Backstory:
Critical Engineering is a band founded in the gritty backstreets of Seattle, Washington, in 2015 by four childhood friends – Jason Roberts, Darren McKenzie, Luke Thompson, and Mike Davis. They all share a background in different fields of engineering, which sparked the inspiration behind their unique band name. The group’s shared passion for music and their desire to break the monotony of their desk jobs led them to form a band and start performing at local bars and open mic nights. The engineers turned rockstars gained a loyal following due to their distinctive sound and raw lyrics that reflected the struggles and triumphs of their everyday lives.

After a few years of performing in underground music scenes, the band caught their big break when they were discovered by a popular music producer who attended one of their shows. Soon after signing with a record label, Critical Engineering released their debut album, which became an unexpected hit and catapulted them into the mainstream music scene. Despite their unexpected rise to fame, the band members remained grounded, sticking to their roots and commitment to creating music that resonates with their listeners.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Cogs and Gears”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1) [C G D Em]
In this city of concrete and steel,
Where dreams are ground like cogs and gears,
We find our hearts racing,
With a rhythm that’s unchanging.

(Chorus) [G D Em C]
Cogs and gears, keep turning,
In this life, we keep learning,
The rhythm of love, the rhythm of pain,
In the end, it’s all a game.

(Verse 2) [C G D Em]
Underneath the neon lights,
In the silence of the nights,
We find our souls yearning,
For a song that’s worth singing.

(Chorus) [G D Em C]
Cogs and gears, they never stop,
Our hearts skip, they sometimes flop,
The rhythm of hope, the rhythm of tears,
In the end, it’s all about years.

(Bridge) [Am Em G D]
Blueprints of life, etched in the stars,
We’re all just playing our parts.

(Chorus) [G D Em C]
Cogs and gears, in this grand machine,
Living out our dreams, in this routine,
The rhythm of joy, the rhythm of fears,
In the end, we’re all just cogs and gears.

Fan’s Name:
Nancy

Testimonial:
“I’ve followed Critical Engineering since their early gig days in Seattle. Their songs speak directly to my soul. ‘Cogs and Gears’ in particular, hits home hard. It beautifully captures the essence of life’s struggles and victories. The band’s authenticity and genuine connection with their roots, while also embracing their growth and evolution, is what makes them my favorite. Their songs aren’t just music, they’re life anthems. They’re the soundtrack to my journey.”

Backstory:
Buoyant Drop, a band synonymous with experimentation and evolution, was formed in 2008 in the rainy streets of Seattle. The band members, Ed Coppersmith (vocals, guitar), Tommy Rivers (bass guitar), Johnny “Keys” Mason (keyboard), and Derek ‘ThunderBolt’ Taylor (drums) all brought their unique musical backgrounds to create a sound that was both familiar and refreshingly innovative. They started off playing in dimly lit bars and small college gigs, but their evocative soundscape quickly garnered a loyal following, leading them to larger venues and sold-out concerts.

Known for their raw energy and profound lyrics, Buoyant Drop has always strived to push the boundaries of their music. Their journey has been defined by countless hours spent in the recording studio, refining their compositions to achieve the perfect balance between their diverse influences. Despite the challenges, the band has always stood firm, united by their shared love for music and their unwavering commitment to their fans.

Genre:
Alternative Rock / Progressive Rock

Title:
“Drowning in the Sky”

Full song lyrics:

Verse 1: [Em, G, D, A]
(Em)Look up to the sky, (G) beyond those grey clouds,
(D) In the silence, the (A) universe is so loud.
(Em)Promise me tonight, (G) that we won’t back down,
(D)We’ll keep fighting, (A) until we’re safe and sound.

Chorus: [C, G, D, Em]
(C) We’re drowning in the sky, (G) lost in the crowd,
(D) Searching for a light, (Em) in the shadows of doubt.
(C) With every single try, (G) we scream and we shout,
(D) But we’re buoyant, (Em) we won’t let this drop, no we won’t back down.

Verse 2: [Em, G, D, A]
(Em)Stars may shatter, (G) dreams may fall,
(D) But the echoes of (A) our hope still call.
(Em)We’ll rise from the ashes, (G) stand tall,
(D)Against every storm, (A) we’ll conquer all.

Chorus: [C, G, D, Em]
(C) We’re drowning in the sky, (G) lost in the crowd,
(D) Searching for a light, (Em) in the shadows of doubt.
(C) With every single try, (G) we scream and we shout,
(D) But we’re buoyant, (Em) we won’t let this drop, no we won’t back down.

Fan’s name:
Lucy Hart

Lucy Hart’s testimonial:

“As an avid music lover, I’ve followed many bands, but Buoyant Drop is something special. Their music resonates with me on a deeply personal level. Their lyrics are thought-provoking, and their sound is so unique, blending elements of rock with an experimental edge. Buoyant Drop’s music has been my solace during tough times, their songs are like a comforting friend, always there, always understanding. They have a genuine connection with their fans and it’s evident in their performances. Their passion and authenticity truly set them apart. In a world full of noise, Buoyant Drop’s music is a symphony that speaks to the soul.”

Backstory:
Formed in the bustling music scene of Seattle in 2012, Jagged Expansion quickly made a name for themselves with their distinctive sound and dynamic stage presence. The band, comprised of lead vocalist and guitarist Jake Harper, drummer Jason Hall, bassist Eli Smith, and keyboardist Sam Greene, initially met while studying at the University of Washington. They began jamming together in their free time, drawn together by their mutual love for progressive rock and a shared desire to transform it into something entirely their own.

The band spent their early years honing their skills in the local music scene, gaining a reputation for their experimental soundscapes, high-energy performances, and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of their genre. Their big break came in 2016 when they were discovered by a label executive during a performance at a local music festival. Since then, Jagged Expansion has been on an upward trajectory, releasing critically acclaimed albums and performing in sold-out venues around the world.

Genre: Progressive Rock

Title: “Vortex of Echoes”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Am C G D
In the spin of the world, under the watchful eyes,
We dance to the rhythm, under the stormy skies.
We’re lost in the maze, in the vortex of echoes,
No end in sight, only shadows.

[Chorus]
F C G
Through the vortex of echoes, we tread,
Caught between the living and the dead.
In this world of chaos, we find,
Our hearts, our souls, intertwined.

[Verse 2]
Am C G D
In the silence of the night, under the milky way,
We play our song, making our own way.
We’re chased by the ghosts, in the vortex of echoes,
No path to follow, only shadows.

[Chorus]
F C G
Through the vortex of echoes, we dare,
Break the chains, breathe the air.
In this realm of noise, we embrace,
Our dreams, our hopes, interlaced.

Favorite Fan: Mark Jenkins

Testimonial:
I’ve been a fan of progressive rock since the ’70s and have seen countless bands come and go, but none have captivated me quite like Jagged Expansion. Their music is a breath of fresh air – a seamless blend of past and present, with a unique twist that sets them apart from the rest. Their song “Vortex of Echoes” has some of the most innovative chord progressions and lyrics I’ve ever heard, and it never fails to move me. Jagged Expansion is definitely my favorite band, and I believe they’re just getting started. Their resilience and creativity are unparalleled, and I can’t wait to see where they go from here.

Backstory:
“Aggravating Comb” is a unique blend of old friends and new voices, bonded by their love for music. The band was formed in the quiet town of Morton, Connecticut, where every band member found their passion for music. At first, they were just a bunch of kids playing garage music, but as they grew older they realized that their passion for music could be more than just a hobby. They decided to go professional in 2010 and haven’t looked back since. Known for their quirky band name, which is inspired by a funny childhood memory related to a hair comb, their unconventional approach to music has gained them a devoted fan base.

Genre:
Aggravating Comb primarily plays Indie Rock, but their music is known for incorporating elements of Folk and Alternative Rock.

Title:
“Chasing Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Staring at the [G] walls, [Am] wondering where you’ve [Em] gone
[C] Images of you [G] are fading, [Am] shadows of you are [Em] long
[C] Empty rooms and [G] silent hallways, [Am] echo with your [Em] song
[C] I’m chasing [G] shadows, [Am] hoping you’d come [Em] along

(Chorus)
[C] Chasing shadows, [G] in the dark of [Am] night
[C] Under the moon’s soft [G] glow, and the [Am] stars’ faint light
[C] In this lonely [G] dance, I’m [Am] losing the fight
[C] Chasing shadows, [G] till the morning [Am] light

(Verse 2)
[C] Your scent still [G] lingers, [Am] in the corners of my [Em] bed
[C] Remnants of your [G] laughter, [Am] are playing in my [Em] head
[C] I’m trapped in [G] memories, [Am] in the words we’ve [Em] said
[C] Chasing shadows, [G] in the silence we’ve [Am] dread

(Chorus)
[C] Chasing shadows, [G] in the heart of [Am] despair
[C] Longing for your [G] touch, and the [Am] love we used to share
[C] In this sorrowful [G] trance, I’m [Am] gasping for air
[C] Chasing shadows, [G] wishing you were [Am] there

Band’s Favorite Fan:
The band’s most adored fan is Jenny Watkins, a librarian from their hometown. Jenny has been a fan of Aggravating Comb since their garage band days. She loves their music because it reminds her of the simplicity of small-town life, and how it can be both comforting and inspiring. She feels connected to the band on a personal level, as their music often explores themes of love, nostalgia, and longing, which resonate deeply with her. In her testimonial, Jenny stated, “There’s something incredibly pure about Aggravating Comb’s music. The words, the melodies, they feel like home to me. It’s like they’ve captured the essence of our town and transformed it into music. Their songs are stories that comfort me, inspire me, and make me feel less alone.”

Backstory:

Hailing from the vibrant streets of New York, Overcooked Distribution emerged as a breath of fresh air in the late 2000s. The band was created by four music enthusiasts who met at a local record store: lead vocalist Nicky ‘Blaze’ Evans, bassist Sarah ‘Vibe’ Johnson, drummer Tommy ‘Beatbox’ Hill, and guitarist Jacky ‘Strings’ O’Neal. They started by jamming out in garages, playing gigs at local bars and clubs. Their unique sound soon caught the attention of a renowned music producer who saw potential in their raw energy and passion. The band’s irresistible charm and dynamic performance style have made them a household name in the music industry, and they have never looked back.

Genre:

Overcooked Distribution is best categorized within the Indie Pop/Rock genre. Their sound reflects a perfect blend of energetic rock rhythms, catchy pop choruses, and thought-provoking indie sensibilities. The band is known for their eclectic soundscapes, weaving together elements from various genres to create a unique musical tapestry that resonates with all kinds of audiences.

Title:

“Dusk till Dawn”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G]Waiting in the shadows, [D]underneath the moon,
[Em]Caught in the echoes, [C]singing our tune.
[G]Lost in the city lights, [D]chasing the unknown,
[Em]Living life from [C]dusk till dawn.

(Chorus)
[G]We’re the heroes in our story,
[D]Making noise in all its glory,
[Em]We won’t stop until the morning,
[C]Living life from dusk till dawn.

(Verse 2)
[G]Walking on the boulevard, [D]feeling the night,
[Em]Seizing every moment, [C]under the city lights.
[G]We’re the poets of our time, [D]writing our own song,
[Em]We keep moving [C]from dusk till dawn.

(Chorus)
[G]We’re the heroes in our story,
[D]Making noise in all its glory,
[Em]We won’t stop until the morning,
[C]Living life from dusk till dawn.

The band’s favorite fan’s name:

Jane Patterson

Jane Patterson, better known as ‘Superfan Jane’ within the Overcooked Distribution fandom, shares a delightful testimonial: “Overcooked Distribution is my favorite band because their music connects with me on a visceral level. Their innovative sound and soulful lyrics always manage to stir something within me. Every track they release resonates with my life in one way or another, and it’s comforting to know that there’s always an Overcooked Distribution song that perfectly captures my mood. Besides their music, I admire them for their humility and love for fans. They never miss a chance to interact with us during concerts or on social media, making us feel like a part of their journey.”

Backstory:
Zigzag Request was born out of the eclectic minds of childhood best friends, Max Harper and Jonas Smith, in the bustling city of San Francisco. Max, a graphic designer by day and guitarist by night, and Jonas, a session drummer for local bands, had always shared a deep appreciation for music that didn’t quite fit into any specific genre. Their shared love for music sparked their journey into the world of songwriting and performing during their college years. The duo gradually found their unique sound, blending elements of different music genres. The name ‘Zigzag Request’ was coined during one of their spontaneous jam sessions as a reflection of their unconventional, zigzagging journey into the music world.

Genre:
Zigzag Request’s music genre is best described as Electronica-infused Indie Rock.

Title:
“Dusk till Neon”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
C#m A E B
Underneath the twilight sky,
C#m A E B
We’re chasing shadows, you and I.
C#m A E B
In this city full of dreams,
C#m A E B
Nothing’s really what it seems.

(Chorus)
G D Em C
From dusk till neon we roam,
G D Em C
In streets that have become our home.
G D Em C
With hearts on fire, running free,
G D Em C
In our Zigzag symphony.

(Verse)
C#m A E B
Weaving through the crowd and noise,
C#m A E B
Lost in music, we found our voice.
C#m A E B
In this rhythm, we intertwine,
C#m A E B
In our melody, we shine.

(Chorus)
G D Em C
From dusk till neon we sing,
G D Em C
To the night our echoes ring.
G D Em C
With soulful words, we set free,
G D Em C
In our Zigzag symphony.

Fan Testimonial:
Zigzag Request’s biggest fan is a lively woman named Samantha. She has been following the band since their early days and has seen them evolve into the music sensation they are today. “Their music, it’s like a breath of fresh air. It’s different, it’s vibrant, and it’s full of life. It’s not just the sound, but the lyrics that make you feel as though you’re part of the song. Whenever I’m having a rough day, I just put on my headphones and let Zigzag Request take me on a magical journey. They’re not just my favorite band; they’re my musical safe haven.”

Backstory:

Experienced Tendency was born in the heart of Boston, Massachusetts in 2011, when four college friends, who shared a passion for music, decided to form a band. Initially, they performed at local bars and small music festivals, creating a unique sound and atmosphere that soon caught the attention of both young and elder crowds. Their music was raw and filled with emotion, reflecting their experiences and perspectives on life. They hit the big time in 2014 when their first album “Ripples of the Mind” turned out to be a massive success, propelling them into the spotlight. Since then, there has been no looking back for this bunch of talented musicians.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Crossroads of Life”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em
At the break of dawn, when the world’s still asleep
Am
I find myself lost, in thoughts so deep
C
At the crossroads of life, don’t know which way to go
G
All paths seem twisted, and the winds of change blow.

(Chorus)
D
We’re at the crossroads of life, no sign to guide
Am
The choices we make, only time will decide
C
Years may pass, but the memories remain
G
At the crossroads of life, we learn to dance in the rain.

(Verse 2)
Em
The journey’s tough, the road’s not clear
Am
There are times of joy, there are moments of fear
C
But we keep moving, with dreams in our sight
G
At the crossroads of life, we bring our own light.

(Chorus)
D
We’re at the crossroads of life, no maps to unfold
Am
The stories we write, are the tales that are told
C
In the canvas of time, we leave our own stain
G
At the crossroads of life, we learn to love the pain.

Fan Testimonial (Favorite Fan – Alyssa Miles):

“My name is Alyssa, and I can’t even begin to express what Experienced Tendency means to me. Their music speaks directly to my soul, it’s like they’ve put into words the exact feelings and emotions I’ve struggled to express. Their song ‘Crossroads of Life’ got me through some of my toughest times. It gave me the courage to face the challenges in my life and to keep moving forward. The raw emotion and depth of their music is unparalleled. They’re not just a band to me, they are like friends who understand me without even knowing me. They truly are my favorite band in every sense.”

Backstory:
Born amidst the urban landscapes of the vibrant city of Chicago, Our Growth is a band that traces its origins back to a crowded basement room of a college dorm. Founding members, Eli Richards and Andy Kessler, both dreamers and passionate music enthusiasts, were randomly assigned as roommates. Their shared love for music and an unquenchable thirst for self-expression through art laid the foundation for Our Growth. Over time, the duo expanded, inviting like-minded individuals, Grace Thompson on bass, and drummer, Tom Philips. Their collective experiences, trials, and tribulations lead to the formation of Our Growth, a band that is as much about personal evolution as it is about creating music that resonates with their listeners.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Echoes of the Past”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Em
Glistening stars, in the night so vast
D
In the silence, hear the echoes of the past
C
We were young, and we were fast
G
Living every moment like it might be our last

[Verse 2]
Em
Shadows fled at the dawn’s first light
D
Holding on to dreams with all our might
C
With every high, with every crash
G
Still, we march on, embracing our past

[Chorus]
Em
The echoes of the past, they still last
D
In our hearts, like a well-cast mast
C
Shaping our future, learning from what’s past
G
Growing stronger, growing vast

[Verse 3]
Em
In this world, we are not miscast
D
The echoes of the past, they hold us fast
C
We’re not defined by shadows we’ve cast
G
We are Our Growth, and we’re growing vast.

Fan’s name: Jessica Newman

Testimonial:
I’ve always been drawn to music that speaks to me, that somehow manages to touch my soul. And that’s exactly what Our Growth does. Their music isn’t just melodic, it’s raw, it’s real, and it’s powerful. It’s like they have taken fragments of their life and weaved them into poignant symphonies. Every song feels personal, like a part of a journey I’m privileged to be a part of. As a fan, I feel connected to them, and that’s why they will always be my favorite band. I’ve been a part of their journey from their early performances in small bars to their massive concerts in stadiums. And the ride has been absolutely incredible. Their song “Echoes of the Past” particularly resonates with me. It’s a beautiful reminder that we are all a product of our experiences, and it’s these experiences that help us grow. In many ways, I feel like I’ve grown with Our Growth.

Backstory:
Qualified Love was formed in the bustling city of Austin, Texas, renowned for live music and burgeoning talent. The band consists of four members: lead vocalist and guitarist, Jack Stevenson, bassist, Lily Griffin, drummer, Max Johnson, and keyboardist, Sarah White. They all met at a local music college and decided to form a band after sharing their mutual love for the rhythm and blues and the golden era of soul music.

Playing at local bars and music festivals, Qualified Love quickly earned a reputation for their electrifying performances and soulful lyrics. Their unique blend of rhythm and blues, soul, and a hint of indie pop has captured the hearts of both the local community and music enthusiasts across the United States. Their story is a testament to the power of music, camaraderie, and the pursuit of dreams.

Genre:
Rhythm and Blues, Soul, Indie Pop

Title:
“Jet Stream of Emotion”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C]On a jet stream of [G]emotion, we’re [Am]riding high
[F]Lost in the rhythm, beneath the [C]starry sky
[G]Your voice is my [Am]compass, your touch my [F]guide
[C]Through the turbulence, [G]by your side

(Chorus)
[Am] Oh, it’s a qualified [G]love, in the air
[F] With your hands in my hair, [C]and the wind doesn’t care,
[Am] In this jet stream of [G]emotion, we’re [F]free,
[C]Just you and [G]me.

(Verse 2)
[C]Our love is [G]gravity, it pulls us [Am]near,
[F]In the quiet whispers only [C]our hearts can hear,
[G]In the jet stream of [Am]emotion, we’re [F]bound,
[C]In the rhythm of [G]the sound.

(Chorus)

[Am] Oh, it’s a qualified [G]love, in the air
[F] With your hands in my hair, [C]and the wind doesn’t care,
[Am] In the jet stream of [G]emotion, we’re [F]free,
[C]Just you and [G]me.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a young woman named Emily Thompson. Emily has been a dedicated fan since the band’s earliest performances in small Austin bars. She admires the band for their authenticity and soulful lyrics that resonate with her own experiences. In her testimonial, Emily says, “Qualified Love has a way of reaching into your soul and making you feel seen. Their music has been a balm during my hardest times and a celebration in my happiest moments. I feel like I’ve grown with them and I can’t wait to see where their journey takes them next.”

Backstory:

Shady Sneeze emerged from the smoke-filled basements of San Francisco in the late ’90s. The band, made up of childhood friends, Tim “Thimble” Thompson on guitar and vocals, Benny “Blastbeat” Barnes on drums, and “Sly” Sam Smith on bass and backup vocals, started as a rebellious rebellion against the pop wave that was engulfing the music industry. They had a clear aim; they wanted to bring back the raw, unadulterated sound of old-school rock, blending it with the spirit of punk and the depth of blues. Their journey was not smooth; they struggled, they hustled, but they never lost their faith in the power of music. They believe in the magic that reverberates from every strum, every beat, and every note, connecting souls and telling stories that words often fail to capture.

Genre:

Punk Rock Blues

Title:

“Highway of Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Running down the highway of shadows, [Em] lost in a world of dreams.
[C] Heart filled with sorrow, [D] life tearing at the seams.

[G] Memories like faded echoes, [Em] every turn a new regret.
[C] Searching for some solace, [D] in a world I can’t forget.

(Chorus)
[G] In the highway of shadows, [Em] where the sun doesn’t shine,
[C] I found my purpose, [D] in this chaos divine.

[G] Dancing with the demons, [Em] singing with the night,
[C] In the highway of shadows, [D] I found my light.

(Verse 2)
[G] The road, it winds and stretches, [Em] a story in each mile.
[C] A symphony of silence, [D] in the heart’s exile.

[G] Through the pain and heartaches, [Em] through the joy and the rain,
[C] The highway of shadows, [D] is where I found my refrain.

(Chorus)
[G] In the highway of shadows, [Em] where the sun doesn’t shine,
[C] I found my purpose, [D] in this chaos divine.

[G] Dancing with the demons, [Em] singing with the night,
[C] In the highway of shadows, [D] I found my light.

Bands Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan is none other than Jenny “JenStar” Stanton. Jenny first discovered our music during one of her darkest times. She was dealing with personal issues and was on the verge of losing hope, but our songs gave her a new perspective. She claims that “Shady Sneeze’s music is raw, unfiltered and touches every nerve. They don’t just create music; they tell stories that resonate with one’s soul. The emotional depth, the honesty in their lyrics, and their distinct sound make them unique. They’re not just my favorite band; they’re my rescue, my solace, my inspiration. In a world full of chaos, their music is my oasis of peace.” We are grateful to have such amazing fans like Jenny who connect with our music on such a deep level.