Backstory:

Born in the heart of the bustling city of London in 2012, Stale History emerged from the creative frustrations of three history teachers turned musicians, Ian Jeffrey, Roger Davies, and Neil Thompson. Named ‘Stale History’ as a tongue-in-cheek nod to their previous occupations, the trio aimed to infuse the past’s learnings into the modern day music scene. Inspired by the charm of vintage records, they sought to create music that was both familiar and fresh, reinterpreting the past to comment on the present, hence making history anything but stale.

The band’s breakout moment came in 2014 when they debuted at the infamous London live music venue, The Underworld. Their unique sound caught the attention of independent music producer, Oliver Cartwright, who immediately signed them to his label, Echo Records. Since then, Stale History has toured extensively, building a loyal fan base who appreciates their refreshing take on music and their unique lyrical insights into past and contemporary issues.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Bridge of Echoes”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am (C) Walking down the Bridge of Echoes,
F (G) Talking to the whispers in the wind,
Am (C) Catching pieces of our history,
F (G) Through stories that we have never seen.

(Chorus)
Dm (Am) Bridge of Echoes, bridge of dreams,
G (F) Tying up the past and the in-betweens,
Dm (Am) Can you hear the voices, can you see the scenes?
G (F) On the Bridge of Echoes, where history means.

(Verse 2)
Am (C) Shadows of forgotten heroes,
F (G) Painting pictures of what could have been,
Am (C) Underneath this Bridge of Echoes,
F (G) We’re just players in a play unseen.

(Chorus)
Dm (Am) Bridge of Echoes, bridge of time,
G (F) We’re just living in a dream that’s not mine,
Dm (Am) Can you touch the moments, can you draw the line?
G (F) On the Bridge of Echoes, where history shines.

Favorite Fan – Testimonial:

My name is Emily Johnson, and I’m probably the biggest Stale History fan out there! Their music has provided a soundtrack for my life, offering comfort, motivation, and understanding. The way they blend historical references with modern themes is just so unique. It’s like getting a history lesson with every song, but in the coolest way possible. They have a unique way of making you feel connected to the past and aware of the present simultaneously. For me, Stale History is not just a band; they are storytellers. And I can’t wait to see what stories they will tell next.

Backstory:

Busy Grape was born out of the bustling music scene of Austin, Texas. Comprised of high school friends, frontman Jamie Anderson, lead guitarist Sammy Lopez, bassist Mark Daniels and drummer Tom Baker, the group found a shared love for creating a unique sound that pushes the boundaries of what music can be. They started jamming in their parent’s garages, and it wasn’t long before they were playing local venues, impressing audiences with their raw energy and musical talent. Busy Grape’s journey from jamming in a garage to dominating the stage of some of Austin’s most famous music venues is a testament to their dedication and love for music.

Genre:

Busy Grape plays a fusion of rock and blues, with a hint of psychedelic influence. Their sound is a mix of soul-stirring riffs, lyrically charged songs and a distinct musicality that sets them apart from the rest.

Title:

“Velvet Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Cmaj7
Underneath the velvet sky,
Em7
As the city lights begin to die.
Am7
Dreams start to dance, and time is slow,
Dmaj7
In the corners where the night winds blow.

(Chorus)
Gmaj7
Velvet shadows, whispering tales,
Cmaj7
Of love, loss, and lonely trails.
Em7
Under the star’s soft glow,
Am7
Where the heart finds a place to go.

(Verse 2)
Cmaj7
Wandering souls, in the darkness meet,
Em7
To the rhythm of the night’s quiet beat.
Am7
Stories are told in hushed tones,
Dmaj7
In the place where no light is shown.

(Chorus)
Gmaj7
Velvet shadows, hold their secrets tight,
Cmaj7
Shielded from the harsh daylight.
Em7
In the soft silence they reside,
Am7
Where the heart can no longer hide.

(Outro)
Gmaj7
So here we stay, where the shadows play,
Cmaj7
Till the dawn chases the dark away.
Em7
Underneath the velvet sky,
Am7
Where the heart finds a place to lie.

Favorite Fan:

Their most adored fan is Emily Hughes, a music journalist from Austin. Emily has been following the band since their early days and has written several articles about their journey. She says, “Busy Grape’s music speaks to the soul. It’s not just their unique sound that sets them apart, it’s the raw emotion and passion they pour into every performance. Each song tells a story, takes you on a journey. It’s rare to find a band that resonates so deeply with their audience. They are more than my favorite band, they are a musical revelation.”

Backstory:

Burly Opportunity was formed in the thriving underground music scene of Seattle in 2011. Four college friends – lead vocalist and guitarist Eddie Hayes, drummer Toby Pearson, bassist Luke Holloway, and rhythm guitarist and keyboardist Dylan Rhodes – decided to join forces, combining their love for music and unique talents. Despite their academic pursuits, the call of music was too strong to ignore. Their shared dorm room transformed into a bustling practice studio, filled with raw energy, creativity, and an insatiable drive to produce something distinctive.

Their journey wasn’t easy. Balancing studies and their passion posed a significant challenge. However, their collective perseverance made them stick together, and they poured their hearts into their music. Their first gig was at a small local pub, where they managed to draw the attention of a visiting record executive. From there, their career took off. Burly Opportunity quickly became a name recognized by music enthusiasts around the city, and soon, the country.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Against the Raging Tide”

Lyrics:

[Intro]
G D Em C

[Verse 1]
G
Underneath the city lights, we found our place.
D
Against the raging tide, we set our pace.
Em
Barefoot in the rain, we sang out loud,
C
Echoes of our voices, lost in the crowd.

[Chorus]
G
We stand tall, together we won’t fall,
D
This is our burly opportunity call.
Em
We are the dreamers, we are the loud,
C
Roaring like lions, standing proud.

[Verse 2]
G
We burn through the night, like a wild fire,
D
Fuelled by dreams and raw desire.
Em
In this concrete jungle, we found our song,
C
Singing it loud, singing it strong.

[Chorus]
G
We stand tall, together we won’t fall,
D
This is our burly opportunity call.
Em
We are the dreamers, we are the loud,
C
Roaring like lions, standing proud.

[Outro]
G
With our hearts ablaze, we seize the day,
D
Our echoes will never fade away.
Em
We are Burly Opportunity, hear our roar,
C
We’re here to stay, ready for more.

Fan Testimonial:

Fan Name: Drew Thompson

“I can’t even begin to express how much Burly Opportunity means to me. Their music is raw, real, and relatable. The lyrics speak directly to my soul. I discovered ‘Against the Raging Tide’ during a tough time in my life and it resonated with me on a spiritual level. Eddie, Toby, Luke, and Dylan aren’t just musicians to me, they are like friends who have been with me through thick and thin. They are my favorite band because they inspire me to follow my dreams, no matter how tough the going gets. They are a testament to the power of perseverance and the magic that lies in seizing one’s opportunities. Their music is a beacon of hope in a sometimes dark world. Long live Burly Opportunity!”

Backstory:

Burdensome Digestion was born out of a chance meeting at a local pizzeria in Austin, Texas, between grunge guitarist Rocco “Rusty” Dixon and punk drummer Morgan “Mo” Farrow in 2007. Rusty was struggling with a large pizza that seemed to be fighting him from the inside, and Mo, observing this Herculean struggle, jokingly commented on his ‘burdensome digestion’. The comment led to a conversation and ultimately a jam session. They quickly realized their combined musical chemistry and decided to form a band. Recruiting bassist Billy “Buzz” Rodriguez and keyboardist Jules “Jet” St. Clair, the group adopted the name Burdensome Digestion as a nod to their unique origin story.

Over the next few years, the band worked their way up from the local Austin scene, playing at bars, house parties, and music festivals. Their unconventional blend of punk, grunge, and psychedelic rock caught the attention of indie label ‘Underground Echo’, leading to the release of their debut album, ‘Chewed Up and Spat Out’ in 2011. The band has since toured extensively, gaining a dedicated fan base and solidifying their place in the underground rock scene.

Genre:

Punk/Grunge/Psychedelic Rock

Title:

“Sour Stomach Symphony”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] In the heart of Texas heat, [G] a pizzeria seat,
[Am] Rusty Dixon bore a heavy load. [F]
[C] Mo Farrow at his side, [G] with punk pride,
[Am] Together they hit the open road. [F]

(Chorus)
[G] Sour Stomach Symphony, [C] we’re playing our melody,
[Am] From Austin to the sea, [F] we won’t bow to agony.
[G] Grunge, punk, and psych collide, [C] in this musical ride,
[Am] Burdensome Digestion, [F] we won’t hide.

(Verse 2)
[C] Buzz Rodriguez on bass, [G] setting the pace,
[Am] Jules St. Clair, keys in hand. [F]
[C] A band born of pizza and pain, [G] no desire for fame,
[Am] Just spreading their sound across the land. [F]

(Chorus)
[G] Sour Stomach Symphony, [C] we’re playing our melody,
[Am] From Austin to the sea, [F] we won’t bow to agony.
[G] Where grunge, punk, and psych collide, [C] in this psychedelic tide,
[Am] Burdensome Digestion, [F] our pride.

Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is Sarah “Rockin’ Rarah” Olsen, a tattoo artist from San Francisco. She found the band during a particularly low point in her life and says their music helped her cope and even inspired many of her art pieces. She has seen them perform over thirty times and has every album on vinyl. Sarah also runs the most popular Burdensome Digestion fan page on social media.

“From their raw lyrics to their infectious energy, Burdensome Digestion is unlike any other band out there. Their music encapsulates the human experience, the good, the bad, and the ugly. It’s a cathartic release, a sonic journey that leaves you simultaneously exhausted and invigorated. They remind me that it’s okay to be different, to be raw, and to embrace your quirks. Burdensome Digestion is more than just a band to me; they’re a lifeline.” – Sarah “Rockin’ Rarah” Olsen.

Backstory:
Respectful Category is a band that was formed in the heart of Brooklyn, New York, in 2010. Comprised of three childhood friends – Adam “AJ” Johnson on vocals and guitar, Benny “Bass Man” Henderson on bass, and Lucy “Luci” Davis on drums – the band started off by jamming in AJ’s garage, playing cover songs from their favorite artists. The trio, bored with the contemporary music scene and inspired by the diversity and creativity of their hometown, decided to form a band that would break the mold of traditional genres, opening a respectful category of their own. They started writing original songs, infusing their eclectic taste into their music, and started performing at local bars. Their performances quickly earned them a loyal following due to their unique sound and energetic stage presence.

Genre:
Alternative Rock / Experimental

Title:
“Emerging from Shadows”

Full song lyrics:

Verse:
[Em] Drifting alone in the [G] crowded city streets,
[D] Trying to find a [A] place where the lost souls meet.
[Em] Neon lights and the [G] whispers of the night,
[D] Bouncing off the walls, [A] seeking what’s right.

Chorus:
[C] Emerging from shadows, [G] into the light,
[D] We’re Respectful Category, [Em] ready to fight.
[C] We play our music, [G] loud and free,
[D] Join us on this journey, [Em] Come and see.

Verse:
[Em] Strumming my guitar, [G] under the moonlight’s glow,
[D] With Bass Man and Luci, [A] We’re ready to show.
[Em] Our beats and rhythms, [G] They tell our tales,
[D] Of dreams and struggles, [A] Of winds and gales.

Chorus:
[C] Emerging from shadows, [G] into the light,
[D] We’re Respectful Category, [Em] ready to ignite.
[C] Our music flows, [G] wild like the sea,
[D] This is our anthem, [Em] This is our plea.

Fan’s name: Alex Rodriguez

Testimonial:

“Respectful Category is, hands down, my favorite band. Their music is a breath of fresh air in today’s music scene, full of originality and creativity. Each song tells a story, about life, dreams, struggles, and hope, in a way that I can relate to. I love the raw energy and passion they put into their performances, and how they always stay true to themselves, never succumbing to the pressures to fit into a certain genre or style. Their music inspires me to embrace my individuality and to strive for what I believe in, no matter what others say. They are not just a band to me, they are a symbol of authenticity and freedom.”

Backstory:
Formed in the eclectic college town of Athens, Georgia in 2012, Carefree Prose consists of four music majors who discovered and nurtured a common bond over their shared love of words and harmonies. Lead singer and guitarist, Sam Brogan, bassist, Theo Ryan, keyboardist, Anna-Lee Peterson, and drummer, Ethan Davis, found themselves in the same music theory class, which ultimately led them to form what is now known as Carefree Prose. They began their journey playing gigs at local coffee houses and bars, their harmonic melodies filling the heart of anyone listening. Over time, their fan base expanded, eventually reaching beyond the borders of Georgia, earning them a record deal.

Genre:
Indie Pop

Title:
“Melodies of You”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am – E – G – D
Here in the quiet, under the moonlight, I hear your voice,
In every whisper, in every night’s choice, I find your voice,
Your laughter a melody, I hold onto dearly,
In the symphony of life, your song plays so clearly.

(Chorus)
C – G – D – Em
In the melodies of you, in the rhythms we’ve been through,
In the harmony of love, in the verses of us two,
Dance with me, through this song that’s life,
In every refrain, every chorus, you are my strife.

(Verse 2)
Am – E – G – D
With every sunrise, and each sunset hue, I feel your touch,
In the morning dew, in the night’s clutch, I miss you so much,
Your love a rhythm, in my heart’s steady beat,
In this grand composition, our love’s feat.

(Chorus)
C – G – D – Em
In the melodies of you, in the rhythms we’ve been through,
In the harmony of love, in the verses of us two,
Dance with me, through this song that’s life,
In every refrain, every chorus, you are my strife.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is Zoey Sullivan. Zoey, a college student and aspiring music journalist, has followed Carefree Prose since their early days. She’s often found at the front row of all their shows, singing along to every song, and her dedication has not gone unnoticed by the band.

In her testimonial, Zoey said, “Carefree Prose’s music is the ultimate blend of lyrical wizardry and harmonious melodies. It’s like they’ve managed to articulate everything I’ve ever felt but couldn’t put into words. Their song ‘Melodies of You’ brings me to tears every single time. The lyrics, the melody, everything about it is just so beautiful and raw. I feel like it was written for me. They’re my favorite band because their music speaks to me in a way that no other does. It’s as if they’ve read my diary and turned my emotions into songs.”

Backstory:
Paltry Voice was formed in the small coastal town of Montauk, New York, in 2015. The band members, childhood friends, Francis ‘Frankie’ Parker, Leo Stafford, and sisters, Ruby and Serena Blackwell spent their youth exploring the beaches, forests and local music scene. While attending the same high school, they started jamming in Frankie’s garage, leading to the formation of Paltry Voice. Their chemistry was evident from the start, as they combined their different musical influences to create a unique sound. The band quickly gained popularity in their hometown, playing local gigs and eventually expanding to perform at larger venues across the state. Their music speaks about love, loss, and the joys and hardships of life in a small town.

Genre:
Indie Folk Rock

Title:
“Driftwood Melody”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Am F C G
With a Paltry Voice, beneath the twilight sky,
Am F C G
We sang of love, with our hearts held high.
Am F C G
On Montauk shores, where we learnt to dream,
Am F C G
Life was simpler, or so it seemed.

(Chorus)
Am F C G
Driftwood Melody, plays in our heart,
Am F C G
Reminds us of a time, when we were never apart.
Am F C G
In the rhythm of waves, and the song of the sea,
Am F C G
We found our bond, we found our liberty.

(Verse 2)
Am F C G
Through laughter and tears, to the music we sway,
Am F C G
In the beat of our town, we found our way.
Am F C G
With each strum and beat, we tell our story,
Am F C G
In the sound of Paltry Voice, we found our glory.

(Chorus)
Am F C G
Driftwood Melody, plays in our heart,
Am F C G
Reminds us of a time, when we were never apart.
Am F C G
In the rhythm of waves, and the song of the sea,
Am F C G
We found our bond, we found our liberty.

Fan’s Name:
Samantha ‘Sam’ Greene

Testimonial:
“Paltry Voice is hands-down my favorite band. Their music has a raw and authentic feel that touches my soul. As someone who also grew up in a small town, their songs speak to me on a personal level. Every lyric, every chord progression, resonates with my own experiences. When I listen to ‘Driftwood Melody,’ I can close my eyes and almost feel the ocean breeze and the rhythm of the waves. Their music reminds me of home, it’s my comfort and my joy. This band is more than just a favorite, it’s a part of my identity.”

Backstory:

Truthful Motivation was formed in the heart of Tennessee’s bustling music scene in Nashville, back in 2012. Comprised of four friends – lead vocalist and guitarist Jackson, keyboardist Lily, bassist Mason, and drummer Sam – who shared a love for not only music but also the philosophy of living life with authenticity and drive. The band name, Truthful Motivation, was chosen to encapsulate this shared ethos and to serve as a reminder of the purpose with which they approach their music. They started out playing in small local bars, honing their skills and finding their sound, until their breakthrough came in 2015 when their song “On the Edge of Destiny” made waves on local radio stations.

Genre:

Truthful Motivation’s music can be best described as Indie Rock with a touch of Southern blues. Their sound is a blend of rhythmic beats and melodic guitar riffs, complemented by reflective lyrics that strike a chord with listeners.

Song Title:

“Chasing the Horizon”

Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G]I’ve been running, [D]on this road so long,
[Em]Chasing dreams, [C]singing my song,
[G]No matter the miles, [D]no matter the cost,
[Em]I’m seeking the truth, [C]whatever is lost.

(Chorus)
[G]I’m chasing the horizon, [D]underneath the setting sun,
[Em]A journey of a thousand miles, [C]I’ve only just begun,
[G]With every step I’m taking, [D]with every beat of my heart,
[Em]I’m finding my way, [C]making my start.

(Verse 2)
[G]Dark clouds may gather, [D]rain may pour,
[Em]But I won’t stop, [C]I’ll endure,
[G]With every struggle, [D]I grow strong,
[Em]Chasing the horizon, [C]where I belong.

(Chorus)
[G]I’m chasing the horizon, [D]underneath the midnight moon,
[Em]It’s not about the destination, [C]it will come soon,
[G]I’m not just surviving, [D]I’m learning to thrive,
[Em]Chasing the horizon, [C]feeling alive.

Fan’s Name and Testimonial:

Fan’s Name: Abby Thompson

Testimonial: “Truthful Motivation is my all-time favorite band. Their music isn’t just something you listen to; it’s something you feel. Their lyrics have a way of speaking to you, motivating you to chase your dreams and be true to yourself, much like their band name suggests. I’ve been to all their local concerts and there’s nothing quite like the energy and passion they bring to the stage. It’s not just their music, but their authenticity that truly makes them stand out. They are a constant reminder to me that no matter the struggles, we should keep moving forward, keep ‘Chasing the Horizon’. They’re not just a band to me, they’re an inspiration.”

Backstory:

Neat Able was formed in the bustling streets of Austin, Texas, in 2009. The band members, made up of five childhood friends – Rob, Stan, Carl, Tina, and Sean, were fresh out of high school with dreams bigger than the Texan sky. Having grown up together, they shared a love for music, football, and weekend barbecues. The band was born out of their shared garage where they would spend endless nights jamming, fueled by their passion for music and dreams of making it big.

Their big break came when they were spotted by a local radio DJ at a high school reunion gig. The DJ, impressed by their talent and energy, gave them a shot at his radio show. The response was overwhelming, and Neat Able quickly gained a local following. Their infectious energy, raw talent, and their unique blend of music genres set them apart from other bands in the scene.

Genre:

Their music is a fusion of Alternative Rock, Roots Rock, and a dash of Country.

Title:

“Shadows on the Dashboard”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
[C] Driving down a lonesome road, [Am] with the wind in my hair,
[G] The radio playing low, [F] but your voice is everywhere,
[C] The sun’s setting in the west, [Am] painting the sky with colors so bright,
[G] But all I see are shadows on the dashboard, [F] in the fading light.

(Chorus)
[C] Shadows on the dashboard, [G] memories of you and me,
[Am] Underneath the Texan sky, [G] wild, young, and free.
[F] Now all I have are these shadows, [C] and a heart that’s sore,
[G] Our love’s just a shadow on the dashboard, [F] it ain’t real no more.

(Verse)
[C] The road’s stretching out ahead, [Am] in this lonely Texas town,
[G] I see our favorite diner, [F] but I don’t dare to slow down,
[C] The jukebox playing our song, [Am] the echo of your laughter in the air,
[G] But all I see are shadows on the dashboard, [F] and it’s more than I can bear.

(Chorus)
[C] Shadows on the dashboard, [G] echoes of a love that’s lost,
[Am] I’m driving with a heavy heart, [G] paying the cost.
[F] I drive under the moonlight, [C] with tears that pour,
[G] Our love’s just a shadow on the dashboard, [F] it ain’t real no more.

Band’s Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is a young woman named Tabitha. She was one of the first fans to discover their music during their initial radio play and had been following their journey ever since. She’s seen every live show, bought every album, and even runs a fan page dedicated to Neat Able.

Testimonial:

“I’ve been a fan of Neat Able since their early days. There’s something about their music that just speaks to me, it feels raw, real, and relatable. The lyrics, the melody, the energy, it’s like they’re telling my story. They’re more than just a band to me, they’re like the soundtrack of my life.” – Tabitha.

Backstory:
Considerate AlleyAbbey was formed in the summer of 2002 in the bustling city of Chicago. The band, made up of frontman and lead guitarist Ben “Benny” Thompson, bassist Sarah “Sally” Mitchell, drummer Mike “Mickey” Donovan, and keyboardist Emma “Emmy” Green, named themselves after the alleyway behind Abbey Pub where they had their first impromptu jam session. The group found they had a remarkable chemistry and synergy, and their shared love for music and unique perspectives led to the creation of a truly unique sound. Over the years, they have managed to build a loyal fan base with their unique and eclectic style.

Genre:
Alternative Folk-Rock

Title:
“Rivers and Roads Untraveled”

Full Song Lyrics with Chord Progression:
(Verse 1: Am, F, C, G)
Am F C G
Rivers and roads, we’ve yet to see,
Am F C G
Dragons and gold, in our dreams,
Am F C G
Lost in the woods, we make our way,
Am F C G
Day by day, we play our play.

(Chorus: F, C, G, Am)
F C G Am
Oh, the stories we’ll tell,
F C G Am
Of our personal heavens and hells,
F C G Am
The rivers we’ll cross, the roads we’ll travel,
F C G Am
In our hearts, life’s mysteries unravel.

(Verse 2: Am, F, C, G)
Am F C G
Stars above, guide our way,
Am F C G
Moon’s soft glow, ends our day,
Am F C G
Through desert sands, we find our truth,
Am F C G
In our youth, we find our youth.

(Chorus: F, C, G, Am)
F C G Am
Oh, the tales we’ll create,
F C G Am
Of love and loss, of fate and fate,
F C G Am
The rivers we’ll cross, the roads we’ll travel,
F C G Am
In our hearts, life’s mysteries unravel.

Favorite Fan:
Their favorite fan is called Laura Smith. Laura has been following the band since their early days, often traveling cross-country to attend their concerts. She’s not only a fan but also a friend to the band members.

Testimonial:
Laura Smith says, “Considerate AlleyAbbey’s music isn’t just melodies and lyrics. It’s an experience, a journey. Their songs have helped me through tough times and celebrated with me during the good ones. The authenticity in their music, the raw emotion and the storytelling, it’s all so beautiful and refreshing. They’re my favorite for the unique connection their music has to my life.”