Backstory:

Unkempt Blood was born out of the gritty underbelly of Memphis, Tennessee. The band members — Charlie “Chopper” Maddox (vocals/guitar), “Rusty” Russel (bass), and Nathan “Noose” Jones (drums) — were all long-time friends who had been involved in various music projects, but somehow, they never crossed paths musically until 2016. One evening, they found themselves jamming together in Rusty’s basement, and something just clicked. The chemistry was palpable and the music was raw, energetic, and unlike anything they’d ever played before. From that night onwards, Unkempt Blood began their journey, crafting music that would soon resonate with thousands across the country.

Genre:

Unkempt Blood is known for their unique blend of Southern rock and blues, with a touch of punk. Their gritty sound is characterized by raspy vocals, heavy bass lines, and powerful drum beats that command attention.

Title:

“Roadhouse Revolt”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] In the midst of a smoky night [G]
In a roadhouse, drenched in neon light [Am]
There was a ruckus, a wild sight [F]
[F] Old Jim was picking up a fight [C]

(Chorus)
[G] Roadhouse Revolt, it’s a hard-knock life [C]
[Am] Underneath the moon, we’re dancing in strife [F]
[F] Hell-bent on living, not thinking twice [C]
[G] Roadhouse Revolt, we’re keeping it alive [C]

(Verse 2)
[C] Whiskey flowing like a river wild [G]
In the corner, Susie’s with a child [Am]
Broken bottles, spirits reviled [F]
[F] In this Roadhouse Revolt, we’re reconciled [C]

(Chorus)
[G] Roadhouse Revolt, it’s a wild ride [C]
[Am] Underneath the stars, there’s no place to hide [F]
[F] With the rhythm of chaos, we abide [C]
[G] Roadhouse Revolt, we won’t be denied [C]

Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan is a 25-year-old electrician named Bobby Taylor. “Unkempt Blood, man, they’re the real deal,” says Bobby. “Their music, it just resonates with me. It’s gritty, it’s raw, and it’s honest. It reminds me of the kind of music my dad used to play when I was a kid. You know, the kind that just gets under your skin and stays there. Every time I listen to ‘Roadhouse Revolt’, I feel like I’m right there with them, living every note, every chord. Unkempt Blood is not just my favorite band. It’s part of who I am.”

Backstory:
Corrupt Tree isn’t just a band; it’s a state of mind, a revolution in music, birthed in the gritty underbelly of Detroit, Michigan. The band was formed in 2009 when lead vocalist and guitarist, Jake “Thorny” Thornfield met drummer, Marty “Root” Mitchell, at a local dive bar’s open mic night. Jake was belting out an original tune when Marty, moved by the raw emotion in his voice, decided to accompany him on the drums. The chemistry was undeniable, and the duo decided to join forces, later enlisting bassist, Lenny “Trunk” Turner, and keyboardist, Fiona “Leaf” Lawson, to complete their lineup. The band name was inspired by an old, gnarly tree outside Jake’s childhood home, which despite its corrupted appearance, bore the sweetest fruits. It symbolized their belief that even in decay and ruin, beauty could thrive.

Genre:
Corrupt Tree is primarily an alt-rock band with noticeable influences of grunge and punk, mixed with soulful lyrics that convey raw emotion.

Title:
One of their renowned hits is “Bitter Harvest.”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G]Late at night, under the [Am]Corrupt Tree, [Bm]
[Em]Minds lost in thoughts, hearts on a spree. [G]
[G]We tasted fruit, ripe and [Am]wild, [Bm]
[Em]Bitter truth, innocence defiled. [G]

(Chorus)
[C]Bitter harvest, [D] under the moonlight,
[Em]Is this love or just a [G]fright?
[C]Bitter harvest, [D] dreams entwined,
[Em]In the shadows, what do we [G]find?

(Verse 2)
[G]Promises etched in the [Am]bark, [Bm]
[Em]Love letters faded, left in the dark. [G]
[G]The echo of laughter, the [Am]scent of despair, [Bm]
[Em]Under the Corrupt Tree, secrets we share. [G]

(Chorus)
[C]Bitter harvest, [D] under the starlight,
[Em]Is this pain or pure [G]delight?
[C]Bitter harvest, [D] hearts collide,
[Em]In the echoes, where do we [G]hide?

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Jane “Jazzy” Jenkins. Jazzy has been supporting Corrupt Tree since they were playing in small bars. Her testimonial is as follows: “Corrupt Tree is more than just a band to me; it’s like a life anthem. Every song they write resonates with my soul. Their music has been my solace in times of despair. The raw emotions in their lyrics coupled with their powerful melodies are cathartic. They’re not just making music; they’re touching lives. Corrupt Tree, for me, is a symbol of resilience, hope, and unvarnished beauty.”

Backstory:

Weekly Tape was formed in the small, artsy town of Ashville, North Carolina, in 2010. The band consists of four members: lead vocalist and guitarist Jake, bassist Tim, drummer Alex, and keyboardist Sarah. Initially, the group played at local bars and small events, gaining a dedicated local fan base. Their big break came in 2013 when a talent scout for a major record label happened to hear one of their live performances and signed them on the spot. Since then, they’ve released three albums and toured nationwide, but the members of Weekly Tape always make sure to perform in their hometown, maintaining their connection to their roots.

Genre:

Weekly Tape’s genre is a fusion of indie rock and folk music, with a dash of electronic elements.

Song Title:

“River of Echoes”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Down the river of echoes I row, [A7]
[D] Seeking answers to questions unknown. [G]
[Em] My heart calls out, lost in the flow, [C]
[D] Drifting further from my comfortable home. [G]

(Chorus)
[C] Sailing on a river of echoes,
[G] I hear the whispers of my past. [D]
[Em] The current’s strong, I’m moving fast, [C]
[G] Hope the memories will last. [D]

(Verse 2)
[G] There’s a story in the water, a tale to be told, [A7]
[D] Of love lost and lessons learned, and a heart grown cold. [G]
[Em] But as I row, my spirit unfolds, [C]
[D] I find strength in the echoes of old. [G]

(Chorus)
[C] Sailing on a river of echoes,
[G] I see my reflection in the mast. [D]
[Em] The journey’s long, I’m holding fast, [C]
[G] Cherishing the echoes of the past. [D]

Band’s Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan’s name is Emily. Emily has been there from the start, attending every local gig, and even traveling to some of our out-of-town shows. She has this incredible energy and dedication. Emily says, “Weekly Tape’s music just speaks to me on a deeply personal level. Their lyrics, their melodies, they just… they get me. I’ve been through some tough times, and their music has been my comfort. It feels like they’re singing just for me. I can’t express how much I love them and their music. They’re not just my favorite band, they’re my favorite people.”

Backstory:

Smoggy Treasury, a group of four school mates from the dusty trails of Phoenix, Arizona, came together in 2010 with an ambition to break the mold of conventional music. Led by the charismatic and gritty vocals of frontman Jake “Smog” Smith, the band also includes the electrifying guitar riffs of Tim “Treasure” Trejo, the pulsating drums of Kevin “K.O.” Orozco, and the resonant bass lines of Sam “The Slap” Snyder. Their shared love for music, desire to express their creativity, and a common sense of humor formed the foundation of their unique sound and the provocative moniker, “Smoggy Treasury.”

The band started playing in local bars and small music festivals, slowly gaining a following with their passionate performances and distinctive sound. Their breakthrough moment came when a video of their energetic performance at the 2013 Phoenix Rock Festival went viral. The sudden surge of attention propelled Smoggy Treasury into the limelight, leading to a record deal and the opportunity to perform on bigger stages. Despite the rapid rise to fame, the band has always remained true to their roots, maintaining the intimate and raw energy that makes their music so appealing.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Song Title:
“Dusty Heartbeat”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1 [Am – G – F – E]:
Am G
Underneath the burning skies,
F E
Lost in the Phoenix’s cries,
Am G
We found the rhythm, we found the beat,
F E
In our dusty heartbeat.

Chorus [C – G – Am – F]:
C G
No matter where we roam,
Am F
This desert is our home,
C G
Our songs cut deep, they’re raw and neat,
Am F
Echoing our dusty heartbeat.

Verse 2 [Am – G – F – E]:
Am G
Through the smog and the treasure hunts,
F E
We faced the music, took the brunt,
Am G
We may have stumbled, but never admit defeat,
F E
We’re stronger with our dusty heartbeat.

(Repeat Chorus)

Bridge [Dm – F – G]:
Dm F
Together, we rise, despite the heat,
G
Driven by our dusty heartbeat.
(Repeat Chorus)

Favorite Fan:

Sandra “Sandy” Mitchell, a diehard fan from day one, has attended every single Smoggy Treasury show in Phoenix. She claims it was the band’s authenticity and infectious energy that made her an instant fan. She says, “Smoggy Treasury is more than just a band to me. Their music is raw, passionate and it speaks to my soul. The way they weave their desert roots into their songs makes me feel connected to my hometown. They’ve given a voice to our generation and made us proud of our heritage. I wouldn’t miss their show for anything!”

Backstory:

‘Itchy Mother’ is a band born in the grungy heart of New York City’s Lower East Side in the mid-1990s. The band was formed by a group of friends – lead vocalist and guitarist Benny ‘Buzz’ McGuire, bassist Tommy ‘Thump’ Thompson, drummer Johnny ‘Jazz’ Jefferson, and keyboardist Ricky ‘Ripple’ Rowe. They found solace in creating music in a rundown apartment, using their shared frustrations, hopes, dreams, and chaotic lives as inspiration. They began playing impromptu gigs in underground bars, their raw, unfiltered music resonating with the crowd. The city’s dark underbelly and vibrant pulse became a part of their sonic identity.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Concrete Jungle Serenade”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Walking down the alley [G] late at night,
[Am] Lights are flashing [Em] neon bright.
[Dm] Heartbeat racing, [G] fists clenched tight,
[C] This is our Concrete Jungle [G] Serenade.

(Chorus)
[F] Dancing on the edge [C] of the night,
[G] Singing in the shadows, [Am] out of sight.
[Dm] Lost in the city’s [G] brutal fight,
[C] This is our Concrete Jungle [G] Serenade.

(Verse 2)
[C] Underneath the skyline [G] steel and gray,
[Am] We find our rhythm, [Em] lose our way.
[Dm] Battles fought in the [G] break of day,
[C] Echoes of our Concrete Jungle [G] Serenade.

(Chorus)
[F] Neon dreams and [C] asphalt cries,
[G] City’s secrets, [Am] hidden lies.
[Dm] Through it all, our [G] music flies,
[C] This is our Concrete Jungle [G] Serenade.

(Outro)
[Dm] Amid the sirens’ [G] piercing wails,
[C] We find our voice, [G] and our tale prevails,
[F] Wrapped in the city’s [C] gritty veils,
[G] This is our Concrete Jungle [C] Serenade.

Band’s Favorite Fan:

Their favorite fan is a woman named Jess. Jess, initially drawn to ‘Itchy Mother’ due to her love for alternative rock, became their most devoted fan because she felt a deep connection with their lyrics. The raw emotion and authenticity of their music helped her navigate through her own struggles. As a testimony, she says, “Their music is like a balm to the soul, a soundtrack to the city’s madness. It’s raw, it’s real, and it has a way of making you feel seen and heard. I don’t just listen to ‘Itchy Mother’, I live it.”

Backstory:
Formed in the heart of New York’s underground rock scene in 2007, Awful Stone started as a trio of college friends who decided to defy the mainstream and pursue a rawer, more authentic sound. The band members, lead vocalist and bassist Danny “Rocks” Ross, drummer Jimmy “Boom” Bonner, and guitarist Mick “Strings” McAllister, all shared a mutual passion for grunge and punk, which they blended with their unique style to create a sound that would come to define Awful Stone. After a decade of perseverance, the band achieved widespread recognition when their breakthrough album ‘Broken Concrete’ topped independent music charts worldwide. The band’s name, Awful Stone, is a reflection of their rough-around-the-edges, down-to-earth charm, and enduring resilience, just like a stone weathering all storms.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Fractured Mirror”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am7 Em
Looking in a fractured mirror, I don’t recognize the face,
G D
Reflections of a stranger, lost in time and space.
Am7 Em
Memories in shattered glass, cutting through the haze,
G D
Trying to piece together, the remnants of my days.

(Chorus)
C G
Oh, you see the world in fragments,
D Em
And a puzzle with no end.
C G
In the distorted image,
D Em
Can you find yourself again?

(Verse 2)
Am7 Em
Staring at the broken pieces, scattered on the floor,
G D
The man in the mirror ain’t me anymore.
Am7 Em
The glass tells a story, of battles won and lost,
G D
Of dreams chased and sacrifices, and the heavy cost.

(Chorus)
C G
Oh, the fractured mirror holds secrets,
D Em
Of a life that’s been torn.
C G
In the shards, can you see,
D Em
The reflection of a man reborn?

Fan Testimonial:
Name: Lisa Richards

Lisa Richards, a lifelong resident of Seattle, first discovered Awful Stone during one of their earliest gigs. Lisa has been an ardent fan since then, faithfully showing up to all their concerts within a 200-mile radius. As a music lover with a deep appreciation for grunge and alternative rock, she was immediately drawn to Awful Stone’s unique fusion of these genres. “Their music speaks to me on a personal level. It’s raw, gritty, and unapologetically honest, and I feel a sense of connection that’s hard to put into words. The song ‘Fractured Mirror’ particularly speaks to me. It’s about struggling with identity and finding yourself, which I think is something a lot of us can relate to. Awful Stone isn’t just my favorite band, they are a part of who I am.”

Backstory:

In 2010, a group of friends from a culinary school in New Orleans, who shared a passion for both music and food, decided to form a band. They named it ‘Soupy Opinion’ in homage to the countless soups they had prepared during their culinary school days, which often sparked heated debates regarding the nuances of flavors and textures. Soupy Opinion started to play gigs in local bars and restaurants, gaining popularity for their unique sound and food-themed lyrics. Their catchy tunes paired with their amusing, relatable lyrics about food quickly earned them a loyal fan base.

Fast forward to 2021, Soupy Opinion has evolved from being just a local sensation. They’ve released three albums, toured nationally, and even dabbled in international performances. Despite their success, they remain humble and true to their roots, often expressing their gratitude to the culinary school where they first met and drew their inspiration.

Genre:

Folk Rock

Title:

“Duet With My Soup”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1:
(Am) Here I am in the (G) kitchen, (C) under the moonlight, (D)
(Am) Stirring the pot, (G) adding spices just right. (C) (D)

Chorus:
(F) Duet with my soup, (C) melody of flavor,
(G) Dancing on my tongue, (D) something I savor.
(F) Duet with my soup, (C) under the soft night,
(G) Spicy and warm, (D) feels just right.

Verse 2:
(Am) Sizzling sounds, (G) aroma fills the air, (C) (D)
(Am) Taste of memories, (G) nothing else can compare. (C) (D)

[Repeat Chorus]

Bridge:
(E) The soup is my canvas, (Am) the spices my paint,
(G) Painting a picture, (D) with no restraint.

[Repeat Chorus]

Favorite Fan:

Their favorite fan is named Bobby. Bobby was a music and food enthusiast who stumbled upon a Soupy Opinion gig at a local bar in New Orleans. He was instantly hooked by their unique music and lyrics. For Bobby, the band’s music was something that went beyond the art of cooking; it was a celebration of life, culture, and companionship, all wrapped up in a musical narrative.

In his testimonial, Bobby shared, “I’ve always been a fan of rock music and an amateur cook. Soupy Opinion’s music resonated with my love for both. The way they weave edible narratives into their songs is simply phenomenal. Every time I listen to them, it feels like I’m part of a grand meal, a gastronomic symphony. They truly are a feast for the ears!”

Backstory:

Arctic Advice is an indie rock band that formed in the snowy wilderness of Anchorage, Alaska in 2007. The band members, childhood friends – lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist, Liam Dawson, lead guitarist, Jake Edwards, bassist, Noah Harris, and drummer, Ethan Miller, spent their high school years playing in various local bands before deciding to pool their talents and form Arctic Advice. They found inspiration in the rugged Alaskan landscape, drawing upon the harsh winters and endless nights to create a unique sound that resonated with people around the world.

After uploading a few of their recordings to an online music platform, they caught the attention of a Los Angeles record producer, who signed them on to his label. Despite their sudden plunge into the limelight, Arctic Advice remains true to their roots, often returning to Alaska to re-energize and find new inspirations.

Genre: Indie Rock

Title: “Under the Northern Lights”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1: Am, C, G, D)
Am C G D
Under the stars, we started our flight,
Am C G D
In the cold, under the Northern Lights.
Am C G D
Our hearts, like the Aurora, burning so bright,
Am C G D
In the cold, under the Northern Lights.

(Chorus: F, C, G, Am)
F C G Am
Beneath the Arctic sky, we found our fight,
F C G Am
In the cold, under the Northern Lights.

(Verse 2: Am, C, G, D)
Am C G D
The snow, like a canvas, pure and white,
Am C G D
In the cold, under the Northern Lights.
Am C G D
Our dreams, like the snowflakes, taking flight,
Am C G D
In the cold, under the Northern Lights.

(Chorus: F, C, G, Am)
F C G Am
Beneath the Arctic sky, we found our might,
F C G Am
In the cold, under the Northern Lights.

Fan’s Testimonial:

Fan’s name: Emily Thompson

Emily Thompson, an Alaskan native and a devoted fan since the band’s inception, considers Arctic Advice as her favorite band. According to her, “Their music feels like home to me. It’s raw, it’s real, and it captures the essence of our Alaskan spirit. The band’s authentic vibe, combined with their powerful lyrics and melodies, resonates profoundly with me. Arctic Advice is more than just a band to me – they symbolize the strength and resilience of our community.”

Backstory:
Valid Suggestion started its journey in the heart of Seattle, in a humble garage, where four talented college buddies decided to combine their burning passion for music despite their diverse musical backgrounds. Consisting of lead vocalist and guitarist, James Allen, drummer Mark Landry, bassist Tim Donovan, and keyboardist Alex Evans, they started off by playing in small local gigs and college festivals. Their captivating chemistry and unique sound soon garnered them a loyal fan base. Their breakthrough moment came when they got a chance to perform at a major music festival in Portland. The overwhelming response they got at the festival was more than enough to convince them that they had something special together.

Genre:
Valid Suggestion can best be described as an alternative rock band, with elements of new wave and punk, paired with thoughtful, poetic lyrics. They are inspired by bands like Radiohead, Talking Heads, and The Smiths, but offer a fresh and unique take on the genre.

Title:
“Distant Echoes”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G]Looking around, in the [D]shadows of the town, [Em]feeling the weight of the [C]world pulling me down
[G]Hearing the whispers, the [D]distant echoes sound, [Em]lost in the chaos, [C]hoping to be found

(Chorus)
[G]Distant echoes in the [D]night, [C]searching for the [G]light
[G]Running from the [D]past, [C]hoping it won’t [G]last

(Verse 2)
[G]Walking on the edge, on the [D]line of sanity, [Em]embracing the unknown, [C]craving for clarity
[G]Searching for answers, in the [D]midst of the crowd, [Em]Screaming in silence, [C]becoming my own shroud

(Chorus)
[G]Distant echoes in the [D]night, [C]searching for the [G]light
[G]Running from the [D]past, [C]hoping it won’t [G]last

The band’s favorite fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Sarah Jensen. Sarah has been following Valid Suggestion since their earliest gigs in Seattle, and she has been to almost every one of their concerts since. In Sarah’s words, “Valid Suggestion is more than just a band to me, they are my lifeline. Their music resonates with my soul. They sing about real emotions, real life, and that’s why I relate so much to their music. Every time I feel lost, I listen to them and somehow find my way back. Their individuality and authenticity make them stand out, and that’s why they are my favorite. They are not just musicians, they are artists painting a picture of life through their music.”

Backstory:

Tepid Aid was born in the heart of Austin, Texas, in 2014. The band initially consisted of schoolmates, Jane Foster (vocals and guitar), Ricky Davis (bass), and Jake Peters (drums). They shared a mutual love for music and a desire to create something that was a little off the beaten path, something that wasn’t quite mainstream. They took their eclectic influences, from punk rock to folk music and everything in between, and began creating a sound that was entirely their own. Over the years, they’ve evolved and expanded to include keyboardist, Lucy Simmons, but their commitment to creating unique and innovative music has never wavered.

Genre:

Indie Alternative Rock

Title:

“Dusk’s Contemplation”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[D] Caught in the [G] twilight, [A] dreams in your eyes
[D] Whisper of [G] sunset, [A] where the daylight dies
[D] Shadows are [G] dancing, [A] across your face
[D] And in this [G] moment, [A] we find our space

(Chorus)
[D] In the contemplation of [G] dusk, [A] we find our truth
[D] In the silence of the [G] night, [A] we reclaim our youth
[D] In the heartbeat of the [G] stars, [A] we find our song
[D] In the contemplation of [G] dusk, [A] we truly belong

(Verse 2)
[D] Moonlight is [G] falling, [A] soft as a sigh
[D] Secrets and [G] promises, [A] under the night sky
[D] Here in the [G] quiet, [A] we dare to dream
[D] Bathed in the [G] light, [A] of moonbeam’s gleam

(Chorus)
[D] In the contemplation of [G] dusk, [A] we find our truth
[D] In the silence of the [G] night, [A] we reclaim our youth
[D] In the heartbeat of the [G] stars, [A] we find our song
[D] In the contemplation of [G] dusk, [A] we truly belong

Bands Favorite Fan’s Name:

Evelyn Rodriguez

Testimonial from Evelyn Rodriguez:

“Tepid Aid is more than just a band to me. Their music has quite literally been the soundtrack of my life since I first stumbled upon them at a local bar in 2015. Their lyrics delve into the human experience in a way that is both poetic and raw. Beneath the catchy melodies and Jane’s hauntingly beautiful voice, there’s a depth to their songs that consistently resonates with me. No matter what I’m going through in life, there’s always a Tepid Aid song that I can relate to. For me, they’re not just musicians, they’re storytellers, and I’m grateful for the stories they’ve shared.”