Backstory:

Mortified Scandal’s story begins in the heartland of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where childhood friends, Jack Thompson (vocals/guitar) and Adam Stone (drums), spent their high school years jamming in their garage. They were later joined by Clara Young (keyboard) and Sam Hicks (bass), two classmates with an equal passion for music. The four of them bonded over their shared love for punk rock and vintage records. After high school, they decided to turn their garage band into a professional endeavor and thus, Mortified Scandal was born. After several local gigs, the band’s raw energy and original songwriting caught the attention of an independent label, launching them into the punk rock scene. Now, with two full-length albums under their belt, Mortified Scandal has been hailed as a breath of fresh air, bringing a unique edge to the genre with their fusion of punk and classic rock influences.

Genre: Punk Rock

Title: “Chaos in Suburbia”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Living in a town so quiet,
[G] Where nothing ever seems to riot,
[A] Dreaming for a life so much more,
[F] Than this dead-end, it’s a bore.

(Chorus)
[C] Screaming for the Chaos in Suburbia,
[G] No more silence, no hysteria.
[A] We’re the rebel voices, the anomaly,
[F] Disturbing the peace, craving for liberty.

(Verse 2)
[C] We’re the forgotten, the misunderstood,
[G] In this perfect neighborhood.
[A] Underneath the picket fences,
[F] We’re the rebellion, no pretenses.

(Chorus)
[C] Echoing the Chaos in Suburbia,
[G] Breaking the monotony, the inertia.
[A] We’re the fire starters, the oddity,
[F] Upsetting the norm, longing for insanity.

(Chorus)
[C] We’re the Chaos in Suburbia,
[G] The punk rock mania.
[A] We’re the noise makers, the calamity,
[F] Fuelling the dissent, longing for unity.

Fan Testimonial:

My name is Jenny and I’ve been a fan of Mortified Scandal ever since their first gig at the local dive bar in Cedar Rapids. There is so much rawness and authenticity in their music. They have a way of making you feel like you’re not alone in feeling out of place. Their song “Chaos in Suburbia” resonates with me on so many levels. Their music gives me the strength to embrace my quirks and differences. I’ve seen them live seven times and each show feels intimate and electrifying. Mortified Scandal is more than just a band to me, they are a reminder that it’s okay to be different and that it’s more than okay to make a little noise.

Backstory:
The story of Glittering Objection began in the artistic outskirts of Brooklyn, New York. Founding members, Orion and Eve, both discovered their shared passion for creating uniquely expressive music, while attending a local open mic night. Orion, a synth wizard, with his roots in electronic productions, and Eve, a vocalist and songwriter with an affinity for acoustic sounds, found a common ground in their desire to break musical boundaries. Their distinctive combination of electronic and acoustic sounds caught the attention of other talented local musicians, soon leading to the formation of Glittering Objection, a band aiming to challenge the status quo with their sonic innovation.

Genre:
Electronic Acoustic

Title:
“Chasing Constellations”

Full Song Lyrics:
[Verse 1]
(Em, D, C, G)
Em D
Stars up in the velvet night,
C G
Their distant glow our only guiding light.
Em D
We’re swirling through this endless flight,
C G
Chasing constellations with all our might.

[Chorus]
(G, D, Em, C)
G D
Glittering objections in the sky,
Em C
Against the darkness, we rely.
G D
Dancing through the echoes of goodbye,
Em C
We’re chasing constellations, you and I.

[Verse 2]
(Em, D, C, G)
Em D
Casting dreams on a falling star,
C G
Their fiery tails lighting up our path so far.
Em D
In this cosmic journey, no matter where we are,
C G
Our hearts beat to the rhythm of a distant quasar.

[Chorus]
(G, D, Em, C)
G D
Glittering objections in the sky,
Em C
Against the darkness, we defy.
G D
Dancing through the echoes of goodbye,
Em C
We’re chasing constellations, you and I.

Fan Testimonial:
“My name is Charlie, and I’ve been a dedicated fan of Glittering Objection from the very start. Their unique blend of electronic and acoustic soundscapes provides a refreshing break from the mainstream music scene. They strike a perfect balance between the familiar and the experimental, which is a rarity in today’s music industry. Their song ‘Chasing Constellations’ is like an anthem to me, reminding me to reach for the stars and never give up. Their passionate performances and thought-provoking lyrics make them my all-time favorite band.”

Backstory:
Formed in the suburbs of London in 2010, Impassioned Carriage was the brainchild of three childhood friends: Kelvin Murphy (vocals, guitar), Jacob Bennett (bass), and Audrey Turner (drums). Coming from a shared background of musical families, their passion for music was ingrained from a young age. Starting from local pub gigs to performing at international music festivals, the band has come a long way, reflecting their versatile sound and unmistakable charisma.

Their music, filled with emotional intensity and lyrical depth, resonates with a variety of listeners. The band’s name, Impassioned Carriage, symbolizes their journey through life, love, and music, and their commitment to deliver their heartfelt messages with fervor and authenticity. Despite the ups and downs, the band remains firm in their pursuit of musical expression, constantly evolving while staying true to their roots.

Genre: Alternative Rock

Title: “Burning Bridges”

Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Standing at the [Em] edge of the [C] water
[D] Reflecting on the [G] years gone [Em] by
[C] All those burning [D] bridges [G] behind us
[Em] A testament to [C] our pride.

(Verse 2)
[G] Walking on this [Em] lonely path now
[C] With the weight of [D] our mistakes
[G] But every lesson [Em] learned
[C] Is another [D] chance we take.

(Chorus)
[G] We’re burning [D] bridges, and mending [Em] hearts
[C] Learning to [G] start all over [D] again
[G] No turning [D] back, we’re moving [Em] on
[C] This impassioned [G] carriage won’t [D] break.

(Verse 3)
[G] Shadows of our [Em] past may haunt us
[C] But they won’t [D] define our worth
[G] In every end, there’s [Em] a new beginning
[C] A chance for [D] rebirth.

(Chorus)
[G] We’re burning [D] bridges, and mending [Em] hearts
[C] Learning to [G] start all over [D] again
[G] No turning [D] back, we’re moving [Em] on
[C] This impassioned [G] carriage won’t [D] break.

Favorite Fan’s Name: Emily Roberts

Fan Testimonial:
“Impassioned Carriage is more than just a band to me, they’re my lifeline. Their music has seen me through my darkest moments, and their lyrics resonate with my soul. Their song ‘Burning Bridges’ is my anthem, a constant reminder that despite past mistakes, we can learn, grow, and keep moving forward. Kelvin, Jacob, and Audrey are more than musicians; they are storytellers, healers, and friends. Their commitment to their craft is inspiring, and their authenticity shines through their music. Their passion is infectious, and their music is the soundtrack of my life.”

Backstory:

Willing Class was born in the bustling heart of New York City, where four friends decided to transform their shared love for music into a band. The band members, Alex (lead vocals, piano), Ben (lead guitar), Chris (bass), and Danny (drums), originally met in a small music class they all decided to join after work. It started out as a hobby, a way to blow off steam, but their undeniable chemistry and shared passion made them realize they had potential. Their humble beginnings from their small music class to performances in local bars and nightclubs led them to name their band ‘Willing Class’.

Genre:

Willing Class specializes in Indie Rock with a touch of Blues.

Title:

“Against the Current”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Sometimes, we’re sailing [C] against the current, [D]
[G] Lost in the waves, [C] feeling so distant [D]
[G] Struggling to find, [C] our way to the surface, [D]
[G] But we keep swimming, [C] cause we’re persistent [D]

(Chorus)
[Em] Against the current, [C] we find strength,
[G] Under the pressure, [D] till we’re spent
[Em] We keep pushing, [C] we keep fighting,
[G] Because we know, [D] it’s worth trying.

(Verse 2)
[G] Fear may find us, [C] but we’re not hiding [D]
[G] Doubts may haunt us, [C] but we’re not bending [D]
[G] We’ve got the will, [C] we’ve got the courage [D]
[G] Through the storm, [C] we’ll keep emerging [D]

(Chorus)

(Outro)
[Em] Against the current, [C] oh, we rise,
[G] With every sunset, [D] and sunrise,
[Em] This is our journey, [C] this is our song,
[G] Through every right, [D] through every wrong.

The band’s favorite fan’s name:

Tommy, a New Yorker, who has been there from their very first performance in a small bar to their sold-out concert in Madison Square Garden.

Fan Testimonial:

“I have been following Willing Class since the beginning. Their music, it’s real, raw, and relatable. It’s not just their melodic tunes, but also their lyrics – they tell a story, they echo life. This band is my favorite because they’ve managed to preserve their authenticity despite their success. They started as ordinary guys with an extraordinary passion for music, and that’s exactly what they still are. Their song ‘Against the Current’ is a testament to their journey – a journey I feel privileged to have witnessed.”

Backstory:
Handmade Event was conceived in the heart of Melbourne, Australia, in the year 2011. The band, which initially started as a casual jamming session between friends, soon turned into a significant part of the local music scene. The band members – vocalist and guitarist Sammy Davis, drummer Peter Richardson, bassist Riley Thompson, and keyboardist Emma Johnson were all college friends who shared an unwavering passion for music. Over the years, they evolved their sound by going through trials and errors, late-night jamming sessions, and street performances. They got their big break when they were discovered by a music producer during one of their impromptu performances at a local music festival.

Genre:
Handmade Event is well-known for their unique, captivating blend of indie rock and folk music. Their soulful lyrics, powerful guitar riffs, earthy melodies, and rhythmic drum beats create a distinctive, foot-tapping sound that is hard to resist.

Title:
One of their most popular songs to date is ‘Breath of a Memory’.

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1: [C] If the [G] world stops [D] turning [Em]
[C] Would you [G] be the same, [D] would you still remember my [Em] name?
[C] When the [G] stars start [D] falling [Em]
[C] Will you [G] hold me tight, [D] will you fight for love with all your [Em] might?

Chorus: [C] Breath of a [G] memory, [D] whisper in the [Em] night
[C] Hold onto [G] the love that [D] feels so right
[C] Breath of a [G] memory, [D] light up the [Em] sky
[C] We can [G] conquer the world, [D] just you and I [Em]

Verse 2: [C] In the [G] midst of chaos, [D] in the calm of the [Em] storm
[C] Will you [G] stay with me, [D] keep our love warm?
[C] When the [G] night is darkest, [D] will you be my [Em] light?
[C] Will you [G] make everything [D] feel just right?

(Repeat Chorus)

Favorite Fan:
Their favorite fan is Timothy Marks, a 27-year-old graphic designer from Sydney. Timothy discovered Handmade Event during one of their earliest performances and has been a dedicated follower ever since. For him, Handmade Event is not just a band but a source of solace and inspiration. He says, “Handmade Event’s music resonates with me on a deeply personal level. It’s like they have a song for every emotion I’ve ever experienced. Their music has been my companion through my darkest days and happiest moments. To me, they’re more than just a band – they’re like family.”

Backstory:
Oval Auditor began as a group of college roommates at a small liberal arts college in the heart of Boston. The founding members, Jake Berman (vocals, guitar), Luka Stevens (drums), and Cali Watts (keyboard, vocals), started playing together at house parties, using music as a tool to express their shared fascination for abstract forms and auditory perception. Their unique sound quickly gained popularity, leading them to drop out of college and pursue music full-time. They named their band ‘Oval Auditor’, a nod to the room shape where they first discovered their shared passion for music.

Genre:
Oval Auditor’s sound is best described as a blend of Alternative Rock and Progressive Metal, with a touch of Experimental Psychedelia. Their musical style is characterized by complex compositions, unpredictable chord progressions, and the intertwining of Jake’s raw, emotional vocals with Cali’s ethereal harmonies.

Title:
“Reflected Echoes”

Lyrics:
(V1)
Am Em Dm Em
Lost in the mirror, I see my own reflection,
Am Em Dm Em
Looking back at me with eyes of pure deception.
Am Em Dm Em
I reach out, touch the glass, and feel the cold connection,
Am Em Dm Em
Between the man I am and the man in my conception.

(CHORUS)
Gm C Am Dm
Reflected echoes, bouncing off the walls,
Gm C Am Dm
The sound of yesterday’s forgotten calls.
Gm C Am Dm
In this oval auditor, I stand alone,
Gm C Am Dm
Listening to the whispers of the unknown.

(V2)
Am Em Dm Em
I gaze into the abyss, it gazes back at me,
Am Em Dm Em
A silent symphony of chaos in the key of E.
Am Em Dm Em
Reaching out to touch the void, I lose my sanity,
Am Em Dm Em
Yet in this madness, I find my own reality.

(CHORUS)
Gm C Am Dm
Reflected echoes, bouncing off the walls,
Gm C Am Dm
The sound of yesterday’s forgotten calls.
Gm C Am Dm
In this oval auditor, I stand alone,
Gm C Am Dm
Listening to the whispers of the unknown.

Fan Testimonial:
“I’m Mia Ortiz and Oval Auditor is my favorite band. I connect with their music on a profound level; it’s like they’ve managed to put into words and melodies the thoughts and emotions I’ve never been able to express. Every song is a journey of self-discovery and introspection. Plus, their live performances are an experience like no other – raw, passionate, and incredibly captivating. Oval Auditor doesn’t just play music, they create an immersive sensory experience, and that’s why they’re my favorite.”

Backstory:
Misty Chapter, a band hailing from the rainy city of Seattle, was formed in 2003 by a quartet of childhood friends with a shared passion for music. The group spent their high school years practicing in their parents’ basements, playing local gigs, and writing their own music. All the late nights of jamming, songwriting, and dreaming finally paid off when they were discovered at a local battle of the bands competition by a talent scout. Since then, they’ve been touring across the nation, making waves with their unique sound.

Genre:
Misty Chapter identifies their music as a blend of Indie rock and Alternative folk, combining raw melodies with emotionally charged lyrics. Their music is characterized by the sharp contrast between the heavy drums and bass, and the subtlety of acoustic guitars and harmonious vocals.

Title: “In the Shadows of Dawn”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
[G]In the shadows of dawn, [C]as the world was reborn,
[Em]I found a purpose, [D]lost and forlorn.
[G]You were my sunshine, [C]my beautiful morn,
[Em]Now I’m left here, [D]in the shadows forlorn.

(Chorus)
[G]In the shadows of dawn, [C]where our love was sworn,
[Em]I’m left with memories, [D]worn and torn.
[G]You were my promise, [C]from the night till morn,
[Em]Now all that’s left, [D]is the shadows of dawn.

(Verse)
[G]In the silence of night, [C]I hear the echoes of your laugh,
[Em]I’m chasing your ghost, [D]down this lonely path.
[G]You were my moonlight, [C]my better half,
[Em]Now I’m lost in the shadows, [D]in the aftermath.

(Chorus)
[G]In the shadows of dawn, [C]where our love was sworn,
[Em]I’m left with memories, [D]worn and torn.
[G]You were my promise, [C]from the night till morn,
[Em]Now all that’s left, [D]is the shadows of dawn.

Favorite Fan:
Misty Chapter’s most dedicated fan is Amanda Nelson. Amanda has not missed a single performance since their breakout in 2005. She describes the band as her “lifeline,” explaining that “their music resonates with my soul. It’s raw, it’s honest, and it’s deep. It feels like they’ve put into words the emotions I couldn’t express. I’ve grown with Misty Chapter, their music was my companion through high school, college, heartbreaks, and triumphs. They’re not just my favorite band, they’re an integral part of my life story.”

Backstory:
Accurate Drain is a captivating four-piece band formed in London in 2012. The band members – Peter Brown (lead vocals/guitar), Rachel Wood (bass), Matthew Hart (drums), and James O’Neill (keyboard), who all met in college, shared a deep love for music and a vision to create something unique. They started jamming in their university dorm rooms, which led to small gigs in local pubs and soon they gained a burgeoning fan base that appreciated their innovative sound. The name “Accurate Drain” is a metaphor for their music philosophy – they believe in creating music that accurately drains all emotions, leaving the listeners feeling fulfilled and connected.

Genre:
Alternative Rock/Neo Psychedelia

Title:
“Imprints of Lost Time”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Em – G – D – A
Lost in the pages, of time’s vast design,
Broken mirrors, reflect no sign.
Candles flicker, in the winds of change,
Echoes of laughter, seem so strange.

(Chorus)
C – G – D – Em
Imprints of lost time, hidden deep within,
Unravel the mystery, let the journey begin.
Castles crumble, seasons rewind,
We’re lost in the imprints of time.

(Verse 2)
Em – G – D – A
Whispers of yesteryears, dance in the air,
Ghosts of forgotten love, none to spare.
Chasing shadows, under the midnight sun,
Fleeting moments, can’t be undone.

(Chorus)
C – G – D – Em
Imprints of lost time, etched in our soul,
Chasing the horizon, is our unfading goal.
Through the labyrinth, of life we climb,
Captured in the imprints of time.

(Redux)
Em – G – D – A
Imprints of time, in the sand,
Slipping away, like a vanishing band.
But the symphony of life, plays its rhyme,
In the sacred imprints of lost time.

Fan’s Name and Testimonial:
Samantha Harper – “Music for me has always been an escape, a way of dealing with life’s ups and downs. Accurate Drain’s music has been a lifeline for me during some of my toughest times. Their songs are so relatable, and their lyrics speak directly to my soul. I remain their biggest fan because they’ve given me a soundtrack to my life.”

Backstory:

Established amidst the 1990s grunge scene in Seattle, Prickly Tournament defied the norm and expectations by introducing a unique fusion sound that took music enthusiasts by storm. Ethan Wilson, the lead singer, and guitarist, met bassist Sebastian Black at an underground punk show, finding an immediate connection through their shared sense of alienation and love for raw, unrestrained music. After recruiting drummer Mia Jordan and keyboardist Finn Harris, Prickly Tournament was born. Despite the prevalent grunge trend, they dared to experiment with their sound, incorporating elements of punk, blues, and psychedelic rock. Their strange yet catchy music resonated with the misfits and outcasts, catapulting them to an unexpected stardom.

Genre:

Psychedelic Punk Blues

Title:

“Desert Mirage”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em G D A
I walk through the desert, beneath a scorching sun,
Look for my refuge, but there’s nowhere to run.
I see a mirage, a sight so divine,
A dream or a nightmare? Can’t draw the line.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Desert Mirage, you’re my savior and my curse,
In your illusion, I’m lost, my path is adverse.
Desert Mirage, I’m a prisoner of your game,
In your oasis, I drown, you’re to blame.

(Verse 2)
Em G D A
With each step I take, further you retreat,
The closer I get, the more my heart beats.
Your image so tempting, a thirst I can’t quench,
In your desert mirage, I’m left in a drench.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Desert Mirage, your beauty is a lie,
Your water is poison, yet I drink and sigh.
Desert Mirage, I’m a pawn in your play,
In your desert mirage, I lose my way.

Favourite Fan and Testimonial:

Name: Lucy Parker

Testimonial: “Prickly Tournament isn’t just a band; they’re a revolution, a voice for those who feel lost and misunderstood. Their music speaks volumes, resonating with my inner battles and insecurities. The rawness of Ethan’s voice, the heavy rhythm of Sebastian’s bass, Mia’s electrifying drum beats, and Finn’s hypnotic keyboard – it’s an explosion of emotions. Each song is a journey, and ‘Desert Mirage’ is my constant companion. It beautifully captures the struggle of chasing illusions and the pain of disappointment. Prickly Tournament is my favorite, not because they provide an escape, but because they courageously embrace the harsh realities of life.”

Backstory:

Stable Bead was formed in the tiny coastal town of Monroe, Oregon, where its four members first started playing together in a run-down, abandoned barn. The main songwriter, David ‘Dex’ Worthington, was a wandering soul who had traveled far and wide, learning about different cultures, their music, and developed a unique blend of styles. After coming back to his hometown, he found like-minded individuals in the form of childhood friends – Peter ‘Pete’ Thompson, Grace ‘Gracie’ Hanson, and Tom ‘Tomahawk’ Ellis. Their shared love for music and storytelling, combined with their distinctive fusion of styles, led to the formation of Stable Bead.

The band spent their early days honing their craft, playing at local bars and music festivals. Despite the challenges along their journey, they never strayed from their passion for creating music that touched people’s hearts. Their dedication and unyielding spirit quickly earned them a dedicated fan base. With each performance, Stable Bead understood that their music was not just about melodies but the stories they could weave through their songs.

Genre:
Folk Rock

Title:
“Drifter’s Rise”

Full Song Lyrics:

(VERSE 1)
[G] Underneath the [C] silver moonlight,
[D] A drifter wanders [G] through the night.
[G] Chasing shadows, [C] chasing dreams,
[D] Lost in a world that’s [G] not what it seems.

(CHORUS)
[G] Drifter’s Rise, [C] under the starlit skies,
[D] Find your peace, [G] where the old river lies.
[G] Drifter’s Rise, [C] hear the night bird’s cries,
[D] Songs of freedom, [G] in your traveller’s eyes.

(VERSE 2)
[G] Through mountains high [C] and valleys deep,
[D] Secrets of the world, [G] he seeks to keep.
[G] With a guitar in hand, [C] and tales untold,
[D] His journey unfolds, [G] in the heartland he holds.

(REPEAT CHORUS)

(END)
[G] Drifter’s Rise, [C] as the dawn breaks nigh,
[D] Your song remains, [G] in the morning sky.

Fan’s Name & Testimonial:

Fan’s Name: Emily Stewart
Testimonial:
“Stable Bead has been my favorite band since I first saw them play at a local festival. Their music resonates with me on a personal level. The storytelling in their songs, especially “Drifter’s Rise,” feels like a reflection of my own wanderlust and quest for meaning. The folk-rock genre they play is a refreshing blend of old and new, filled with soul and sincerity. Their emotion-packed performances always leave me inspired and touched. Stable Bead’s music is not just entertainment, it’s an experience.”