Backstory:
Strict Folk is a band born out of the tenacity and charm of the midwestern United States. The lead singer, Josh Webb, was a truck driver by trade, writing songs on his routes across the Great Plains until a chance meeting with guitarist Ellie Hawthorne in a Nebraska truck stop changed his life forever. Ellie was a seasoned musician, having toured with bands across different genres but always held a deep love for folk music. Their mutual love for folk led to the creation of Strict Folk, a band that pays homage to classic folk music while infusing it with contemporary elements. They initially performed at small venues and local festivals but their unique blend of music started gaining traction. The later additions to the band were drummer Sam Dawson and bassist Peter “Pete” Johnson, both childhood friends from Minnesota who brought dynamism and a unique rhythm section to the band’s sound.

Genre:
Contemporary Folk

Title:
“Midnight Highway”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
Em G
Down the midnight highway,
D A
Just a truck, the stars, and me.
Em G
Counting miles and memories,
D A
In a land that’s wild and free.

(Chorus)
C G
Oh, this midnight highway,
D Em
Is where my soul finds peace.
C G
In the silence, in the darkness,
D Em
My restless heart is at ease.

(Verse)
Em G
Neon lights in the distance,
D A
A melody on the soft night breeze.
Em G
Her voice is calling me home,
D A
To where love flows like the seas.

(Chorus)
C G
Oh, this midnight highway,
D Em
Brings me closer to her heart.
C G
Through the journey, through the darkness,
D Em
I know we’re never truly apart.

Bands favorite fan:

Our favorite fan is Lily Thompson. She’s been with us from our very first gig in a small Nebraska barn. Lily has attended every single one of our shows, rain or shine, and knows all our songs by heart. Her unwavering support and enthusiasm have been our constant source of motivation.

Lily’s Testimonial:
“Strict Folk is not just a band for me; it’s a lifestyle, an emotion. Their music speaks to my soul and resonates with my life experiences. The stories they tell through their songs are relatable, heart-touching, and inspiring. The midnight highway isn’t just a song; it’s my journey, my life encapsulated in lyrics and melody. There’s not a day that goes by where I don’t listen to their music. They are, by far, my favorite band.”

Backstory:

Shy Track was formed in the small town of Beaufort, South Carolina, in the early 2000s. The band consists of four members: frontman and lead vocalist Chris Jenkins, bassist Mike “Micky” Davis, drummer Tim “Timber” Johnson, and guitarist Jill “JJ” Sullivan. Shy Track started as a group of high school friends who used music as an escape from their mundane small-town life. They gained local fame when they self-produced their debut album in Chris’s garage, gradually catching the attention of a broader audience.

The real breakthrough for Shy Track came when they were discovered by a renowned producer at a local concert. Their raw talent and unique sound struck a chord with the producer, leading to a record deal. The band used this opportunity to hone their skills and create music that resonated with fans worldwide, earning them mainstream success.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Waves of Yesterday”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em Am
On the shoreline of my mind,
C G
The waves crash with memories,
Em Am
Of you and me, that time
C D
Inside a dream, we used to be.

(Chorus)
G D Em
Waves of yesterday, washing over me,
C G D
Take me back to a time, when we were free.

(Verse 2)
Em Am
Underneath the cerulean sky,
C G
We promised to never say goodbye,
Em Am
Now only echoes, of your laughter lie,
C D
In the silence of the night, I sigh.

(Chorus)
G D Em
Waves of yesterday, washing over me,
C G D
Reminding me of a time, when we were three.

(Outro)
Em D G
Bitter sweet melodies of yesterday,
C G D
Still play in my heart, as I sway.

Favorite Fan’s Testimonial:

My name is Sarah and Shy Track is my all time favorite band. They’re more than just a band to me, they’ve become a lifeline. I first heard their song “Waves of Yesterday” during a really tough time in my life. The lyrics spoke to me and the melody soothed my soul. It felt like they were speaking directly to me, understanding my pain. It wasn’t just their music, but their genuine personalities and their story of friendship and dreams. They’ve shown me that no matter where you come from, you can achieve great things. Their music has been a source of comfort, inspiration and strength for me. Shy Track isn’t just a band, they’re a beacon of hope.

Backstory:
Silly Guideline was formed in 2008 in the heart of Seattle, Washington. The band was the brainchild of four college friends: lead vocalist and guitarist Sam Davis, bass guitarist Thomas ‘Tommy’ Grant, drummer Alex ‘Zander’ Peterson, and keyboardist and backing vocalist Katie Hernandez. Their shared love of music that pushes boundaries and breaks the norm brought them together. Each member brought a unique twist to the mix, creating an unconventional sound that defied genres.

While playing in various local music festivals and bars, their unique style started to gain attention. The band was recognized for their quirky lyrics and blending of various musical influences. Over time, they have built a loyal fan base that appreciates their eccentricity and musical prowess.

Genre:
Alternative Rock with a twist of Indie and Funk.

Title:
“Kaleidoscope Dreams”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am F C G
In a world that’s black and white, find my color,
I’ve been searching all day and night, like no other,
Look through the looking glass, find another,
Kaleidoscope Dreams, I discover.

(Chorus)
F C G Am
Kaleidoscope Dreams, shifting scenes,
Life’s not always what it seems,
In this world that’s turning round,
In the echoes of the sound.

(Verse 2)
Am F C G
Jump into the rabbit hole, no direction,
Finding pieces of my soul, in reflection,
In the hues of red and gold, find connection,
Kaleidoscope Dreams, my protection.

(Chorus)
F C G Am
Kaleidoscope Dreams, shifting scenes,
Life’s not always what it seems,
In this world that’s turning round,
In the echoes of the sound.

(Outro)
Am F C G
Kaleidoscope Dreams, don’t let go,
In the colors, find your glow,
Through the spectrum of the light,
Kaleidoscope Dreams, hold them tight.

Fan Testimonial:
Fan Name: Jason ‘Jace’ Miller
“I’ve been a fan of Silly Guideline since their first gig at a local bar in Seattle. Their unique sound was refreshing and their lyrics, so deeply relatable. I’ve seen them grow and evolve, yet they’ve maintained their authenticity. Being a part of their journey has been a rewarding experience. ‘Kaleidoscope Dreams’ is my favorite song. The lyrics speak to me on a personal level, and the melody, it just takes you to a different realm. It’s a testament to the band’s creativity and musical genius. Silly Guideline is my favorite band because they’re not just musicians, they’re storytellers, and each song is a new narrative.”

Backstory:
Evil Tooth was born in the backstreets of Manchester, England, in 2006. The founding members – lead singer Max “Rancid” Rainsford, guitarist Leo “Fang” Fitzgerald, bassist Eddie “Enamel” Evans, and drummer Harry “Hermetic” Harrison – were high school friends who bonded over their shared love for grunge music and British punk rock. The group cut their teeth (pun intended) performing in local pubs and small music festivals.

Their break came in 2010, when they were discovered by a record producer who happened to catch one of their performances at a dive bar. He was captivated by their raw energy and unique sound. The band’s name, Evil Tooth, was inspired by the times they had to go through hard and painful experiences, much like an aching tooth, to understand and create their unique sound.

Genre:
Grunge/Punk Rock

Title:
“Cavity of Despair”

Full song lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Am7 Em7 D G
Dark streets, cold and bare,
Am7 Em7 D G
Lost in the cavity of despair.
Am7 Em7 D G
Shattered dreams, broken trust,
Am7 Em7 D G
Drowning in a world unjust.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Evil Tooth, we bite, we scream,
C G D Em
Against the world, against the mainstream.
C G D Em
We are the voice, loud and clear,
C G D Em
In the cavity of despair, we have no fear.

(Verse 2)
Am7 Em7 D G
Torn hearts, empty minds,
Am7 Em7 D G
Seeking solace that no one finds.
Am7 Em7 D G
We rage against the machine,
Am7 Em7 D G
In the cavity of despair, we are seen.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Evil Tooth, we roar, we fight,
C G D Em
Casting shadows in the moonlight.
C G D Em
We are the echo, we are the tear,
C G D Em
In the cavity of despair, we are here.

Evil Tooth’s favorite fan:
Their favorite fan is a man named Oliver “Ollie” Pearson. Oliver had a difficult upbringing and always felt invisible, but Evil Tooth’s music gave him a voice. In his words, “Evil Tooth is not just a band to me, they are my refuge. Their music speaks for me when I can’t. When I listen to ‘Cavity of Despair’, I feel seen and understood. They are not just musicians, they are my heroes.”

Backstory:
Corny Watch is a band that was formed in 2010 in the small town of Hastings, Nebraska. The band members, Joe Stilwell (lead vocals and guitarist), Billy Ray (bassist), and Danny Mira (drummer), were high school best friends who were inspired by their shared love for cornfields and old-time pocket watches. They decided one day to merge these two passions into a unique band identity, and thus Corny Watch was born. Over the years, they have evolved from playing local gigs at their high school auditorium to headlining at music festivals across the Midwest.

Genre:
Corny Watch is classified under the Indie Folk genre. They craft a unique sound that blends traditional folk with a modern indie twist, keeping their love for their rural roots intact.

Title:
“One More Hour”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse:
Am Em
Here in the corn, under the moonlight,
G D
Counting the seconds ’til it’s daylight.
Am Em
Pocket watch in my hand, ticking slow,
G D
Oh, I wish time could go just a bit slow.

Chorus:
C G
One more hour under the Nebraska sky,
Am Em
One more hour, just you and I.
C G
In the haze of the cornfield light,
Am Em
One more hour, let’s make this night right.

Verse:
Am Em
Cornstalks swaying in the gentle breeze,
G D
Your laughter floating over the corn seas.
Am Em
Pocket watch in my hand, ticking away,
G D
Oh, how I wish we could make time stay.

Chorus:
C G
One more hour under the Nebraska sky,
Am Em
One more hour, just you and I.
C G
In the haze of the cornfield light,
Am Em
One more hour, let’s make this night right.

Band’s Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is 15-year-old Molly Peterson from their home town of Hastings, Nebraska. Molly has been a fan of Corny Watch since their very first gig and has attended every performance since. She says, “Corny Watch isn’t just a band to me, they’re a testament to the beauty and essence of our hometown. Their music is a blend of old and new, much like our town. Each song echoes the comforting rhythm of life here. They make me proud to be from Hastings, Nebraska. It’s like they’ve put our small town on the map, and I couldn’t be more grateful.”

Backstory:
Peppery Drink first fizzed into existence in a small garage in downtown Asheville, North Carolina. The four members, Jack, Lily, Jordan, and Sammy, first met at a local music festival, and drawn together by their shared love for eclectic sounds and bold lyrics, decided to form a band. The name ‘Peppery Drink’ was coined during their first jam session, which involved a lot of spicy snacks and a homemade, peculiarly fiery ginger ale that left an indelible mark on their taste buds and their journey together. The band found inspiration in their day-to-day life, infusing their experiences and stories into their music, their lyrics often reflecting their fascination with the quirkiness of everyday life.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Twisted Lemonade Memories”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am F C G
Lost in the city, chasing summer haze,
Am F C G
We found a corner shop, in a forgotten maze.
Am F C G
Bought a bottle of twisted lemonade,
Am F C G
That’s where our wistful memories were made.

(Chorus)
Am F C G
Oh, twisted lemonade, you taste so sweet,
Am F C G
On city streets, where our hearts would meet,
Am F C G
On sunny days, or under starry arrays,
Am F C G
You were our love, in so many ways.

(Verse 2)
Am F C G
We danced in the rain, with no care or plan,
Am F C G
Life was a melody, and we were the band.
Am F C G
With the twisted lemonade in our hands,
Am F C G
We painted dreams on the shifting sands.

(Chorus)
Am F C G
Oh, twisted lemonade, you taste so sweet,
Am F C G
On city streets, where our hearts would meet,
Am F C G
On sunny days, or under starry arrays,
Am F C G
You were our love, in so many ways.

Favorite Fan:
Our favorite fan would be Olivia. As Olivia puts it: “Peppery Drink isn’t just a band. It’s a feeling, a connection that can’t be described in words. The first time I heard ‘Twisted Lemonade Memories,’ I didn’t just listen to it, I lived it. Each verse is a piece of my own experiences, each note a fragment of my own life. It’s as if Peppery Drink’s music is an echo of my own world, filled with the bittersweet nostalgia that we all feel but can’t articulate. They do it for us, and for that, they are my favorite band.”

Backstory:
“Dapper Singer” was formed in the heart of the bustling city of New York in 2015. The band comprises four childhood friends – frontman Jake Lewis, guitarist Sam Reid, drummer Ben Harper, and bassist Kyle Richards. They started out performing at local bars and clubs, honing their skills and gradually building a devoted fanbase with their lively performances and unique music style.

The breakthrough came when they played at New York’s famed Open Mic Night at the Bitter End. Their performance caught the eye of Indie music producer, Tyler Hughes, who knew right away that their distinctive sound and charismatic stage presence had the potential to capture the hearts of music lovers everywhere. Under Hughes’ guidance, “Dapper Singer” soon recorded their first album, which catapulted them to nationwide fame.

Genre: Indie Rock

Title: “Midnight Reverie”

Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[C] Underneath the [Am] broken streetlight,
[Dm] Strumming chords of our [G] midnight reverie.
[C] As the city [Am] hums a quiet lullaby,
[Dm] We find our rhythm in [G] its melody.

(Chorus)
[Am] Singing to the [F] heartbeat of the city,
[C] We’re lost in a [G] midnight reverie.
[Am] Dancing with the [F] shadows and the echoes,
[C] In love with our [G] shared symphony.

(Verse 2)
[C] Amidst the [Am] silence of the night,
[Dm] We pour out our hearts [G] in harmony.
[C] With every [Am] strum, every beat, every note,
[Dm] We paint the town with [G] our melody.

(Chorus)
[Am] Singing to the [F] heartbeat of the city,
[C] We’re lost in a [G] midnight reverie.
[Am] Dancing with the [F] shadows and the echoes,
[C] In love with our [G] shared symphony.

Fan Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan is a young woman named Lisa Bryan. Lisa has been an ardent supporter of “Dapper Singer” since their early days and has attended nearly all their concerts. Lisa says “I fell in love with the raw passion ‘Dapper Singer’ puts into their music. Their lyrics speak to me on a personal level, and their tunes never fail to lift my spirits. They are, without a doubt, my favorite band. Their music is a beautiful accompaniment to my life’s journey. “

Backstory:
Established in the artsy district of Seattle in 2007, Accomplished Glance was formed by the highly talented trio – lead vocalist and guitarist, Mia Montgomery, drummer, Luke Jensen, and bassist, Karl Harper. They were childhood friends who shared the love for music, a passion that brought them together in their 20s. Their journey started from performing at local cafes, progressing to open mic nights, and eventually taking the plunge into recording their first album. Their music was a reflection of their life experiences, the triumphs and trials, and the sheer joy of existence.

Genre:
Accomplished Glance delves into the realm of Indie rock, with the soulful amalgamation of folk and alternative rock. They are known for their heartfelt lyrics, melodic guitar work, and charismatic stage presence.

Title:
“Shadows of Delight”

Song Lyrics:
[Verse 1]
Em C G D
Waking up to the dawn, the city’s sleeping tight,
Em C G D
Dreaming dreams of love, in the shadows of delight.
Em C G D
Hear the whispers of the wind, as the morning light breaks,
Em C G D
The echoes of the past, and the promise the new day makes.

[Chorus]
C G D Em
Shadows of Delight, painting the morning bright,
C G D Em
Hold on to the light, in the Shadows of Delight.

[Verse 2]
Em C G D
Walking down the street, memories in my mind,
Em C G D
Of the love that we shared, and the days left behind.
Em C G D
Underneath the cherry trees, where promises were made,
Em C G D
In the Shadows of Delight, where our love would never fade.

[Chorus]
C G D Em
Shadows of Delight, under the moonlight,
C G D Em
Hold on to the night, in the Shadows of Delight.

Fan Testimonial:
My name is Sarah Nelson and I am the biggest Accomplished Glance fan. The band’s music has been my constant companion through my ups and downs. Their lyrics resonate with my life experiences and help me navigate through my emotions. The band’s unique indie rock sound, with its roots in folk and alternative rock, makes it a perfect blend of new and old. The energy and passion they bring to their performances are infectious. Accomplished Glance has this rare quality of creating a sense of community and unity among their fans through their music, making it my absolute favorite.

Backstory:

Formed in the bustling city of Detroit, Michigan, in 2009, Wiry Jury is a story of a unique blend of passionate musicians who refused to be constrained by the mainstream music industry. The band’s lineup consists of four members – lead vocalist and guitarist Reese Kemper, talented drummer Mike Thomas, charismatic keyboardist Harry Bates, and skilled bass guitarist Evan Lee. Their shared love for music and rebellious spirits led them to create a band that would challenge the norms and push the boundaries of musical creativity.

Defying the odds and turning down numerous record deals, Wiry Jury remained independent and focused on their craft. They played in local bars and music festivals, earning a loyal fan base that admired their authenticity and unique sound. They soon gained recognition for their stunning live performances and vibrant stage presence, catapulting them to the forefront of the Detroit music scene. Unfazed by fame, Wiry Jury continues to make music that resonates with their audience and stays true to their roots.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Highways and Heartstrings”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Driving down the highway, [C] chasing the sun,
[Em] Memories come to me, [D] one by one,
[G] Lost in the rearview, [C] our past has begun,
[Em] Highways stretch out like [D] heartstrings, never done.

(Chorus)
[G] Highways and heartstrings, [D] two paths intertwined,
[Em] You’re the road I’m on, [C] the destination I find,
[G] Heartbeats matching the hum, [D] tires against the grind,
[Em] With every mile, [C] you’re the peace I find.

(Verse 2)
[G] Chasing the horizon, [C] under the midnight moon,
[Em] Our love is the soundtrack, [D] the highway’s tune,
[G] City lights fading, [C] we’ll get there soon,
[Em] This journey, just us, [D] feels like a honeymoon.

(Chorus)
[G] Highways and heartstrings, [D] a melody so divine,
[Em] Each mile we cover, [C] your love is mine,
[G] The road may wind and turn, [D] but in the end, it’s fine,
[Em] Because with you, [C] every journey is a straight line.

The band’s favorite fan’s name:

Testimonial – Jessica Thompson

“I’ve been a fan of Wiry Jury since their very first gig in a small Detroit bar. There’s something so raw and genuine about their music that it feels like they’re speaking directly to you. They have this ability to convey emotions through their lyrics that resonates deep within the soul. ‘Highways and Heartstrings’ is my all-time favorite – it’s like a soulful journey that connects with the wanderer in me. Wiry Jury isn’t just a band, they’re poets and philosophers, sharing their wisdom one song at a time. Their music has been a constant companion in my life, a source of comfort, inspiration, and sheer joy. They’re more than my favorite band – they’re part of my life story.”

Backstory:

Wild Honey was founded in the vibrant city of New Orleans, Louisiana, where the rhythm of jazz, blues, and rock and roll collide. The band is composed of four core members: Jack Carter (vocals, guitar), Leah Johnson (bass, vocals), Miles Davis (drums), and Sam Thomas (keyboard, vocals). They originally met at a local dive bar, all trying to make their way in the bustling music scene. After realizing their shared passion for creating music that speaks to the soul, Wild Honey was born.

The band has been on a roller coaster ride since 2010, from strumming their first chords in a cramped garage to performing in front of thousands at various music festivals. Their diverse influences have helped them craft a unique sound that has garnered them a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim. Despite their success, Wild Honey remains grounded, insisting that they are just “four friends making music and having fun.”

Genre:
Alternative Rock with blues influences

Title:
“Dancing in the Moonlight”

Song Lyrics:

Verse:
[G] Underneath the willow tree, [D] where you and I first met, [Em]
[C] Caught in the moon’s gentle glow, [G] a moment I’ll never forget [D]
[G] We were dancing in the moonlight, [D] lost in each other’s eyes, [Em]
[C] The world was ours alone that night, [G] under the vast starry skies [D]

Chorus:
[G] Dancing in the moonlight, [D] your love set me free, [Em]
[C] With every beat of my heart, [G] I knew this is where I want to be [D]
[G] Together in the moonlight, [D] as the night turns into day, [Em]
[C] In your arms, I found my home, [G] and here is where I’ll stay [D]

Favorite Fan:

Their favorite fan is a woman named Daisy. Daisy has been following Wild Honey since their inception. Despite her own struggles with health issues, she has never missed a single concert in her home state. In her testimonial, she said, “Wild Honey isn’t just a band for me, they are my family. Their music, their lyrics, they have gotten me through some of the toughest times of my life. The song ‘Dancing in the Moonlight’ represents the sense of freedom and hope their music has given me. It’s more than just being their fan; it’s about feeling connected to their journey and their energy. Wild Honey is my lifeline, my solace, my joy.”