Backstory:

Similar County, originally formed in the quiet, coastal town of Newport, Oregon, came together in the early 2000s. Childhood friends, lead vocalist and guitarist, Sam Perkins along with drummer, Luke McCormick, had a shared passion for music and storytelling. They had spent countless summer nights under the starlit sky, composing songs that captured the essence of their hometown, the tranquility of the coastline, the comfort of simple living, and the stories of the everyday people that inhabited it. They were joined later by bassist, Kelly Shaw, an English teacher from their local high school, whose unique musical perspective refined the band’s sound.

Their local gigs at the town’s bar and beachside festivals gained them a dedicated fanbase. Their honest lyrics, relatable themes, and the soft hues of their music resonated with the young and old alike. They released their debut album, “Tales from the Dockside,” in 2005, which was a hit in the local music scene and led to a record deal with a renowned music label.

Genre: Folk Rock/ Indie Pop

Song Title: “Beneath the Lighthouse”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1:
[G] Down the coast, where the [C] sea meets the land,
[D] There’s a town as old as [G] time,
[G] In the glow of the [C] lighthouse stand,
[D] We find love in its [G] prime.

Chorus:
[C] Under the beacon, [G] under the night,
[D] We dance to the rhythm of the [Em] twilight,
[C] Amidst the waves, beneath the [G] lighthouse,
[D] We found love, in this quiet [G] townhouse.

Verse 2:
[G] The evening sky, the [C] salty breeze,
[D] We’re lost in time, in [G] memories,
[G] As the lighthouse [C] shines far and wide,
[D] Our hearts beat as [G] one, with the tide.

Chorus:
[C] Under the beacon, [G] under the night,
[D] We dance to the rhythm of the [Em] twilight,
[C] Amidst the waves, beneath the [G] lighthouse,
[D] We found love, in this quiet [G] townhouse.

Fans’ Testimonial:

Our most devoted fan, Emma Thompson, has been following us since our very first gig at the local bar. “Similar County isn’t just a band for me,” she says, “Their songs carry the essence of our town. They’re like a soundtrack to our lives. The magic lies in their simplicity, their authenticity, and the intricate stories they weave through their music. ‘Beneath the Lighthouse’ is my favorite. It takes me back to my childhood, those simpler times, and it’s like living in a beautiful memory. It’s nostalgic, comforting, and it’s home. That’s why Similar County will always be my favorite band.”

Backstory:

Formed in the heart of Brooklyn, New York, in 2009, Orange Brother is a brainchild of two childhood friends, Brian Holt and Zachary Sanders. Sharing a mutual love for music, they decided to form a band after graduating from high school. From jamming in their garages to performing at local bars, and then climbing up to sold-out arenas, their journey has been nothing short of inspirational. The band’s name ‘Orange Brother’ signifies their warm and vibrant music, with a hint of a raw, rustic feeling.

Genre: Folk Rock

Title: “Sundown Street”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am Em
Down on the Sundown Street, where the dreams are born
G D
Memories of yesteryears, like a heart that’s torn
Am Em
Sounds of the harmonica, echo in the night
G D
Underneath the neon lights, reflecting our plight

(Chorus)
C G
Sundown Street, oh, it’s a bittersweet
Am Em
Walk down the memory lane, feeling the heat
C G
Sundown Street, where the lost souls meet
D
Chasing dreams in the night, to the morning beat

(Verse 2)
Am Em
Walking past the old record store, with stories untold
G D
Weaving tales of love and loss, in the music we hold
Am Em
With every strum of the guitar, we find our truth
G D
Sundown Street, it’s the fountain of our youth

(Chorus)
C G
Sundown Street, oh, it’s a bittersweet
Am Em
Strumming the strings of the heart, feeling the beat
C G
Sundown Street, where the lost souls meet
D
From dusk till dawn, we don’t skip a beat

Fan’s Name: Emily Taylor

Testimonial:

“Orange Brother has been my favorite band since I first heard their music in 2010. Their melodies are deeply rooted, evoking emotions that I cannot put into words. Their songs resonate with me on a personal level, each telling a unique story that I can relate to. ‘Sundown Street’ is my absolute favorite. It takes me on a nostalgic journey, making me feel both joyous and melancholic simultaneously. It’s an experience I wouldn’t trade for anything. Orange Brother’s music is not just songs to me, it’s a way of life.”

Backstory:
Cool Power was formed in the bustling city of Austin, Texas, in the early 2000s. It all started in a dingy garage, where four childhood friends, Mark (vocalist), Adam (drummer), John (bassist), and Luke (guitarist), started experimenting with their distinctive sound. All coming from different musical backgrounds, they found a common ground in their love for rock and blues, and the chemistry was undeniable. They quickly gained recognition in Austin’s renowned music scene, and their popularity spread through word of mouth. Today, Cool Power is known as a band that blends sonic intensity with melodious lyricism, all the while staying true to their roots.

Genre:
Blues Rock

Title:
‘Lost Highway’

Full Song Lyrics:
[Verse 1 – Em, G, D, A]
(Em) I’ve been walking this lost highway, (G) with no end in sight,
(D) My soul’s weary, my heart’s heavy, (A) under the moon’s light.
(Em) I see a shadow in the distance, (G) maybe it’s just a mirage,
(D) I’m searching for some solace, (A) in the midst of this barrage.

[Chorus – C, G, D]
(C) Lost highway, take me home,
(G) To a place where I can find my own.
(D) I’m just a wanderer in a world so vast,
(C) Looking for a future, not chained to the past.

[Verse 2 – Em, G, D, A]
(Em) Underneath the starlit sky, (G) I hear the quiet whispers,
(D) Of all the dreams I left behind, (A) and all the hopeful twisters.
(Em) A songbird sings a lullaby, (G) soothing my restless mind,
(D) In the echoes of the lost highway, (A) it’s peace I hope to find.

[Chorus – C, G, D]
(C) Lost highway, set me free,
(G) In your vastness, let my spirit be.
(D) I’m not a prisoner, just a wayfarer,
(C) On this lost highway, the world’s lieu bearer.

[Bridge – Em, Bm, C, G]
(Em) With every step, I’m closer to finding,
(Bm) The missing pieces, the silver lining.
(C) The road is long, but I won’t sway,
(G) On this lost highway, I’ll find my way.

[Chorus – C, G, D]
(C) Lost highway, show me the dawn,
(G) Light the path that I must tread upon.
(D) I’m just a traveler, in a cosmic play,
(C) On this lost highway, finding my way.

Fan’s Name and Testimonial:
Name: Sarah Adams

Testimonial: “I’ve been a fan of Cool Power since their grassroots days in Austin, Texas. Their unique blend of blues rock invigorates me and transports me into another realm. The deep, soulful lyrics of their songs, particularly ‘Lost Highway’, echo my own journey. I feel a deep connection to their music, as if they’re translating my thoughts, feelings, and experiences into beautiful melodies. They’re not just a band to me, they’re storytellers who use music as their medium. Their authenticity, passion, and dedication make them my favorite band. I look forward to their journey ahead and will always been an avid fan of Cool Power.”

Backstory:
Born in the bustling city of Seattle in 2004, Lanky Sword initially started as a garage band by three high school friends – Danny “Dee” Foster (vocals), Michael “Mickey” Douglas (drums), and Peter “Pete” Williams (guitar). Their love for music brought them together, and they found a unique chemistry when they jammed in their small garage. The name ‘Lanky Sword’ was chosen to represent their own oddball personalities and the fierce, hard-hitting musical style they aspired to achieve. Over the years, they added two more members, Sarah “Sassy” Mitchels (keyboard) and John “Johnny” Blackwood (bass), completing their line-up and forging a sound that was uniquely their own.

Their first major breakthrough came in 2008 when they won the local “Battle of the Bands” competition, catching the attention of a small indie record label. This was the start of Lanky Sword’s rise to becoming one of the most unconventional, yet loved rock bands in the country. Their intense, raw energy, audacious lyrics, and a unique blend of traditional rock elements with a modern twist have created a dedicated fanbase that continues to grow.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Shards of Us”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1:
Am C
Wandering in the twilight, lost in the haze
G Dm
Looking for a lighthouse, in our daze
Am C
Picking up the pieces, of broken dreams
G Dm
Finding solace in, silent screams

Chorus:
F C G
We’re the shards of us
Dm Am
Broken but still tough
F C G
Piercing through the night
Dm Am
With our own light

Verse 2:
Am C
Walking on the edges, of shattered hope
G Dm
Clinging on, learning to cope
Am C
Weaving stories from, the fragments left
G Dm
Singing ballads of, a love bereft

(Repeat Chorus)

Bridge:
Em F
In the chaos, we find our voice
C G
In the silence, we make our choice

(Repeat Chorus x2)

Fan Testimonial:
I’m Bethany Clark, arguably the biggest Lanky Sword fan out there. Their music is raw, real and resonates with my experiences. Each song is a journey that takes you through every emotion – from joy to despair, hope to heartbreak. I’ve been to every concert they’ve played in Seattle since ’08, and their live performances are electrifying. Their song “Shards of Us” is my absolute favorite, as it encapsulates the human experience of love and loss in such a powerful way. Lanky Sword isn’t just a band to me, it’s a profound experience that has shaped me and my perspective on life.

Backstory:

Loathsome Machine, hailing from the gritty underbelly of Detroit’s music scene, was formed in the late 90s by childhood friends Christopher “Spike” Matthews and Michael “Buzz” Riley. As teenagers, they spent their days skipping school, creating music in their basements, and dreaming about a future filled with sold-out stadiums and platinum records. Their garage band status was swiftly upgraded when they were noticed by a local DJ during a spontaneous battle of the bands performance at a rundown dive bar. Their raw talent and unique sound caught the attention of A&R executive, who signed them to his indie label. Their rise to stardom was quick, with their debut album going platinum and catapulting them to international fame.

Despite their success, Loathsome Machine never lost their unique flavor and authenticity. They kept true to their roots, delivering electrifying performances, and producing music that resonated with their audience. They are known for their incredible resilience, bouncing back from various hurdles — including a brief break-up in 2005 — and continuing to produce groundbreaking music.

Genre:

Alternative Rock/Grunge

Title:

“Raw Steel Symphony”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1:
[F#m] Dark alleyways, and bright city lights, [D]
[E] We owned the world, those wild teenage nights. [A]
[F#m] Raw steel rhythms, old guitar strings, [D]
[E] Echoes of a past, broken dreams on wings. [A]

Chorus:
[C#m] We are, we are, the raw steel symphony, [G#]
[A] Singing out loud, in perfect disharmony. [E]
[C#m] We are, we are, the loathsome machine, [G#]
[A] Living our dreams, and everything in between. [E]

Verse 2:
[F#m] Cracked walls whisper of forgotten songs, [D]
[E] We’ve been down, but we’ve never been gone. [A]
[F#m] Electric heartbeats, beneath moon’s icy glare, [D]
[E] In the city’s rhythm, we were born to dare. [A]

(Repeat Chorus)

Favorite Fan:

Their favorite fan, known as “Rusty”, has followed them from their early days, even through their brief hiatus. As a testament to his loyalty, he has every album, piece of merchandise, and has attended every show within a 300-mile radius.

Rusty says, “Loathsome Machine isn’t just a band to me, they are the soundtrack to my life. Their music has seen me through my best and worst times. The raw, gritty energy of their songs, the passion, the relentlessness – it’s intoxicating. Most importantly, they’ve stayed true to their roots and their fans. They are real, they are raw, they are Loathsome Machine.”

Backstory:
Subdued Psychology traces their roots back to a small town in Ohio in 2012. The group was formed by four college friends—Daniel Richards on vocals, Jonathan Simmons on guitar, Mark Peters on drums, and Neil Adams on bass—who all shared a passion for music and psychology. They were all psychology majors and would often discuss the human mind’s complexity and mystique. Eventually, they decided to channel their fascination into music, fusing thought-provoking lyrics with captivating melodies. The band started performing in local bars and quickly gained a reputation for their unique sound and captivating live performances. They later moved to Los Angeles to pursue their music career more earnestly, which paid off as they were eventually signed by a renowned record label.

Genre:
Subdued Psychology specializes in Alternative Rock, with a unique twist of incorporating psychologically-themed lyrics into their music.

Title:
“Dreams Within a Shadow”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[Am] Waking life is just a [G] dream,
[Dm] Caught in the web of a [E] silent scream.
[Am] Shadows dancing on the [G] walls,
[Dm] Echoing the mind’s [E] ethereal halls.

(Chorus)
[F] Dreams within a [C] shadow,
[G] Thoughts too deep to [Am] fathom.
[F] Lost in the labyrinth of the [C] mind,
[G] Searching for what we can’t [Am] find.

(Verse 2)
[Am] Fear is just a [G] figment,
[Dm] Of the psyche’s intricate [E] segment.
[Am] Love is but a [G] complex code,
[Dm] Deciphered in the heart’s [E] humble abode.

(Chorus)
[F] Dreams within a [C] shadow,
[G] Emotions too wild to [Am] tame.
[F] Trapped in the theater of the [C] brain,
[G] Playing a never-ending [Am] game.

Bridge:
[D] Delving deep into [Am] subdued psychology,
[C] Unraveling the mystery of our [G] deep-seated ideology.

(Chorus)
[F] Dreams within a [C] shadow,
[G] A testament of the [Am] human saga.
[F] Wandering through realms [C] unseen,
[G] In the vast cosmos of the [Am] cognitive scene.

Fan Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan is a die-hard follower named Amy Patterson. She discovered Subdued Psychology during their initial bar performances in Ohio and has been a loyal fan ever since. In her words, “Subdued Psychology isn’t just a band; it’s a journey into the intricacies of the human mind. Their music is a perfect blend of intellectual stimulation and soul-stirring melodies. ‘Dreams Within a Shadow’ is my personal favorite; it’s like a psychological exploration set to the tune of alternative rock. Their music has helped me during tough times, and I’ve found a deeper understanding of myself through their songs. Subdued Psychology is my favorite band because they’re true artists who can turn complex psychological concepts into beautiful, relatable music.”

Backstory:

French City is an Indie rock band that was formed in the heart of Paris, France in 2010. The four-member group is composed of childhood friends, Pierre on vocals and guitar, François on lead guitar, Julien on bass, and Jean on drums. The boys, initially unaware of their shared passion for music, discovered their common interest during a school talent show, where they first collaborated. Their performance was a hit among the students, and they decided to form a band. Named after their beloved city, they started playing at local gigs, gaining fame and appreciation over time. Their unique sound is inspired by a mix of French and English rock, incorporating their cultural roots with their contemporary influences.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“City Lights”

Lyrics:
Verse: [Am] Wandering [G] the city streets at [F] night [C]
[Am] Lost in the [G] shimmering [F] city lights [C]
[Am] I see your [G] face in every [F] passerby [C]
[Am] In the heart of [G] the French [F] city, you lie [C]

Chorus: [G] Underneath the city [Am] lights, I find [F] you
[G] In this French [Am] city’s heart, we’re [F] true
[G] The Eiffel tower as our [Am] witness, we unite [F]
[G] In this French [Am] city’s heart, under the [F] city lights

Verse: [Am] Cobblestones under [G] my weary feet [F] [C]
[Am] In the city, where [G] love and life [F] meet [C]
[Am] The echo of [G] our laughter fills the [F] Seine [C]
[Am] In the heart of [G] the French [F] city, we remain [C]

Chorus: [G] Underneath the city [Am] lights, we find love [F]
[G] In this French [Am] city’s heart, we rise above [F]
[G] The Eiffel tower as our [Am] witness, love takes flight [F]
[G] In this French [Am] city’s heart, under the [F] city lights

Fan Testimonial:

Our favorite fan, Sophie, says, “I’ve been a dedicated follower of French City since their early days. Their music resonates with me; it’s like a love letter to Paris, a city I’ve always dreamt of living in. Their song ‘City Lights’ is a beautiful blend of indie rock influences with the charm of Parisian culture. It’s as if every strum, every word, transports me to the heart of Paris. I feel a deep connection with their music, and it has been a constant companion in my life. French City is more than just a band to me, they’re my virtual tour guides to my dream city.”

Backstory:
Rundown French is a unique blend of childhood friends and experienced musicians hailing from the heart of Paris, France. The band was formed in early 2013, when lead singer Pierre Leclerc and guitarist Jean-Louis Dupuis bumped into each other at a local open mic night. The duo, who had always shared a deep passion for music, quickly noticed a shared harmony in their styles and decided to form a band. They were later joined by drummer François Moreau and bassist Nicolas Bernard, rounding out the band’s unique sound.

Genre:
Rundown French is known for their indie pop sound with a twist of French new wave and a dash of post-punk revival. Their music is characterized by catchy hooks, energetic performances, and a distinct blend of electronic and acoustic instruments, creating a unique soundscape that has won them fans across the globe.

Title:
“Underneath the Paris Rain”

Full Song Lyrics:
(V)
Em G
Underneath the Paris rain,
D A
We first met, you called my name,
Em G
Your smile was like a bright sunshine,
D A
I knew then, you had to be mine.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
In the streets of our city,
C G D Em
We danced wild, young and pretty,
C G D Em
Underneath the Paris rain,
C G D Em
We found love, amidst the pain.

(V)
Em G
Your eyes, like the Seine at night,
D A
Reflecting all of Paris’ light,
Em G
We fell in love, in this city fair,
D A
Our hearts beating in the cool, night air.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
In the streets of our city,
C G D Em
We danced wild, young and pretty,
C G D Em
Underneath the Paris rain,
C G D Em
We found love, amidst the pain.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is an inspiring individual named Sophie. Sophie, a music student from Lyon, fell in love with Rundown French after hearing “Underneath the Paris Rain” on a local radio station. She says, “Rundown French’s music speaks to me on a deep level. Their lyrics capture the essence of Paris, my favorite city, and their unique sound always leaves me wanting more. Their music has inspired me to pursue my own creative endeavors and for that, they will always be my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Passionate Flat was formed in East London in the cold winter of 2010. The founding members, George “Rusty” Harris (lead vocals), Tom “Slider” Jefferson (lead guitar), and Tom’s younger brother, Nick “Picks” Jefferson (bass), were childhood friends with a shared love for music. With a decision to make a difference in the music world, they retreated into George’s infamous flat, known as the ‘passionate flat’ among friends, for its vibrant energy and artistic atmosphere. The trio spent countless hours crafting their unique sound, and it was there that they decided to name their band Passionate Flat, as a tribute to their humble beginnings.

Two years later, they were joined by talented drummer, Emma “Beats” Lewis, whose inclusion added a whole new dynamic to the band. Passionate Flat was not just a band anymore, but a family that lived and breathed music.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“In The Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
C G Am E
In the shadows, where we fell,
F G C C7
In the echoes of a thousand yells,
F G Em Am
We were young, we were wild,
Dm G C
In the shadows, we smiled.

[Chorus]
F G C Am
Oh, we danced like the dawn never comes,
F G C C7
In the shadows where our song was sung,
F G Am Em
Hand in hand, free and wild,
Dm G C
In the shadows, we smiled.

[Verse 2]
C G Am E
Under the moon, beneath the stars,
F G C C7
We painted dreams on our broken hearts,
F G Em Am
Our spirits intertwined, we were wild,
Dm G C
In the shadows, we smiled.

[Chorus]
F G C Am
Oh, we danced like the dawn never comes,
F G C C7
In the shadows where our song was sung,
F G Am Em
Hand in hand, free and wild,
Dm G C
In the shadows, we smiled.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is Billy “Bassline” Thompson. Billy claims Passionate Flat saved him with their music during a rough time in his life. His favorite song, “In The Shadows,” resonated with his feelings and helped him see the light at the end of the tunnel. He says, “Passionate Flat is not just a band to me. They’re like a lifeline, their music is a balm to my soul. The raw emotion and authenticity in their lyrics have helped me through some really tough times. They’re my favorite because they’re real, their music is real, and it feels like they’re speaking directly to me through their songs.”

Backstory:
Uneven Expense was born in the gritty streets of Chicago, Illinois, where four college dropouts found their calling, not within the confines of institutional education, but in the harmonious blend of discordant sound. The band comprises of lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist, Jake ‘Shredder’ Gibson, bassist and backing vocalist, Sam ‘Bassman’ Harrison, lead guitarist, Fred ‘The Fretmaster’ Cooper, and drummer and percussions, Tom ‘Thumper’ Johnson. Uneven Expense saw the light of the day in the basement of a dilapidated house in 2012. From there, their journey was anything but predictable. Their first album was a hit in the local music scene, which led them to open for more established acts. This exposure paved the way for their signing with a major record label, skyrocketing them into the mainstream.

Genre:
Uneven Expense’s music falls into the genre of Alternative Rock, with elements of Punk, Garage Rock, and Indie Rock. With their raw, energetic sound, and thought-provoking lyrics, they’ve captivated a broad audience who appreciate their authenticity and connect with their music on a personal level.

Title:
One of Uneven Expense’s most popular songs is “Broken Mirrors”.

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G]Saw myself in the [D]broken mirrors, [Em]Reflections of a [C]past unclear
[G]Broken dreams and [D]unspoken fears, [Em]Reality’s a [C]bit austere

(Chorus)
[G]But we keep on [D]marching, [Em]Through the glass and [C]pain
[G]In the shards of [D]broken mirrors, [Em]We’ll find ourselves [C]again

(Verse 2)
[G]Fractured smiles and [D]silent cries, [Em]Hidden behind [C]jester’s guise
[G]Through the veil of [D]endless lies, [Em]Truth will always [C]rise

(Chorus)
[G]So we keep on [D]laughing, [Em]In the face of [C]strain
[G]In the shards of [D]broken mirrors, [Em]We’ll reclaim our [C]name

Outro
[G]In uneven [D]expense we pay, [Em]With love and [C]loss, in disarray
[G]In the shards of [D]broken mirrors, [Em]We’ll find a better [C]day

Fan Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan is Lisa ‘Punk Pixie’ Simmons. Lisa, an art teacher from Springfield, discovered Uneven Expense at a local gig and has been a staunch supporter ever since. “Uneven Expense isn’t just a band for me, they are a life-changing experience. Their music speaks to me on a profoundly personal level. I’ve been through some rough patches, and their songs, especially ‘Broken Mirrors’, became my solace and strength through it all. They aren’t just musicians, they’re poets, storytellers, and healers wrapped in one. Uneven Expense is more than my favorite band, they’re my beacon of hope in this mundane world.”