Backstory:
Limp Merit originated from the humid, sultry city of New Orleans, bringing a unique music style that combines rock and blues with a dash of funk. The band was born in the back room of a dimly lit bar on Bourbon Street in 2005. Four friends; Axel, on vocals and guitar, joined by Max on the drums, Warren on the bass and Eli on the keyboard, were just regulars who loved jamming together after their shifts ended. They would play for the remaining patrons who became their first fans, and from this casual jamming, Limp Merit was formed. They gained a local following before catching the eye of a record label executive. The band has since released four albums and has toured across the country, bringing their unique sound to the masses and maintaining their down-to-earth roots.

Genre:
Blues Rock

Title:
“Sailing through the Storm”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[A] Sailing through the storm, [D] ain’t got no guiding light
[G] Lost in the darkness, [A] fighting the fright
[D] Got my old guitar, [A] got my broken heart
[E] Strumming to the beat, [A] tearing me apart

(Chorus)
[D] Sailing through the storm, [A] with the winds so wild
[E] Playing my blues, [A] like a lost child
[D] Hoping for dawn, [A] waiting for the morn
[E] With my guitar in hand, [A] sailing through the storm

(Verse 2)
[D] Broken dreams scattered, [A] on the barren shore
[G] Tears in the ocean, [A] don’t matter anymore
[D] Walking the lonely path, [A] under the midnight sky
[E] With every chord I strike, [A] I learn to fly

(Chorus)
[D] Sailing through the storm, [A] with the winds so wild
[E] Singing my sorrows, [A] like a wounded child
[D] Waiting for the sun, [A] after the darkest night
[E] In my heart I know, [A] I’ll be alright

Fan’s Name:
Rebecca Simons

Testimonial:
“Limp Merit is my all-time favorite because of their raw, emotive lyrics and soulful melodies. I first saw them at a small bar in New Orleans and was instantly hooked. Their song, ‘Sailing through the Storm,’ feels like a personal anthem to me, it’s helped me through some really tough times. The band has a way of connecting with their audience; it’s more than music, it’s a shared experience. And, they’re always humble and down-to-earth, never forgetting their roots, and it shows in their music. They’re a real gem in the world of blues rock.”

Backstory:
Forthright Dance is a collective of four childhood friends who grew up in the bustling city of Chicago. The band members include lead vocalist Haley Jones, guitarist Peter Rodriguez, bassist Zack Meyer, and drummer Sam Taylor. They discovered their shared love for music in high school, where they would often jam together in Peter’s garage, creating tunes that reflected their thoughts and experiences. After school, they decided to turn their passion into a full-fledged career, forming Forthright Dance. They have been making music together for over a decade now, capturing the hearts of many with their soulful lyrics and captivating performances.

Genre:
Forthright Dance is predominantly an Indie Folk band, with their music characterized by meaningful lyrics and a unique blend of acoustic guitar melodies and powerful drum beats.

Title:
One of their most popular songs is called “Swaying Shadows.”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G]Moonlight breaking through the [C]night,
[D]Painting shadows on the [Em]walls.
[G]We’re dancing to the rhythm of the [C]night,
[D]In a world where time just [Em]stalls.

(Chorus)
[C]Swaying shadows, hearts on [G]fire,
[D]Captured moments, unspoken [Em]desire.
[C]Together we move in this [G]graceful dance,
[D]In the heart of the night, we take our [Em]chance.

(Verse 2)
[G]Underneath the starry [C]sky,
[D]Our silence speaks volumes in the [Em]night.
[G]Your smile, a beacon in the [C]night,
[D]In your arms, everything feels [Em]right.

(Chorus)
[C]Swaying shadows, bodies in [G]harmony,
[D]Lost in rhythm, setting our souls [Em]free.
[C]In this dance, we find our [G]romance,
[D]Underneath the moonlight, in a lover’s [Em]stance.

The band’s favorite fan’s name:

Jane Foster, a writer from New York, is their favorite fan. Jane has been following their journey since their garage jamming days. She is known for always occupying the front row at their concerts, singing along to every song, and promoting their music on various platforms.

Testimonial:

“Forthright Dance is more than just a band to me. They are a group of artists who pour their heart and soul into their music. Their songs have helped me navigate through some of the toughest times in my life. ‘Swaying Shadows’ in particular has a special place in my heart. The lyrics remind me of a time when I found solace in dancing, even amidst the chaos of life. The band’s authentic storytelling, combined with their musical prowess, is an inspiration. They have a way of making you feel seen and heard, and for that, I’ll always be a loyal fan.”

Backstory:

Minty Plot was born in the vibrant, eclectic heart of Los Angeles, California. The band’s origin was as spontaneous as their sound. It was the product of chance, where four individuals, each with their distinct musical interests, met at an open mic night at a small independent café. They were Ellie Kinsley, a folk singer-songwriter; Joey Montenegro, a jazz drummer; Adam LeBlanc, a blues guitarist; and Nathan Martens, a punk bassist. Their diverse backgrounds converged, sparking an unexpected fusion that gave birth to Minty Plot.

Their journey began in 2017, starting with small gigs in coffee shops and local bars. Gradually, their audience grew, and their name began to echo through the LA music scene. Their unique sound – a blend of folk, jazz, blues, and punk – resonated with listeners, creating a loyal fanbase that continues to grow. The band’s commitment is to continue pushing boundaries, creating music that embarks listeners on a unique, sonic journey.

Genre:
Fusion (Folk, Jazz, Blues, Punk)

Title:
“Salty Sweet Symphony”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
G Em
Salty waves, sweet summer nights,
C D
we danced in the moonlight, in our own delight.
G Em
Strumming the strings, lost in your eyes,
C D
the city was our playground, under the starry skies.

(Chorus)
G Em
Oh, the salty sweet symphony of our lives,
C D
keeps playing on, through all the highs and dives.
G Em
Your laughter, my dreams, our shared memories,
C D
are the tunes of our existence, the sweetest melodies.

(Verse 2)
G Em
As the sun dips, the music starts to play,
C D
we are the band in the spotlight, owning the day.
G Em
In the rhythm of the heartbeats, in the pulse of the night,
C D
we find our harmony, in the haze of the neon light.

(Chorus)
G Em
Oh, the salty sweet symphony of our lives,
C D
keeps playing on, through the twists and the dives.
G Em
Your laughter, my dreams, our shared stories,
C D
are the rhythm of our journey, the sweetest allegories.

(Outro)
G Em
In the salty sweet symphony, we found our plot,
C D
with the music, the memories, every moment we’ve got.
G Em
Here’s to the melody, our minty plot,
C D
To the love, to the life, to the time that we’ve bought.

Favorite Fan:

Our most dedicated fan is definitely Mia Campbell. Mia has been with us since our very first gig in that tiny coffee shop in LA. She has attended every single Minty Plot concert and even organized several fan meetups. Here’s what Mia has to say about why Minty Plot is her favorite band:

“Minty Plot isn’t just a band; it’s a story of unity in diversity. Their music is the perfect blend of different genres, coming together to create a single harmonious sound. This band is my favorite because they make music that touches the soul. Every song they write is a journey, and I’m on board for every mile, every note, and every lyric. Their commitment to pushing boundaries and creating a unique musical experience is truly inspiring. Minty Plot knows how to reel you in and keep you coming back for more.”

Backstory:
Born amidst the heat and vibrant colors of Miami, the members of Slushy Palm found each other in the most unexpected of circumstances. Lead vocalist and guitarist, Eddie, was a bartender at a local beach shack; drummer, Max, a surfing instructor; bassist, Jay, a street graffiti artist; and pianist, Bella, an amateur nature photographer. Their paths crossed at a local music festival, where an unexpected power outage prompted them to provide impromptu entertainment. The crowd’s overwhelming response sparked a connection that transcended their diverse backgrounds. The following weeks saw the quartet jamming together at Eddie’s beach shack, their music echoing off the palm trees, filling the air with a vibe that was uniquely their own. That summer, Slushy Palm was born.

Genre:
Indie Pop-Reggae Fusion

Title:
“Sunset Sway”

Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
C G Am F
Beneath a sky of painted colors, the day begins to fade,
C G Am F
We’re dancing to the rhythm, of the waves that serenade.
C G Am F
Our hearts are beating faster, as the stars begin to play,
C G Am F
And in this moment, we’re just lost, in the sunset sway.

(Chorus)
C G Am F
Oh, we sway, as the sun dips low,
C G Am F
In the dance of the twilight, where the palm trees grow.
C G Am F
With the sand beneath our feet, and the sea’s soft spray,
C G Am F
We’re feeling alive, in the sunset sway.

(Verse 2)
C G Am F
The night’s descending gently, but our spirits are ablaze,
C G Am F
With the laughter and the music, in the slushy palm haze.
C G Am F
The moonlight’s our spotlight, as the world slips away,
C G Am F
And we’re free, just you and me, in the sunset sway.

(Chorus)
C G Am F
Oh, we sway, as the stars burn bright,
C G Am F
In the dance of the night, beneath the soft moonlight.
C G Am F
With the whispers of the sea, and the palm leaves’ play,
C G Am F
We’re feeling alive, in the sunset sway.

Fan Testimonial:
Slushy Palm’s favorite fan is an elementary school teacher named Lisa who has followed their journey from day one. She describes the band as her favorite because their music brings her peace after long, hectic days at work. “There’s something about Slushy Palm’s music that just resonates with me,” Lisa says. “It’s like a cool breeze on a hot day or a sweet melody that can instantly lift my spirits. Their song ‘Sunset Sway’ is my all-time favorite. I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve danced to it in my living room, just letting the music wash over me. The band’s unique fusion of Indie Pop and Reggae, the raw energy, the positive vibes, it’s all just infectious. They’ve made their mark on the music scene, and I can’t wait to see where their journey takes them next.”

Backstory:
Glistening Walk originated from a quaint, small town in the southeastern part of Ireland, known for its rich musical heritage. The band was formed in 2011 during a local talent competition, where four music-loving friends – Owen, Kaylee, Brian, and Leo – decided to combine their unique talents. They had an innate chemistry and harmony that resonated with the crowd, leading them to win the competition and gain local recognition. Inspired by the positive feedback, they decided to pursue music professionally and hence, Glistening Walk was born.

Their journey was filled with many peaks and valleys – from performing at small gigs and pubs to getting their big break at a renowned music festival. They continued to captivate audiences worldwide with their soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics, turning their small town dreams into a global reality.

Genre:
Their music can be best described as Indie Folk with a unique blend of Celtic influence.

Title:
“Whiskey Lullaby”

Full Song Lyrics:
Verse 1:
[G]Sitting by the old oak tree, [C]in the heart of the town,
[Em]Whiskey in my hollow hand, [D]as the sun goes down.
[G]Memories they flood my mind, [C]of a love so divine,
[Em]Dancing in the moonlight, [D]lost in her eyes so fine.

Chorus:
[G]Sing me a whiskey lullaby, [C]with a melody so sweet,
[Em]Underneath the starry sky, [D]where our hearts would meet.
[G]Whisper words of love and pain, [C]in the cool midnight air,
[Em]Hold me close once again, [D]in your tender loving care.

Verse 2:
[G]Walking through the cobblestone streets, [C]in the soft glowing light,
[Em]Your laughter ringing in my ears, [D]on that fateful night.
[G]Love was young, and hearts were brave, [C]in the days of old,
[Em]Now all that remains, [D]are stories to be told.

(Repeat Chorus)

Favorite Fan:
Our favorite fan’s name is Fiona. She discovered Glistening Walk during a challenging time in her life. The band’s music became her solace, helping her navigate through the complexities of life. She says, “Glistening Walk is my favorite because their music speaks to my soul. Each song feels like a friend comforting me, their lyrics are real and raw, echoing my thoughts and feelings. It’s more than just music to me, it’s a lifeline. Their song “Whiskey Lullaby” in particular, holds a special place in my heart. It’s the perfect blend of nostalgia and melancholy, bringing a sense of solace and familiarity. I cannot imagine a day without their music.”

Backstory:
Live Sort was born in the vibrant, creative community of Brooklyn, New York. Consisting of four friends who first met at a local art collective, their bond was forged through countless jam sessions amidst the wafting aroma of paint and turpentine. Each member brought a unique flair to the band: James, the charismatic vocalist with a love for spoken word poetry; Tommy, the guitarist with a knack for intricate riffs; Sam, the bassist who grounded the entire group with his steady beats; and finally, Lucy, a classical pianist who infused their music with unexpected, haunting melodies.

Early on, Live Sort made a name for themselves through impromptu performances at local bars and art shows. Their raw energy and fusion of styles caught the attention of a small, indie record label, leading them to produce their first studio album. Despite their growing fame, they’ve remained true to their roots – their music often featuring narratives about their beloved art community.

Genre:
Alternative Rock with a touch of Spoken Word Poetry

Title:
“Canvas of the Night”

Full Song Lyrics:
[Verse 1]
Em D
Strokes of moonlight, paint the cityscape,
C G
A canvas for our dreams to take shape.
Em D
Dreamers lost in echoes of the night,
C G
With every beat, we’re stepping into the light.

[Chorus]
Am C G D
We’re the artists, we’re the poets,
Am C D
In the canvas of the night.
Am C G D
Through our songs, we’re gonna show it,
Am C D
In the canvas of the night.

[Verse 2]
Em D
Through the lens of our guitar strings,
C G
Life is more than what it seems.
Em D
We’re the heartbeat of this city’s soul,
C G
In our melodies, we make it whole.

[Chorus]
Am C G D
We’re the artists, we’re the poets,
Am C D
In the canvas of the night.
Am C G D
Through our songs, we’re gonna show it,
Am C D
In the canvas of the night.

[Outro]
Em D C G
In the canvas of the night,
Em D C G
We’ll stand, we’ll fight,
Em D C G
With our music, we unite,
Em D C G
In the canvas of the night.

Favorite Fan’s Name and Testimonial:
Name: Alex Henderson

Testimonial: “The first time I heard Live Sort, I was in this dimly lit bar in Brooklyn. The energy was palpable, and their music was like nothing I’d ever heard before. They’ve got this unique blend of poetry and rock that’s just raw and authentic. I’ve been to every one of their gigs since that day. For me, they’re not just a band; they’re a statement, a voice for our community. Their song ‘Canvas of the Night’ is my anthem. It’s about us – the city’s artists, dreamers, lovers of the night. And, it’s beautiful. Live Sort isn’t just my favorite band; they’re a part of who I am.”

Backstory:
Authorized Order was started in 2013 by four high school friends from the small town of Aintry, Vermont. The members, Jack Thompson (lead vocalist), Mark Peterson (guitarist), Sam Williams (drummer), and Andy Mitchell (bass guitarist), shared a mutual love for music and a desire to create something unique. They started out playing at local bars and small gigs but gained significant recognition for their unique sound and powerful lyrics. Despite the struggles of the music industry, the band managed to stay together, constantly evolving and perfecting their style.

Genre:
The band’s music genre can be classified as a fusion of alternative rock and blues.

Title:
“One Last Stand”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em Am
In the stillness of the night
D G
Waiting for the morning light
Em Am
The shadows whisper secrets,
D G
Untold stories of our fights

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Here we are, ready for one last stand
C G D Em
Against the tides, we fight, hand in hand

(Verse 2)
Em Am
In the echoes of the past
D G
Our voices, loud and vast
Em Am
With courage in our hearts
D G
We’re breaking free, at last

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Here we are, ready for one last stand
C G D Em
Against the tides, we fight, hand in hand

(Outro)
C G D Em
With hope, we rise, together we stand
C G D Em
In this moment, under the stars, it’s our wonderland

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Emily Thompson. Emily, a school teacher from Aintry, has been following Authorized Order since they began playing at the local bar. Her testimonial reads, “Authorized Order’s music resonates with me on a personal level. The lyrics are deep, and the melody is soothing. I feel like they understand my struggles and joys and have beautifully encapsulated them in their songs. Their music has been a constant companion through my highs and lows. They’ve carved out a special place in my heart with their authenticity and dedication. I’ve watched them grow and evolve, and I couldn’t be prouder. To me, they’re not just a band; they’re my friends, my inspiration, and my support system.”

Backstory:
Born under the shimmering lights of the Las Vegas strip, ‘Glittering Ornament’ was destined for the sparkle from the start. The initial concept of the band was sparked by the glamorous and flamboyant lead singer, Vince ‘Vegas’ Valentin, a seasoned performer who spent his early years as an Elvis impersonator. Realizing he wanted more than just the king’s hand-me-downs, Vince put out an ad for bandmates who shared his vision for a sound as dazzling as the Vegas nightlife. Answering the call were sassy keyboardist, Lavender ‘Luxe’ Larkin, badass drummer, Rico ‘Rhythm’ Reyes, and suave bassist, Sterling ‘Strings’ Sorenson.

These four eclectic talents found a harmonious mix of their varied backgrounds to create a sound that was both nostalgic and fresh. Refusing to be categorized, they began making music that was as varied and vibrant as a box of Crayola crayons. From their impromptu jam sessions in a glitzy motel room emerged Glittering Ornament – a vibrant nod to the bedazzled city they call home.

Genre: Glam Rock

Title: ‘Vegas Velvet Nights’

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1 Em G D A]
Beneath the neon lights, in Vegas velvet nights,
We danced away our dreams, in sequin-clad delight.
Glitter dusted skies, mirrored in your eyes,
In this city of sin, we found our paradise.

[Pre-Chorus Bm G D A]
We’re kings and queens of the casino scene,
Spinning stories on roulette wheels unseen.

[Chorus Em G D A]
Let’s toast the night, under the marquee light,
In Vegas velvet nights, we’ll set the world alight.
Guilty pleasures, forbidden treasures,
In Vegas velvet nights, we find our measures.

[Verse 2 Em G D A]
Lost in poker faces, in these timeless spaces,
We trade our reality, for these gilded graces.
Diamonds in the rough, in this town that’s tough,
We find our truth, in the bluff.

[Pre-Chorus Bm G D A]
We’re fools for the jackpot’s gleam,
Selling dreams in this desert theme.

[Chorus Em G D A]
Let’s toast the night, under the marquee light,
In Vegas velvet nights, we’ll set the world alight.
Guilty pleasures, forbidden treasures,
In Vegas velvet nights, we find our measures.

[Bridge Bm G D A]
In the city that never sleeps, we’re in too deep,
Selling secrets we’re meant to keep,
In the city of neon dreams, nothing’s as it seems,
We’re just players in the game, we’re just names.

[Chorus Em G D A]
Let’s toast the night, under the marquee light,
In Vegas velvet nights, we’ll set the world alight.
Guilty pleasures, forbidden treasures,
In Vegas velvet nights, we find our measures.

[Fadeout Em G D A]
In Vegas velvet nights, under the starry lights,
We gamble with our hearts, and bet on neon sights.

Favorite Fan:
Their favorite fan is Lisa ‘Lucky’ Lightfoot, a cocktail waitress from one of the Vegas casinos. Lisa recalls, “I heard them first during one of my late-night shifts. The way their music reverberated through the casino, it was like an enchanting siren’s call. I was captivated by their energy, their lyrics, their glamour. They represent everything I love about Vegas – the sparkle, the mystery, the thrill. They’ve become the soundtrack of my life. I’ve been to every single one of their gigs since then. Glittering Ornament is not just a band, they’re a Vegas experience.”

Backstory:
Rotating Stimulus was formed in the vibrant streets of Austin, Texas. The band features four members: Lead vocalist and guitarist Richard “Rich” Marcus, keyboardist and backing vocalist Natalie “Nat” Jensen, bass guitarist Joshua “Josh” White, and drummer Jeremy “Jem” Turner. They all met while attending the University of Texas, drawn together by their shared love for music and their passion for creating something new and unique.

Their band’s unique name ‘Rotating Stimulus’ is a representation of their shared belief in ever-changing musical influences, keeping their sound fresh and experimental. Their humble start was marked by playing at local festivals and bars, then gradually gaining recognition in the local music scene. Their hard work and sheer musical talent lead them to sign a record deal with a major label.

Genre:
Alternative Rock/Electronic

Title:
“Vortex of Echoes”

Full song lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G] Lost in the rhythm, the [D] melody’s sway,
[Em] Echoes of past, light [C] the way.
[G] Shadows dancing, in [D] the dead of night,
[Em] In the vortex of echoes, [C] we ignite.

(Chorus)
[G] Spinning round in a [D] world unseen,
[Em] In the rhythm, we’re [C] lost in a dream.
[G] In the vortex of echoes, [D] we’re undone,
[Em] In the music, we [C] become one.

(Verse 2)
[G] Sounds are swirling, [D] in the neon glow,
[Em] Pulse is racing, [C] don’t let go.
[G] Transfixed in the [D] haunting sound,
[Em] In the vortex of echoes, [C] we are found.

(Chorus)
[G] Spinning round in a [D] world unseen,
[Em] In the rhythm, we’re [C] lost in a dream.
[G] In the vortex of echoes, [D] we’re undone,
[Em] In the music, we [C] become one.

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

Testimonial:
“Rotating Stimulus is more than just my favorite band – they’re my inspiration. Their unique fusion of alternative rock and electronic music offers a refreshing take that has redefined the genre for me. Every song is a new journey, and ‘Vortex of Echoes’ in particular, resonates deeply with my soul. It’s a beautiful amalgamation of haunting melodies and poignant lyrics that leaves me awestruck every time I hear it. They’re true musicians and their passion for their craft is evident in every song they produce. Long live Rotating Stimulus!”

Backstory:

Smoggy Film was born in the back alleys of industrial Manchester, England, in the early 2000s. The sounds of the city’s gritty, grimy reality were a constant background score to the lives of the four members – Jake Cross, Sam Reynolds, Billy Smith, and Neil Thompson. Drowning in the city’s melancholy, their shared love for music led them to create a distinct sound that echoed both their collective despair and their hope for a better future. The band was named after the never-ending smog that enveloped their city, which they felt was like a film separating them from the rest of the world.

The band, once merely a form of escape, soon started playing small gigs in local pubs and basement raves. Their honest lyrics and raw sound connected with the crowd on a deep level. They provided a voice to the unheard, deepening their determination to reach out to more people with their music. By 2008, their popularity had risen significantly and they started touring across the UK, and by 2010, they broke the international music scene.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Song Title:
“Faded Stripes”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse:
[A] Waking up to the [G] sound of rain,
[D] Smoggy city’s [A] crying again.
[F] In this alley of [D] faded stripes,
[A] Finding solace in [E] neon lights.

Chorus:
[A] Singing for the [G] lost, and the [D] unloved,
[D] Echoing the [A] tales of the [E] unheard.
[A] Through the smoggy [G] film, we [D] rise,
[A] Under the [E] starless, [A] urban skies.

Verse:
[A] The rusty chains and [G] broken dreams,
[D] Are louder than the [A] deafening screams.
[F] We paint our hopes on [D] weathered walls,
[A] Wait for the day the [E] curtain falls.

Chorus:
[A] Singing for the [G] broken, the [D] unseen,
[D] Breathing life into [A] this city’s [E] routine.
[A] Through the smoggy [G] film, we [D] fight,
[A] For our [E] right to [A] daylight.

Bridge:
[G] Smoggy film may [D] cloud our view,
[A] But our spirit, [E] it can’t subdue.
[G] We’re more than the [D] stories they told,
[A] We’re silver linings in [E] skies of cold.

Chorus:
[A] Singing for the [G] unheard, the [D] unsaid,
[D] We are the living, [A] not the [E] dead.
[A] Through the smoggy [G] film, we [D] strive,
[A] To keep our [E] dreams [A] alive.

Favorite Fan Testimonial:
Name: Lucy Roberts

“Smoggy Film is not just a band for me, it’s a lifeline. In their music, I find my own struggles reflected. They sing for people like me, the unseen, the unheard. They’ve given me a voice and a sense of belonging. I remember hearing ‘Faded Stripes’ for the first time. It was like they had put my life into words and music. Their raw emotions, the power in their performance, it resonates with me on a deeply personal level. That’s why they’re my favorite band and always will be.”