Backstory:

Born in the small coastal town of Aldeburgh, Suffolk, the band Half Present has a rich and intriguing backstory. It all started in the mid-2000s when four friends – Mike Johnson (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Lisa Wood (bass, backing vocals), Paul Stevens (lead guitar) and Sam Harris (drums) – decided to break the monotony of their jobs and college lectures by forming a band. Initially, they performed at local pubs and parties, gaining popularity for their soulful lyrics and edgy, raw sound. The name ‘Half Present’ was a nod to their philosophy of being caught between the past and future, rarely being fully present in the moment.

Their big break came in 2009 when they were spotted by a music manager at one of their gigs. Since then, they’ve toured extensively, released numerous albums, and garnered a loyal fan base. Even with their success, they still have their feet firmly planted on the ground, often returning to their hometown to play at the local venues where they started.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Echoes of Tomorrow”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em – D – C – G
In the silence of the night, beneath the moon’s soft glow,
Em – D – C – G
We’re running from our past, chasing tomorrow.
Em – D – C – G
Lost in the echoes of time, in stories untold,
Em – D – C – G
We’re stuck in the middle, in a world cold and old.

(Chorus)
C – G – D – Em
We’re half present, half in a dream,
C – G – D – Em
Caught in the crossfire of what is and what’s been.
C – G – D – Em
With echoes of tomorrow ringing in our ears,
C – G – D – Em
We walk forward, leaving behind our fears.

(Verse 2)
Em – D – C – G
In the brightness of the day, under the sun’s warm glow,
Em – D – C – G
We’re finding our way, learning as we grow.
Em – D – C – G
In the whispers of the wind, in the heart’s undertow,
Em – D – C – G
We’re half present, with so much more to know.

(Chorus)
C – G – D – Em
We’re half present, half in a dream,
C – G – D – Em
Caught in the crossfire of what is and what’s been.
C – G – D – Em
With echoes of tomorrow ringing in our ears,
C – G – D – Em
We march on, conquering our fears.

Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is undoubtedly Sarah Thompson, a literature teacher from Norwich. Sarah discovered Half Present during a particularly rough time in her life and credits their music for helping her through. “Their songs have this incredible ability to move you, to make you feel seen,” she says. “Half Present’s music is like therapy to me, it takes me to places in my mind I didn’t even know existed. Their songs are filled with so much emotion and depth, it’s impossible not to get drawn in. I’ve been a fan since their early pub days and seeing them grow has been truly inspiring. They’re my favorite band because their music speaks to me, it’s as simple as that.”

Backstory:
Colorful Root originated in the vibrant city of Austin, Texas, in the summer of 2012. The founding members, Scarlett and Jasper, met at a community garden project and realized their shared passion for earthy sounds, invigorating rhythms, and vibrant visuals. Scarlett, a multi-instrumentalist who was fascinated by the colors of music, and Jasper, a painter who loved the earthy texture of his canvas, found a unique common ground. They decided to merge their creative worlds and form a band, leading to the creation of Colorful Root.

The band later expanded to include two more artists – Violet, a drummer with a fondness for world beats, and Indigo, a bassist with a distinctive jazz influence. Together, they began creating a unique, vibrant fusion of sounds that resonated with listeners on a deep, emotional level. Their music and the message they carry is a reflection of their shared love for the earth, the arts, and the power of color.

Genre:
Psychedelic Folk-Rock

Title:
“Sunset Symphony”

Full Song Lyrics:
[Verse 1]
Em G D A
Under the crimson sun, we began,
Em G D A
In the golden light, hand in hand,
Em G D A
The echoes of the cerulean sky,
Em G D A
In our hearts and souls, flying high.

[Chorus]
C G D A
Sunset symphony, playing loud,
C G D A
In this colorful crowd, we’re proud,
C G D A
To be a part of this vivid dream,
C G D A
In the spectrum of life, we gleam.

[Verse 2]
Em G D A
Through indigo nights, under the moon,
Em G D A
We danced to the rhythm, singing our tune,
Em G D A
To the lavender dawn, we raise a toast,
Em G D A
For the love of color, we cherish most.

[Chorus]
C G D A
Sunset symphony, playing free,
C G D A
In this prismatic spree, we see,
C G D A
The vibrance of life, in full swing,
C G D A
In the chorus of colors, we sing.

Fan’s Name: Gabriella

Testimonial:
“I’ve been a fan of Colorful Root since their first gig in a local bar. Their music is like a rainbow after a storm, full of hope, and vibrancy. The band members themselves have personalities as vivid as the colors they sing about. I love how they blend folk-rock with psychedelic elements, creating a genre that’s entirely their own. My favorite song, ‘Sunset Symphony,’ always takes me on a beautiful journey. It’s like watching the sun set and rise again, painting the sky with the most stunning colors. I guess that’s why I’m such a big fan. Their music makes me feel alive, vibrant, and full of color. I am, and will always be, a proud supporter of Colorful Root.”

Backstory:
Moist Dispute was formed in 2007 when four university students in the heart of Manchester discovered a shared passion for eclectic music and nonconformist lyrics. Brandon Talbot, an English Literature major, had a knack for writing punchy lyrics filled with emotion, while his good friend, James Clifton, a Music major, had a talent for creating catchy melodies on his bass guitar. Add in the technical brilliance of Computer Science student, Sam Robinson on the drums, and the soulful voice of Art student, Lucy Chambers, and you had a band that was ready to take on the world.

Their journey began with local gigs and small student parties, but their unique sound quickly caught the ear of the right people. Before they knew it, they were opening for big-name bands and traveling across the country. With a dedicated fanbase and their music being streamed by the thousands, Moist Dispute is a band that refuses to be categorized and continues to push the boundaries of their sound.

Genre: Alternative Rock

Title: “The Echo of Our Thoughts”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
(C-G-Am-F)
I saw the colors in your eyes,
As we wandered through the night,
Caught in the echo of our thoughts,
Lost in a world, we’d never fought.

[Verse 2]
(C-G-Am-F)
We danced in the rhythm of the rain,
Laughed in the face of the pain.
Our love, a portrait of defiance,
In a world filled with relentless silence.

[Chorus]
(G-Am-F-C)
In the echo of our thoughts, we are free,
In the echo of our thoughts, we believe,
In the symphony of love, we compose,
In the echo of our thoughts, our love grows.

[Verse 3]
(C-G-Am-F)
The stars lit up the canvas of our dreams,
Guided by the moon’s silvery beams,
In the echo of our thoughts, we found,
A love that knows no bounds.

[Chorus]
(G-Am-F-C)
In the echo of our thoughts, we are free,
In the echo of our thoughts, we believe,
In the symphony of love, we compose,
In the echo of our thoughts, our love grows.

[Bridge]
(Am-G-F-C)
The echo of our thoughts, a melody so pure,
A song of love, a cure,
For a world lost in the noise,
In the echo of our thoughts, we find our voice.

[Chorus]
(G-Am-F-C)
In the echo of our thoughts, we are free,
In the echo of our thoughts, we believe,
In the symphony of love, we compose,
In the echo of our thoughts, our love grows.

Fan Testimonial:

My name is Ellie and I am arguably Moist Dispute’s biggest fan. What I absolutely love about them is their uniqueness. Their lyrics are beautifully crafted and meaningful, they aren’t afraid to address deep issues through their music. Plus, their sound is like a breath of fresh air in today’s music industry. Their songs are always on repeat, especially “The Echo of Our Thoughts”, it touches my heart every time. They are more than just a band to me, they’re an inspiration, a beacon of creativity and authenticity in a world that often lacks it.

Backstory:
In the unconventional college town of Picket Grove, Missouri, a group of friends were united by their shared love for music and their fondness for a run-down communal stove in their dormitory that had a tendency to act out. Inspired by the unusual but resilient appliance, they named their group Spiteful Stove. Despite their initial playful intentions, their raw and authentic sound quickly caught the attention of their peers. Their heartfelt lyrics, coupled with their unique image, resonated with the youth of Picket Grove, and their infectious enthusiasm for music made their performances unforgettable. Soon, their fame extended beyond their college town, and they were playing at local music festivals and attracting record labels.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Simmering Sentiments”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G] Look into the mirror, [D] what do you see? [Em]
[C] A reflection of who you [Am] used to be. [D]
[G] Broken promises, [D] forgotten dreams, [Em]
[C] A life caught in a [Am] constant stream. [D]

(Chorus)
[G] Simmering sentiments, [D] bubbling up inside, [Em]
[C] We’re the spiteful stoves, [Am] with no place to hide. [D]
[G] Burning passion, [D] and a flaming desire, [Em]
[C] We’re the voice of the [Am] misunderstood fire. [D]

(Verse 2)
[G] Faces in the crowd, [D] unseen, unheard, [Em]
[C] We’re the screaming anthem [Am] of the absurd. [D]
[G] Tales of the unheard, [D] and the unseen, [Em]
[C] We’re the silent voices [Am] of the in-between. [D]

(Chorus)
[G] Simmering sentiments, [D] bubbling up inside, [Em]
[C] We’re the spiteful stoves, [Am] with no place to hide. [D]
[G] Burning passion, [D] and a flaming desire, [Em]
[C] We’re the voice of the [Am] misunderstood fire. [D]

The bands favorite fan’s name:
Jamie Peterson

Jamie Peterson Testimonial:
“I’ve been following Spiteful Stove since their first gig in Picket Grove. Their music speaks to me on both a personal and emotional level. The lyrics of ‘Simmering Sentiments’ perfectly articulate the unique struggles and experiences of my generation. What truly sets Spiteful Stove apart is their authenticity. They aren’t afraid to expose their raw emotions and experiences in their songs, and it’s that honesty that makes them so relatable. From the rhythm of their guitar to the passion in their vocals, every aspect of their performance is captivating. They’re more than just a band to me; they’re my voice, my escape, my safe space. They’re not just my favorite band; they’re the soundtrack to my life.”

Backstory:
Candid Community was born in the heart of Chicago back in 2012. The group began as a collaborative jam session between four friends, each with varied musical backgrounds but united by their passion for making music. The group comprised Joe Hopkins (vocals and guitar), Lynda Ryan (bass guitar), Mikey Thompson (drums), and Stan Davidson (lead guitar). The foursome realized early on that their jam sessions were producing a unique sound, a blend of their collective musical influences, from blues to punk to classic rock. They decided to record their sessions and soon found a local following in the underground music scene of Chicago. As their popularity grew, so did their ambition, and in 2015 they released their first EP, which gained critical acclaim.

Genre:
Candid Community’s music is a fusion of alternative rock and indie pop.

Title:
“Cosmic Reverie”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Am Dm G C
On a journey, through the stars,
Am Dm G
In your eyes, I see Mars.
C Em Am
Skies of blue, dreams that roam,
Dm G C
In my heart, you’re my home.

(Chorus)
C G Am Em
Cosmic Reverie, in your arms, I (I) am free,
Dm C G
We dance to the rhythm of our heartbeats,
C G Am Em
Cosmic Reverie, in this universe of glee,
Dm C G
Together, we paint an eternal masterpiece.

(Verse 2)
Am Dm G C
Galaxies shimmer, planets align,
Am Dm G
Under the veil, of the divine.
C Em Am
Our love’s the moon, glowing bright,
Dm G C
Guiding us through, the endless night.

(Chorus)
C G Am Em
Cosmic Reverie, in your arms, I (I) am free,
Dm C G
We dance to the rhythm of our heartbeats,
C G Am Em
Cosmic Reverie, in this universe of glee,
Dm C G
Together, we paint an eternal masterpiece.

The band’s favorite fan’s name:
Jessie Parker

Testimonial:
“Honestly, Candid Community is more than just a band to me. It’s been a constant in my life ever since I first heard them play live at a small gig in 2016. I was immediately drawn to their unique sound, it was unlike anything I had heard before. Their lyrics are profound and they speak to me on a personal level, and the music, man, it’s just pure genius. Every new song they release feels like a gift, like they’ve somehow managed to put into words and melodies the things I couldn’t explain. They aren’t just my favorite band; they’re a part of my life’s soundtrack.”

Backstory:
Plump Address was formed in a small town in Canada in the early 2000s. The band comprises childhood friends: lead singer Zach Thompson, guitarist Leo Morgan, bassist Chris Allen, and drummer Mike Hamilton. They all grew up together, each nurturing their individual musical talents before deciding to join forces during their high school years. Their name, Plump Address, comes from a local lore about a mythical creature who would leave a ‘plump’ gift at your door if you treated it kindly. They loved the whimsical nature of this story and decided it was perfectly fitting for their band, which aimed to leave ‘plump’ gifts of music for their listeners.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Moonlit Dreams”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[Em] Underneath the stars we were [G] dreaming,
[D] Too lost in the night to be [A] scheming.
[Em] Life was a song, we were [G] singing,
[D] In our hearts, a new hope was [A] ringing.

(Chorus)
[C] Moonlit dreams, as soft as [G] whispers,
[D] Lost in time, like faded [Em] pictures.
[C] Moonlit dreams, in the dead of [G] night,
[D] Lighting up the dark with their [Em] silver light.

(Verse 2)
[Em] We were young, we were [G] wild,
[D] In the night we found a love so [A] mild.
[Em] Moonlit dreams, they’d [G] guide us,
[D] In their light, we found our [A] focus.

(Chorus)
[C] Moonlit dreams, as bright as [G] starlight,
[D] Drawing us in with their [Em] mysterious might.
[C] Moonlit dreams, love’s secret [G] flight,
[D] Taking us away in the [Em] cover of night.

The band’s favorite fan’s name: Sarah Thompson

Testimonial:
“Plump Address is my favorite band because their music speaks directly to my soul. They have a way of capturing the human experience in their lyrics that is both profound and relatable. Their song, ‘Moonlit Dreams,’ in particular, is a beautiful expression of hope and aspiration. I’ve followed them since their earliest performances in our hometown, and it’s been amazing to see how they’ve grown as musicians while still maintaining their unique sound and message. They’re not just a band to me, they’re a symbol of dreams coming true, and they inspire me every day with their music.”

Backstory:

Solid Leadership sprung to life in the heart of the bustling city of Boston in 2009. Band members Riley (vocals), Logan (guitar), Ethan (bass), and Max (drums) were all students at Berklee College of Music. They instantly found a shared interest in their love for experimental music and socially conscious lyrics. The days of jamming in their dorm rooms, where they explored different sounds and messages, soon transformed into organized band practice, and before they knew it, Solid Leadership was born.

The band’s commitment to their music was second to none. When they weren’t studying, they spent their time writing and performing in local venues. Word of their unique sound and thought-provoking lyrics quickly spread across the city, garnering them a dedicated fan base. It wasn’t long before they had their first record deal under their belts, launching them into the national music scene.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Song Title:
“Unseen Revolution”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Am | D | G | C
There’s a storm in our hearts, an unseen revolution,
A fire that starts, spark of a solution,
We’re all players in the game, lost in confusion,
But together we’ll spark, the unseen revolution.

[Chorus]
F | C | G | Am
Shout it out loud, let it rain,
Stand up, break these chains,
We’re the voice, we’re the vision,
Fueling the unseen revolution.

[Verse 2]
Am | D | G | C
Look beyond the lies, drown out the pollution,
Our spirits rise, fueling the solution,
In the dark, we’ll light up the way,
For the unseen revolution, we won’t sway.

[Chorus]
F | C | G | Am
Shout it out loud, let it rain,
Stand up, break these chains,
We’re the voice, we’re the vision,
Fueling the unseen revolution.

[Outro]
Am | D | G | C
In every heart, in every soul,
Together we’ll reach, our collective goal,
For the unseen revolution, we pay our toll,
For a brighter tomorrow, that’s our role.

Fan Testimonial:
Name: Lucy Albertson

“Solid Leadership is my favorite band because they’re more than just music to me. Their lyrics inspire me to question the norms, engage with society, and challenge myself. They’re the soundtrack to my activism. Their energy and connectivity with their fans, their social consciousness, and the raw emotion expressed in their music is something that resonates with me deeply. The song “Unseen Revolution” in particular, always motivates me to make a difference in my community. I’ve seen them live five times, and each time, I’m left with a renewed sense of purpose and passion. Long live, Solid Leadership!”

Backstory:

Voluminous Escape was born in the heart of London’s bustling music scene back in 2012. The original quartet consisted of childhood friends Sam and Liam, who had spent countless hours jamming in their parents’ garages, yearning to create something bigger than themselves. Eventually, they were joined by Grace, a classically trained pianist with a passion for rock, and Ronnie, a drummer who could make even the most mundane rhythm feel like a heartbeat. With their ragtag team of misfit musicians, they set out to change the world through their music, one chord at a time.

Genre:

Voluminous Escape is best described as Alternative Rock with a blend of Pop and Electronica.

Title:

“Echoes of Tomorrow”

Full Song Lyrics with Chord Progression:

(Verse 1 – Dm, Bb, F, C)
Lost inside this reverie, a world that’s all our own
Dancing with the ghosts of dreams, in corners yet unknown
And What if we could turn the clock, rewrite reality
We’re dreaming with our eyes open, lost in the melody

(Chorus – Bb, F, Dm, C)
Calling to the Echoes of Tomorrow
Screaming in the silence of the sorrow
Chasing shadows till the break of dawn
In our hearts, the song goes on

(Verse 2 – Dm, Bb, F, C)
Underneath the starlit skies, we paint our tales of old
In the canvas of the night, our stories unfold
We’re adventuring through time, dancing in our dreams
Running from the echoes of tomorrow, it seems

(Chorus – Bb, F, Dm, C)
Calling to the Echoes of Tomorrow
Screaming in the silence of the sorrow
Chasing shadows till the break of dawn
In our hearts, the song goes on

(Bridge – F, C, Dm, Bb)
And as the sun rises and the stars fade away
We’ll keep the echoes alive, come what may
With our voices raised, we’ll choose to stay
In the echoes of tomorrow, we’ll find our way

(Chorus – Bb, F, Dm, C)
Calling to the Echoes of Tomorrow
Screaming in the silence of the sorrow
Chasing shadows till the break of dawn
In our hearts, the song goes on

Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Emily, who has followed them since their early beginnings. Emily was an aspiring musician herself, and Voluminous Escape’s determination and unique sound became her inspiration.

Testimonial:

“The way Voluminous Escape weaves stories with their music, it’s like they’re painting pictures in your mind. It’s a mix of nostalgia, hope, and a dash of rebellion. Their song ‘Echoes of Tomorrow’ speaks to me on a personal level. It’s about holding on to dreams and the pursuit of something greater. It’s more than just music for me, it’s a source of strength. They have this raw energy and authenticity that’s so rare to find these days. They’re not just a band to me, they’re my escape.” – Emily

Backstory:
Weepy Trial is a band that formed in the unsuspecting city of Omaha, Nebraska. Each member – lead vocalist Jordan Hughes, drummer Callie Hennings, and bass guitarist Rick Evans – met during their college years at the University of Nebraska. United by a shared love for music and a deep-seated desire to express their raw emotions and experiences, they formed Weepy Trial in 2007. They gained a local following playing in dive bars and small venues before their initial breakthrough in 2010, when their debut album “In Tears We Trust” caught the attention of a prominent indie label, kickstarting their journey into the global music scene.

Genre:
Indie Rock / Alternative

Title:
“Solitude’s Symphony”

Verse 1:
Em C G D
In the echo of the night, where shadows drown the light,
Em C G D
I find my solace, my heart’s hideaway.
Em C G D
These walls, they speak to me, in words only I can see,
Em C G D
Quiet whispers of love and dismay.

Chorus:
Em C G D
Beneath the moon, I play Solitude’s Symphony,
Em C G D
In minor chords, and tales of melancholy.
Em C G D
Oh, can’t you hear, the rhythm of my mystery?
Em C G D
In the silence, my song is my remedy.

Verse 2:
Em C G D
In my isolation, I find my own salvation,
Em C G D
Strumming the strings of my heart’s symphony.
Em C G D
No audience but the stars, under their gentle regard,
Em C G D
In my solitude, I find my own victory.

(Repeat Chorus)

Fan Profile:
Name: Mike Donovan

Testimonial:
“I can’t even begin to tell you how much Weepy Trial means to me. Their music is so raw and authentic, it resonates with me on a level I never thought possible. The lyrics of ‘Solitude’s Symphony’ completely encapsulate what it’s like to be alone with your thoughts, and yet find solace in that solitude. Weepy Trial has been there for me during my darkest hours and brightest moments, their unique Indie/Alternative sound always providing the perfect backdrop to my life. Their music isn’t just songs, it’s a lifeline, and I am forever grateful to Weepy Trial for creating these beautiful symphonies of life. To say they are my favorite band would be an understatement.”

Backstory:

Formed in the bustling streets of Chicago in 2010, ‘Dutiful Restriction’ is a four-man band that has defied all norms and conventions. The members met in college, a motley crew of free spirits who dared to challenge the status quo. They were united by their shared rebellion against societal pressures and their love for music. They decided to utilize their music as a medium to echo their thoughts and feelings about societal issues. The band’s name, ‘Dutiful Restriction,’ is an oxymoron that reflects their viewpoint – the constraint one feels to conform to social norms against their true self.

Genre:

‘Dutiful Restriction’ stands out in the Indie Rock genre, with their thought-provoking lyrics and unique sound. Their music is known for its raw energy and emotional depth, layered with innovative melodies and rhythms.

Title:

One of their most popular singles is “Breaking the Chains.”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
Gm
Look into the mirror, what do you see?
C7
A shell of a person, lost in the sea.
Gm
Tied down by chains of society,
C7
Yearning for a taste of sweet liberty.

(Chorus)
Gm C7
Breaking the chains, we rise above,
Gm C7
Fuelled by the power of endless love.
Gm C7
The world may judge, but we’re free,
Gm C7
In the realm of music, our sanctuary!

(Verse)
Gm
Striving for freedom, we make our stand,
C7
With the power of music, mic in hand.
Gm
We’re Dutiful Restriction, hear our roar,
C7
We won’t be silenced, not anymore!

(Chorus)
Gm C7
Breaking the chains, we rise above,
Gm C7
Fuelled by the power of endless love.
Gm C7
The world may judge, but we’re free,
Gm C7
In the realm of music, our sanctuary!

The Bands Favorite Fan’s Name:

Their favorite fan is Amy Harrison, a devoted follower since their first gig.

Testimonial:

“When I listened to Dutiful Restriction for the first time, it was like they were speaking directly to my soul. Their music has not only become the soundtrack of my life but also a source of strength and inspiration. Through their lyrics, I’ve learned to break free from societal chains and follow my own path. I can’t imagine my life without their music.” – Amy Harrison