tree’ as an homage to two historical trees in their town, which were said to have sprung from a single seed and grew intertwined – just like their musical partnership.

Genre:
Double Tree can be classified under the Alternative Rock genre. They incorporate elements of punk, grunge, and folk into their music, giving it a diverse and distinct sound. The band’s lyrics often contain powerful messages about societal issues and personal experiences, paired with infectious rhythms and memorable hooks.

Title:
“Rooted in Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C
We’re all grown from single seeds,
G D
Pushing through the dirt and leaves.
Em C
Underneath the moon’s pale glow,
G D
Our secrets only shadows know.

(Chorus)
Em C
We are rooted in shadows, yet reaching for the light,
G D
Struggling to grow, in the dead of the night.
Em C
Underneath the stars, under the old oak tree,
G D
We become who we’re meant to be.

(Verse 2)
Em C
In the struggle we find our strength,
G D
In the darkness, we learn to dance.
Em C
Beneath the mask of the midnight sun,
G D
We realize we are all one.

(Chorus)
Em C
We are rooted in shadows, yet reaching for the light,
G D
Growing through pain, shining bright in the fight.
Em C
Underneath the stars, under the double tree,
G D
We find the courage to be free.

Fan’s Testimonial:

My name is Lisa, and I am Double Tree’s biggest fan. Their music is an honest expression of life’s deepest feelings and experiences, which resonates with me on a personal level. Their song “Rooted in Shadows” is a perfect example of this. The lyrics speak about struggle, growth, and finding our strength in the darkest times. It is this raw authenticity that makes Double Tree my favorite band. Their music not only entertains me but also inspires and uplifts me, which is why I never miss a show or a release from them.

Backstory:

Putrid Prison, a band composed of four former correctional officers, was formed in a prison of all places. The founding members, namely Alex “Razor” Razorski on vocals, John “Cuffs” Cunningham on guitar, Rick “Warden” Ward on bass, and Mark “Chains” Chainey on drums, all worked at a maximum security penitentiary. They became close friends over time, bonding over their shared love for music and shared frustrations about the prison system.

One fateful night, after a particularly exhausting shift, they decided to jam together in the staff recreation area. The result was a unique mix of raw emotion, heavy riffs, and powerful vocals that encapsulated the grim reality they witnessed daily. The energy they created was so palpicably intense that they decided to form a band right then and there, naming it after their workplace – Putrid Prison.

Genre:

Heavy Metal

Title:

“Chained Fury”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse1)
Em G D A
In this place of stone and steel, where hearts grow numb and cold,
Em G D A
We see the pain, we feel the strain, of stories left untold.

(Chorus)
G D Em C
Chained fury, in our souls it burns,
G D Em C
From the ashes, a phoenix yearns.

(Verse2)
Em G D A
We guard the lost, pay the cost, of a system flawed and old,
Em G D A
In this putrid prison, we stand bold, as life’s cruel hand unfolds.

(Chorus)
G D Em C
Chained fury, like a beast it roars,
G D Em C
Behind these bars, we wage our wars.

(Bridge)
Em C G D
In the echo of the screams, in the shadows of the night,
Em C G D
We find our strength, we claim our right.

(Chorus)
G D Em C
Chained fury, it’s the song we sing,
G D Em C
In this putrid prison, we are kings.

(Outro)
Em D C B
In the belly of the beast, amidst the scorn and the lies,
Em D C B
Chained fury, in our hearts, it never dies.

Testimonial:

Fan’s Name: Ronnie “Lockdown” Lockett

“Putrid Prison’s music hits different. It’s raw, it’s real, and it hits you right in the gut. You can feel their passion bleeding through their lyrics and their performances. The song ‘Chained Fury’ isn’t just a song for me, it’s an anthem. Their music has given me strength during my own personal hardships. They don’t just play songs, they share experiences, and in this cold, hard world, that’s something I can relate to. That’s why Putrid Prison is and always will be my favorite band.”

Backstory:

Instructive Pleasure formed when four college friends with disparate musical tastes decided to jam together in a cramped garage in San Francisco in 2012. The members include Lloyd (Lead vocals and guitar), Alex (Drums), Rose (Bass), and Oliver (Keyboards). Each of them brought a unique flavor to their music, drawing from their personal influences. Despite their differences, their love for music created a common ground that cultivated a unique sound that soon resonated with the local crowd.

Starting out in small pubs and local gigs, they hustled their way to bigger platforms with their tireless passion and dedication. Their music was a blend of wistful lyrics infused with their youthful energy and bold sound, which quickly caught the attention of fans and critics alike. After signing with an indie label in 2014, they released their first album, “Lessons in Joy,” which established their foothold in the music industry.

Genre:
Indie Pop/Rock

Title:
“Chasing Eternity”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C Am
Chasing dreams down open roads
Em G
Eternity in our souls
Dm C
We’re young, we’re bold
G Em
Our story’s yet untold

(Chorus)
C Am
Chasing eternity, my dear
Em D
With every laugh, every tear
G C
We’ll make our mark, have no fear
Am G C
Instructive pleasure’s here

(Verse 2)
C Am
In the shadows of the night
Em G
We find solace in starlight
Dm C
Embracing what feels right
G Em
Beneath the city’s neon lights

(Chorus)
C Am
Chasing eternity, my dear
Em D
With every laugh, every tear
G C
We’ll make our mark, have no fear
Am G C
Instructive pleasure’s here

Outro
Dm C
With every beat, every note
Em G
We’re keeping hope afloat
Dm C
Chasing dreams, staying afloat
Am G C
Chasing eternity’s our only note

Fan’s name: Jenny

Testimonial:
“I’ve followed Instructive Pleasure since their early days, playing in tiny pubs. What draws me to them is their authenticity, their lyrics feel profoundly personal yet relatable. I find a part of myself in their songs. My favorite is ‘Chasing Eternity,’ a song that resonates with my own pursuit of dreams. Their music isn’t just about entertainment; it’s about life, love, dreams, and the joy in the chase. It’s as if they’re sharing their own life lessons in the most melodious way possible, making them my favorite band.”

Backstory:
“Squeaky Title” was formed in the bustling city of Los Angeles, California in 2015. The band comprises four members: lead singer and guitarist Jamie “Squeaky” Johnson, bassist Mark “Title” Sanders, drummer Alex “Stickman” Rodriguez, and keyboardist Lisa “Keys” Edwards. The name “Squeaky Title” was derived from Jamie’s nickname “Squeaky”, given due to his distinctive high-pitched voice, and Mark’s nickname “Title” for his love of vintage title sequence design. The band members, all college friends from the University of Southern California, combined their shared passion for music and their unique sounds to form a band that would ultimately shake up the local music scene.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Song Title:
“Washed Ashore”

Full Song Lyrics with Chord Progression:

(Verse 1: G, C, Am, D)
[G] I found myself [C] washed ashore,
[Am] Lost in thoughts, [D] needing more.
[G] With the waves, [C] I followed your call,
[Am] In your depth, [D] I began to fall.

(Chorus: Em, C, G, D)
[Em] Stranded on your [C] sandy smile,
[G] I’d walk a thousand [D] treacherous miles.
[Em] Your love is the [C] ocean wide,
[G] My heart’s the ship, [D] in you, I confide.

(Verse 2: G, C, Am, D)
[G] The seagulls sing [C] lullabies,
[Am] Underneath the [D] twilight skies.
[G] Your touch, [C] as soft as the sea foam,
[Am] In your arms, [D] I found my home.

(Chorus: Em, C, G, D)
[Em] Sailing through your [C] sea of dreams,
[G] Lost in love, or [D] so it seems.
[Em] Your love is the [C] ocean wide,
[G] My heart’s the ship, [D] in you, I confide.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Penny. Penny has been following “Squeaky Title” since their first gig at a small bar in downtown LA and has never missed a concert, regardless of the location.

Testimonial:
Penny says, “Squeaky Title is more than just a band to me; they’re like family. Their music speaks to my soul, and their energy is infectious. I’ve been to every one of their shows, and I plan to continue this tradition. Their song ‘Washed Ashore’ is my personal anthem. I guess you could say I’m their number one fan, but to me, it’s more than just fandom. It’s a connection.”

Backstory:
Golden Box came into existence in the early 1990s when four friends from a small town in Massachusetts came together to express their passion for music. They started out as a garage band, practicing in their parents’ basements until they were good enough to perform at local gigs. Their love for music and authentic lyrics soon caught attention around their region, leading to their first record deal. The lead singer, Tommy, was the one who proposed the name Golden Box, inspired by a gold-colored box he found in his grandmother’s attic which was filled with old records that sparked his passion for music.

Genre:
Golden Box is best described as a Folk Rock Band with an alternative twist.

Title:
“One Last Dance”

Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Under the moonlight, [C] in the quaint old town,
[D] we danced away the night, [Em] without a frown.
[G] Your twinkling eyes, [C] and your glowing smile,
[D] turned my grey world, [Em] into a golden mile.

(Chorus)
[G] One last dance, [C] under the starry dome,
[D] A dance with you, [Em] feels like home.
[G] In your arms, [C] the world fades away,
[D] One last dance, [Em] before the break of day.

(Verse 2)
[G] Whispered secrets, [C] in the silent night,
[D] your laughter ringing, [Em] oh what a sight.
[G] This dance we share, [C] this precious moment,
[D] I will treasure, [Em] till my last lament.

(Chorus)
[G] One last dance, [C] under the starry dome,
[D] A dance with you, [Em] feels like home.
[G] In your arms, [C] the world fades away,
[D] One last dance, [Em] before the break of day.

Fan’s Testimonial:
My name is Sarah Thompson, and I can confidently say Golden Box is my favorite band. Their music speaks to me on a personal level, especially their song “One Last Dance.” It reminds me of the dances I used to share with my husband. We’d often dance under the stars in our backyard, and their song resonated with those memories. Their heartfelt lyrics and soulful folk-rock sound provide a sense of comfort and nostalgia that is rare to find. Their music has been a source of solace and joy for me, and for that reason, Golden Box will always be my favorite band.

Backstory: Formed in the bustling city of New Orleans in 2015, Handsome Ball was born from the diverse musical heritage of its four members: lead vocalist and bassist Michael “Micky” James, guitarist Jeremiah “Jerry” Sullivan, drummer Jason “Jay” Collins, and keyboardist Rachel “Ray” Thompson. The quartet met while studying at a jazz academy and soon discovered a shared passion for blending their jazz roots with a more modern sound, creating a uniquely captivating musical style. Their love for music and tenacious pursuit of their creative vision quickly propelled them into the spotlight, and they soon found themselves performing at popular jazz festivals and music venues across the country.

Genre: Modern Jazz Fusion

Title: “Jazz in the Night”

Full song lyrics with chord progression: (Verse, Chorus)

(Verse 1 – Am7, D7, GMaj7, CMaj7)
In the heart of the city, under the neon light,
There’s a rhythm woven in the seams of the night.
On the corner where lovers meet, and dreamers roam,
Handsome Ball plays, making the street their home.

(Chorus – F#m7, B9, EMaj7, A9)
We are jazz in the night, painting the town,
In colors of sound, where love is found.
In every chord and melody, in every subtle harmony,
We are jazz in the night, setting hearts free.

(Verse 2 – Am7, D7, GMaj7, CMaj7)
Stirring the air like a lover’s whisper,
In the rhythm of the night, you cannot resist her.
With a melody that dances through the city’s veins,
Handsome Ball plays, undeterred by the rain.

(Chorus – F#m7, B9, EMaj7, A9)
We are jazz in the night, painting the town,
In colors of sound, where love is found.
In every chord and melody, in every subtle harmony,
We are jazz in the night, setting hearts free.

Fan’s name and testimonial:
Fan’s Name: Lucy
Testimonial: “I’ve followed Handsome Ball since their early beginnings at small jazz clubs in New Orleans. Their music is unlike anything I’ve heard before – it’s a blend of traditional jazz and modern sounds that makes them stand out in today’s music scene. The members are not only incredible musicians but also amazing people. Their passion for music is infectious and their performances are unforgettable. Handsome Ball isn’t just my favorite band, they’re an experience that you don’t want to miss.”