Backstory:

Total Dish was a brainchild of two high school friends, Jenny ‘Jett’ Tremaine and Max ‘Mack’ Kennedy, who found a mutual love for music during their early teenage years in the suburban town of Shorewood, Illinois. Sharing a garage, they would often jam with their ragtag instruments, causing a ruckus in the neighborhood. Their musical prowess earned them the nickname ‘Total Dish’ by their friends and neighbors, a term usually used to describe someone attractive, they considered their music to be more attractive than they were. The duo decided to keep the name, adding a touch of irony to their musical journey.

After graduating, Jett and Mack decided to take a leap and move to Los Angeles to pursue music full-time. It was here they were joined by drummer Chris ‘CJ’ Johnson and bassist Liam ‘Levi’ Evans. With a full line-up, they hit the LA music scene, performing in small clubs and bars, slowly but steadily creating a buzz with their infectious energy and raw talent.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Title:

“Invisible Sun”

Song Lyrics:

Verse 1:
(Am) Broken dreams, (G) shattered hearts, (Em) we’re just pieces in the (F) dark
(Am) Heads held high, (G) playing our parts, (Em) trying to find our (F) invisible sun

Chorus:
(C) We’re chasing (G) shadows, (Am) running from the (Em) pain
(F) Looking for the (C) rainbow in the (G) pouring rain
(C) We’re lost (G) stars, (Am) each with a (Em) tale
(F) Searching for our (C) invisible (G) sun, we (Am) shall prevail

Verse 2:
(Am) Wounded souls, (G) hidden scars, (Em) dancing under the (F) city bars
(Am) Nighttime’s ours, (G) we’re chasing Mars, (Em) longing for our (F) invisible sun

Repeat Chorus

Bridge:
(F) Don’t let go, (G) We’re almost there
(Am) Through the highs, (G) through the despair
(F) Eyes wide open, (G) feeling numb
(Em) We won’t stop until we (F) find our sun.

Repeat Chorus

End on (Am)

Fan’s name:

Sarah Thompson

Testimonial:

Sarah Thompson, a twenty-one-year-old college student from San Diego, has been following Total Dish since their early LA days, unofficially dubbed as the band’s favorite fan. Sarah shares, “I found Total Dish performing in this small, crowded bar in Los Angeles. Their energy was electric and their music, simply invigorating. They had this unique ability to weave stories with their lyrics that resonated with me on a personal level. Their song ‘Invisible Sun’ is my absolute favorite. It became my anthem during tough times and helped me find the light at the end of the tunnel. The authenticity and rawness of their music captivate me. Their journey of chasing dreams inspires me every day. They’re more than just a band to me, they’re my invisible sun.”

Backstory:
Married Tragedy, a band born from the ashes of broken relationships, was formed in a small garage in Austin, Texas. The band consists of four members; lead vocalist and guitarist Evan, bassist Lisa, drummer Nate, and keyboardist Sarah. The group met at a local pub where they all confessed their shared experiences of heartbreak. They decided to channel their pain into music, thus creating Married Tragedy. Through their music, they express the array of emotions they experienced and the lessons learned, which they hope will resonate with their listeners.

The band’s journey to fame wasn’t smooth. Struggling with personal conflicts and the challenges of the music industry, they nearly fell apart. However, they managed to hold themselves together, and their persistence paid off when their song “An Ode to Lost Love” became a hit on various music platforms. Married Tragedy has since released two acclaimed albums and continues to create music that speaks to the soul.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Parallel Hearts”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G] She walks in [Em] beauty, like the [C] night,
[D] Haunted eyes, full of [G] starlight.
[Em] And there he stands, [C] drowning in sorrow,
[D] Their hearts echo, [G] hope for tomorrow.

(Chorus)
[A] Parallel hearts in a [C] twisted world,
[G] Their love story, tragically [D] unfurled.
[A] Seeking solace in each other’s [C] pain,
[G] In this married tragedy, they [D] find love again.

(Verse 2)
[G] He whispers promises, [Em] broken and bare,
[C] They dance in the moonlight, [D] shedding despair.
[G] She gazes at him, [Em] love shining clear,
[C] In his arms, she finds no [D] fear.

(Chorus)
[A] Parallel hearts in a [C] twisted world,
[G] Their love story, tragically [D] unfurled.
[A] Seeking solace in each other’s [C] pain,
[G] In this married tragedy, they [D] find love again.

(Bridge)
[Em] They’re caught in the [C] rhythm, lost in the [G] song,
[D] They belong to each other, where they [Em] belong.
[C] In this dance of life, [G] they found their way,
[D] In each other’s arms, they wish to [G] stay.

(Chorus)
[A] Parallel hearts in a [C] twisted world,
[G] Their love story, tragically [D] unfurled.
[A] Seeking solace in each other’s [C] pain,
[G] In this married tragedy, they [D] find love again.

(Outro)
[G] Together they walk, under the [Em] starry night,
[C] In this married tragedy, they found their [D] light.

Favorite Fan’s Name:
Jake Thompson

Testimonial:
“I fell in love with Married Tragedy when I was going through a rough patch in my relationship. Their lyrics, especially in ‘Parallel Hearts,’ resonated with my own experiences. It was like they were singing my life story, and it gave me so much comfort. I’ve since attended several of their concerts, and every time, I’m blown away by their authenticity. Their music is raw, emotional, and incredibly relatable. Married Tragedy is more than a band to me; they are my safe harbor in the midst of life’s storms.”

Backstory:
Shrill Refugee was born out of an eclectic mix of interests and passions in the gritty heart of New York City. Childhood friends, Benny “Riff” Jacobs and Tommy “Soul” McManus, had always shared a love for music, but it wasn’t until they bumped into each other at a local open mic night, after years of lost contact, that they decided to seriously pursue their dream. They quickly recruited Benny’s younger sister, Jenna, a virtuoso on the keyboard and Tommy’s neighbor, Louie, a bassist with an unparalleled sense of rhythm. They could feel the static in the air during their first jam session, they knew they had something special. The band’s name, Shrill Refugee, was inspired by their shared feeling of being misfits in the city, constantly seeking harmony amidst the cacophony.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
‘Caught in the Rain’

Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Em C G D
I’ve been walking these city streets,
Em C G D
Underneath the neon lights, lost and incomplete.
Em C G D
Staring at my reflection in the window panes,
Em C G D
Just a shrill refugee, caught in the rain.

(Chorus)
Am Em
I’m running, I’m hiding,
C G D
In the corners of my mind.
Am Em
Searching for solace,
C G D
A safe place I can’t find.

(Verse 2)
Em C G D
Torn denim and leather, a heart filled with pain,
Em C G D
Strumming on my guitar, caught in the rain.

(Chorus)
Am Em
I’m singing, I’m screaming,
C G D
In the echoes of the night.
Am Em
Looking for redemption,
C G D
In this never-ending fight.

(Bridge)
Am C G D
In the silence, in the noise,
Am C G D
I hear the music, I hear my voice.

(Chorus)
Am Em
I’m living, I’m dying,
C G D
In this wistful refrain.
Am Em
Just a shrill refugee,
C G D
Forever caught in the rain.

Fan testimonial:
Name: Casey

Casey has been a die-hard fan of Shrill Refugee ever since he first heard their raw, emotive sound at a local bar in Brooklyn. For him, Shrill Refugee isn’t just a band, but a group of people who articulately express the highs and lows of city life that he himself experiences. He appreciates the authenticity and rawness in their lyrics and music, making him feel not alone in his struggles. “Their music is an outlet for me, it’s cathartic. It’s like they’re singing my life and it’s just comforting to know someone else gets it. They’re not just my favorite band – they’re like friends I’ve never met.”

Backstory:

Born out of the ashes of a small town garage band, Dead Sign is a story of perseverance and belief. Founding members Jason “Jax” Turner (vocals and guitar) and Rebecca “Becca” Hartman (bass) started the band in their parents’ garage in Nashville, TN. After years of playing small gigs and local music festivals, they were discovered by music producer Alex Monroe, who saw potential in their raw talent and unique sound. With the subsequent addition of drummer Noah “Storm” Kessler and keyboardist Lila “Lil” Jennings, Dead Sign was officially born. Their journey is marked by their dedication to their craft, overcoming several challenges, and their shared dream to inspire and touch people through their music.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Song Title:

“Shadows of the Past”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
Em D G
Let me tell you a story, about a time long ago,
Em D G
when the world was painted with shadows.
Em D G
We were young, we were free, and took on the world,
Em D G
But we couldn’t escape those shadows.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Shadows of the past, forever they will last,
C G D
Creeping in our hearts, tearing us apart.

(Verse)
Em D G
Through the pain, through the lies, we tried to rise,
Em D G
But the past kept pulling us back.
Em D G
In end, we realized, it’s not about the prize,
Em D G
But the journey on this winding track.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Shadows of the past, forever they will last,
C G D
Creeping in our hearts, tearing us apart.

(Bridge)
Am Em D G
We embraced the dark, found our spark,
Am Em D G
Turned our pain into our mark.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Shadows of the past, forever they will last,
C G D
Creeping in our hearts, tearing us apart.

(Outro)
Em D G
Now we stand tall, in the face of it all,
Em D G
Shadows of the past, we’re free at last.

Band’s Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is a young woman named Emily Jennings. Emily first discovered Dead Sign when she was going through a tough time in her life. She connected with their raw lyrics and powerful melodies, and their music gave her strength and hope. She has been to every one of their concerts within a 200-mile radius and has an impressive collection of their merchandise. Emily says, “Dead Sign’s music speaks to me on a level no other band can. Their songs are like a friend who understands exactly what I’m going through. They’ve helped me through some of the darkest times in my life, and for that, they’ll forever be my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Total Sofa was formed in 2008 in the bustling city of Portland, Oregon. The band was created by four college roommates, who decided to name the band after their run-down, but beloved, sofa that was the centerpiece of all their creative sessions. The sofa, in their eyes, symbolized comfort, creativity, and unity – values they wanted to carry into their music. Their shared love for music and their unique synergy led to the creation of a sound that was fresh, distinctive, and soulful.

Years later, Total Sofa has grown into a recognized name in the music industry. Its members – lead vocalist and guitarist Tim, bass guitarist Sam, drummer and percussionist Max, and keyboardist and backing vocalist Leo – have been there for every step of their journey from playing in college dorm rooms to sold-out concerts.

Genre:
Indie Pop

Song Title:
“Chasing Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em G
Underneath the city lights, we’re wandering,
C D
Chasing shadows in the heart of the night.
Em G
Lost in time, where the seconds are blurring,
C D
We’re looking for a sign, following the light.

(Chorus)
G D
Chasing shadows, we keep moving,
Em C
In the echoes, we find our calling.
G D
In the silence, we hear the rhythm,
Em C
Chasing shadows, we find our truth.

(Verse 2)
Em G
In the maze of the crowded streets,
C D
We’re searching for a memory, lost in the retreat.
Em G
In the chaos, there’s a sweet harmony,
C D
In the whispers of the wind, we find serenity.

(Chorus)
G D
Chasing shadows, we keep moving,
Em C
In the echoes, we find our calling.
G D
In the silence, we hear the rhythm,
Em C
Chasing shadows, we find our truth.

(Bridge)
Em C
In the mystery of the night, we’re growing,
G D
In the echoes of our hearts, we’re glowing.
Em C
In the shadows, we see the dawn,
G D
In the rhythm, we keep moving on.

(Chorus)
G D
Chasing shadows, we keep moving,
Em C
In the echoes, we find our calling.
G D
In the silence, we hear the rhythm,
Em C
Chasing shadows, we find our truth.

End:

G D
In the shadows, we find our truth.

Fan Testimonial:
Name: Sarah Peters

“I fell in love with Total Sofa back in 2010, and their music has been the soundtrack to my life ever since. ‘Chasing Shadows’, in particular, is so very special to me. It’s my go-to song, whether I’m happy, sad, or just in need of some inspiration. Their lyrics have depth and their melodies are catchy without being generic. Total Sofa’s music is like a warm hug – comforting and life-affirming. They aren’t just a band for me, they are my safe space.”

Backstory:
Voluminous Steel was born amidst the pulsating, smoky nightlife of Detroit, Michigan, known for its rich musical history. The band was founded in 2005 by lead vocalist and guitarist Jake Sullivan and drummer Casey Thompson, who both met while working at a local car factory. The two bonded over their shared love for rock music and soon found themselves jamming late into the night in Casey’s garage. Bassist Emma Reynolds joined them later, completing the trio. With their heavy riffs, lyrical depth, and a charismatic stage presence, Voluminous Steel gradually carved out a niche in the local music scene, gaining a cult following with their unique blend of classic rock and metal.

Genre:
Classic Rock/Heavy Metal

Title:
“Midnight Tides”

Full Song Lyrics with Chord Progression:

(Verse 1 – E minor, C Major, D Major)
Emin Cmaj
Underneath the city’s glow, where the midnight tides flow,
Dmaj Emin
We found our rhythm, in the heart of the night so cold.
Emin Cmaj
In the echo of the steel, we learned how to feel,
Dmaj Emin
With every strum, every beat, our wounds began to heal.

(Chorus – G Major, D Major, A Minor)
Gmaj Dmaj
Midnight tides, washing away our pride,
Amaj Gmaj
In the rhythm of the night, we found our stride.
Gmaj Dmaj
Our hearts beat, in sync with the city’s heat,
Amaj Gmaj
In the melody of the steel, our souls meet.

(Verse 2 – E minor, C Major, D Major)
Emin Cmaj
Through the noise and the grind, we sought and we find,
Dmaj Emin
A harmony that binds, leaving the mundane behind.
Emin Cmaj
In the rhythm of the steel, our hearts begin to unseal,
Dmaj Emin
With every note, every song, our love for music is real.

(Chorus – G Major, D Major, A Minor)
Gmaj Dmaj
Midnight tides, echoing our moonlit rides,
Amaj Gmaj
In the rhythm of the night, our spirit confides.
Gmaj Dmaj
Our hearts resonate, with the city’s fate,
Amaj Gmaj
In the melody of the steel, our dreams navigate.

Fan’s Name:
Lucas Jones

Fan Testimonial:
Voluminous Steel isn’t just a band to me, they are a part of my life. Their music resonates with me on a deeply personal level. The raw energy, the lyrical depth, and the way they pour their hearts into every performance, it’s truly inspiring. As a Detroit native, I feel a certain kinship with their music. It’s as if they’ve captured the essence of this city, with all its grit and glory, and put it into their songs. Their track “Midnight Tides” is my go-to anthem, it’s gotten me through some tough times. Voluminous Steel is more than my favorite band, they’re my lifeline.

Backstory:

Downright Railway began in the humble town of Grafton, Ohio. Childhood friends Jack Sullivan and Tom Myers spent their adolescence exploring the abandoned railway tracks near their homes, composing tunes about their dreams and aspirations. Combining their shared passion for music, they decided to form a band during their high school years. They called themselves ‘Downright Railway’, a homage to the very place that fueled their creativity. As they added band members—Lisa Daniels on bass, Jeremy Holt on keys, and Tim Phillips on drums—Downright Railway transitioned from dreamy teens to a formidable musical force, rocking local gigs and gradually gaining a reputation for their signature sound.

Their music reflects the raw energy of rock, combined with the soulful storytelling of folk, resulting in a unique blend that captures the hearts of their listeners. Their rise to fame was as unorthodox as their music; instead of viral internet hits, they gained popularity through old-fashioned word of mouth, playing in small clubs and venues, thriving on live performances and the connection they established with their audience.

Genre:
Rock Folk

Title:
“Echoes of the Rails”

Full song lyrics:

Verse 1: [G] [D] [C] [D]
[G] Down the forgotten tracks, through the [D] rusted steel and ties,
[C] We found our voices and dreams, under the [D] Ohio skies.
[G] Walking on the railroad, singing our [D] songs so true,
[C] The Downright Railway born, from the ashes we [D] grew.

Chorus: [C] [D] [G] [Em]
[C] Echoes of the rails, [D] carry our refrain,
[G] Along the endless tracks, [Em] singing through the pain.
[C] In the rhythm of the wheels, [D] in the whistle’s wail,
[G] We found our music, [Em] in the echoes of the [D] rails.

Verse 2: [G] [D] [C] [D]
[G] From the small town clubs, to the [D] big city lights,
[C] We held on to our roots, as we reached [D] new heights.
[G] Never forgetting where we came from, [D] our humble beginnings,
[C] This is our story, it’s just the [D] start of our winnings.

Chorus: [C] [D] [G] [Em]
[C] Echoes of the rails, [D] shaping our tale,
[G] Resounding through the valleys, [Em] across the wide dale.
[C] In the rhythm of the wheels, [D] in the whistle’s wail,
[G] We found our music, [Em] in the echoes of the [D] rails.

Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is Sarah Johnson. Sarah recounts her love for the band, stating, “I discovered Downright Railway during a difficult time in my life. Their music resonated with me on a profound level. The raw emotion in their lyrics, the depth in their melodies, and the dedication they show to their fans is unparalleled. ‘Echoes of the Rails’ became my anthem, a song that encapsulated my struggles and hopes. Downright Railway’s music is more than just tunes; it’s a vibrant storytelling tapestry that speaks of real experiences. It’s the voice of the everyday man, the dreamer, the survivor. This band is my favorite because their music has been my constant companion and inspiration.”

Backstory:

Ready Punishment was conceptualized in the grimy, sweat-laden basements of the Boston suburbs in the year 2005. The band is comprised of four childhood friends – frontman Kyle “K.O.” Owens, guitarist Danny “The Riff” Reynolds, bassist Luke “Smooth” St. Clair, and drummer Asher “The Beat” Bryson. All hailing from different musical backgrounds, from punk rock to jazz, they found a common bond in their love for music’s undeniable power to express raw emotions and the human condition. They started jamming after school, with sessions often lasting late into the night. Their shared experiences, camaraderie, and passion for creating music that speaks to their generation’s struggles and triumphs eventually led to the birth of Ready Punishment.

Genre:
Alternative Rock / Punk Rock

Title:
“Plight of The Rebellious Youth”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Intro]
(Am – C – G – D)

[Verse 1]
(Am) Wasting days in this (C) concrete cage
(G) Dreaming of a (D) world beyond the stage
(Am) Our hearts are (C) young, our spirits (G) rage
(D) Ready for the punishment, we engage

[Chorus]
(G) We are the (D) plight of the (Am) rebellious youth
(C) Chasing dreams, in (G) pursuit of the (D) truth
(Am) Our voices (C) loud, our spirit (G) uncouth
(D) Ready for the fight, we’re bulletproof

[Verse 2]
(Am) Scars we bear, (C) badges of honor
(G) In the face of (D) adversity, we’re stronger
(Am) In this life, we (C) wander and (G) ponder
(D) Ready punishment, we no longer squander

[Repeat Chorus]

[Outro]
(Am) We are the (C) voice, we are the (G) youth
(D) Ready for the punishment, we speak the truth

Fan’s Testimonial:

My name is Lydia, and I am the biggest fan of Ready Punishment. Their music is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a lifeline for people like me who are navigating the turbulence of youth. Their lyrics are raw and real, capturing the essence of our generation’s struggles, dreams, and defiance. Their energy is infectious and their authenticity is commendable. Every concert is an unforgettable experience. Their music has given me a sense of belonging and has helped me embrace my individuality. They aren’t just my favorite band; they are the anthem of my youth.

Backstory:

Supportive Brick was formed in the sunny coastal town of Santa Cruz, California, in 2004. The band’s founding members, brothers Jake and Luke Harrington, have always held a shared love for music and decided to take their basement jam sessions to the next level. The Harrington brothers’ unique flavor of music quickly caught the attention of their high school friends, Dave Peterson and Rachael Summers, who joined the band as the drummer and bass guitarist, respectively. Supportive Brick solidified their lineup with the addition of keyboardist Alex “Keys” Johnson in 2006, and they would go on to play local gigs and small venues, earning a reputation for their energetic performances and unique sound.

The band’s name, Supportive Brick, was inspired by their initial struggle to gain recognition. They viewed themselves as a single brick, working to support and uplift each other during those tough times. Despite their humble beginning, Supportive Brick has managed to carve out a niche in the music industry with their eclectic and engaging sound, gathering a dedicated fanbase from all around the globe.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Sunset Silhouette”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am F
Underneath the orange sky, where shadows grow,
C G
We share secrets that only we two know.
Am F
You’re my sunset silhouette, a perfect view,
C G
Our hearts entwined, like the chords we strum, so true.

(Chorus)
F C
Sunset Silhouette, in this moment we’re alive,
G Am
In your arms, it feels so right, feels like I can fly.
F C
Sunset Silhouette, under the fading light,
G Am
Our love song echoes, in the whispers of the night.

(Verse 2)
Am F
Two hearts beating, like a rhythmic tide,
C G
In this moment, there’s no need to hide.
Am F
You’re my sunset silhouette, as day turns to night,
C G
With each strum, our love takes flight.

(Repeat Chorus)

(Bridge)
Dm E
In the hush of twilight, under the starry quilt,
F G
Our love story unfolds, on the notes we’ve built.

(Repeat Chorus)

Fan’s Name: Emily Harrison

Testimonial:

“There’s no band out there quite like Supportive Brick. Their music is soulful, honest, and deeply moving. The song ‘Sunset Silhouette’ speaks volumes to me, it’s like they’ve turned my own feelings into a beautiful melody. It’s the song I turn to when I’m feeling down, and it never fails to lift my spirits. Supportive Brick is not just a band to me; they’re like my supportive bricks, helping me navigate through life with their music.”

Backstory:
Enlightened Jean was born out of the creative minds of its founding members, songwriter and lead vocalist Jean Patterson and guitarist-mastermind Alex “Light” Wiseman. The duo met at a local open mic night in their hometown of Austin, Texas. Jean, who had spent years singing soulful tunes at local cafes, was captivated by Light’s innovative guitar riffs. They quickly found common ground in their shared love for soulful, thought-provoking music and decided to form a band that would reflect their creative synergy.

Enlightened Jean’s debut album took the local music scene by storm and garnered attention from prominent industry figures. Their unique sound, a blend of folk, indie, and neo-soul, struck a chord with audiences craving something new and emotionally resonant. The band expanded over the years, adding drummer Mia Lewis and bassist Jake Sanchez, but Jean and Light’s original vision continues to drive the band’s musical journey.

Genre:
Indie-Folk/Neo-Soul

Title:
“Hidden Sun”

Full song lyrics with chord progression:

(Verse 1)
[G] In the heart of the city, under [D] the neon glow
[C] I found peace in the chaos, a [G] rhythm in the undertow
[G] I walked the streets at midnight, [D] shedding my false skin
[C] I was lost within the shadows, then [G] I learned to look within

(Chorus)
[D] Hidden Sun, [C] won’t you shine for me?
[G] Light the path to my [D] destiny
[D] Hidden Sun, [C] in the depths of night
[G] I found my truth in your [D] gentle light

(Verse 2)
[G] Dancing on the edge of dreams, [D] where reality unfolds
[C] I saw the world in colors, [G] in stories yet untold
[G] I touched the sky with bare hands, [D] I tasted the salty sea
[C] I was running from my past, then [G] I learned to just be free

(Chorus)
[D] Hidden Sun, [C] won’t you shine for me?
[G] Light the path to my [D] destiny
[D] Hidden Sun, [C] in the depths of night
[G] I found my truth in your [D] gentle light

(Outro)
[G] In the silence of the city, [D] under the moon’s soft glow
[C] I found myself in the melody, [G] in the rhythm of the ebb and flow.

The band’s favorite fan’s name and why and how this band is their favorite:

Testimonial – “My name is Lily Thompson and Enlightened Jean is my favorite band. Their music is like therapy to me; it resonates with my soul. Songs like ‘Hidden Sun’ not only have beautiful melodies, but also deliver powerful, relatable messages. Jean’s voice is captivating, and the rawness in her lyrics reflects real life experiences which hit home every time. The band’s ability to blend different genres keeps their music fresh and unpredictable. I’ve been to every one of their concerts within a 200-mile radius of my home. I feel a personal connection to their music, and can’t wait to see where their journey takes them next.”