Backstory:
Urban Crate, the unruly child of the city’s music scene, was born in the grungy basements of New York City. Composed of five members – frontman Joey ‘Jazz’ Marino, guitarists Benny ‘Blaze’ Thompson and Vinny ‘Viper’ Russo, bassist Frankie ‘Flash’ O’Connor, and drummer Tony ‘T-bone’ Bellini, the band came together in 2014. Sharing a common passion for music that seeps into your soul and shakes your bones, they began experimenting in their respective urban crates, hence the name. Their shared love for the raw energy of city life and the unique rhythm it has to offer shaped their musical journey.

Genre:
Urban Crate’s signature sound lies in their blend of Indie Rock and Blues, with a touch of Punk, creating a gritty and raw yet melodious fusion that perfectly captures the spirit of the urban jungle.

Title:
“Concrete Shuffle”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Dm]Out in the daylight, [A7]we play our tune,
[Gm]On the city sidewalks, under the [Dm]moon.
[A7]Life’s a hustle, in this concrete zoo,
[Dm]But with my guitar, I’ll make it through.

(Chorus)
[F]We’re dancing on the edge of the world,
[C]In the shadows where the stories are told.
[Dm]On the streets, in the heart of the jungle,
[A7] It’s the concrete shuffle.

(Verse 2)
[Dm]Neon lights in the [A7]dead of night,
[Gm]Streets echoing with our delight.
[Dm]We’re strumming loud, against the [A7]city’s muffle,
[Dm]Living our dreams, in the concrete shuffle.

(Chorus)
[F]We’re dancing on the edge of the world,
[C]In the shadows where the stories are told.
[Dm]On the streets, in the heart of the jungle,
[A7] It’s the concrete shuffle.

Fan’s Name: Lisa Donovan

Testimonial:
“Urban Crate is unlike any other band I’ve followed. Their music isn’t just something you hear; it’s something you feel, deep down in your soul. They capture the essence of city life in a way no one else does. Their song ‘Concrete Shuffle’ speaks to me on a personal level. As someone who moved from a small town to the big city, I feel their music understands the struggles and joys of this journey. It’s raw, it’s real, and it moves you. That’s why they’re my favorite band.”

Backstory:
Tempting Lamp was formed in the suburban sprawl of Omaha, Nebraska in the sweltering summer of 2006. The founding members, high school buddies, Brian O’Sullivan and Jonathan “Jazzy Jon” Jenkins, were inspired by their shared love of music and a desire to transcend their mundane surroundings. Brian, an adept guitarist with a knack for euphonious melodies, paired with Jon’s poetic lyricism and unique vocal range, made them a fascinating duo. After recruiting drummer, Lisa “Lightning” Lopez, and bassist, Mark “Mellow” Morrison, the band solidified their line-up and begun their journey towards rock stardom.

Despite starting out playing at high school proms and local bars, the band’s unique sound and charismatic stage presence quickly caught the eye of indie record label, Shimmer Records. Their debut album, “Shadows and Silhouettes”, launched them from their local scene onto a national stage, leading to a series of successful tours and a growing fanbase. Their music speaks to the common human experience, meditating on themes of love, loss, and the struggle for authenticity in a world of shadows.

Genre: Indie Rock

Title: “Enigmatic Echoes”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1: C G Am E)
C G
Underneath the starry night,
Am E
Where dreams take flight,
C G
I heard your name in whispers,
Am E
In enigmatic echoes.

(Verse 2: C G Am E)
C G
Amidst the crowd’s blinding light,
Am E
We danced till twilight,
C G
Lost in the rhythm and rhymes,
Am E
Of our echoing goodbyes.

(Chorus: F C G)
F C G
Ooh, the enigmatic echoes,
F C G
Speak of a love that never lets go,
F C G
Despite the distance, despite the years,
F C G
In every echo, you’re still here.

(Verse 3: C G Am E)
C G
Every strum, every chord,
Am E
Brings you closer, adored,
C G
In the music, in the spaces,
Am E
I see your traces.

(Chorus: F C G)
F C G
Ooh, the enigmatic echoes,
F C G
Hold a tale of lovers in the shadows,
F C G
Underneath the neon lights, under the stars,
F C G
In every echo, there you are.

Band’s Favorite Fan:
The band’s beloved fan, Sophie Johnson, hails from Seattle. A loyal follower since the release of “Shadows and Silhouettes”, Sophie has attended every concert in the Pacific Northwest and maintains an active fan blog dedicated to Tempting Lamp. Here’s what she had to say about the band:

“The music of Tempting Lamp is a breath of fresh air in a world of carbon-copy tracks. Their songs feel like personal letters to their listeners, full of raw emotion and relatable experiences. ‘Enigmatic Echoes’ is my personal favorite, with its haunting melody and poignant lyrics. It’s not just a song, it’s an experience. The band never fails to captivate me with their performances and the genuine connection they have with their audience. In a world where authenticity is rare, Tempting Lamp remains a beacon of real, heartfelt music.”

Backstory:

Unconscious Debt, a group of four childhood friends from the seaside city of Brighton, UK, spontaneously formed their band during a late-night, post-pub jam session. Sebastian “Seb” Turner, twins Alex and Freddie Moore, and Oliver “Oli” Hobbs combined their shared love of music and storytelling to create something truly unique. Years after their initial jam session, the guys decided to take their hobby to the next level and created Unconscious Debt, a name inspired by the psychological and economic struggles they witnessed around them as they grew up.

Seb, the lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist, had a talent for writing evocively about real life situations. Alex, the lead guitarist, was drawn to complex and unusual melodies, while his twin brother, Freddie, brought rhythmic intensity with his bass. Oli, the drummer, provided the backbone of the band’s sound with his energetic beats and technical precision. Together, their wide array of influences and styles blended into a cohesive whole, presenting a sound that is raw and authentic, yet polished.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Chasing Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1: Gm – C – F – D)
Gm
In the heart of the city, under the neon light
C
You can find my spirit, lost in the dead of night
F
Chasing shadows, chasing dreams, chasing a broken heart
D
I’ve got to find my way out, but I don’t know where to start

(Chorus: C – Gm – F – D)
C
I’ve been running in circles, in this concrete maze
Gm
Can’t escape these chains, I’m lost in a daze
F
Chasing shadows, chasing dreams, in this city of despair
D
I’m just a lonely soul, is there anyone who cares?

(Verse 2: Gm – C – F – D)
Gm
Living on borrowed time, in a world that’s grown cold
C
Trading dreams for pennies, buying lies that we’re sold
F
Chasing shadows, chasing dreams, we’re all in debt it seems
D
Paying off our past, in this city of broken dreams

(Chorus: C – Gm – F – D)
C
I’ve been spinning in circles, in this urban haze
Gm
Can’t break these chains, feeling lost in a daze
F
Chasing shadows, chasing dreams, in this city of despair
D
I’m just a lonely soul, does anyone out there care?

Fan Testimonial:

Name: Amy Bennett

Amy has been a fan of Unconscious Debt since their early days of performing in small clubs across Brighton. She says, “Unconscious Debt’s music resonates with me on a personal level. Their lyrics tell stories that reflect the struggles and triumphs of my own life. The raw emotion in their songs, combined with the energy of their performances, make every concert an unforgettable experience. They are more than just a band to me; they are the soundtrack of my life.”

Backstory:

Kindly Duty was formed in the small college town of Madison, Wisconsin in the late 2000s. The band members, consisting of lead vocalist and guitarist Sarah Simmons, drummer Judy Reynolds, bassist Tim McShane, and keyboardist Kyle Greene, met in an open-mic night at a local bar. What started as a casual jam session among four music enthusiasts soon evolved into a bond rooted in shared musical interests and an uncanny chemistry. After performing at various local gigs, they started gaining popularity for their unique sound and poignant lyrics. Their breakout moment came in 2012, when their live performance at a Midwest music festival garnered critical acclaim and bolstered their fan base.

Genre:
Indie Folk Rock

Title:
“Colors of the Dawn”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C G D
Wake up to the colors of the dawn, my friend
Em C G D
See the world in hues that never seem to end
Em C G D
Don’t let the shadows from yesterday
Em C G D
Steal the promise that today is gonna send

(Chorus)
C G D Em
Sing with the rhythm, dance with the light
C G D Em
Kindly Duty’s calling from the night
C G D Em
Open your heart, open your sight
C G D Em
In the colors of the dawn, we’ll find our fight

(Verse 2)
Em C G D
Beneath the sky’s canvas, we find our place
Em C G D
Washed in the sunrise, shadows we erase
Em C G D
In the echoes of the morning, whispering grace
Em C G D
We find our peace, we find our space.

(Repeat Chorus)

Band Fan:
Rachel Meyers is the band’s most fervent and favorite fan. She states, “Kindly Duty’s music is more than just a collection of chords and lyrics; it’s like a form of therapy. Their songs speak to my soul, and each tune carries a message I resonate with. The unique blend of their voices and instrumental play creates an ethereal experience. I’ve been to all their concerts in and around Madison, and every show has left me with a memory I cherish. I believe their music has the power to heal and inspire, and I can’t wait to see what they come up with next.”

Backstory:

Born and raised in the heart of Liverpool, England, the four members of Stiff Trouser have been lifelong friends who shared an inexorable passion for music. Known for their iconic fashion statement of wearing flamboyantly colored stiff trousers on stage, they decided to make it their band name in 2010. They began by playing in local pubs and gradually escalated their music career, winning hearts with their seamless, eclectic compositions. The band consists of lead singer and rhythm guitarist Dave McCulley, bass guitarist Andy Madigan, lead guitarist Adam Hamilton and drummer Pete Taylor. Their music journey is filled with sweat, tears, laughter, and a deep love for creating melodies that resonate with their listeners.

Genre:

Stiff Trouser is best recognized for their infectious fusion of Punk Rock and Indie Pop. Their unique sound is characterized by fast-paced punk rhythms intertwined with catchy pop hooks and mesmerizing guitar riffs.

Title:

“Painted Horizon”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C G Am F
Late night, neon city lights,
C G Am F
Lost dreams taking flight,
C G Am F
We stumble on, in the break of dawn,
C G Am F
Just four boys, in stiff trousers worn.

(Chorus)
C G Am F
Through the painted horizon, we play,
C G Am F
In this crazy canvas, we’ll stay,
C G Am F
Creating echoes, in punk rock bay,
C G Am F
In stiff trousers, we’ll sway.

(Verse 2)
C G Am F
Broken strings and scarred hearts,
C G Am F
This is where our story starts,
C G Am F
In the realm of chords, we find our parts,
C G Am F
In stiff trousers, we are artists not charts.

(Repeat Chorus x2)
C G Am F
Through the painted horizon, we play,
C G Am F
In this crazy canvas, we’ll stay,
C G Am F
Creating echoes, in punk rock bay,
C G Am F
In stiff trousers, we’ll sway.

Fan’s Testimonial:

My name is Rosie Parker and I am without a doubt the biggest Stiff Trouser fan on this planet! I love their music because it’s refreshingly authentic. They blend Punk Rock with Indie Pop in a way that is both infectious and soulful. Their song “Painted Horizon” speaks to me on so many levels—it’s my life anthem. The band’s energy on stage is electrifying, and their trousers gimmick is just the cherry on top! They stand out not just in their music but also in their style. Stiff Trouser is more than just my favorite band—they’re my inspiration. I can’t wait to see what they’ll create next!

Backstory:

Limping Leave was first formed in the culturally rich streets of New Orleans in 2008. The members, Jeremy Smith (lead vocals and guitar), Lucy Martinez (drums), and Alex Thompson (bass), were childhood friends who found solace in music during difficult times. They would spend their afternoons strumming on guitars and banging on makeshift drums, making a sound that was uniquely theirs. After high school graduation, they decided to pursue their passion for music full time, leading to the creation of Limping Leave. Their name, they say, is a tribute to their humble beginnings and a reminder of life’s hardships.

The band faced initial struggles of finding gigs and being recognized. But their big break came in 2010 when they were discovered by a local music producer who was intrigued by their raw talent and unique sound. Since then, Limping Leave has toured extensively around the world, amassed a dedicated fan following, and left audiences captivated with their emotionally charged performances.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Chasing Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
C#m B A E
Chasing shadows in the night,
C#m B A E
Fragments of love out of sight.
C#m B A E
With every beat of this aching heart,
C#m B A E
Remembering how we fell apart.

(Chorus)
A E B C#m
Through the wind and the rain,
A E B C#m
Can’t escape the pain,
A E B C#m
Oh, I’m still chasing shadows,
A E B C#m
In the hope of finding you again.

(Verse)
C#m B A E
Lost in the past, can’t move on,
C#m B A E
Singing the words of our forgotten song.
C#m B A E
Every echo, every silent scream,
C#m B A E
Brings me back to our shattered dream.

(Chorus)
A E B C#m
Through the wind and the rain,
A E B C#m
Can’t escape the pain,
A E B C#m
Oh, I’m still chasing shadows,
A E B C#m
In the hope of finding you again.

(Outro)
C#m B A E
So I’ll keep chasing shadows,
C#m B A E
Till I hold you again.

Fan Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan is Emily Roberts. Emily, a New Orleans native herself, has been following Limping Leave since their early days. “Their music resonates with my soul,” Emily says. “From the first time I heard ‘Chasing Shadows’, I knew this band was different. Their lyrics, the raw emotion in Jeremy’s voice, Lucy’s powerful drumming, and Alex’s soulful bass—all of it just speaks to me on a different level. I’ve been to every one of their concerts that I could manage, and each time, it’s like I’m discovering them anew. To me, Limping Leave isn’t just a band, they’re a part of me.”

Backstory:

Primary Mouth was born in the vibrant underground Montreal music scene in the mid-2010s. The band members – lead vocalist and guitarist Sebastian “Bass” Devlin, drummer Samuel “Smack” McArthur, bassist Joshua “Josh” Francis and keyboardist Caitlin “Keys” O’Donnell – came together while attending McGill University, bonding over shared love of experimental music and late-night jam sessions. When Devlin found an old, discarded tuba in a dumpster, he was inspired to incorporate it into their music, leading to their unique, eclectic sound that quickly became a local sensation.

Their breakout performance at the notorious ArtBeat Festival in 2017 attracted the attention of independent record label, ‘Underground Pulse’, which eventually led to the release of three studio albums, numerous singles, and national and international tours. Despite their growing popularity, Primary Mouth remains as down-to-earth and committed to their creative vision as ever, constantly pushing the boundaries of their music and always surprising their fans with their innovative, genre-bending compositions.

Genre:
Alternative Rock with a hint of Experimental Jazz

Title:
“Technicolor Waves”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1: Am, C, G, F)
Am C
Swimming in a sea of sound,
G F
echoes in my head resound,
Am C
technicolor waves abound,
G F
this is where I am found.

(Chorus: F, G, Am, C)
F G
Dive into the deep, oh so vast,
Am C
Hold onto the present, not the past,
F G
Riding on the rhythm, hoping it lasts,
Am C
In the technicolor waves, we’re cast.

(Verse 2: Am, C, G, F)
Am C
Washed in hues of red and blue,
G F
every moment feels so new,
Am C
In this sonic sea, we grew,
G F
Technicolor waves, our view.

(Chorus: F, G, Am, C)
F G
Dive into the deep, oh so vast,
Am C
Hold onto the present, not the past,
F G
Riding on the rhythm, hoping it lasts,
Am C
In the technicolor waves, we’re cast.

(Bridge: Em, G, D, C)
Em G
Under a sky of melody,
D C
we find our harmony,
Em G
in this technicolor sea,
D C
we’re free.

(Chorus: F, G, Am, C)
F G
Dive into the deep, oh so vast,
Am C
Hold onto the present, not the past,
F G
Riding on the rhythm, hoping it lasts,
Am C
In the technicolor waves, we’re cast.

(Outro: Am, C, G, F)
Am C
Swimming in a sea of sound,
G F
echoes in my head resound,
Am C
technicolor waves abound,
G F
this is where I am found.

Favorite Fan:

Lila Davis is a self-proclaimed Primary Mouth superfan, and claims the band saved her life with their music. Lila first heard the band while going through a difficult time in her life. The unique sound and profound lyrics resonated with her, providing comfort and an outlet for her feelings.

Testimonial:
“Primary Mouth is more than just a band to me – they’re a lifeline. Their music, their lyrics, they speak to me in a way no other band has before. They make me feel seen, understood, and less alone in the world. I will always be grateful for the solace and strength their songs have given me. Primary Mouth isn’t just my

Backstory:
Euphoric Burden, a band hailing from a small, nondescript town in Northern Vermont, came together in 2010. The four members, childhood friends who had grown up on a rich diet of music, ranging from classic rock to pop, found a unique, unifying sound that resonated with individuals who sought more than what mainstream music had to offer. The band’s heart and soul, lead vocalist and songwriter, Jesse Matthews, along with lead guitarist, Alex Knox, bassist, Mike Turner, and drummer, Phil Johnson, bonded over their shared love for music and the dream to create something extraordinary.

Euphoric Burden’s rise to fame was anything but instant. They started by playing in local bars and festivals, slowly building a fan base that appreciated their unique sound. Their breakthrough came in 2015 when they were discovered by a record label scout at one such local gig; they have been on a steady ascent ever since. Despite their growing fame, Euphoric Burden has stayed true to their roots, maintaining their authentic sound and connection with their fans.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Chasing Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:
[Verse 1]
Am – E
In these winding streets, where echoes meet,
G – D
I’ve been chasing shadows, lost in retreat.

Am – E
A ghostly whisper, a silent plea,
G – D
Looking for answers in a mystery.

[Chorus]
C – G – D
Chasing shadows, in the dark,
Am – E
Running circles, missing the mark.
C – G – D
A quest for truth, a desperate art,
Am – E
In chasing shadows, we fall apart.

[Verse 2]
Am – E
In the mirror’s reflection, a stranger’s face,
G – D
Chasing shadows, in an endless race.

Am – E
The clock is ticking, time’s cruel game,
G – D
In the pursuit, we’re all the same.

[Chorus]
C – G – D
Chasing shadows, in the dark,
Am – E
Running circles, missing the mark.
C – G – D
A quest for truth, a desperate art,
Am – E
In chasing shadows, we fall apart.

Favorite Fan:
Euphoric Burden’s favorite fan is a woman named Lisa Sanders. Lisa has been with the band since their early days, never missing a local gig. Her constant support and passion for their music have been instrumental in their journey. Lisa loves Euphoric Burden because their music resonates with her, providing solace and inspiration during challenging times. Lisa says, “Their lyrics speak to me, and their melodies transport me. Their music is like an anchor in my life, keeping me grounded but also inspiring me to dream. Euphoric Burden isn’t just a band to me; they’re a critical part of my life’s soundtrack.”

Backstory:
Notable Investigation was formed in the bustling streets of Seattle in 2010 when lead singer, Hayden Lee, bumped into drummer, Max Harris, literally. Lee was an aspiring singer and songwriter, while Harris was a percussionist who had played in various local bands. The chance meeting in a local coffee shop, coupled with their shared love for music, led to the formation of Notable Investigation. The band later added bassist, Rachel Summers, and guitarist, Tyler Brown, to complete their lineup. Summers and Brown, who were classmates in a local music school, brought a fresh spark to the band’s music, adding depth and complexity.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Shadows in the Light”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G] Wandering in circles, [D] lost in the night,
[Em] Chasing after shadows, [C] in the flickering light.
[G] The whispers of the wind, [D] the secrets they keep,
[Em] In the heart of the city, that [C] never sleeps.

(Chorus)
[G] Shadows in the light, [D] secrets in plain sight,
[Em] You and I, caught in the [C] endless fight.
[G] Searching for the truth, [D] in the heart of the night,
[Em] We are the shadows, [C] in the light.

(Verse 2)
[G] The echoes of the past, [D] hidden in the stones,
[Em] The mystery that lasts, [C] in our hearts and bones.
[G] The rhythm of the city, [D] the beat of the street,
[Em] In every corner, where [C] the shadows meet.

(Chorus)
[G] Shadows in the light, [D] secrets in plain sight,
[Em] You and I, caught in the [C] endless fight.
[G] Searching for the truth, [D] in the heart of the night,
[Em] We are the shadows, [C] in the light.

Fan’s Name:
Liam Thompson

Testimonial:
The first time I saw Notable Investigation live, I was blown away. The raw emotion in their performance, the haunting lyrics of their songs, and the electric energy they exude on stage is what sets them apart. Their music speaks to me on a personal level, and I feel a connection to their lyrics that is hard to explain. Every song is like a journey of self-discovery, and you can’t help but get lost in their music. I’ve been to countless concerts and own all their albums. For me, Notable Investigation is more than just a band – they’re a soundtrack to my life.

Backstory:
Quirky Cast, a four-member indie rock band, originated from the heart of Chicago’s bustling music scene in 2014. Childhood friends Eddie “Ed” Parker on lead vocals and guitar, Liam “Lee” Shaw on drums, Thomas “Tommy” Anderson on bass, and Matthew “Matty” Roberts on keyboard and backing vocals, found their unique sound while jamming in the basement of Ed’s house. After playing at several local bars and building a dedicated fan base, they caught the eye of indie record label, “Riot Audio,” which catapulted their music career. They’ve released three full-length albums and have been touring nationally ever since.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Song Title:
“Stars in Daylight”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[D] Looking up at the sky, [G] wondering where’d you go?
[A] I see you in the stars, [D] but the sun’s too bright to show.
[G] You left without a word, [D] just a note on the table,
[A] And I’m trying to move on, [G] but I’m just not able.

(Chorus)
[D] We used to dream of the night, [G] under stars in daylight.
[A] You’re a memory now, [D] fading out of sight.
[G] I’ll keep looking up, [D] hoping you’ll reappear,
[A] But until then, [G] I’ll hold on to the love that was here.

(Verse 2)
[D] Now, I’m walking these streets, [G] they’re empty without you.
[A] Echoes of our laughter, [D] reminders of what we’ve been through.
[G] I reach out in the dark, [D] for a touch I can’t find,
[A] But I’ll keep looking up, [G] till I leave the past behind.

(Chorus)
[D] We used to dream of the night, [G] under stars in daylight.
[A] You’re a memory now, [D] fading out of sight.
[G] I’ll keep looking up, [D] hoping you’ll reappear,
[A] But until then, [G] I’ll hold on to the love that was here.

Fan Testimonial:
Fan’s Name: Emily Thompson
“Quirky Cast is my favorite band because their music is raw, real, and incredibly soulful. Each song tells a story that I can connect to. As someone who’s experienced heartache, their song “Stars in Daylight” resonates deeply with me. The lyrics, the melody, Ed’s voice – it all just hits right in the heart. When I heard them live for the first time, it was like they were singing just for me. They have a way of making every fan feel special, and that’s what makes them truly extraordinary.”