Backstory:

Formed in the rustic barns of middle Tennessee, ‘Other Grain’ is a group that emerged out of five college friends who discovered their shared love for music during a chance late-night jam session. The quintet comprised of Jake Ellis (vocals and guitar), Max Turner (lead guitar), Noah Brown (bass), Skylar Ross (drums), and Rhys Peterson on keys, decided to transform their bond and passion for music into a professional endeavor – thus ‘Other Grain’ was born. The band’s uniqueness lies in their shared farming backgrounds, infusing their down-to-earth roots into their music in a way that is tangible and authentic, resonating deeply with their growing fan base.

Genre:

Alt-Country / Folk Rock

Song Title:

“Dusty Roads Home”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
[G] Down the [D] dusty roads [Em] home,
[C] Underneath the [G] twilight dome.
[D] Remembering [Em] days of old,
[C] When life was [G] just a story told.

(Verse)
[G] The cattle [D] low and [Em] rivers flow,
[C] Where the willows [G] softly grow.
[D] Whispers of the [Em] wind so kind,
[C] Bringing back that [G] old moonshine.

(Chorus)
[G] Oh, take me back [D] to the dusty roads [Em] home,
[C] Where the heart is [G] free to roam.
[D] Underneath the [Em] southern sky,
[C] Where the lonesome [G] doves fly high.

(Verse)
[G] Cotton fields [D] swaying wide [Em],
[C] The sun setting [G] at our side.
[D] Corn taller [Em] than a man,
[C] It’s all part of [G] God’s grand plan.

(Chorus)
[G] Oh, take me back [D] to the dusty roads [Em] home,
[C] Where the heart is [G] free to roam.
[D] Underneath the [Em] southern sky,
[C] Where the lonesome [G] doves fly high.

Fan’s name:

Lucas Green

Fan Testimonial:

“Bands like ‘Other Grain’ make you feel like you’re part of something bigger than yourself. Their music takes me back to the simplicity and wholesomeness of rural life, something I deeply miss. I grew up on a farm, and their songs, especially ‘Dusty Roads Home,’ resonate with me on a soulful level. It’s like they’ve tapped into the heartbeat of the countryside and turned it into music. Every song they put out seems to speak directly to me and my experiences. That’s why ‘Other Grain’ will forever be my favorite band.”

Backstory: Sad Fight first formed in the bustling city of Austin, Texas in 2013. The band consists of four childhood friends, Jake Morello (lead vocals), Ben Harris (drummer), Gavin Potter (guitarist), and Theo Parker (bassist). After finishing high school, the quartet decided to pursue a music career influenced by their shared love for punk rock and the alternative scene. They started performing small gigs at local bars, and their raw, emotional performances quickly drew attention. When they finally got their big break opening for a renowned punk rock band, Sad Fight left the crowd mesmerized, and they haven’t slowed down since.

Genre: Punk Rock/Alternative

Title: “Tears in the Rain”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
G D Em C
Beneath the veil of the night, (G)
I’m walking down the lonely lane, (D)
Memories swirling with the city lights, (Em)
Our love lost in the tears in the rain. (C)

(Chorus)
G D Em C
Oh, we were just a sad fight, (G)
Battles raging in the twilight, (D)
Your words were my guiding light, (Em)
Now they’re just tears in the rain. (C)

(Verse)
Screaming at the top of our lungs, (G)
Underneath the city’s glare, (D)
Our words lost among the thrumming beats, (Em)
Our hearts breaking beyond repair. (C)

(Chorus)
Oh, we were just a sad fight, (G)
Battles lost in the neon light, (D)
Your love was my only respite, (Em)
Now it’s just tears in the rain. (C)

(Chorus)
Oh, we were just a sad fight, (G)
Our love lost in the cold moonlight, (D)
Your touch was my only delight, (Em)
Now it’s just tears in the rain. (C)

Favorite Fan: Sarah Thompson, a high school teacher from Dallas, is Sad Fight’s favorite fan. Sarah has been following the band since their early days, often driving hours to attend every one of their shows. Her dedication to the band is palpable, and the love is mutual.

Testimonial: “Sad Fight is more than just a band to me. Their music has been my solace during some of my toughest times. Their raw emotion and genuine lyrics resonate with me deeply. The energy and passion they bring to their performances are extraordinary and unmatched. I’ve watched them grow from playing in small bars to massive arenas, and their humility and dedication remain the same. They are truly a band of the people, and I couldn’t be prouder to be their fan.”

Backstory:
Educated Amount is a unique blend of individuals who found their way together through the corridors of a university. The three founding members, Greg Fletcher, Ritchie Kowalski, and Lisa Taylor, first met while pursuing their respective degrees at the University of Chicago. An impromptu jam session in the dormitory common room sparked a musical connection that could not be denied. The band’s distinct sound was born from a diverse range of influences, from classic rock to indie folk, and from that moment onward the trio decided to build upon their shared love for music. After graduating, they moved to New York City, where they added drummer Andy Peters and bassist Sarah McFadden, finalizing the band’s lineup. Their chemistry was evident, and they started to make waves in the local music scene, earning a growing fan base with their bold lyrics, poetic sensibilities, and unique sound.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Degrees of Separation”

Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
[G] In the heart of the city, a [D] tale began,
[Em] We found our voices, [C] took a stand.
[G] From lecture halls to [D] dingy bars,
[Em] Chasing dreams and [C] shooting stars.

[Chorus]
[G] Degrees of separation, [D] hearts in unison,
[Em] We’re an educated amount in this [C] world of confusion.
[G] Our song’s our declaration, [D] music our revolution,
[Em] We’re an educated amount, [C] finding our solution.

(Verse)
[G] Through late-night whispers, [D] and early dawn melodies,
[Em] We found each other, [C] amidst the degrees.
[G] From the grind of books, to the [D] thrill of the stage,
[Em] Penned our story, [C] page by page.

[Chorus]
[G] Degrees of separation, [D] hearts in unison,
[Em] We’re an educated amount in this [C] world of confusion.
[G] Our song’s our declaration, [D] music our revolution,
[Em] We’re an educated amount, [C] finding our solution.

Fan Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan is an engineering student named Pete Thompson. “Educated Amount is my favorite band because their music speaks to me on so many levels,” he asserts. “Be it the poetic lyrics, the story of their formation, or their unique sound, everything about them resonates with me. They remind me that in this chaotic world, it’s okay to find solace in what you love, in my case, music and engineering. Their story is an inspiration for students like me, proving you can pursue your passion without sacrificing your education. Their song ‘Degrees of Separation’ is the anthem of my life.”

Backstory:

In the heart of Knoxville, Tennessee, a group of four exceptional friends with unique musical talents decided to form a band named ‘Hungry Expertise’. It all started in their college dorm room where they would jam together and discovered a unique resonance in music. The band consists of lead vocalist and guitarist George ‘Buzz’ Harper, drummer Casey ‘Beat’ Olsen, bass guitarist Daniel ‘Bassman’ Edwards, and keyboardist Sarah ‘Keys’ Monroe. Their love for music coupled with a constant hunger to master their craft resulted in the formation of ‘Hungry Expertise’. Over the years, the band developed a unique sound inspired by their diverse backgrounds and shared love for Southern rock and blues.

Genre:

Blues Rock

Title:

“Rolling Down the Highway”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse]
G D
Rolling down the highway, not a soul in sight,
Em C
The moon above is shining, lighting up the night.
G D
I got my girl beside me, her hand holding tight,
Em C
We’re just two kids in love, trying to make it right.

[Chorus]
G D
Oh, we’re rolling down the highway, chasing dreams anew,
Em C
Under the starlit sky, just me and you.
G D
With the beat of the drums, and the guitar’s hue,
Em C
We’re making our own rhythm, humming our own tune.

[Verse]
G D
With every mile we cover, every town we pass,
Em C
We’re leaving behind shadows, breaking the glass.
G D
Got our hearts beating in rhythm, foot on the gas,
Em C
We’re not looking back, we’re free at last.

[Chorus]
G D
Oh, we’re rolling down the highway, chasing dreams anew,
Em C
Under the starlit sky, just me and you.
G D
With the beat of the drums, and the guitar’s hue,
Em C
We’re making our own rhythm, humming our own tune.

[End]
G D
So here’s to the highway, our faithful friend,
Em C
With you, we’ll roll on, until the very end.

The band’s Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is a girl named Lucy Hart. Lucy has been their most loyal supporter from the very start. In her testimonial, she said, “Hungry Expertise has a unique sound that’s rooted in tradition but also fresh and innovative. Their music speaks to my soul and connects with me on a deep level. Their song, ‘Rolling Down the Highway’ is a symbol of hope and freedom for me. They’re not just a band, they’re a beacon of inspiration for all young and aspiring musicians like me. I am their biggest fan, and their music is the soundtrack of my life.”

Backstory:
High Vessel was born in the sparkling city of Los Angeles, California, during the summer of 2015, when drummer Mike Hartley, bassist Jennifer Morgan, lead guitarist Troy McNally, and vocalist and rhythm guitarist, Lenny Martin, were all studying at the Musicians Institute in Hollywood. Their shared love for music and hunger for a fresh sound pulled them together. Often practicing and jamming together after classes, they found a unique chemistry among them that soon birthed High Vessel. They began playing at local bars and festivals, gradually gaining recognition for their distinctive style and sound.

After two years of relentless gigging, experimentation, and refinement, they caught the attention of a record label and won a contract. Their debut album, launched in 2018, catapulted them into the national spotlight, followed by a successful nationwide tour. Despite their rapid rise to fame, the members of High Vessel have remained grounded, attributing their success to their passion for music and their dedicated fans.

Genre:
Alternative Rock, with elements of Indie and Punk Rock

Title:
“Chasing Eternity”

Song Lyrics:
[Verse 1: G-Em-C-D]
(G) Underneath a neon sky, (Em) we found our dreams collide
(C) Running wild, we lost our way, (D) into the endless night
(G) Shadows dancing in the light, (Em) we were so full of life
(C) But time’s cruel trick, it played its hand, (D) left us in twilight

[Chorus: G-D-Em-C]
(G) We’re just chasing eternity, (D) in a world that’s fading so fast
(Em) Lost in our insanity, (C) trying to hold onto the past
(G) Chasing all we used to be, (D) in hopes that we might last
(Em) We’re just chasing eternity, (C) trying to outrun the past

[Verse 2: G-Em-C-D]
(G) Misty mornings and hazy days, (Em) we were invincible, unafraid
(C) Whispering secrets into the wind, (D) believing they’d never fade
(G) Bound by the music, we found our way, (Em) in melodies, we’d always stay
(C) But even songs can lose their words, (D) in the silence of the day

[Chorus: G-D-Em-C]
(G) We’re just chasing eternity, (D) in a world that’s fading so fast
(Em) Lost in our insanity, (C) trying to hold onto the past
(G) Chasing all we used to be, (D) in hopes that we might last
(Em) We’re just chasing eternity, (C) trying to outrun the past

Fan Testimonial:
“Hi, I am Amy Peterson, High Vessel’s biggest fan. I’ve been following them since their early days at Musicians Institute. Their music is more than just words and sounds; it’s raw and real. It’s about life, love, and everything in between. There’s an honesty in their lyrics that resonates with my own experiences. High Vessel isn’t just my favorite band because of their music, but also because of who they are as people. Humble, passionate, and real, they’re the kind of band that truly appreciates their fans, and I am proud to be one of them.”

Backstory:

Teeming Approval is a group of four friends from the small coastal town of Argyll, Scotland. The band was formed in high school when lead singer, Jillian, drummer, Angus, bassist, Fergus, and guitarist, Ewan, decided to amplify their garage jam sessions. After years of playing small gigs at local pubs and booking whatever venues they could, they caught the attention of a talent scout from a major record label. Their passion for music and their unique sound quickly earned them a record deal, and they have been living their dream ever since.

Their underdog story, humble origins, and unpretentious approach to music have helped Teeming Approval create a connection with their audience that goes beyond the simple pleasure of listening to good music. Their songs speak of common struggles, hopes, dreams, and the joys of simple everyday life, making them a band that their fans can easily relate to.

Genre:

Indie Folk Rock

Title:

“Rain on Cobblestones”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
G D
Rain on cobblestones, echoes of home
Em C
Hear the lighthouse call as the sea waves foam
G D Em C
Whispers of the wind, dancing with the leaves
G D Em C
We were just children playing in these streets

(Chorus)
G D Em C
Where the salt air meets the pine, that’s where you’ll find
G D Em C
A piece of my heart that I left behind

(Verse 2)
G D Em C
Old castle walls, standing tall and proud
G D Em C
The moonlight’s serenade, playing out loud
G D Em C
Secrets in the sand, tales of old and new
G D Em C
Memories of the summer skies, painted in hues

(Chorus)
G D Em C
Where the highland heathers bloom, under the moon
G D Em C
A piece of my heart still sings that tune

The band’s favorite fan:

Name: Sophie McTavish
Testimonial: “Teeming Approval is more than just a band to me, they’re like friends I’ve never met. Their songs speak to my heart and soul. Their melodies are the comforting echo of home and their lyrics are the stories of my life. Listening to “Rain on Cobblestones” always brings tears to my eyes. It’s like they wrote it just for me. Their music is real, raw and passionate, and I believe that’s why so many people, including myself, love them.”

Backstory:
In the smoky, steel factories of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, a group of blue-collar workers found solace in the rhythmic clank and grind of machinery. Each day, after their grueling shifts, they gathered in a derelict warehouse to weave those industrial sounds into a unique brand of music. Thus, ‘Insidious Steel’ was born. Over time, the band’s raw and rhythmic sound found a niche audience, and their local fame began to spread. Despite their growing popularity, the members of Insidious Steel stayed true to their roots, often performing impromptu concerts in the steel factory after hours.

Genre:
Industrial Rock

Title:
‘Chains of Iron’

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C#m E A G#7
In the belly of the beast, we sweat and toil,
C#m E A G#7
Underneath the steel sky, in our loyal soil.
C#m E A G#7
Our hands are black, our hearts ablaze,
C#m E A G#7
In the rhythmic dance of the industrial haze.

(Chorus)
C#m E A G#7
We are bound by chains of iron,
C#m E A G#7
Forged in the fires of our desire.
C#m E A G#7
We are the sons of steel and sinew,
C#m E A G#7
Our song, the hammer’s pyre.

(Verse 2)
C#m E A G#7
In the deafening silence of the night,
C#m E A G#7
Our voices rise, cleaving the quiet.
C#m E A G#7
In the echoes of our industrial prayer,
C#m E A G#7
The melody of insidious steel, we share.

(Chorus)
C#m E A G#7
We are bound by chains of iron,
C#m E A G#7
Forged in the fires of our desire.
C#m E A G#7
We are the sons of steel and sinew,
C#m E A G#7
Our song, the hammer’s pyre.

The band’s favorite fan’s name and why:
‘Insidious Steel’ has a dedicated fan base, but one stands above the rest – Margaret “Maggie” O’Sullivan, a retired steel factory worker herself. Maggie has been with the band since their inception, providing the moral support and unwavering belief they needed during their early days.

Testimonial:
“I’ve worked in the steel mills for 35 years, and never once did I think it could be the backdrop for such raw and powerful music. ‘Insidious Steel’ have managed to capture the soul of our city, our work, and our passion. Their songs aren’t merely tunes to me, they are the hard work, sweat, and love of our people set to music. They are our voice, and I couldn’t be a prouder fan.” – Margaret “Maggie” O’Sullivan.

Backstory:
Secondary Award is a band that was formed in the heart of Detroit, Michigan’s punk rock scene. The members were high school friends – lead vocalist Trent, guitarist Mark, bassist Paul, and drummer Alex. They were always second in line for everything – sports, academics, and even in their love lives. They embraced this trend and hence, named their band, ‘Secondary Award’. After graduating from high school, they decided to pursue their passion for music and formed the band in their garage in 2010. They hustled, practiced, and played at small gigs until they were discovered by a talent scout at an underground rock concert in 2012.

Genre:
Punk Rock

Title:
“Second to None”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C]Living in the shadows, we were always number two,
[G]But tonight under the spotlight, we shine just for you.
[Am]We took every defeat, every fall and every hit,
[D]Turned them all into a tune, a song you’ll never forget.

(Chorus)
[G]We are Secondary Award,
[C]Always second, but we’re never bored.
[Am]Tonight we’re not second to none,
[D]Under the Detroit city lights, we have won.

(Verse 2)
[C]From our garage to this stage, it’s been quite a ride,
[G]The music’s in our veins, it’s something we can’t hide.
[Am]We took every loss, every frown, and every sigh,
[D]Turned them all into this moment, under the starry sky.

(Chorus)
[G]We are Secondary Award,
[C]Always second, but we’re never ignored.
[Am]Tonight we’re not second to none,
[D]Under the Detroit city lights, we play on.

Bridge:
[C]We’ve had our share of second chances,
[G]Of second looks and second dances,
[Am]But tonight, on this stage,
[D]We’re first in your hearts, and it’s worth the wage.

(Chorus)
[G]We are Secondary Award,
[C]Always second, but we’re not floored.
[Am]Tonight we’re not second to none,
[D]Under the Detroit city lights, we have won.
[Am]Under the Detroit city lights, we’ve just begun.

Bands Favorite Fan’s Name:
Emily Thompson

Testimonial:
“I’ve always been a fan of rock music, but Secondary Award hits differently. Their journey from being second in everything to owning their unique spot in the punk rock scene is inspiring. Their music, it speaks to me, it tells a story of resilience and determination. It’s not just about the loud guitars and energetic drum beats, it’s about the soul they bring to their songs. The raw emotions in their lyrics, it’s something I can relate to. They might be Secondary Award in name, but they’re first in my heart.”

Backstory:
Interesting Cook was formed in the heart of Austin, Texas, in the year 2011. The band members consisted of high school friends, namely Michael “Mike” Jackson and Charlie “Chef” Baldwin, both of whom shared a love for music and a peculiar interest in cooking, hence the name of the band. Michael, who worked part-time at a local restaurant as a cook, was an exceptional vocalist, and Charlie was a self-taught guitarist. The duo started by experimenting with different sounds in their garage, building a unique sound that resonated with their everyday experiences, and before they knew it, an exceptional band was born.

After years of producing music in their small garage, their breakthrough came when a demo tape of their work accidentally ended up with a popular disc jockey at a local radio station. Their unique sound was broadcasted across the city, and the rest, as they say, is history. Interesting Cook has since gained a considerable following and has become a prominent figure in the indie music scene.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Song Title:
“Pepper and Melodies”

Full Song Lyrics:
Verse 1:
[G] Wake up to the [C] sunrise, [Em] morning’s looking [D] bright
[G] Bacon on the [C] griddle, [Em] filling up the [D] night

Chorus:
[G] You are the [C] pepper in my [Em] melodies, [D] sweet and hot
[G] You are the [C] rhythm in my [Em] heartbeat, [D] never stop

Verse 2:
[G] Sunlight on the [C] counter, [Em] eggs over [D] easy
[G] Your smile in the [C] morning, [Em] makes my heart feel [D] breezy

Chorus:
[G] You are the [C] pepper in my [Em] melodies, [D] sweet and hot
[G] You are the [C] rhythm in my [Em] heartbeat, [D] never stop

Outro:
[G] In this kitchen, [C] we cook up [Em] love, [D] every day
[G] With you, it’s [C] always tasty, [Em] in every [D] single way

Band’s Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a young woman named Emily who has been following them since their garage band days. Emily’s favorite song is “Pepper and Melodies” because it takes her back to the memories of her childhood mornings, with her mother cooking breakfast in the kitchen. In her words, “Interesting Cook’s music has a soulful element that’s deeply touching. Their songs always manage to paint such vivid pictures – I can literally smell the bacon frying when I listen to ‘Pepper and Melodies’. They are my favorite because their music is real and it speaks to the heart.”

Backstory:

Pesky Deal was born in the heart of the vibrant city of Austin, Texas in the late noughties. The founder, Jack “Pesky” Hansen, was a regular performer at local open mics and dive bars, impressing patrons with his quirky lyrics and unforgettable melodies. On one such night, he met drummer Samantha “Sam” Deal, a fiery redhead with a passion for rhythm and blues. They had an instant musical connection; their unique sounds complimenting each other’s, producing a harmony that was unexpected yet welcomed. The duo decided to combine their talents, giving birth to the unforgettable band, Pesky Deal. Over the years, they’ve added bassist, Luke “Bassman” Stevens, and keyboardist, Zoe “Keys” Mendez, completing the dynamic quartet known for their memorable performances and devout fan base.

Genre:

Indie Rock with a blend of Blues

Title:

“Fickle Heart”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G]I met her at the corner of the [D]street,
[C]Underneath the neon glow, where the [G]lonely hearts meet.
She [G]smiled at me with those fickle [D]eyes,
[C]Promises and lies, wrapped in a sweet [G]disguise.

(Chorus)
[G]Oh, Fickle Heart, why’d you have to [D]stray?
[C]Running back to her, leaving me in [G]disarray.
[G]Oh, Fickle Heart, you’re a Pesky [D]Deal,
[C]Loving you is like spinning the roulette [G]wheel.

(Verse 2)
[G]She danced away with the [D]night,
[C]Leaving me alone in the morning [G]light.
[G]Her memory lingers like a summer [D]breeze,
[C]A phantom love, lost in the autumn [G]leaves.

(Repeat Chorus)

Testimonial:

Pesky Deal’s biggest fan, Jenny Simmons, shared her love for the band saying, “I’ve been following Pesky Deal from their early days, when they were just playing in local dive bars in Austin. Their blend of indie rock and blues is intoxicating, and their lyrics are so genuine and heartfelt, you can’t help but connect with them. Jack’s voice is raw and honest, and Sam’s drumming adds a depth to their sound that just resonates with me. Their song ‘Fickle Heart’ is my personal favorite. It’s a beautiful blend of melancholic melodies and sincere lyrics that capture the essence of a broken heart perfectly. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for Pesky Deal. They’re not just my favorite band, they’re a part of my life’s soundtrack.”