Backstory:
Formed in the backstreets of Brooklyn in 2014, Aromatic Gold is a unique blend of four childhood friends – Mike “String” Johnson on the guitar, Lenny “Bass” Barkley on bass, Jamie “Keys” Keegan on the keyboard, and Sammy “Beatbox” Smith on drums. Their shared love for music brought them together, but it was their shared experiences and dreams that formed the foundation of Aromatic Gold. Finding inspiration from the gold chains in local pawn shops, the vibrant colors and bold aromas of their neighborhood, Aromatic Gold was born. Their music, infused with the spirit of their colorful community, aims to transport their listeners to the heart of Brooklyn.

Genre:
Indie Pop

Title:
“Golden Streets, Aromatic Beats”

Song Lyrics:
(Verse)
[G] Wandering down the golden streets, [D] with aromatic beats,
[Em] We find our rhythm in the hustle, [C] life’s full of such treats.
[G] These city lights so bright, [D] shimmering in the night,
[Em] Every neon sign tells a story, [C] of struggles, love and might.

(Chorus)
[G] Oh, we’re dancing in the streets of gold, [D] where dreams are bought and sold,
[Em] The city smells like hope, [C] where tales of love unfold.
[G] We’re sipping on the city’s soul, [D] like it’s vintage, aged, and old,
[Em] On these golden streets, aromatic beats, [C] our stories will be told.

(Verse)
[G] We’re chasing dreams, not fame, [D] In this crazy urban game,
[Em] With every chord and every rhyme, [C] You’ll remember our name.
[G] This city’s in our veins, [D] Through the sun, the rain,
[Em] In every beat, every note, [C] you’ll feel our joy, our pain.

(Chorus)
[G] Oh, we’re dancing in the streets of gold, [D] where dreams are bought and sold,
[Em] The city smells like hope, [C] where tales of love unfold.
[G] We’re sipping on the city’s soul, [D] like it’s vintage, aged, and old,
[Em] On these golden streets, aromatic beats, [C] our stories will be told.

Fan Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan is Sophie Turner from Queens, NY. Sophie writes, “Aromatic Gold is more than just a band, they are storytellers. Their songs make me feel like I’m walking through the streets of Brooklyn, feeling the pulse of the city. Every beat, every lyric, every melody tells a story of the city that never sleeps. It’s rare to find a band that makes you experience music on such a visceral level. Aromatic Gold is my favorite because they make my city’s story sing, and they make my story matter.”

Backstory:

Born in the bustling and eclectic streets of San Francisco, Tight Hunting started off as a trio of passionate street musicians who shared a common interest in the unconventional and extraordinary. They were not satisfied with the traditional music scenes, seeking to create a sound that would echo through the busy streets and alleyways, drawing in listeners with its unique blend of rhythm and artistry. The band, consisting of lead vocalist and guitarist Sam ‘Slick’ Thompson, bassist, and back-up vocalist Dennis ‘The Menace’ Murphy, and drummer Noah ‘The Noble’ Noble, eventually gained recognition beyond the streets and began performing at local bars and music festivals. Their journey, from street performers to renowned musicians, is a testament to their talent, dedication, and relentless pursuit of innovation.

Genre:

Alternative Rock/Indie Pop

Title:

“City’s Heartbeat”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C
Underneath the city lights, we found our rhythm,
G D
In the heart of the night, we built our kingdom.
Em C
With a guitar in hands and dreams in our hearts,
G D
We painted our stories through our arts.

(Chorus)
C G
We are the city’s heartbeat,
D Em
Echoing through the silent streets.
C G
With every string, we play our part,
D Em
In the symphony of the city’s heart.

(Verse 2)
Em C
The alleyways echoed with our music,
G D
Our journey was tough, but it was worth it.
Em C
From the streets to the stage, we made our leap,
G D
With the city’s secrets, we continue to seep.

(Chorus)
C G
We are the city’s heartbeat,
D Em
Echoing through the concrete.
C G
With every beat, we play our part,
D Em
In the symphony of the city’s heart.

(Outro)
Em C G D
We are Tight Hunting, the city’s heartbeat.

Fan Testimonial:

Fan’s Name: Cindy ‘Crazy C’ Conway

“Why is Tight Hunting my favorite band? Where do I even start? Their journey is as inspiring as their music. Every song resonates with me, and it’s like they’ve put my emotions into lyrics. I feel like I’ve grown with them through their journey from the streets to stardom. Their song ‘City’s Heartbeat’ is my anthem. I’ve been to every one of their concerts in town, and each performance is unique and powerful. They’re not just musicians, they’re artists, storytellers, and city poets. Their music is raw, real, and refreshingly unique. I am proud to be a ‘Tight Hunter’.”

Backstory:

Crowded Stream was formed in the heart of Brooklyn, New York in 2014. Best friends since high school, Jake Lawson (vocals, guitar) and Lucas Brewer (bass, backing vocals) always dreamt of creating music that resonated with the listeners on a deeply emotive level. Their dream turned into reality when they met drummer Adam Mitchell at a local gig, instantly hitting it off with their shared passion for music and a similar vision. Adding the final piece to the puzzle, they were joined by Lily Gibson on the keys and backup vocals. The chemistry amongst them was palpable and Crowded Stream was born.

Their journey was not an easy one; they spent their early years playing in dimly lit bars and small-time gigs, perfecting their craft and finding their unique sound. The band was dedicated to creating music that reflected the trials and triumphs of everyday life, hence, the name Crowded Stream to represent the multitude of experiences flowing together. With time, their dedication and hard work paid off, landing them a record deal that catapulted their music to a larger audience.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Under the Concrete Sky”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Under the concrete sky, [D] we set our hearts to fly,
[Em] Lost in the city noise, [C] we found our silent voice.

[C] Drifting through the haze, [G] in search of better days,
[D] Amidst the crowded streets, [Em] where destiny oft meets.

(Chorus)
[Am] This is our hymn, [D] under the concrete sky,
[G] In this crowded stream, [C] we learn to fly.

(Verse 2)
[G] Echoes of our dreams, [D] floating in moonlit beams,
[Em] Against the world, we dared, [C] in solitude, we shared.

[C] We paint our hopes in night, [G] under the city’s light,
[D] Every sigh, every cheer, [Em] we hold it dear.

(Chorus)
[Am] Singing our hymn, [D] under the concrete sky,
[G] In this crowded stream, [C] we touch the sky.

Fan’s Testimonial:

As an avid fan of alternative rock, I have had the pleasure of being a part of Crowded Stream’s journey since their early bar gigs. My name is Bella. What sets Crowded Stream apart for me is their ability to weave everyday experiences into profound lyrical tapestry. Their songs speak to me on a personal level, making me feel seen and heard. It’s not just about the music for them, but the connection they foster with their listeners. It’s an enormous source of comfort and strength. Their song, “Under the Concrete Sky,” is a perfect example of this. It beautifully encapsulates the reality of the urban life struggle, the triumphs and trials, and the longing for escape. It’s both deeply personal and universally relatable. Crowded Stream is not just my favorite band, they are a vital part of my life’s soundtrack.

Backstory:
Voluminous Inflation originated in the indie underground scene of Seattle in 2012. The band started as a duo, comprised of college roommates Adam Johnson on vocals and guitar, and Samantha Graves on drums. Their passion for creating fresh sounds and pushing musical boundaries was initially shared in small gigs around their college campus. Their innovative style and genre-bending performances soon attracted the attention of the local music scene, and they started to build a steady fanbase. The band expanded with the addition of keyboardist Alicia Chen and bassist Liam Wallace in 2015. Today, Voluminous Inflation is known for its eclectic mix of soundscapes and poignant lyrics that reflect the ups and downs of life.

Genre: Indie Pop-Rock

Title: “Echoes of Eternity”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Am – C – G – D
Beneath the veneer of the city lights, (Am)
Across the whispers of the endless nights, (C)
There’s a melody, a symphony, (G)
Playing in the echoes of eternity. (D)

(Chorus)
Em – G – D – C
In the echoes of eternity, (Em)
We etch our stories, we set them free, (G)
Between the lines of time and space, (D)
In every note, in every embrace. (C)

(Verse 2)
Am – C – G – D
Through the rhythm of the beating hearts, (Am)
We paint our dreams, we play our parts, (C)
There’s a harmony, a unity, (G)
Living in the echoes of eternity. (D)

(Chorus)
Em – G – D – C
In the echoes of eternity, (Em)
We find our purpose, we hold the key, (G)
In the sound of love, in the hum of grace, (D)
In the echoes of eternity, we find our place. (C)

Fan Testimonial:
“My name is Rebecca, and I’m a huge fan of Voluminous Inflation. I first came across their music during a tough period in my life. ‘Echoes of Eternity’ resonated with me deeply. The song’s lyrics spoke about finding purpose in life and creating something beautiful out of pain. I’ve followed them ever since. Their music has this unique blend of indie pop-rock that’s refreshing and invigorating. I feel a deep connection with their music, and their performances are always full of energy. They aren’t just a band to me; they are an inspiration.”

Backstory:

Drab Material is an unlikely fusion of three childhood friends hailing from the small town of Wayward, Michigan. Tired of their bland suburban lives, they decided to rebel against the monotony through music. The members are Mark “The Mechanic” Johnson on lead vocals and guitar, Timothy “Twitch” Henderson on drums, and Kevin “Keymaster” Peterson on keyboard. The band came together in the Johnson family’s garage in 2012, where they started crafting their unique sound using a potpourri of their individual influences. From the relentless determination of their very first practice sessions, they started gaining local attention, performing at local restaurants, and eventually graduating to larger venues.

After releasing their first album, “The Lost Garage Tapes,” in 2015, the band’s popularity exploded nationally and globally. The band’s name, Drab Material, is a cheeky nod to their humble beginnings. They could have been just another ‘drab’ band, but they chose to create something ‘material,’ something real and substantial. This quirky humor paired with their relatable lyrics and infectious energy has earned them a loyal fan base.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Song Title:

“Rusty Dreams”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]

G – D – Em – C

(G) I’ve been living in a (D) town that’s way too (Em) small,
(C) Counting the days on my (G) dusty garage wall.
(D) Trapped in a life that feels like a (Em) cage,
(C) Writing my hopes on an (G) old, worn-out page. (D)

[Chorus]

A – C – G – D

(A) Rusty dreams, (C) waiting to be (G) set free,
(D) A melody that’s (A) waiting to be sung.
(C) These rusty dreams, (G), won’t let me be,
(D) In every beat of my (G) drum. (D)

[Verse 2]

G – D – Em – C

(G) We are more than just (D) drab material,
(Em) We have a voice that’s (C) loud and lyrical.
(G) In this garage, we’ve found our (D) sound,
(Em) From Wayward to the (C) world, it will resound. (G) (D)

(Repeat Chorus)

Bands Favorite Fan’s Name:

Suzy Peterson

Testimonial:

“I’ve been a fan of Drab Material ever since I heard them playing at Pop’s Diner. Their songs speak to me on a personal level. They are not just a band; they are storytellers, poets, and rebels. ‘Rusty Dreams’ in particular strikes a chord within me. It’s about yearning for something more, about dreams that refuse to die. Growing up in this small town, I can relate to their desires and frustrations. Drab Material is my favorite band because they remind me that even in the most mundane circumstances, we can create something extraordinary. They are the soul of Wayward, and I’m proud to be one of their biggest fans.”

Backstory:
Monumental Photograph hails from the small coastal town of Ocean Springs, Mississippi. The band members, Adam Rivers (vocals), Jesse Brooks (guitar), Luke Kennedy (keyboard), and Cole Turner (drums), were childhood friends before they even picked up their instruments. They first met in their shared kindergarten class and, over the years, their shared love for music drew them together. The band was formed in their junior year of high school, one afternoon when they were skipping their classes to mess around with some old instruments they’d found in Adam’s garage. The unique and heartfelt sound that they stumbled upon that day gave birth to the band they are today: Monumental Photograph.

Genre:
Indie Folk Rock

Title:
“Frames of Yesterday”

Full song lyrics:

Verse 1:
Em G
“Turn the pages of our history,
C Am
Memories etched in crumpled lines,
Em G
In the frames of yesterday,
C Am
There’s a tale of you and I.”

Chorus:
D Em
“Cause we were golden, we were brave,
C G
Swept up in a youthful haze,
D Em C
Pictures in my mind, they never fade,
G D Em
In the Monumental Photograph we made.”

Verse 2:
Em G
“Through the years, the colors change,
C Am
The edges worn, the faces age,
Em G
But the feelings stay the same,
C Am
In the frames of yesterday.”

Chorus:
D Em
“We were reckless, we were wild,
C G
Lost in moments, wrapped in smiles,
D Em C
Every snapshot in my heart, a mile,
G D Em
In the Monumental Photograph we’ve filed.”

Favorite Fan’s Testimonial:
My name is Heidi and I’ve been a fan of Monumental Photograph since their first gig at a local café. They were raw, genuine, and their music moves you in a way that’s hard to describe. It’s like they took a piece of their soul and transferred it into their music. I have all their albums, and their songs have seen me through the ups and downs of life. I can always find a Monumental Photograph song that speaks to my current emotions, and that’s why they’re my favorite band. Their song “Frames of Yesterday” is my absolute favorite. It reminds me of the good old days and never fails to bring a smile to my face.

Backstory:
Cloudy Beast was formed in the quiet town of Crestwood, Washington, where three childhood friends, Ben (vocals), Jake (bass), and Sam (guitar), were inspired by the world around them. The band took its name from the view of a cloud-clad mountain nearby their town, which they likened to a sleeping beast. With their songs, they wished to disturb the slumber of this beast, to create music so compelling and stirring that even a mountain could feel it. The three friends were joined by drummer Alex, a transplanted New Yorker who arrived in Crestwood with a different perspective and sound. These varying influences and backgrounds combined to create the unique sound of Cloudy Beast.

The band started performing locally, their music resonating with the small town’s population. Word of their talent spread, and soon people from neighboring towns started attending their shows. Their fame grew organically, and it was not long before a record company caught wind of their talent and offered them a contract. The rest, as they say, is history.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Shadows of the Beast”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[Em] The mountain sleeps, a [D] beast at rest,
[Bm] Shadows linger on its [C] chest,
[Em] We play our tunes, the [D] world’s our guest,
[Bm] And the beast awakes from its [C] nest.

(Chorus)
[G] Awake, awake, oh [D] cloudy beast,
[Em] Unfurl your shadows, join our [Bm] feast,
[G] Hear our melodies, released,
[C] Dance to the rhythm of the [D] east.

(Verse 2)
[Em] Sky turned gray, [D] echoes ring,
[Bm] Hear the songs of the beast we [C] sing,
[Em] With every strum, every [D] string,
[Bm] Our music makes the [C] mountain king.

(Chorus)
[G] Awake, awake, oh [D] cloudy beast,
[Em] Spread your wings, from west to [Bm] east,
[G] Our tunes, your chains, will be [C] ceased,
[D] In our ballad, you’re [G] released.

Fan’s Name:
Sarah

Why this band is her favorite:
“Cloudy Beast has forever changed the way I perceive music. Their lyrics touch my soul, and their tunes resonate with emotions I never knew existed. Listening to them feels like I’m a part of their journey, like I’m in Crestwood, watching the mountain awaken with the rhythm of their music. Their song ‘Shadows of the Beast’ is my anthem, a ballad that gives strength to my dreams and wings to my aspirations. For me, Cloudy Beast is not just a band, they’re a beacon of inspiration.”

Backstory:

Affectionate Dance is a harmonious blend of four childhood friends hailing from the coastal town of Monterey, California. The band members – Tommy Clarke (vocals), Billy Michaels (guitar), Jack Hendricks (bass), and Ronnie Parks (drums) – grew up together, playing music in their parents’ garages. Inspired by the sunsets over the ocean and the rhythm of the waves, they formed Affectionate Dance to share their love of music and the beauty of nature. They were discovered at a local battle of the bands and their career took off from there, with their unique sound and lyrical depth capturing the hearts of listeners around the world.

Genre:
Indie Pop

Title:
“Footprints in the Sand”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C Am F G
Walking down this familiar path,
C Am F G
Our laughter carried by the ocean’s breath.
C Am F G
Footprints in the sand, as we dance hand in hand,
C Am F G
Underneath the sunset’s fiery canvas.

(Chorus)
Em Am D G
Affectionate dance, under the stars’ romance,
Em Am D G
Our love story written in the sand.
Em Am D G
With the melody of the waves as our band,
Em Am D G
In this affectionate dance, forever we’ll stand.

(Verse 2)
C Am F G
Under the moonlight, your eyes shine bright,
C Am F G
Reflecting the promise of endless night.
C Am F G
Footprints we leave, as our hearts believe,
C Am F G
In the love that the ocean breeze retrieves.

(Repeat Chorus)

Band’s Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan is a vivacious woman named Emily. Emily has been following us since our early garage days. She’s always at the front during our concerts, singing along to every song. She uses our music to inspire her artwork, which she often gifts us. Her dedication and love for our music are truly moving.

Testimonial by Emily:

“Affectionate Dance is more than just a band for me, they’re the soundtrack of my life. Their music is a beautiful blend of heartfelt lyrics and soothing melodies. It carries me through the highs and lows, giving me hope and happiness. Their song ‘Footprints in the Sand’ is my favorite; it’s like a warm hug on a cold day. No other band makes music that resonates with me the way they do. Their music is my muse, my solace, my joy.”

Backstory:
Hailing from the soil-rich town of Cedar Grove, Oregon, the band Biodegradable Whole was formed in 2008. The four members – lead vocalist and guitarist, James Woods, drummer Sarah Greene, bassist Ethan Hughes, and keyboardist Jenny Stevenson – all shared a mutual love for music and a strong advocacy for environmental conservation. The band’s name is a testament to their environmental consciousness and their belief in leaving the world better than they found it. The members, all childhood friends, transformed their shared garage into a makeshift studio where they started their musical journey, fusing their distinct musical influences to create a unique and captivating sound.

Genre: Indie Pop/Rock

Title: “Seeds of Tomorrow”

Full song lyrics:

[Verse 1]
G C
I look around, what do I see?
Em D
A world spinning, tirelessly
G C
But are we kind, are we just?
Em D
When we leave behind only dust?

[Verse 2]
G C
Seeds of tomorrow, in our hands,
Em D
Can we make, our last stand?
G C
To protect, to heal, to care,
Em D
Is there anyone out there?

[Chorus]
C G D
Let’s be the rain, let’s be the sun,
Em C G
Let’s be the change, it’s not all done,
D Em C
In our grasp, the power so great,
G D G
To turn around, before it’s too late.

[Verse 3]
G C
To live, to love, to plant,
Em D
Is it so much, to want?
G C
To keep the earth, green and whole,
Em D
Isn’t that, the ultimate goal?

[Chorus]
C G D
Let’s be the rain, let’s be the sun,
Em C G
Let’s be the change, it’s not all done,
D Em C
In our grasp, the power so great,
G D G
To turn around, before it’s too late.

[End Chorus]
G D C
Biodegradable whole, our clarion call,
Em G D
To one and all, before we fall,

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is an 18-year-old girl named Lily Anderson. She first heard Biodegradable Whole at a local fair in Cedar Grove and has been their biggest supporter ever since. Lily says, “Their music speaks to me on a deeply personal level. It’s not just about the melody or the lyrics—though both are incredible—it’s about the message they’re sending. They’re using their platform to spread awareness about environmental conservation, and I think that’s something really special. I’ve been to every one of their concerts, and they never fail to put on an amazing show. Biodegradable Whole isn’t just my favorite band, they’re my heroes.”

Backstory:

Born in the alleyways of Cleveland, Ohio, the four-piece band Valid Control has been creating a name for themselves since 2011. Initially, band members Carson (vocals), Myles (guitar), Jaxon (bass), and Finn (drums) were just highly talented friends who shared a mutual love for music. Their combined passion and talent brought them together, and they found a unique harmony in their diversity. They drew inspiration from the lively culture of their hometown, the stories they have lived, and the dreams they share. Through the years, they have successfully imprinted their music in the hearts of fans, gaining recognition not just in the local scene but also on the national platform.

Genre:

Alternative Rock/Indie Pop

Title:

“Shadows in the Light”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Wandering through the city lights, [D] hoping for a spark,
[Em] Tell me, do you remember [C] when we ignited in the dark?
[G] Our dreams painted on the alleyways, [D] wrapped in neon signs,
[Em] In the chaos and the noise, [C] we found our rhymes.

(Chorus)
[G] We’re shadows in the light, [D] standing on the edge of time,
[Em] Dancing in the twilight, [C] lost in a rhythm so divine.
[G] We are the echoes of the night, [D] bringing stories to life,
[Em] We’re shadows in the light, [C] drawing constellations so bright.

(Verse 2)
[G] With every beat of this city’s heart, [D] we discover something new,
[Em] Memories born under the starlight [C] etched in hues of blue.
[G] Our journey etched in chords and rhythms, [D] resonates in the air,
[Em] We’re breathing life into dreams, [C] awakening everywhere.

(Chorus)
[G] We’re shadows in the light, [D] standing on the edge of time,
[Em] Dancing in the twilight, [C] lost in a rhythm so divine.
[G] We are the echoes of the night, [D] bringing stories to life,
[Em] We’re shadows in the light, [C] drawing constellations so bright.

Fan’s name: Derek Thompson

Testimonial:

“Valid Control is more than just a band to me; they’re my inspiration, my escape. Their music speaks to me in a way nothing else does. I remember the first time I heard ‘Shadows in the Light.’ I was at a rough point in my life, and their lyrics seemed to narrate my struggle and offer solace. To this day, every time I hear that song, it reminds me of how far I’ve come. Watching Valid Control on stage is an experience in itself. The energy, the passion, it’s palpable. Their concerts are not just about the music, but about the community they’ve built, and I’m proud to be a part of that.”