Backstory:
Hailing from the sun-drenched beaches of San Diego, California, Damaged Course first formed in the summer of 2010. The band began as a group of friends who met at a local music festival. They discovered that each shared a deep passion for music and a yearning to create something unique. They decided to form a band, pooling their varying influences and talents to create a sound as diverse as the city they call home. The band consists of lead vocalist and drummer Jake Sullivan, guitarist and backing vocalist Kyle Henderson, bassist Ryan Mitchell, and keyboardist Sarah Evans. Over the years, Damaged Course has developed a sizable fan base, thanks to their energetic live performances and honest, lyrically-driven songs.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Shattered Reflection”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em G
Walking down the empty streets,
D A
Shadows dancing beneath my feet.
Em G
In the mirror of my past,
D A
A shattered reflection at last.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
We’re a damaged course, you and I,
C G D
Chasing dreams beneath the sky.
C G D Em
No direction home, no map to guide,
C G D
Just the stars to ignite our ride.

(Verse 2)
Em G
In the silence of the night,
D A
We found courage, we found light.
Em G
With broken hearts, we began,
D A
To trace the lines in our hands.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
We’re a damaged course, hearts aflame,
C G D
In this crazy, beautiful game.
C G D Em
With every twist, every turn,
C G D
It’s a road from which we learn.

Fan Testimonial:
Fan’s Name: Ashley Thompson
Ashley, a graphic designer from Los Angeles, has been following Damaged Course since their early days. “Their music speaks to me on a deeply personal level,” Ashley shares. “I’ve been through some rough patches in my life, and their songs have been like a beacon, helping me navigate through the darkest times. ‘Shattered Reflection’ is my personal anthem. It’s raw and real, just like life. Damaged Course isn’t just my favorite band – they’re a lifeline, a source of inspiration, a continuous reminder that even in brokenness, there’s beauty.”

Backstory:

Acclaimed Building is a group that was formed in the bustling city of New York in 2012. The band members, lead vocalist Jason “Jazzy” Bains, guitarist Sam “Strings” Hart, bassist Noah “Bass Master” Flynn and drummer Rob “Rhythm” Jones, all met in architecture school. After numerous late-night study sessions and a shared passion for music, they decided to start a band that harmoniously merged their love for music and architecture. Acclaimed Building was born in the dormitory of their college, and their unique sound quickly gained traction among their peers, eventually reaching beyond the confines of their college campus.

Instead of pursuing their intended careers in architecture, the quartet decided to build something different: a musical journey. They started playing in small gigs, underground clubs, and even subway stations, which attracted a diverse audience. Their persistence and unique sound soon landed them a recording contract, and they’ve been crafting musical structures ever since.

Genre:
Alternative Rock.

Title:
“Blueprints of My Heart”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Laying down the foundation, [Am]
[C] brick by brick, stone by stone, [D]
[G] Drawing lines of our love, [Am]
[C] in the blueprints of my heart, you’ve known. [D]

(Chorus)
[G] You are the architect [D]
[Em] of my love, [C]
[G] Building high and strong, [D]
[Am] in the skyline of my heart, you belong. [D]

(Verse 2)
[G] Through the corridors of my dreams, [Am]
[C] you walk gently, casting a glow, [D]
[G] In the atrium of my soul, [Am]
[C] your love, the only thing I know. [D]

(Chorus)
[G] You are the architect, [D]
[Em] carving our initials in stone, [C]
[G] In the structure of my life, [D]
[Am] with you, I have grown. [D]

(Refrain)
[G] Our love is like an acclaimed building, [Am]
[C] strong, proud, and unyielding. [D]

Fan’s Name & Testimonial:

Fan’s Name: Emily Jones

Testimony: “Acclaimed Building has been my favorite band since their early college gigs. The way they seamlessly blend architecture and music is just genius! It feels like they’re not just creating songs, but rather, they’re constructing soulful, musical edifices that stand tall in my heart. ‘Blueprints of My Heart’ is my absolute favorite, and I listen to it every day. It’s like they’ve drawn the plans of my emotions and built an everlasting imprint there. I can’t wait to see what they construct next!”

Backstory: Unnatural Thunder is a band that was formed in 2015 in the heart of Seattle’s grunge scene. Its founding members, Jason “Striker” Johnson (vocals and rhythm guitar) and Daniel “Storm” McPherson (lead guitar), met at a local open mic night and instantly connected over their shared love of hard-edged rock with a touch of melancholy. Joined by drummer Alex “Thunder” Rodriguez and bassist Sara “Lightning” Thompson, they began creating a unique sound that’s both familiar and refreshing.

Genre: Unnatural Thunder’s music can best be described as modern grunge, drawing on the influences of their Seattle forebears while infusing their tunes with a raw energy of their own. Their music, characterized by heavily distorted guitars, contrasting song dynamics, and introspective lyrics, has struck a chord with a new generation of rock lovers yearning for something real and powerful.

Title: One of Unnatural Thunder’s stand-out songs is “Eye of the Hurricane”.

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em G D A
Caught in the eye of the hurricane,
Em G A D
Lost amidst the pouring rain,
Em G D A
I search for truth, I fight the pain,
Em G A D
In the eye of the hurricane.

(Chorus)
Em G D A
I stand strong, in the face of the storm,
Em G A D
I won’t back down, I’ll break the norm,
Em G D A
Pushing forward, I’ll transform,
Em G A D
In the eye of the hurricane, I’m reborn.

(Verse 2)
Em G D A
The thunder roars, the lightning strikes,
Em G A D
The world around me, it ignites,
Em G D A
Through the chaos, I ignite,
Em G A D
In the eye of the hurricane, I’ll take flight.

(Chorus)
Em G D A
I stand strong, in the face of the storm,
Em G A D
I won’t back down, I’ll break the norm,
Em G D A
Pushing forward, I’ll transform,
Em G A D
In the eye of the hurricane, I’m reborn.

Favorite Fan: Unnatural Thunder’s number one fan is undoubtedly Sylvia Mendoza. Sylvia explains her devotion to the band, saying, “I’ve followed Unnatural Thunder since their first gig at a tiny bar in Seattle. Their music resonates with me on such a personal level. Striker’s lyrics about fighting through adversity, standing tall in the face of hardship – it’s like they’re speaking directly to me. They’ve been a constant source of strength, helping me through some of the toughest times in my life. Unnatural Thunder isn’t just a band to me, they’re like family.”

Backstory:

Voluminous Apple was born in the heart of Birmingham, England in the summer of 1993. The band was formed by a group of high school friends – Sean Patterson (lead vocals and guitar), Max Turner (drummer), and Alice Thompson (bass guitar and backup vocals). Bonding over their mutual love for music and a desire to disrupt the rigid norms of society, they began experimenting with different sounds and lyrics, creating songs that reflected their experiences and thoughts.

Sean, Max, and Alice had a knack for creating a unique blend of music that beautifully captured the raw emotions of their generation. Their journey was a testament to their unyielding dedication and love for music. After several open mic nights and local gigs, Voluminous Apple was discovered by a record label scout and quickly rose to prominence.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Rebel in Disguise”

Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1] (G, D, Em, C)
G D Em C
Lost in the maze of life I roam,
G D Em C
Seeking solace, a heart to hold.
G D Em C
The colors of the world turned cold,
G D Em C
I found my peace in rock and roll.

[Chorus] (G, D, C)
G D C
I’m a rebel in disguise,
G D C
Carrying dreams in my eyes.
G D C
In the rhythm and the rhyme,
G D C
I’ve found my place, my time.

[Verse 2] (G, D, Em, C)
G D Em C
Through the noise, I’ve found my voice,
G D Em C
In the chaos, I’ve made my choice.
G D Em C
Guitar strings echo my rejoice,
G D Em C
In this melody, you’ll hear my poise.

[Chorus] (G, D, C)
G D C
I’m a rebel in disguise,
G D C
Carrying dreams in my eyes.
G D C
In the rhythm and the rhyme,
G D C
I’ve found my place, my time.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favourite fan is named Lily Armstrong. Lily has been a dedicated fan since their early days. She is known for travelling across the country to attend their concerts and often wears a custom leather jacket adorned with a hand-painted Voluminous Apple logo.

Testimonial:
“Voluminous Apple isn’t just a band to me, it’s a lifestyle. Their music resonates with me on such an intimate level and has seen me through some of the toughest times in my life. Every song feels like a letter written directly to me. To me, Voluminous Apple’s music isn’t just about the sound, it’s about the message and the emotion that it carries. Their live shows are electrifying and the energy they bring to the stage is unparalleled. I can’t imagine my life without the magic of their music.”

Backstory:

The Rude Accountant’s journey to stardom can be traced back to a high-rise office tower in Chicago, where the four band members worked as accountants for a Fortune 500 company. After hours of number crunching and spreadsheet wrangling, the group would unwind by playing music and writing songs about their daily frustrations and shared dreams. One day, on a dare, they decided to perform at the company’s annual charity event, and their rendition of office life set to music was an unexpected hit. Encouraged by the response, they quit their jobs to pursue music full time, dubbing themselves “Rude Accountant” as a nod to their corporate roots.

Genre:

Their music falls under the alternative rock genre, with a unique twist of humor and self-deprecating wit. Their songs are a blend of grungy rock mixed with catchy hooks and lyrics that resonate with the frustrations of office culture and corporate life.

Title:

“Chasing Numbers”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Woke up this morning, [C] tie around my neck,
[Am] Numbers in my head, [D] life’s a wreck,
[G] Spreadsheet dreams and [C] coffee stains,
[Am] Office life’s got me [D] in chains.

(Chorus)
[G] Chasing numbers, [C] losing sleep,
[Am] In the corporate world, [D] in too deep,
[G] Rude Accountant, [C] that’s our name,
[Am] Breaking free, [D] that’s our game.

(Verse 2)
[G] Cubicle prisons, [C] endless calls,
[Am] Racing against the [D] clock on the walls,
[G] Promised promotions, [C] empty words,
[Am] Our voices [D] never heard.

(Chorus)
[G] Chasing numbers, [C] losing sleep,
[Am] In the corporate world, [D] in too deep,
[G] Rude Accountant, [C] that’s our name,
[Am] Breaking free, [D] that’s our game.

(Outro)
[G] We’re not just numbers, [C] we’re not just names,
[Am] We’re Rude Accountant, [D] and we’re changing the game.

Bands Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan is definitely Sarah Thompson. A mild-mannered accountant by day, she’s a die-hard Rude Accountant superfan by night.

Testimonial:

“For me, Rude Accountant is more than just a band – their music speaks to my day-to-day life like no other. It’s like they took the monotony of spreadsheets and client calls and turned it into a rebellious anthem. They remind me that there’s more to life than just chasing numbers. Their songs make me feel seen and understood, and I think that’s why I connect so deeply with their music.” – Sarah Thompson.

Backstory:

Envious Receipt is a band that emerged from the dimly lit basement of an old record store in the heart of Montreal, Canada. The four members, frontman Danny “Dusk” Leclair, guitar maestro Thomas “Tempo” Ryan, bassist Rob “Rift” Daniels, and drummer Alex “Ace” Saunders, all worked within the store, tending to the shelves of music records that spanned various decades and genres. One night, after closing, a casual jam session turned into the inception of a journey they hadn’t planned for. They named their newborn band after a customer’s complaint about an expensive record, making ‘Envious Receipt’ a symbol of their shared passion for music and a little tongue-in-cheek humor.

The band gained significant local recognition when their impromptu performances led to a weekly gig at the record store, attracting a diverse crowd of music lovers. Envious Receipt’s unique sound, blending different influences, caught the attention of indie labels, catapulting them to a national and eventually international stage.

Genre:

Indie Rock Fusion

Title:

“Echoes in Vinyl”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1: Em – C – G – D)
Em
Here in the basement, under dim neon lights,
C
We found our rhythm, in the still of the night.
G
The chords echo, a melody so profound,
D
In a world of vinyl, where love is the sound.

(Chorus: Em – G – C – D)
Em
We are the Echoes in Vinyl, riding the sound wave,
G
Spinning on turntables, in hearts we engrave.
C
Music is our bloodline, the pulse that we craved,
D
We are the Echoes in Vinyl, in every note we’re saved.

(Verse 2: Em – C – G – D)
Em
From the basement to the spotlight, we ride,
C
Our songs, our stories, nowhere to hide.
G
In every strum, in every beat,
D
We found a home, in every envious receipt.

(Chorus: Em – G – C – D)
Em
We are the Echoes in Vinyl, a voice in the noise,
G
A blend of passion, a fusion of choice.
C
We spin in the groove, where hearts meet,
D
We are the Echoes in Vinyl, incomplete yet replete.

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

Fan’s Name:

Liam Bellwood

Testimonial:

Envious Receipt isn’t just a band to me; they are an emotion, a connection I found amidst the chaos of life. Their music resonates with my soul, blending elements of rock, jazz, blues, and a hint of folk, creating a mesmerizing fusion. “Echoes in Vinyl” speaks to me; it’s a sonic journey that transports me back to simpler times. The band’s authenticity, their passion for music, and their humble beginnings in a record store basement is testimony to their true talent. Envious Receipt isn’t just my favorite band—they’re a part of me now.

Backstory:

Lustrous Recession was born in the heart of Seattle’s underground scene back in 2005, springing from the fertile minds of childhood friends, Colin Hyde and David Wells. Their shared love for retro-futuristic aesthetics and music brought them together, with Colin handling vocals and bass and David shredding guitar riffs. A chance encounter with percussionist Rachel Keys at a local farmer’s market brought the missing piece they needed, finalizing the ensemble that would become Lustrous Recession. The band quickly became known for their flamboyant stage presence and their deep, evocative lyrics that echo the dichotomy of modern society – glistening yet declining, hence the name Lustrous Recession.

Genre:

Alternative Rock/Electronica

Title:

“Neon Nights Unravelled”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C#m E B A
Riding high on neon lights, lost in the fractured nights
Silhouettes of yesterday, fading in the city bay
C#m E B A
Broken dreams on silver streams, lustrous like the moonlight beams
In the irony we drown, as the stars begin to frown

(Chorus)
G#m E B A
Neon nights unravelled, where hopes and fears have travelled
In the heart of the city’s jest, where our dreams are put to test
G#m E B A
In the lustrous recession, we find our true confession
In the midst of the city’s plight, under the neon lights

(Verse 2)
C#m E B A
Runaway hearts in empty streets, the rhythm of the city beats
Caught in the play of light and shadow, where the echoes of the past follow
C#m E B A
Dancing through the city maze, lost in the urban haze
In the irony we thread, as the sun begins to dread

(Chorus)
G#m E B A
Neon nights unravelled, where hopes and fears have travelled
In the heart of the city’s jest, where our dreams are put to test
G#m E B A
In the lustrous recession, we find our true confession
In the midst of the city’s plight, under the neon lights

Fan Testimonial:

My name is Jane McAlister and Lustrous Recession is my favorite band. Their music acts as a soundtrack to my life – an echo of my own thoughts, fears, and dreams, blowing me away with their anthems of reality and resonance. The way their electronica-infused alternative rock blends with profound lyrics is something I haven’t found in any other band. Their song “Neon Nights Unravelled” is a stark reminder of the duality of the world we live in, of the beauty and the decay, and I find it absolutely captivating. I believe their music has a unique way of reaching into the hearts and minds of listeners, challenging us to see the world differently.

Backstory:

Polite Slope was created in 2010 when Peter Johnson and Matt Smith, two childhood friends from Denver, Colorado, decided to turn their shared passion for music into a professional venture. They spent their early years in Peter’s garage, writing songs and experimenting with various genres until they found their unique sound. They later added drummer Kate Thompson and bassist Ben Franklin to their lineup, completing the band’s formation. With a strong bond and a shared vision, Polite Slope began to produce music that enthralled their local audience, and soon, they were playing at venues all over town.

In 2013, the band released their first EP, which garnered attention from local radio stations and catapulted them into the limelight. Their unique sound and heartfelt lyrics resonated with listeners, and they quickly gained a loyal fanbase. Polite Slope has continued to release music and perform at venues across the US, captivating audiences with their dynamic performances and genuine passion for their craft.

Genre:

Indie rock with elements of folk and alternative

Title:

“Chasing Echoes”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Am] Once upon a [G] time, in a [F] world of black and [C] white
[Am] We painted our [G] dreams, in the [F] dark of the [C] night
[Am] Holding our [G] breath, as we [F] dove into the [C] fray
[Am] Lost in the [G] crowd, but we [F] found our own [C] way

(Chorus)
[Dm] Chasing echoes [Am] in the dark
[G] Trying to mend a [C] broken heart
[F] Running in circles, [C] lost in the park
[Dm] Chasing echoes, [Am] leaving our mark

(Verse 2)
[Am] Shadows on the [G] wall, as the [F] sun began to [C] fade
[Am] We carved out our [G] dreams, with a [F] rusty old [C] blade
[Am] Muted whispers, [G] on a [F] long forgotten [C] shore
[Am] We were [G] kings and queens, [F] now we’re [C] begging for more

(Chorus)
[Dm] Chasing echoes [Am] in the dark
[G] Trying to mend a [C] broken heart
[F] Running in circles, [C] lost in the park
[Dm] Chasing echoes, [Am] leaving our mark

Fan Testimonial :

Name: Taylor Jones

Taylor Jones, a resident of Denver, describes Polite Slope as her favorite band. “Their music speaks to me on a level that no other band ever has,” she says passionately. “Their song ‘Chasing Echoes’ in particular has helped me through many difficult times. It’s like they’ve captured the essence of my own struggles and put them into a melody that’s both soothing and invigorating. Polite Slope isn’t just a band to me; they’re a beacon of hope, a constant reminder that it’s okay not to be okay and that we’re never alone in our struggles. Their music has become the soundtrack of my life, and I can’t thank them enough for it.”

Backstory:
In the quaint, historical town of York, England, four childhood friends found their calling in a dusty, unkempt attic filled with forgotten musical instruments. They were drawn together by a shared love of music and a desire to create something unique and impactful. Thus, Unkempt Kingdom was born. Consisting of frontman Joe “Jester” Harrison, guitarist Vinny “Vandal” Langdon, bassist Harry “Hawk” Lewis, and drummer Ben “Bulldog” Thompson, the quartet embarked on a musical journey filled with raw energy, rebellious spirit, and a touch of British charm.

Their journey started in the local pub scene, gradually building up a committed fan base with their energetic performances and raw, introspective lyrics. The name Unkempt Kingdom perfectly represented their origins and their outlook – a group of friends from a small British town making music that didn’t fit into neat, polished categories, but rather, held the beauty of a wild, unkempt kingdom.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Walls of Rebellion”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G] Standing on the outskirts of my [Am] mind,
[Em] Captured in the rhythms that we [C] find.
[G] Unkempt thoughts and [Am] shattered dreams,
[Em] Bursting at the seams, [C] yet confined.

(Chorus)
[D] Walls of Rebellion, [C] can’t you see?
[G] Built by our hands, [D] in unity.
[C] Breaking the chains, [G] setting free,
[D] Echoes of our [C] melody.

(Verse 2)
[G] Strumming the strings of our [Am] destiny,
[Em] A kingdom born out of [C] anarchy.
[G] Harmony in [Am] discord’s sound,
[Em] In each note, [C] freedom found.

(Chorus)
[D] Walls of Rebellion, [C] can’t you hear?
[G] The anthem of the ones [D] who dare.
[C] Voices rising, [G] loud and clear,
[D] In our song, [C] no fear.

Fan Testimonial:
Name: Ellie Johnson

“As an avid follower of Unkempt Kingdom, their music has played a significant role in my life, both as a source of comfort and strength. Their raw lyrics, unique sound, and the sheer passion they pour into their music are incredibly inspiring. Unkempt Kingdom has a way of making you feel seen, heard, and understood. Their song, ‘Walls of Rebellion,’ in particular, spoke to me during a difficult time in my life. The lyrics about breaking free and rising against the odds resonated deeply, giving me the courage to face my own struggles. Their music, their message, their spirit – it’s all a testament to their authenticity and their dedication. Unkempt Kingdom isn’t just my favorite band – they’re a source of motivation, and in some ways, a beacon of hope.”

Backstory:

Pesky Bird is an indie rock band from Melbourne, Australia that took flight in 2011. The band members, Jeremy “Jem” Thompson (vocals, guitar), Mia “Piper” Sullivan (drums, backup vocals), and “Sparrow” Wilson (bass, keyboard), are childhood friends who grew up with a shared love for music and an innate talent for creating it. After high school, they took a leap of faith and ditched their plans of conventional careers to form Pesky Bird. They got their peculiar name when a bird flew into their garage during their first jam session and caused a ruckus. The band considered it a sign and named their group ‘Pesky Bird’.

Their music resonates with a unique blend of soulful lyrics, infectious melodies, and the intricate play between Jem’s textured guitar playing, Mia’s heart-stopping beats and Sparrow’s catchy bass lines. They gained local popularity with their electrifying performances and soon, their music spread across the continent like wildfire. By 2014, they were a staple of the Australian indie rock scene.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Title:

“Feathers in the Wind”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G]I saw you [C]standing in the [G]light of the [D]dawn
[G]Your feathers [C]glistening, your [G]eyes telling a [D]song
[G]A song of [C]love, a song of [G]flight
[C]A song to [D]chase away the [G]night

(Chorus)
[G]Feathers in the [D]wind, [C]you are my [G]friend
[G]Through the highs, the [D]lows, till the [C]very end [G]
[G]When the storm [D]comes, we will [C]bend
[G]Feathers in the [D]wind, we’re brothers till the [C]end [G]

(Verse 2)
[G]We danced on [C]rooftops, we [G]sang in the [D]rain
[G]Chasing dreams, [C]forgetting all about [G]pain [D]
[G]With your wings to [C]guide, I learn to [G]soar
[C]With each beat, I [D]want more [G]

(Repeat Chorus)

Bridge:
[G]Feathers in the [C]wind, [D]we’ll never [G]fall
[G]In the face of [C]danger, [D]we’ll stand [G]tall
[G]In this life [C]of chaos, [D]you’re my [G]call
[C]With you, I [D]have it [G]all

(Repeat Chorus)

Favorite fan’s name:

Tommy “Bluebird” Benson

Testimonial:

“I discovered Pesky Bird back when they were just starting, playing at small pubs around Melbourne. Their energy is magnetic and their sound is like a breath of fresh air in the indie rock scene. Their song ‘Feathers in the Wind’ resonated with me during a tough time in my life and is now forever etched in my heart. Pesky Bird’s music is a testament to friendship, resilience, and the unfettered spirit of freedom. They’re more than just my favorite band, they’re my beacon in the dark.”