Backstory:

Classic Knot was born out of love for vintage music in the bustling city of Chicago in the mid-90s. The band consists of four members: lead vocalist and guitarist, Johnny “Blues” Thompson, bass guitarist, Ryan “Riff” Miller, drummer, Sammy “Sticks” Rodriguez, and keyboardist, Ellie “Keys” Johnson. The four met in high school and bonded over their shared love for retro music, leading them to form a band that draws inspiration from the iconic rock and roll bands of the 70s and 80s, updating that sound for the modern era.

They started performing in local bars and lounges, their reimagined classic rock sound quickly catching the attention of patrons. Soon, they gained a loyal fan base and started to perform at bigger venues. Their passion for vintage music and their undying love for rhythm that sets the soul on fire has made them a sensation.

Genre:

Classic Rock / Progressive Rock

Title:

“Twisted Times”

Full song lyrics:

Verse 1:
(C) Been living in these (Am) twisted times,
(G) Trapped in melodies and (F) rhymes.
(C) Looking for some (Am) peace to find,
(G) In this old life of (F) mine.

Chorus:
(C) Twisted times, (Am) twisted minds,
(G) Looking for the ties that (F) bind.
(C) Can’t escape, can’t (Am) unwind,
(G) Stuck in these (F) twisted times.

Verse 2:
(C) We’re just souls in (Am) a classic knot,
(G) Caught up in what time’s (F) begot.
(C) Chasing dreams that we’ve (Am) forgot,
(G) In these twisted times we’re (F) caught.

Chorus:
(C) Twisted times, (Am) twisted minds,
(G) Searching for the ties that (F) bind.
(C) Can’t escape, no (Am) place to hide,
(G) Lost in these (F) twisted times.

Bridge:
(Am) Twisted times, (G) classic knot,
(D) Unraveling the (F) truth we’ve sought.
(Am) Time’s a foe that can’t be (G) fought,
(D) In these twisted (F) times we’re caught.

Chorus:
(C) Twisted times, (Am) twisted minds,
(G) Fighting against the ties that (F) bind.
(C) Can’t escape, can’t (Am) rewind,
(G) Stuck in these (F) twisted times.

Band’s favorite fan:

Name: Sarah “Classic Fan” Cook

Testimonial: “I’ve been a fan of Classic Knot from their early days, seeing them perform in small bars to now selling out concerts. Their music takes me back to the classic rock era while still giving it a fresh and modern twist. Each song is like a journey, their lyrics are thought-provoking, and their music is captivating. The emotion they pour into their performance is palpable. For me, Classic Knot is the perfect blend of the past and the present.”

Backstory:

Slow Furniture, a band that was born in the heart of New York City in 2011, was the brainchild of four college friends who shared a common love for music. The group consisted of Johnny “Specks” Carter on lead vocals and guitar, Tim “Rusty” Russell on drums, Karen “Red” Morris on bass and backup vocals, and Jake “Jazz” Jackson on keys. They began as a garage band, practicing in Rusty’s parents’ basement and playing small gigs around their college campus. Their unique combination of talent, passion, and unmistakable chemistry caught the attention of local music producer, Ted “Monocle” Monroe, who signed them to his independent label, Monocle Records, in 2013.

The band became known for their soulful lyrics, eclectic sound, and energetic performances. Despite their sudden fame, they remained true to their roots, drawing inspiration from their experiences and the world around them. Slow Furniture’s music resonates with people of all ages, but they have a special place in their hearts for their dedicated fans who have stood by them since their basement days.

Genre: Indie Rock

Title: “Velvet Echo”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Velvet dreams in the [Am] midnight hour,
[G] Chasing shadows in [F] a city tower.
[C] Echoes of your voice [Am] in a crowded room,
[G] Lost in thought, in this [F] hazy gloom.

(Chorus)
[C] Velvet echo, [Am] haunting my mind,
[G] You’re a memory [F] I cannot find.
[C] Velvet echo, [Am] where did you go?
[G] Lost in the rhythm of this [F] silent show.

(Verse 2)
[C] Painted murals on [Am] graffiti walls,
[G] Echoing footsteps in [F] empty halls.
[C] Every note in the songs [Am] we used to sing,
[G] Brings me back to that [F] lost spring.

(Chorus)
[C] Velvet echo, [Am] fading away,
[G] You’re the song that [F] I couldn’t play.
[C] Velvet echo, [Am] caught in the past,
[G] You’re a love that was meant to [F] last.

The band’s favorite fan’s name: Louie Martin

Fan Testimonial:

“I first saw Slow Furniture at a small gig in a coffee shop near our campus. I was instantly captivated by their unique sound and heartfelt lyrics. They were different from any other band I’d heard, and I knew they were destined for great things. I’ve been to every one of their concerts since then, and each performance is better than the last. Their music has a way of connecting with people on a deeper level, and their song ‘Velvet Echo’ always brings a tear to my eye. Slow Furniture isn’t just my favorite band, they’re a part of my life.”

Backstory:

Distinct Ms is a band that was born in the bustling city of Seattle, Washington in 2007. Its founding members, lead vocalist and guitarist Emma Clarke, bass guitarist Rosa Martinez, drummer Alice Kim, and keyboardist Lisa Thompson, met at the University of Washington during a music theory class. They soon discovered a shared interest in creating music that resonated with their experiences as young women navigating the modern world. After several late-night jam sessions and songwriting marathons in their shared apartment, Distinct Ms was born. Since then, they have been challenging the status quo of the music industry, making their mark with their thought-provoking lyrics, captivating melodies, and unmistakable chemistry on stage.

Genre: Indie Rock/Pop

Title: “Rising Shadows”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Am] We walk on the [G] tightrope, under the [F] moon glow
[Am] Seeking for the [G] answers, in the [F] rising shadows
[Am] Our hearts beat like [G] thunder, can’t tear us [F] asunder
[Am] We’re stronger than [G] fear, we’re the [F] new age echoes

(Chorus)
[C] Rising Shadows, [G] we stand tall
[Am] Through the dark, we won’t [F] fall
[C] Hold on tight, to the [G] dream within
[Am] Let’s ride the storm, [F] let the journey begin

(Verse 2)
[Am] Underneath the [G] starlight, in the [F] heart of the night
[Am] We find our [G] courage, we find our [F] might
[Am] We are the [G] voices, of a thousand [F] choices
[Am] We rise above the [G] noise, we’re the [F] new age voices.

(Chorus)
[C] Rising Shadows, [G] we stand tall
[Am] Through the dark, we won’t [F] fall
[C] Hold on tight, to the [G] dream within
[Am] Let’s ride the storm, [F] let the journey begin

Fan Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan is a 25-year-old woman named Jessica. Jessica states, “Distinct Ms has resonated with me in ways no other band has. Their lyrics hold a mirror to my own experiences as a young woman in today’s world. Their music is my anthem, a source of strength, and a beacon of hope. It’s more than just music. It’s an uprising, a call to arms for every young woman navigating the trials of the modern world. Distinct Ms is more than my favorite band; they are my inspiration and my lifeline.”

Backstory:

Formed in the heart of Seattle in 2008, Judicious Reward was created by a group of law students studying at Washington University – hence the name. The band started as a fun, stress-relieving hobby for them amidst their grueling academic schedule. With Alex (lead vocals and guitar), Jennifer (drums), Mike (bass), and Emma (keyboard and backing vocals), the band started to gain recognition around the campus after their performances at university fairs and local bars. It wasn’t long until their unique and catchy sound caught the attention of local radio stations and propelled them to the wider music scene.

By 2012, they had signed a contract with a well-known indie label and had balanced their professional legal careers with their passion for music. Each song they create has a unique touch of legal jargon or a nod to justice, making them beloved by both music and law enthusiasts alike.

Genre:

Alternative Rock/Punk.

Title:

“Legal Fiction”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Am] “I’m stuck in this [G] legal fiction, [D] lost in the [Am] maze,
[Am] Living through [G] your prescriptions, [D] counting the [Am] days.

(Chorus)
[F] Judicious reward, [C] come set us [G] free,
[F] From the chains of the law, [C] let our [G] spirits be,
[F] With every chord, [C] we plea, [G] we plea,
[F] For a judicious reward, [C] for you and [G] me.”

(Verse 2)
[Am] “In this courtroom [G] of existence, [D] where truth’s always [Am] grey,
[Am] We sing our [G] resistance, [D] till the break of [Am] day.”

(Chorus)
[F] “Judicious reward, [C] break these [G] walls,
[F] With every accord, [C] truth [G] calls,
[F] In this discord, [C] justice [G] falls,
[F] We need a judicious reward, [C] to end these [G] brawls.”

Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan’s name is Aaron, a law student at their alma mater. Aaron claims that Judicious Reward is his favorite band because their music resonates with his dual love for rock music and law. He says, “Their music is like a breath of fresh air. It’s not just about the rhythm or the melody; it’s about the lyrics – the way they articulate the struggle for justice and righteousness. It’s Punk Rock with a cause. As a law student and a music enthusiast, I couldn’t ask for more.”

Backstory:

Hailing from the vibrant city of New Orleans, ‘Poised Language’ was formed in 2012 by a group of four college friends who shared an unwavering passion for music. The group consists of lead vocalist, Jack Ford, talented guitarist, Danny Miller, skilled bassist, Noah Thompson, and dynamic drummer, Jake Reed. They started their journey performing at local bars and quickly garnered a devoted local fan base with their soulful lyrics and unique musical arrangements. Their authentic sound and poetic lyrics give them an edge, making them stand out in the crowded music scene.

The band’s big break came in 2015 when they were spotted by a prominent music producer at one of their shows. He was captivated by their unique sound and quickly signed them to his label. Since then, ‘Poised Language’ has released three successful albums and toured globally, gaining fans from all corners of the world. Their music resonates with listeners, making them feel seen and heard.

Genre:

Indie Rock with a hint of Blues

Title:

‘Echoes of Heartbeat’

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)

Am G Dm Am
Lost in a maze of deceitful lies,
G Dm Am
Chasing shadows under midnight skies.
Am G Dm Am
A love, so pure, now a memory,
G Dm Am
Your echoes of heartbeat, still haunt me.

(Chorus)

F C G
Sing me a lullaby, silver moon,
Am F C G
Drown out sounds of a love marooned.
F C G
In your light, let me find peace,
Am F C G
Free me from echoes of heartbeat, please.

(Verse 2)

Am G Dm Am
Your whispers still linger in the wind,
G Dm Am
An unseen scar, under my skin.
Am G Dm Am
In every corner, in every street,
G Dm Am
I find your echoes of heartbeat.

(Chorus)

F C G
Sing me a lullaby, silver moon,
Am F C G
Drown out sounds of a love marooned.
F C G
In your light, let me find peace,
Am F C G
Free me from echoes of heartbeat, please.

Fan Testimonial:

Fan’s Name: Emily Hayes

“I’ve always been drawn to music with depth and soul, and I found that in ‘Poised Language’. Their lyrics are like a river, flowing with emotion, carrying you along with every note. I fell in love with their song, ‘Echoes of Heartbeat’. It was almost like they were singing my story. Their music has been my solace during tough times and my companion during the joyful moments. ‘Poised Language’ isn’t just my favorite band; they are a part of my life.”

Backstory:

Merry View was formed in the sleepy town of Ashton, a hidden gem of Oregon, breathing all the nature and serenity of the Pacific Northwest. It started with two friends, Max and Sam, who spent their summers together at a local summer camp. Max, a self-taught guitarist who learned his craft from old blues records and Sam, a drummer who found rhythm in everything he touched; they found a bond in their shared love for music. The duo was later joined by a childhood friend, Lisa, on the bass guitar, and Freddy, a charismatic vocalist with a knack for songwriting. Together, they created a fusion of sounds that painted a vibrant picture of their humble beginnings and the panoramic beauty of Ashton.

Merry View’s music became synonymous with the spirit of their town, slowly making waves in the local music scene before catching the attention of a big record label. Now, even though they’re touring and recording in big studios, their music still has that rustic charm, like a postcard sent from Ashton.

Genre:
Folk-Rock

Title:
“At the Break of Dawn”

Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
G D
At the break of dawn, when the rooster does crow,
Em C
I find my feet walking down that old Ashton road.
G D
Under the towering pines and the whispering wind,
Em C
I hear the echoes of our laughter, my friend.

(Chorus)
G D
So here’s to the good times, the sunsets and the rain,
Em C
To the love we shared, and the memories that remain.
G D
At the break of dawn, under the Ashton sky,
Em C
We’ll sing our songs, with Merry View in our eyes.

(Verse)
G D
The river flows gently, like the rhythm of your heart,
Em C
The mountains stand tall, much like your art.
G D
In the quiet of the night, under the twinkling stars,
Em C
I hold onto the melody, that heals all our scars.

(Chorus)
G D
So here’s to the good times, the sunsets and the rain,
Em C
To the love we shared, and the memories that remain.
G D
At the break of dawn, under the Ashton sky,
Em C
We’ll sing our songs, with Merry View in our eyes.

Fan Testimonial:

Becky, a 24-year-old nurse from Portland, has been a fan of Merry View from their early days. She articulates why they are her favorite band, “There’s an authenticity in Merry View’s music that speaks to me; it’s like a sweet reminiscence of a place I’ve never been, but I feel at home. Every lyric is like a narrative of my own emotions. Their music is the perfect blend of folk and rock, which resonates with my love for both genres. I find solace and joy in their music. It’s a reminder that even in the chaos of the world, there’s a Merry View waiting at the break of dawn.”

Backstory:

Regal Teaching is an unexpected blend of four artists who came together through their shared love of music and education. The band was formed in 2012 in Seattle, Washington, when lead singer and guitarist, Leo Kingsley, met drummer, Mark Emerson, at a teaching conference. Realizing their mutual passion for both teaching and playing music, they recruited bassist, Julia Stern, and keyboardist, Nathan Richards, who were both music teachers at a local school. Their shared dedication to education made their bond stronger, leading to the creation of music that carries a profound message about learning, growth, and knowledge.

Their journey to fame wasn’t an easy one. They initially struggled to get their music heard, performing at local events and schools. But they never gave up and continued to entrust in their talent and message. In 2015, their perseverance finally paid off when they were noticed by a record label executive at a school fundraiser concert. Since then, Regal Teaching has built a reputation for their unique blend of music and educational influence.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Chalk Dust Anthems”

Full song lyrics:

VERSE 1:
(Em) Walking down these familiar halls,
(G) Chalk dust in the air, lessons on the walls,
(D) Echoes of laughter, whispers of dreams,
(A) We’re just students in life, learning what it means.

CHORUS:
(Em) These are our chalk dust anthems,
(G) Notes on the board, words of wisdom,
(D) We’re learning, we’re growing, we’re standing tall,
(A) In this school of life, we won’t let us fall.

VERSE 2:
(Em) Pages turning, pens on the move,
(G) Scribbling down knowledge, finding our groove,
(D) Old desks, scratched with memories,
(A) We’re not just students, we’re the stories.

CHORUS:
(Em) Singing our chalk dust anthems,
(G) Lessons learned, finding our rhythm,
(D) We’re shining, we’re soaring, against all odds,
(A) In this classroom of life, we’re playing our cards.

Favorite fan:

Their favorite fan is a woman named Audrey who is a high school teacher in California. Audrey stumbled upon their music during a challenging time in her teaching career and found solace in their resonant lyrics and powerful melodies. She says, “Regal Teaching doesn’t just create music, they craft stories that reach your soul. They have reminded me why I became a teacher; to inspire and encourage, to learn and grow with my students. Every time I listen to their ‘Chalk Dust Anthems,’ it reignites my passion for teaching. They are, without a doubt, my favorite band.”

Backstory:

Compassionate Miss was formed in the small seaside town of Harbor Springs, Michigan. It all began when childhood friends and music enthusiasts, Madeline “Maddie” Wells and Sarah “Sarie” Stevenson, decided to take their love for music to the next level. Maddie, with her soulful voice, and Sarie, with her classical guitar prowess, began to create melodies that echoed their shared experiences, dreams, and compassion for the world. Over time, they were joined by Cassie Danson on bass, Jenny Thomas on drums, and Anthony “Tony” Bennett on keyboards. They quickly turned their garage jam sessions into powerful, captivating performances.

Their initial songs, which were mostly shared on social media platforms, caught the attention of local music enthusiasts. Their honesty and rawness struck a chord with listeners, and soon they were performing at local gigs, festivals, and eventually, they began touring the country, spreading their message of compassion and kindness through their music.

Genre: Indie Pop Rock

Title: “Lighthouse in the Storm”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C G D
Lost in a storm, no direction home,
Em C G D
Under the sky’s capricious dome.
Em C G D
Lift up your eyes, don’t lose your hope,
Em C G D
In the darkest storm, we’ve learned to cope.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
We are the lighthouse in the storm,
Em C G D
Against the tide, against the norm.
Em C G D
Fear not the night, fear not the morn,
Em C G D
We are the lighthouse, we’ve sworn.

(Verse 2)
Em C G D
Winds may blow, waves may crash,
Em C G D
But we’ll light the way, in a single flash.
Em C G D
Hold on tight, don’t lose your sight,
Em C G D
Together we’ll fight, with all our might.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
We are the lighthouse in the storm,
Em C G D
Against the tide, against the norm.
Em C G D
Fear not the night, fear not the morn,
Em C G D
We are the lighthouse, we’ve sworn.

Favorite Fan:

Emily Zimmerman is Compassionate Miss’s favorite fan. Emily has travelled across state lines to attend their concerts, and always shows up in a handmade t-shirt with the band’s logo. Emily says, “Compassionate Miss has a way of singing what’s in my heart. Their songs are like a solace in my tough times. The lyrics are so powerful, they hit right where it matters. Maddie’s voice is like a warm hug on a cold day, and Sarie’s guitar solos are like a burst of sunshine. They are my favorite band because they make me feel seen, heard, and understood. They use their music to spread love and kindness, and in this world, we need more of that.”

Backstory:
Forsaken Pit was born out of the ashes of a small-town industrial factory in the heart of Kentucky. The four members; lead vocalist and guitarist, Adam Stone, bassist, Mick ‘The Wick’ Williams, drummer, Johnny ‘Rhythm Reaper’ Cassidy, and keyboardist, Danny ‘Keys’ Foster, all worked there until the factory was shut down due to financial issues. Struggling with the sudden job loss and the harsh reality of the world, they decided to channel their frustration, anger, and hopes into music, thus forming the band in the late 2000s. Their electrifying energy and unique sound quickly began to resonate with the masses, feeding the popularity of Forsaken Pit.

Genre:
Industrial Rock/Metal

Title:
“Chains of Liberty”

Full Song Lyrics:
[Verse 1]
Em Am
In the heart of the city, under the moonlight,
C G
We’re crafting our dreams with the sweat of the fight,
Em Am
Through the day, through the night, in this forsaken pit,
C G
We’re bound by chains, but our spirits won’t quit.

[Chorus]
G D
Chains of liberty, wrapped around our souls,
Em C
Burning with a fire, out of control,
G D
Born in the furnace, tempered in the grit,
Em C
We are the voice from the forsaken pit.

[Verse 2]
Em Am
The factory’s silent, the steel has grown cold,
C G
Dreams shattered, yet we are bold,
Em Am
With the power of music, we’re ready to hit,
C G
Breaking the chains, rising from the pit.

[Chorus]
G D
Chains of liberty, wrapped around our hearts,
Em C
In the face of adversity, our journey starts,
G D
Screaming for freedom, refusing to submit,
Em C
We are the sons of the forsaken pit.

Fan Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan, Gary ‘G-Man’ Davidson, says, “Forsaken Pit isn’t just my favorite band, it’s a phenomenon that has changed my life. Their music, it speaks to me in a language no one else could ever understand. It’s like they’re giving voice to the struggle we face every day, the struggle to stay afloat, to let our voices be heard. Their song ‘Chains of Liberty’ brings me to tears every time I listen to it. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s a testament to the never-say-die attitude of the working class. I’ve been to every concert, every gig they’ve played in the last 10 years. They’re not just musicians to me, they’re heroes.”

Backstory:
Vague Temperature was formed in 2004 in a small, unassuming garage in Kansas City, Missouri. The band’s four members – lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Jake Dalton, lead guitarist Tyler Moore, bassist Nick Anderson, and drummer Alex Jenkins – were all childhood friends sharing a common love for music. They developed a unique sound inspired by their shared appreciation for classic rock, grunge, and blues. They spent their early days playing at local bars and college parties, slowly but steadily building a loyal fanbase. Their big break came in 2008 when they were spotted by a renowned music producer at a local rock festival. Recognizing their raw talent and potential, he offered them a recording contract. Since then, Vague Temperature has released five successful studio albums and performed at numerous sold-out shows worldwide.

Genre:
Classic Rock/Grunge/Blues

Title:
“Echoes of the Past”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
G Am C G
In the mirror of time, I see the echoes of the past,
G Am C G
Lost in the shadows, memories that last.
Em Am C G
Broken dreams and shattered hopes scattered on the floor,
Em Am C D
Echoes of the past keep knocking on my door.

(Chorus)
G C D G
Echoes of the past, can’t leave them behind,
G C D G
They’re etched on my soul and imprinted on my mind.
Em Am C G
Can’t erase them, can’t replace them, they’re always there,
Em Am C D
Echoes of the past, a weight I have to bear.

(Verse 2)
G Am C G
Through the years, faces fade but memories remain,
G Am C G
Bitter-sweet and haunting, like an old familiar strain.
Em Am C G
Echoes of the past keep replaying in my heart,
Em Am C D
They’re the music of my life, a song that never parts.

(Repeat Chorus)

Favorite Fan:
Vague Temperature’s favorite fan is a woman named Lisa Martin. Lisa has been following their journey since their early days. She has attended all their concerts within a 500-mile radius of her home, owns all their albums, and even runs a fan site dedicated to the band.

Lisa’s Testimonial:
“Vague Temperature isn’t just a band to me; it’s a part of my life. I love their combination of classic rock, grunge, and blues. It’s powerful, raw, and touches the soul. ‘Echoes of the Past’ is my favorite song. Its heartfelt lyrics and the band’s soulful performance always move me to tears. Their music has helped me navigate through some tough times. I’m a fan for life.”