Backstory:

Remote Belt was formed in a small town in North Dakota in 2013 by a group of high school friends. The band members include Jason Harlow on drums, Mark Mercer on bass, Danny Gaines on lead guitar, and Michael “Mick” Kinsey on vocals. After high school, the group was on the verge of disbanding as they all had plans to attend different colleges. However, in their senior year, they won a local battle of the bands competition, which gave them the confidence to pursue their dream of making music together. They decided to take a gap year and focus on their music. With a van loaded with their instruments and a dream in their hearts, they hit the road, playing small gigs across the country. Over the course of time, they garnered a small but dedicated fan base that supported their dreams.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Title:

“Lost in Translation”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Headlights on the [A] highway,
[D] Feels like we’re going [E] one-way,
[C] Lost in translation, [D] somewhere in the nation.

(Chorus)
[G] We’re just a band from a [A] one-horse town,
[D] Trying to figure this [E] whole thing out,
[C] But when the lights go [D] down and the crowd gets loud,
[G] We know we found [A] our sound.

(Verse 2)
[G] Guitars and a [A] beat-up van,
[D] Dreams bigger than our [E] hometown can understand,
[C] We’re in a Remote Belt, [D] heading to the promised land.

(Chorus)
[G] We’re just a band from a [A] one-horse town,
[D] Playing our hearts out, [E] mile by mile, town by town,
[C] When we hear the applause, the [D] sweetest sound,
[G] We know we found [A] our ground.

Favorite Fan:

Emma Johnson is Remote Belt’s biggest fan. She first heard them playing at a local bar in her hometown. According to Emma, “Remote Belt isn’t just a band. They embody the spirit of young dreamers who dare to chase their dreams, regardless of where they come from. Their lyrics resonate with my own life experiences and their music is a blend of raw emotion, powerful chords, and unforgettable melody. Every song tells a story, a story that I find myself lost in. And that’s why they are my absolute favorite.”

Backstory:
Snarling Taste was born in the heart of downtown Seattle in 2003. It began as a joint venture between childhood friends, Steve Malone on lead guitar and vocals, and Mark “Dusty” Rhodes on drums. After numerous jam sessions in Steve’s basement, they decided to bring their unique sound to the public. They found their missing pieces in bassist Jane “Mad Cat” McAllister and keyboardist Tom “Killer” Miller, two locals who shared their passion for creating profound, boundary-pushing music. The band members’ shared interest in diverse musical styles and their willingness to experiment soon saw them carving out a niche in the competitive Seattle music scene.

Genre:
Alternative Rock/ Psychedelic Fusion

Title:
“Walk in Shadow”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[Dm] Walk in shadow, [C] under the moonlight,
[G] Just an echo, [Dm] of my past,
[C] Rumble of a distant thunder,
[G] Reminder of a love that didn’t last.

(Chorus)
[Dm] I taste the salt, [C] of my own tears falling,
[G] And your face, [Dm] is all I see,
[C] I’m a puppet, [G] in the hands of memory,
[Dm] And I’m lost, [C] lost at sea.

(Verse 2)
[Dm] We used to dance, [C] in the pouring rain,
[G] A reckless love, [Dm] wild and free,
[C] Now I’m dancing, [G] with your ghost,
[Dm] In the silence, [C] of our empty street.

(Chorus)
[Dm] I taste the salt, [C] of my own tears falling,
[G] And your face, [Dm] is all I see,
[C] I’m a puppet, [G] in the hands of memory,
[Dm] And I’m lost, [C] lost at sea.

Favorite Fan:
Their favorite fan’s name is Lisa. Lisa had stumbled upon Snarling Taste during one of their first live performances at a small local bar. The raw emotion they conveyed through their music struck a chord with her. She says, “Snarling Taste’s music is a roller coaster of emotions. They make you feel every word, every note. Their songs have helped me through some of the toughest times in my life. They have this uncanny ability to capture feelings and translate them into music. Their song ‘Walk in Shadow,’ in particular, speaks to me on so many levels. It’s about love and loss, pain and healing. It’s my favorite because it’s so real and raw.”

Backstory:

Equal Pole was formed in the summer of 2010 in the heart of Detroit, Michigan. The band was the brainchild of lifelong friends Ronnie Phillips and Aaron Greene. Their shared passion for music and a mutual desire to challenge the norms of mainstream music led them to come together and form Equal Pole. With the addition of drummer, Marianne ‘Maz’ Collins, and bassist, Jack ‘Flash’ Davies, the quartet was complete. They started playing gigs in small clubs around the city, soon capturing the heart of the local music scene with their unique sound.

Their journey from obscurity to fame has been a rollercoaster ride, with several career-altering opportunities, lineup changes, and a dramatic near break-up. Despite all this, Equal Pole has managed to remain a tight-knit unit, pouring their raw emotions and experiences into their music, which has become their signature style.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Song Title:

‘Shadow Whispers’

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1 – C, G, Am, E)
In the twilight, under the weeping willow
I lost my heart, in your shadow, oh
Your cold touch, like icy whispers
In the silence, my heart quivers

(Chorus – F, G, C, Am)
Shadow whispers, calling me home
To the dark abyss, where love roams
A shattered heart, lost in despair
In your silence, I gasp for air

(Verse 2 – C, G, Am, E)
Under the moonlight, through the foggy hollow
I followed your steps, my soul you swallow
Your fleeting glance, like soft whispers
In the darkness, my hope flutters

(Chorus – F, G, C, Am)
Shadow whispers, pulling me close
To the unseen realms, where sorrow grows
A broken soul, drowned in wear
In your whispers, I find despair

(Outro – F, G, C)
Shadow whispers, in the night
A haunting echo, of lost delight
In your whispers, I linger on
Till the break of dawn, my love is gone

Fan’s Name:

Jamie ‘Rockhound’ Simmons

Testimonial:

“I’ve been a fan of Equal Pole since their early club days. There’s something about their music that resonates with me on a deep level. The raw emotions, the hard-hitting lyrics, and their unapologetic style of alternative rock is a refreshing departure from the mainstream. ‘Shadow Whispers’ particularly speaks to me; the haunting melody and the poignant lyrics touch my soul every single time. Equal Pole isn’t just a band for me, it’s a musical journey I’ll gladly embark on, time and again.”

Backstory:
Legitimate Cinema was formed in the vibrant and music-filled streets of Austin, Texas, back in 2008. At the helm of this musical endeavor were childhood friends Ricky Dawson and Gil Carson. Having shared a passionate love for music since their early teens, they decided to bring their unique sounds to life. After a few years of experimenting with their style and sound, they finally found their groove – a melodic blend of folk and indie rock, with a sprinkle of electronica. The addition of Faye Kellerman on bass and Adam Walsh on drums in 2012 completed the lineup and brought a new depth to their music.

Genre:
Indie Folk Rock with Electronica influence

Song Title:
“Paper Lanterns in a Summer Sky”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1: [Am] [G] [F] [G]
Underneath the [Am] summer sky, [G] Paper lanterns [F] fly,
[G] Illuminating whispers of a [Am] past gone by. [G] [F] [G]
[Am] With every twinkle, [G] every glow, [F] stories start to [G] grow,
[G] Playing like a movie in the [Am] night. [G] [F] [G]

Chorus: [C] [Am] [F] [G]
And the [C] night is alive, [Am] dancing under [F] the silver light,
[G] And the stars above are [C] the only audience in sight. [Am] [F] [G]
[C] Hand in hand we sway, [Am] lost in the play,
[F] Of Paper Lanterns in a [G] Summer Sky. [C] [Am] [F] [G]

Verse 2: [Am] [G] [F] [G]
[Am] As the lanterns [G] soar, [F] we begin to [G] explore,
[G] The rhythm of the night that [Am] ensnares. [G] [F] [G]
[Am] Each pulsing beat, [G] each stirring tune, [F] under the same [G] moon,
[G] We find our truth in the [Am] open air. [G] [F] [G]

(Chorus Repeats)

Favorite Fan:
Name: Jenny Saunders
Testimonial: “Legitimate Cinema is my favorite band because their unique blend of indie folk-rock and electronica resonates with me on a personal level. Their lyrics tell a story, and I always find myself lost in their music. Their song “Paper Lanterns in a Summer Sky” is an absolute anthem for me. It’s like they’ve put my thoughts into words and then set them to the most beautiful melody. They always put on an incredible live show, bringing their songs to life in a way that’s even better than the studio recordings. Their music has helped me through some tough times, and for that, I’m incredibly grateful.”

Backstory:
Rusty Hat was formed in the rustic towns of Texas, by childhood friends Bobby Ray and J.T. They first started playing together in a dusty old garage, using an out of tune guitar and a makeshift drum set, but their passion for music was undeniable. The duo began by playing covers of popular country songs at local bars and quickly gained a dedicated fan base. Their down-home roots, combined with their unique flair for storytelling, soon attracted the attention of local music producers. Before they knew it, Rusty Hat was on the road, touring across the country and making their mark on the national music scene.

Genre:
Rusty Hat plays a unique blend of traditional country blended with blues and folk influences. Their music often contemplates the struggles and joys of life, with a distinctive southern charm.

Title:
“Dusty Trail Home”

Song Lyrics:

Verse 1 (E-A-D-G-B-E)
I’ve been riding, this dusty trail home (E)
Lost my way, feel so alone (A)
Got this old rusty hat, and a broken guitar (D)
Strummin’ my blues, under the lonely stars (G)
My heart’s heavy, like a stone (B)
Oh Lord, take me back, to my home (E)

Chorus (E-A-D-G-B-E)
Dusty trail home (E)
Lead me back, where I belong (A)
Sunset hue, and a lonesome song (D)
With my rusty hat, I’ll strum along (G)
Oh dusty trail, you’re my guiding song (B)
Take me back, to where my heart’s strong (E)

Verse 2 (E-A-D-G-B-E)
Rode through storm, through the driving rain (E)
Searched for peace, amidst the pain (A)
With this old rusty hat, and my faithful guitar (D)
I’ll find my way, under the guiding stars (G)
Home’s calling, it’s where I belong (B)
Oh dusty trail, lead me back home (E)

[Repeat Chorus]

Favorite Fan Testimonial:
My name is Sarah-Lee, a working mom from Austin. Rusty Hat has been my favorite band since I first heard them play at a local bar. Their music, especially the song “Dusty Trail Home,” has been a source of comfort for me during tough times. It’s raw, authentic, and speaks to the heart. The way they blend country, blues, and folk just resonates with me in ways other bands don’t. Their lyrics tell stories, real stories, that make you feel you’re not alone in this big ol’ world. I love Rusty Hat – their music is like a trusted friend, always there when I need it.

Backstory:

Growling Violence was born in the gritty backstreets of London’s East End. Its original members, Billy “Bones” Mitchell, Tommy “Tears” Lawrence, and Jimmy “Jaws” Jones, came from a hard life, working tough jobs and finding solace in music. They used their everyday struggle and raw emotions as an inspiration to create music that resonated with the disenchanted youth of their time.

After a few years of playing in small venues, they were discovered by a music producer who was taken with their raw energy and rebellious spirit. Suddenly, they found themselves signing a record deal and touring different cities. Although catapulted into stardom, Growling Violence never forgot their roots and always sought to portray the harsh realities of life through their music.

Genre:

Punk Rock

Title:

“Raging Chains”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1: (A, E, D)
On the streets that we call home (A)
Growling Violence is our name (E)
We’ve got the angst, we’ve got the pain (D)
In the city, we’re not alone (A)

Chorus: (G, D, A)
Raging Chains, breaking free (G)
In a world that’s lost its glee (D)
With our sound, we’ll make you see (A)
Raging Chains, that’s our plea (G)

Verse 2: (A, E, D)
Tattered dreams and broken hearts (A)
In our music, you’ll find parts (E)
In every note, a revolution starts (D)
With our punk rock, we throw darts (A)

Chorus: (G, D, A)
Raging Chains, breaking free (G)
In a world that’s lost its glee (D)
With our sound, we’ll make you see (A)
Raging Chains, that’s our plea (G)

Favorite fan’s name and testimonial:

Name: Millie Watson

Testimonial:

“Ever since I first heard Growling Violence at a local pub, I knew they were my band. Their music speaks to the soul, echoing the same frustrations and aspirations we all feel but can’t express. It’s more than just a band to me – it’s a testament to the struggle of our generation. That’s why I haven’t missed a single show in the last three years. Their music, especially ‘Raging Chains,’ speaks to me on a personal level, serving as a cathartic release from the hardships of life.”

Backstory:

Haunting Division emerged from the heart of a small, forgotten town in the Midwest. The band was born out of the ashes of struggle and heartbreak, a story that began when lead singer Julian Dunne and drummer Tim ‘Rivers’ Rehnquist found themselves jobless after the town’s only factory shut down. It was then that they discovered their shared love for music and their unique ability to channel their frustrations, longing, and dreams into hauntingly beautiful melodies. They were soon joined by versatile guitarist Annie ‘Phoenix’ Hickman and bassist Mike ‘The Anchor’ Johnson, who added depth and intensity to their sound. Their music became the voice of the voiceless, a beacon of hope for their dying town, and soon enough, for the world.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Shadows of Yesterday”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C G D
Beneath the ruins, we found our song,
Em C G D
In the silence, we found where we belong.
Em C G D
Through the echoes of yesterday,
Em C G D
In the shadows, we found our way.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
Shadows of yesterday, guide us through the night,
Em C G D
In the echoes of our past, we find the strength to fight.
Em C G D
In the heart of the forgotten, we make our stand,
Em C G D
With the melody of dreams, we reclaim our land.

(Verse 2)
Em C G D
Through the dust and decay, we rise,
Em C G D
With every chord, we defy the demise.
Em C G D
In the face of oblivion, we sing,
Em C G D
With the rhythm of hope, we bring.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
Shadows of yesterday, light our darkest hour,
Em C G D
In the echoes of our sorrow, we find the power.
Em C G D
In the ruins of our town, we find our voice,
Em C G D
With the symphony of survival, we make our choice.

The band’s favorite fan:

The band’s favorite fan is a young woman named Lily. She was one of the first to hear their music when they were just a fledgling band in their dying town and has been with them every step of the way. She claims that their music spoke to her on a deep level, being herself a product of the same struggles and hardships that the band sings about. Lily says, “Haunting Division is my favorite band because their music is real, raw, and resonates with me. It’s like they’ve taken my pain, my dreams, my hopes, and my fears and turned them into something beautiful. Their songs are my anthems, my comfort, and my inspiration. They give a voice to those of us who often feel unheard. They’re not just a band to me, they’re my heroes.”

Backstory:

Courteous Language is a musical group formed in the heart of Seattle, Washington in 2009. The four band members, who were all in different fraternities in college, found their common ground in music. They began their journey playing in college events, and soon their unique sound captured the hearts of not only students but also the local community. Their band name, Courteous Language, was inspired by a philosophy professor who always emphasized the importance of respectful and courteous communication. This philosophy became the core of their music, emphasizing understanding, respect, and empathy while creating an emotional connection with their listeners.

The band consists of lead vocalist and guitarist, Sam “Echo” Green, bassist Vincent “Vino” Jones, drummer Zachary “Rhythm” Taylor, and keyboardist Michael “HighNote” Johnson. Each member brings their unique flavor, resulting in a harmonious blend that is Courteous Language.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Rain on Our Parade”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Am] Look, there’s a [G] storm in the [F] distance,
[Am] Dark and fore[G]boding, yet it [F] feels so right.
[Dm] We’re standing [E] tall, under the [Am] clouded sky,
[Am] Waiting for the [G] rain to [F] electrify.

(Chorus)
[C] Let it rain on our [G] parade,
[F] We’re not afraid, we’ll [E] dance in the downpour.
[C] Let the thunder [G] serenade,
[F] As we wade, in the [E] puddles of folklore.

(Verse 2)
[Am] We are the [G] lights in the [F] tempest,
[Am] Unfazed, un[G]deterred, we [F] shine so bright.
[Dm] In the eye of the [E] storm, we find [Am] clarity,
[Am] Embracing the [G] chaos with [F] sincerity.

(Chorus)
[C] Let it rain on our [G] parade,
[F] We’re not afraid, we’ll [E] dance in the downpour.
[C] Let the thunder [G] serenade,
[F] As we wade, in the [E] puddles of folklore.

(Testimonial)

Fan’s Name: Emily Thompson

“I’ve been a fan of Courteous Language since their college days. Their music, to me, is not just about the lyrics or the melody but the emotion and message it carries. Every song they’ve written has touched my heart in a unique way. ‘Rain on our Parade’ is my absolute favorite. I love how it talks about embracing challenges and turning them into celebrations. Life will always have storms, but it’s up to us to dance in the rain. Courteous Language isn’t just a band to me; they’re a source of inspiration, my solace in difficult times, and a celebration in happy moments.”

Backstory:
Thoughtful Resident was formed in 2012 by high school friends, vocalist Luke Smith and guitarist Aaron Rhys, in the small town of Ashville, North Carolina. Inspired by their shared love for music, the duo started experimenting with different sounds in Luke’s garage, which served as their first makeshift studio. After recruiting bassist Mia Jones and drummer Eric Mitchell, the band started playing local gigs and eventually caught the attention of a local music producer. Their journey has been a wild ride, and they’ve never looked back, releasing their first album in 2015 and steadily gaining fans worldwide.

Genre:
Thoughtful Resident is best known for their unique blend of Indie Rock and Alternative Pop. Their music is characterized by powerful vocals, intricate guitar riffs, and meaningful lyrics, which speak to the heart of their listeners.

Title:
“Our Hearts to the Wind”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G] Looking back on our [C] years, the joy and the [G] tears
[G] We’ve run a long road, with our [D] hearts full and bold
[C] Now here we stand, [Am] your hand in my hand

(Chorus)
[G] Let’s throw our hearts to the [C] wind
[G] Let’s let the world spin and [D] spin
[C] Because with you, [Am] there’s nothing we can’t do
[G] Let’s throw our hearts to the [D] wind

(Verse 2)
[G] Through the highs and the [C] lows, our love only [G] grows
[G] With every fallen leaf, there’s a new [D] belief
[C] We’re stronger than we [Am] think, on the very brink

(Chorus)
[G] Let’s throw our hearts to the [C] wind
[G] We’ll dance in the storm, and we’ll [D] grin
[C] Because with you, [Am] there’s nothing we can’t do
[G] Let’s throw our hearts to the [D] wind

(Outro)
[C] Here’s to us, [Am] here’s to trust
[G] Let’s throw our hearts to the [D] wind

Fan Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan is undoubtedly Joe Simmons. Joe, a truck driver by profession, discovered the band through a local radio station and has been their ardent supporter ever since. Joe says, “Thoughtful Resident’s music has been my companion on many lonely roads. Their lyrics speak to me and the melodies are just exceptional. I feel like they’re telling my story through their songs. They are, hands down, my favorite band. Can’t wait to see them live someday!”

Backstory:
Hailing from the heart of Birmingham, UK, Kindhearted Alternative is a band that emerged from the shadows of a difficult beginning. The band members, including lead singer David “Dave” Jenkins, guitarist Miles Foster, drummer Carl “CJ” Johnson, and bassist Liam Bailey, met during their time in a rehabilitation center. All four of them had their share of struggles with substance abuse, finding solace and hope in music. Their shared experience bonded them together, and after their recovery, they decided to form a music group. The name ‘Kindhearted Alternative’ symbolizes their journey from a life of struggle to one filled with positivity and determination, reflecting their music’s soulful and inspiring tone.

Genre:
Kindhearted Alternative has seamlessly blended Rock and Electronic music into their unique sound, which they warmly refer to as “Electro-Rock”.

Title:
“Unseen Halos”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Intro]
(Em) (G) (D) (A)

[Verse 1]
(Em) I’ve seen darkness, I’ve seen rain,
(G) Felt the hollow, the piercing pain.
(D) But there’s a light, that shines within,
(A) An unseen halo, beneath my skin.

[Verse 2]
(Em) A warrior’s heart, a survivor’s soul,
(G) Playing life’s most demanding role.
(D) The stage is set, the curtain’s fall,
(A) Amidst the cheers, we stand tall.

[Chorus]
(Em) Unseen halos, (G) glowing bright,
(D) In our darkest hour, (A) they’re our light.
(Em) A kindhearted alternative, (G) a radiant view,
(D) We’re not just survivors, (A) we’re the chosen few.

[Verse 3]
(Em) The echoes of the past, may haunt,
(G) But we’ve found strength, in places most can’t.
(D) We’ve risen from the ashes, with heads held high,
(A) With unseen halos, lighting the sky.

[Chorus]
(Em) Unseen halos, (G) glowing bright,
(D) In our darkest hour, (A) they’re our light.
(Em) A kindhearted alternative, (G) a radiant view,
(D) We’re not just survivors, (A) we’re the chosen few.

[Outro]
(Em) (G) (D) (A)

Bands Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is Steve ‘Stevie’ Miles. Stevie was also a part of the same rehabilitation center and was inspired by the members’ transformation and determination. Kindhearted Alternative’s music resonated with Stevie’s recovery journey. He says, “Kindhearted Alternative’s music isn’t just tunes to ears, it’s a lifeline for people like me who are battling their own demons. They showed us that there’s light at the end of the tunnel, and their music is a testament to that. They’re not just my favorite band; they’re my heroes.”