Backstory:

Formed in the bustling streets of Detroit in 2012, General Force is the brainchild of its four founding members: frontman Danny ‘Thunder’ Weston, guitarist Rudy ‘Storm’ Johnson, bassist Tommy ‘Maelstrom’ Vincent and drummer Billy ‘Blizzard’ Smith. Each member, before joining the band, had several years of experience performing in various local bands, but they all felt a common urge for a more substantial, more authentic expression. General Force was born out of this shared desire, and it quickly gained traction in the Detroit music scene due to its unique blend of old school rock with contemporary beats, reflecting the band members’ diverse musical backgrounds.

The band’s journey has not been without its ups and downs. From early struggles to find their unique sound, to the challenges of maintaining creative momentum, the members of General Force have always stayed true to their commitment to making music that resonates with their audience. Their shared bond and passion for music have only strengthened over time, resulting in a band that embodies the spirit of unity and perseverance.

Genre:

Rock Fusion

Song Title:

“Shadows in the Lightning”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C G D
Riding on the wings of the storm,
Em C G D
Through the night where our fears are born.
Em C G D
Look into the darkness, what do you see?
Em C G D
It’s the shadows in the lightning, it’s you and me.

(Chorus)
A C G D
In the thunder we find our voice,
A C G D
In the storm, we make our choice.
A C G D
No more hiding, running away,
A C G D
We’re the shadows in the lightning, and we’re here to stay.

(Verse 2)
Em C G D
Through the tempest, through the night,
Em C G D
We find our courage, find our might.
Em C G D
In the darkness, we’ve found our light,
Em C G D
We’re the shadows in the lightning, ready for the fight.

(Chorus)
A C G D
In the thunder we find our song,
A C G D
In the storm, we find where we belong.
A C G D
No more hiding, running away,
A C G D
We’re the shadows in the lightning, and we won’t be swayed.

Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is Ken Thompson. He first discovered General Force while searching for new rock fusion music and was immediately drawn to their energetic sound and profound lyrics. His favorite song is “Shadows in the Lightning,” which he says speaks to him on a deeply personal level. He feels a connection with the band’s story, admiring their determination and authenticity. Ken has attended every concert within driving distance and has a collection of all their releases. His testimonial: “General Force is not just a band, it is a force of nature. Their music is raw, real, and resonates with my soul. Their journey, their struggles, and their triumphs have inspired me in my own life. They are my favorite band because they remind me that even in the darkest storms, we can find our light.”

Backstory:

Enormous Camera was born out of the gritty streets of New York City in 2009. The band members, front man Clyde “Zoom” Baxter, guitarist Micky “Aperture” Stevens, bassist Joey “Shutter” Reed, and drummer Sandy “Pixel” Green, found solace in their shared passion for photography and music. Their unique band name, Enormous Camera, paints a vivid picture of their fascination with the larger than life moments, and how they aim to capture them through their musical journey.

They began by performing in local dive bars, treating their gigs as if they were playing to a packed Madison Square Garden. Their music sparked curiosity in the city’s music scene, leading them to sign a record deal with indie label ‘Monochrome Records’, in 2011. Since then, they have been capturing the hearts of audiences across the globe, with their unique sound and poetic lyrics.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Capture This Moment”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1:
[G] Strolling down the [C] dimly lit streets, [Em] camera on my [D] shoulder,
[G] Lenses capturing [C] life’s bittersweet [Em] symphony, [D] as we grow older.

Chorus:
[G] So let’s capture this [D] moment, [Em] frame it in our [C] hearts,
[G] A celluloid fantasy, [D] where our story [Em] starts.
[G] Through the viewfinder [D] of life, [Em] let’s etch our [C] love,
[G] Capture this moment, [D] under the stars [Em] above.

Verse 2:
[G] The city whispers [C] tales of love, [Em] through the rustling [D] leaves,
[G] We’re writing our own [C] saga, beneath the [Em] city eaves. [D]

(Chorus repeats)

Fan testimonial:

Favorite Fan’s Name: Sarah Thompson

Testimonial:

“Enormous Camera isn’t just a band to me, they’re more like storytellers. They capture emotions in their lyrics just like a camera captures moments. As a photographer, I feel a deep connection with their music. Their song ‘Capture This Moment’ feels like it was written just for me. It’s a testament to my love for photography and how I look at life. I can’t imagine a day without their music, it inspires me, motivates me, and fills me with hope. They truly are my favorite band!”

Backstory:
Straight Delay was formed in the heartland of America, Topeka, Kansas in 2010 amid a group of high school friends with a shared passion for music. The band’s core members, lead vocalist, and keyboardist Adam Jenkins, guitarist Jake Thompson, bassist Lucas O’Brien, and drummer Mark Miller, spent countless hours in Adam’s garage, honing their sound and crafting songs that reflected their experiences and views. Their journey from a small-town garage band to a national sensation was not without struggles, but the bond they formed through their shared passion for music and their unwavering determination helped them overcome each obstacle. After years of relentless touring and recording, their hard work finally paid off when their debut album hit the Billboard charts in 2015.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Running Against Time”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)

[G] I’m running against time, [D] chasing the sun
[Em] In a world that’s lost its rhyme, [C] where everything’s been undone
[G] Got dreams in my pocket, [D] holes in my shoes
[Em] I’m a rocket taking off, [C] with everything to lose

(Chorus)

[G] Running against time, with you by my side
[D] In the mirror of your eyes, I find the strength to fight
[Em] Against the current, against the tide
[C] We’re running against time, but at least we’re running united

(Verse 2)

[G] Streets filled with shadows, [D] echoes of past
[Em] Breaking free from the gallows, [C] moving forward, moving fast
[G] Heartbeats counting seconds, [D] whispers in the wind
[Em] We’ve got one life, one chance, [C] and we’re determined to win

(Chorus)

[G] Running against time, with the world in our hands
[D] Lighting fires in the night, making our last stand
[Em] Against the odds, against the lines
[C] We’re running against time, but at least we’re running free and wild

Favorite Fan’s Name:
Bethany Ross

Fan Testimonial:
“I’ve been a fan of Straight Delay since their early days in Topeka. I’ve attended each of their local gigs and followed them as they achieved national fame. Their music resonates with me on a personal level; it’s raw and authentic, reflecting the ups and downs of life. But most importantly, their songs, especially ‘Running Against Time’, inspire me to keep pushing forward, no matter what. That’s why Straight Delay is my favorite band – they do more than just make music; they tell stories, they inspire, they connect. I’m proud to be part of the Straight Delay family.”

Backstory:

Calm Dismissal was born out of the ashes of a failed college punk rock band in Seattle in 2005. The three members, frontman Ethan Hart, bassist Troy Anderson, and drummer Lucas Gallagher, had been playing music together since high school with little success. After their previous band fell apart due to creative differences, they decided to take a different approach to their music. They spent the following years honing and developing their sound, which resulted in a unique fusion of alternative rock and indie pop.

Their big break came in 2008 when their demo tape was discovered by independent record producer, Sara White. Impressed by their distinct sound, she signed them on to her label, White Noise Records. Since then, Calm Dismissal has become a staple in the indie music scene, known for their thought-provoking lyrics, raw sound, and emotive live performances.

Genre:
Alternative Rock/Indie Pop

Title:
“Whispers of the Past”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
[E]Walking down memory lane, [A]all the faces look the same
[D]All the laughter, all the tears, [G]echoing through the years
[E]Lost in the shadows of the past, [A]knowing it can’t last
[D]Holding on to moments, [G]that went by too fast

(Chorus)
[A]Whispers of the past, [E]echoing so vast
[D]Reminding me of love, [G]that wasn’t meant to last
[A]Echoes in the wind, [E]the songs we used to sing
[D]Now they’re just whispers, [G]of everything

(Verse)
[E]I see the places we once knew, [A]the dreams we thought were true
[D]Faded photographs on the wall, [G]silent witnesses to our fall
[E]Your laughter still rings in my ears, [A]drowning out the fears
[D]Wishing for a time, [G]before the tears

(Chorus)
[A]Whispers of the past, [E]echoing so vast
[D]Reminding me of love, [G]that wasn’t meant to last
[A]Echoes in the wind, [E]the songs we used to sing
[D]Now they’re just whispers, [G]of everything

Bands favorite fan:

Name: Emily Turner

Testimonial:

“Calm Dismissal’s music has been a soundtrack to my life. Their songs are a raw and beautiful portrayal of the highs and lows we all experience. It’s not just about the music, it’s about the connection. As a fan, you can feel the energy they put into their work and how much they care for their fans. From their heartache-filled ballads to their uplifting anthems, Calm Dismissal’s music has given me a sense of comfort and understanding in my darkest times. They are not just a band to me; they are a beacon of hope and creativity in a world that often feels too harsh and mundane.”

Backstory:

Circular Disgust was formed in the fall of 2007 in the lively and vibrant music scene of Austin, Texas. The original members, Hayden “Haze” Garrett (lead vocals, guitar), Mason “Mace” Dunham (bass), and Riley “Riles” Fischer (drums), were high-school classmates. The trio found a bond in their shared passion for music and rebellion against societal norms. They started playing in local bars, producing raw, relentless, and unrefined music that defied the traditional molds of the time. After a handful of early breakout performances, they were joined by virtuoso Sophia “Soph” Martinez (lead guitar), whose effortless ability to create intricate and compelling riffs brought a new depth and texture to the band’s sound.

The band’s reputation and following grew rapidly, with their unique sound and fearless lyrical approach resonating with a generation seeking authenticity and raw emotion. Circular Disgust’s popularity exploded in 2009 with their debut album “Rancid Renaissance,” which was met with critical acclaim and commercial success, propelling them to the forefront of the alternative music scene.

Genre:
Alternative Metal

Title:
“Serpentine Shadows”

Lyrics:

[Verses]
Am (E) C (G)
Beneath the surface, serpentine shadows play,
F (A) Dm (F)
Twisting, turning, lost in the grey.
Am (E) C (G)
Veiled in darkness, secrets lay,
F (A) Dm (F)
Eclipsed by the light of day.

[Chorus]
G (B) E (G#)
Wake up, wake up, discard this shroud,
C (E) F (A)
Break free, break free, scream out loud,
G (B) E (G#)
In serpentine shadows, lost and found,
C (E) F (A)
Raise your voice, let it resound.

(Repeat Verses and Chorus)

Fan’s Testimonial:

“My name is Becky Mitchell, and I can’t even begin to express how much Circular Disgust means to me. Their raw, authentic sound, paired with lyrics that speak to my soul, have helped me through some of the toughest times. Their song ‘Serpentine Shadows’ is a particular favorite. It speaks to the turbulence we all face, the shadows we battle within ourselves, and the power of rising above it all. Circular Disgust’s music is not just a collection of songs, but a beacon of hope and resilience in a sometimes overwhelming world.”

Backstory:

Opulent Separation was birthed from the ashes of a grunge band that broke up in the year 2003. The members, having grown and evolved their musical tastes and abilities, reunited in 2010 with a fresh perspective and an unmatched synergy. The group is composed of lead vocalist and guitarist, Jackson, bassist, Lucas, drummer, Mason, and keyboardist, Elijah. They all share the writing duties, resulting in a diverse catalog of songs that resonate with their fans. Their name, “Opulent Separation,” signifies the rich and lavish break away from their old selves and their past experiences, embodying a sophisticated new artistic vision.

Genre: Indie Rock / Alternative

Title: “Echoes in the Dark”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[E] Walking down the [A] old, forsaken paths
[D] Shadows of our [B7] past, they seem to last
[E] Dusty footprints [A] in the quiet park
[D] All that remains are [B7] echoes in the dark

(Chorus)
[E] We’re like opulent [A] separation
[D] A lavish break, a [B7] new formation
[E] We are echoes [A] in the dark
[D] Telling tales of [B7] an old sparked arc

(Verse 2)
[E] Broken chords from [A] an old guitar
[D] Wailing words from a [B7] forgotten bar
[E] We are but a [A] fleeting remark
[D] Just vain whispers, [B7] echoes in the dark

(Chorus)
[E] We’re like opulent [A] separation
[D] A lavish break, a [B7] new formation
[E] We are echoes [A] in the dark
[D] Telling tales of [B7] a lost landmark

(Bridge)
[E] Echoes, echoes, [A] in the dark
[D] A silent tale, a [B7] lost ark
[E] Echoes, echoes [A], in the park
[D] We are but [B7] echoes in the dark

(Outro)
[E] We are the opulent [A] separation
[D] Echoes in the [B7] dark, our narration
[E] We are the [A] echoes in the dark
[D] A testament of [B7] an extinguished spark.

Favorite Fan Testimonial:

“Hi, my name’s Amy, and I’m a die-hard fan of Opulent Separation. This band is my favorite because their music resonates with me on a deep, emotional level. The lyrics of their songs are introspective and poignant, and the melodies are hauntingly beautiful. As a fan, I feel seen and understood through their music. ‘Echoes in the Dark’, for instance, is a song that perfectly encapsulates the feeling of nostalgia mixed with loss. Opulent Separation has a way of making even the darkest emotions feel rich and important, and that’s why I love them.”

Backstory:
Occasional Surface is a brainchild of four childhood friends hailing from the bohemian lanes of Seattle. The band members, Jack Wilkins, Max Hudson, Claire Dunbar, and Barry Oliver, were inseparable even before their music journey commenced. They started off by playing in local cafes and busking on the streets of Seattle, earning enough to buy their first set of instruments. The band officially formed in 2012 when they began writing their music, inspired by their shared life experiences. Over time, their unique sound and profound lyrics began to resonate with listeners, giving them a dedicated fan base that has grown exponentially ever since.

Genre:
Occasional Surface’s music is a fusion of indie rock and folk, with a hint of psychedelic touch. Their songs often carry melancholic undertones, but they also know how to make their audience groove with upbeat, catchy tracks.

Title:
“Whispers in the Rain”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[C] Walking down [G] the old lanes, in the [Am] autumn’s chilling [Em] rains,
[F] Memories [C] echo, under the [G] streetlight’s soft [C] glow.
[C] Her laughter still [G] lingers, as I [Am] trace our path with my [Em] fingers,
[F] Lost in [C] time, [G] captured in [C] rhyme.

(Chorus)
[G] Whispers in the rain, [C] echo her name,
[Am] Dancing with the wind, [Em] her fragrance still the same.
[G] In the silent sighs of the night, [C] under the neon light,
[Am] I find her in every [Em] sight, [G] whispers in the [C] rain.

(Verse 2)
[C] In the café [G] where we met, [Am] empty now, the [Em] table is set,
[F] Coffee [C] stains, [G] recording our [C] gains.
[C] The clock ticks [G] on, as I [Am] wait for the dawn,
[F] In her [C] absence, [G] feeling my [C] heart’s essence.

(Repeat Chorus)

Fan Testimonial:
Samantha Baxter, a 25-year-old artist from Portland, has been an ardent fan of Occasional Surface since their inception. “There’s an authentic rawness to their music,” she says. “It’s like they have the ability to put your deepest emotions into words and melody. Their song ‘Whispers in the Rain’ saved me during my darkest times; it gave me the strength to fight back. The way they seamlessly blend indie rock with folk and psychedelic elements is just magical. They are not just my favorite band; they are a part of my life.” Samantha attends all their concerts and has an extensive collection of the band’s merchandise.

Backstory:

Natural Basket formed in the small coastal town of Newport, Oregon in 2015. Four friends, Charlie (vocals), Liam (guitar), Emily (bass), and Noah (drums) decided to turn their late-night beach bonfire jam-sessions into a full-fledged band. Blessed with a strong sense of camaraderie and a shared love for music, they rented a small garage and started working on their first demos. After countless hours of practice, they were ready to share their music with the world. Their innovative sound quickly garnered attention from local venues, leading to a series of successful performances that earned them a loyal fanbase.

Genre:

Indie Folk Rock

Title:

“Harmony at Dawn”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1:

Am Em
Underneath the morning haze,
G D
Where the sea meets the bay,
Am Em
You and I found our place,
G D
In the light of the dawn’s grace.

Chorus:

C G D
We’re just a natural basket, woven tight,
Am Em G
Collecting moments, in the soft moonlight.
C G D
With the rhythm of the tide, we sway, we fight,
Am Em G
Finding our harmony at dawn, oh so bright.

Verse 2:

Am Em
The footprints we left behind,
G D
In the sands of time,
Am Em
Tell stories of laughter and pain,
G D
Of sunshine and the rain.

(Chorus)

Bridge:

F C
In this natural basket, we keep,
G D
Memories, both shallow and deep,
F C
With every promise we make to keep,
G D
We find strength, in love, so steep.

(Chorus)

Fan Testimonial:

Name: Sarah Miller

Sarah became a fan of Natural Basket after attending one of their early performances at a local bar in Portland. She was instantly drawn to the raw emotion in their lyrics and the unique blend of folk and rock in their music. She says, “Natural Basket’s music resonates with me on such a personal level. Their songs are like a warm embrace, comforting and familiar. They’ve made a lifelong fan out of me. I can’t wait to see what they do next.”

Backstory:
Formed in the heart of bustling New York City, Vicious Partnership is an unexpectedly harmonious fusion of two distinct personalities, Samuel “Sammy” Vicious, a gruff ex-biker with a voice like gravel, and soft-spoken Eliza “Lizzie” Partnership, a classical pianist with a voice like silk. They met in a hole-in-the-wall bar in the Lower East Side, where Sammy regularly performed rowdy rock tunes. One evening, Lizzie, who had wandered into the bar after a disastrous concert, courageously stepped onto the stage to accompany Sammy’s raucous melodies with her elegant piano skills. The magical combination resounded through the room, leaving everyone, including Sammy, astonished. From that night on, they became the Vicious Partnership, an unconventional yet intriguing duo captivating audiences with their unique sound.

Genre:
Rock-Opera Fusion

Title:
“Silk Over Gravel”

Full song lyrics:

Verse 1:
Am G D Am
Once upon a time in a city of steel,
G D Am
Lived a biker and a pianist, oh how surreal.
Am G D Am
They sang about hope, they sang about pain,
G D Am
Two voices creating a singular strain.

Chorus:
C G D
Silk over gravel, fire in the rain,
Am G D
Unlikely duet, pleasure and pain.
C G D
We’re the Vicious Partnership, we’re here to stay,
Am G D
Blending our voices in a unique way.

Verse 2:
Am G D Am
From the rugged bars to the concert hall,
G D Am
Our melody prevails, standing tall.
Am G D Am
Different worlds, different paces,
G D Am
Bound by music, no empty spaces.

(Repeat Chorus)
C G D
Silk over gravel, fire in the rain,
Am G D
Unlikely duet, pleasure and pain.
C G D
We’re the Vicious Partnership, we’re here to stay,
Am G D
Blending our voices in a unique way.

Fan’s Name: Tommy “Rocker” Johnson

Testimonial:
“Vicious Partnership, man, they’re like nothing else out there. I remember stumbling into that hole-in-the-wall bar in Lower East Side, hearing them for the first time – Sammy’s gruff voice and Lizzie’s silky one just filled the entire room. It was rock, opera, and everything in between. You wouldn’t believe it works, but it does. And ‘Silk Over Gravel’ encapsulates their whole story. They don’t just make music, they tell stories. For a guy like me, who appreciates good rock, great opera, and honest storytelling, Vicious Partnership is the perfect blend!”

Backstory:

Wry Employment embarked on their musical journey in the vibrant arts scene of Austin, Texas in 2005. High school buddies, Jackson ‘Jax’ Taylor and Ryan ‘Ry’ Simmons, initially started it as a way to express their shared disdain for their mundane jobs, and their passion for music. Over time, they added bassist, Trish ‘Trix’ Keller, and drummer, Sam ‘Slam’ Boone, both of who brought their love for the eclectic and the avant-garde to the band’s unique sound. Their music was their escape, their rebellion, and their solace from the daily grind, hence the ironic name, Wry Employment.

The band started gaining local fame, playing in dive bars and local music festivals around Austin. Their relatable lyrics, grounded in their shared experiences, resonated with the working-class youth. Their big break came in 2010 when their first album, “Overtime Melodies,” won the Independent Music Award for best alternative album. Since then, they’ve only grown in popularity, with their unique sound and sincere lyrics resonating with audiences worldwide.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Song Title:
“Clockwork Lament”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am – G – F – C
In the factory of our discontent, (Am)
We’re just cogs in the machine, (G)
Our dreams are rusted, our hopes are bent, (F)
Echoing unheard in the daily routine. (C)

Chorus:
Am – G – F – C
We’re all tangled in the clockwork lament, (Am)
Running in circles in our wry employment, (G)
Trading our time for a few dollars spent, (F)
Hoping for a glimpse of fleeting enjoyment. (C)

(Verse 2)
Am – G – F – C
In the maze of monotony, we lose our way, (Am)
Our passions faded, our spirits fray, (G)
But in the music, we find our say, (F)
Breaking the chains, we seize the day. (C)

Chorus:
Am – G – F – C
We’re all tangled in the clockwork lament, (Am)
Singing our defiance in our wry employment, (G)
Trading despair for a melody sent, (F)
Finding in the rhythm, our empowerment. (C)

Fan’s Testimonial:

Fan’s name: Jenny Walker

Jenny is a 25-year-old graphic designer from Austin, Texas. She has been a fan of Wry Employment since their early days. “I’ve loved them since they were just a garage band. Their music resonates with anyone who’s ever felt lost in the monotony of a 9-to-5 job. ‘Clockwork Lament’ is my anthem. It’s raw, real, and remarkably relatable. Wry Employment is not just my favorite band because their music speaks to me, but also because they’re proof that you should never give up on your dreams, no matter how wry they may seem.”