Backstory:
Guilty Paste emerged from the underground music scene in Seattle, Washington in the late 2000s. The band was formed by childhood friends, bassist Taylor Shaw, drummer Alex Thomas, and lead vocalist and guitarist, Michael Jenkins. The trio used to jam in their parents’ basements, experimenting with different sounds and styles before finally crafting a unique blend of grunge-infused indie rock. The name ‘Guilty Paste’ was coined on a late-night drunken revelation, representing their conglomeration of various influences and genres into a unique sound paste, carrying a tinge of guilt over their unabashed borrowing from their inspirations.

Genre:
Indie Rock/Grunge

Title:
“Mosaic of Missteps”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1 G-D-Am-C)
G D
Walking on the edge of my own despair,
Am C
A mosaic of missteps, lost in the glare.
G D
Running from shadows, hiding from light,
Am C
Living in the echo of the never-ending night.

(Chorus Em-C-G-D)
Em C
Oh, we’re all just Guilty Paste,
G D
Borrowed pieces in life’s hasty race.
Em C
Stuck in the middle of the scene,
G D
Just trying to hold on to a dream.

(Verse 2 G-D-Am-C)
G D
Shattered mirrors and broken strings,
Am C
These are a few of our favorite things.
G D
Echoes of laughter in an empty hall,
Am C
We’re standing tall even when we fall.

(Chorus Em-C-G-D)
Em C
Oh, we’re all just Guilty Paste,
G D
Stitched together in an uneasy haste.
Em C
Framed in the spectrum of the unseen,
G D
Chasing the fragments of a forgotten dream.

Favorite Fan:
Our favorite fan is a diehard music lover, Lisa Thompson. She has followed our journey from the beginning, attending every gig we’ve played, big or small. She understood our vibe, our message, and our music in a way that resonated deeply with her. In her words, “The raw, emotional lyrics, combined with their distinct sound, sets Guilty Paste apart from other bands. Their music paves the way for a new wave of grunge-infused indie rock, echoing the sentiments of a generation caught between the past and the future. They are my favorite band because their music speaks to me on a level that most bands don’t. Their songs are like a mosaic of my own experiences, a reflection of life’s highs and lows.”

Backstory:
Instructive Question came to be in a small, bohemian town in Northern California. Childhood friends, Alexi Steele (lead vocals and guitar) and Chris ‘Jazz’ Halpern (drums), found their music refuge in a cluttered garage, which gradually became a sanctuary for their creative explorations. Influenced by an eclectic mix of soul, jazz, and vintage rock, they began to experiment with powerful riffs, infectious beats, and thought-provoking lyrics. When Cynthia ‘Cee’ Flynn (bass and backing vocals) joined the band, it was like the missing piece fell into place. Her love for blues and funk brought a unique edge to the band’s sound.

Instructive Question quickly gained a foothold in the local music scene. Their first EP “The Seed of Enquiry” made a remarkable impact, earning them a loyal fanbase. Their live performances, filled with raw energy and unfiltered emotions, have become legendary. They continue to question societal norms and provoke thoughts through their music, hence the name, Instructive Question.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Chasing Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em G
Wandering through the alleys of my mind,
Em D
Underneath the secrets I find.
C G D
I’m just a traveler, chasing shadows in the night.

(Chorus)
G D Em
Chasing Shadows, where do we go?
G D C
In the darkness, will we ever know?

(Verse 2)
Em G
Dreams that flicker like an old movie reel,
Em D
The scars hidden that time can’t heal.
C G D
I’m just a dreamer, chasing shadows that don’t feel.

(Chorus)
G D Em
Chasing Shadows, where do we stand?
G D C
In the silence, will we ever understand?

(Bridge)
Em D
Screaming loud in a soundless fight,
G C
Chasing shadows, looking for the light.

(Chorus)
G D Em
Chasing Shadows, what do we seek?
G D C
In the mirror, whose face do we speak?

(Outro)
Em G D
I’m just a stranger, chasing shadows till I’m weak.

Fan’s Testimonial:
As a fan, my name is Sarah Thompson, and Instructive Question is my absolute favorite band. Their music is a mix of raw emotions, powerful lyrics, and a unique sound that’s just irresistible. Every song feels like a journey, it takes me somewhere and leaves me questioning, thinking, reflecting. “Chasing Shadows” is my anthem – it’s haunting, beautiful, and so relatable. It’s as if Instructive Question has found a way to voice those thoughts and feelings we all have, but can’t express. They don’t just create music; they create an experience. That’s why they hold a special place in my heart.

Backstory:
Formed in a small suburban neighborhood of Portland, Eminent Quilt is the brainchild of childhood friends, Noah Robinson (lead vocals/guitar) and Sam Willis (drummer). They met in the 6th grade and discovered their shared passion for music, playing in various garage bands throughout their high school years. Noah’s father, a big-time music enthusiast, introduced them to the magic of blues and folk songs, which had a profound influence on them. After high school, they decided to form their own band, bringing in two more members – Laura Carter (bassist) and Jake Miller (keyboardist). They named their band ‘Eminent Quilt,’ symbolizing their diverse influences and the patchwork of genres they incorporate in their music. The band began playing at local pubs and quickly gained a fan base with their unique sound.

Genre:
Indie Folk Rock

Title:
“Woven in Time”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1: E A)
Through the prism of time, we’re just shadows and light, (E A)
In the tapestry of life, we’re threads woven so tight. (E A)
Silhouettes in the twilight, your hand in mine, (E A)
Under the shimmering sky, our stories align. (E A)

(Chorus: D A)
We’re woven in time, our stories entwine, (D A)
In the quilt of the universe, your soul next to mine. (D A)
It’s love undefined, through the ages it shines, (D A)
We’re woven in time, we’re woven in time. (D A)

(Verse 2: E A)
Echoes of laughter, whispers of pain, (E A)
Fragments of memories, washed by the rain. (E A)
The dance of the stars, the moon’s gentle rhyme, (E A)
In the quilt of existence, we’re woven in time. (E A)

(Chorus: D A)
We’re woven in time, our stories entwine, (D A)
In the quilt of the universe, your soul next to mine. (D A)
It’s love undefined, through the ages it shines, (D A)
We’re woven in time, we’re woven in time. (D A)

Fan’s Name:
Emily Andrews

Testimonial:
Ever since I heard Eminent Quilt at a local pub in Portland, I fell in love with their sound. Their music has this incredible way of seeping into your soul and resonating with your experiences. The lyrics of their songs are poetic, meaningful, and profound. It’s like every song is a piece of a beautiful quilt they’re weaving, connecting listeners through shared human experiences. I’ve been to every concert in town and even follow them on their tours. Without a doubt, they’re my favorite band. Their song “Woven in Time” is like my life anthem. Eminent Quilt’s music has a way of piecing together the fragments of my life, adding depth and color to my experiences.

Backstory:
Outstanding Other was formed in the vibrant music scene of Austin, Texas in 2012. The band consists of four members: Sasha on vocals, Jake on guitar, Andrew on drums and Daniel on bass. Their paths crossed in high school, where they first discovered their shared passion for music. During their early years, they played in several local venues, their reputation growing with each performance. Their breakthrough came in 2015, after they won a local band competition, gaining recognition from a regional record label. Their heartfelt songs and captivating performances quickly garnered them local fame, leading to a growing fan base and eventually catapulting them to the national stage.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Echoes of Silence”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
C#m A
In a world full of noise,
E B
I found your silence.
C#m A
In the midst of the crowd,
E B
I found your essence.

(Chorus)
C#m A E B
Echoes of silence,
C#m A E B
It’s where I find you.
C#m A E B
In the quiet corners of my mind,
C#m A E B
Your love rings true.

(Verse 2)
C#m A
In the clamor of the day,
E B
Your silence whispers.
C#m A
In the chaotic dance,
E B
Your tranquility lingers.

(Chorus)
C#m A E B
Echoes of silence,
C#m A E B
It’s where you reside.
C#m A E B
In the peaceful pathways of my heart,
C#m A E B
Your spirit abides.

Favorite Fan Testimonial:
“I’ve been a massive fan of Outstanding Other since they started. My name is Jamie and I’ve been attending their gigs since high school. Their music touches me in a way no other band does. Their song ‘Echoes of Silence’ is like therapy for me. Whenever I feel lost or overwhelmed, I plug in my headphones and get lost in their music. For those few minutes, I feel like they are speaking directly to me, offering solace and companionship. They are more than just a band to me, they are a lifeline.”

Backstory:

Plump Giraffe is an indie rock group that was born under the glittering stars of Austin, Texas. The band is made up of four childhood friends: lead vocalist and guitarist Jesse, drummer Mike, bassist Steve, and keyboardist Tim. The group’s name, Plump Giraffe, was the punchline of an inside joke from their middle school days and it stuck. The boys began their musical journey in high school, starting as a garage band and slowly transitioning into the local music scene. Their music reflects their shared experiences of growing up in their small town and the bittersweet essence of youth, love, and dreams.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Title:

“Starry Eyed Serenade”

Song Lyrics with chord progression:

(Verse 1- C, G, Am, F)
Underneath the cotton candy sky, (C, G)
Through the quiet whispers of the night, (Am, F)
Beside the river’s gentle flow, (C, G)
I found a place where dreams could grow. (Am, F)

(Chorus- C, G, Am, F)
With every strum, I’ll sing this starry-eyed serenade, (C, G)
In every tune lies a promise that won’t fade. (Am, F)
With you, my dear, I’ve no reason to be afraid, (C, G)
In our hearts, we hold this starry-eyed serenade. (Am, F)

(Verse 2- C, G, Am, F)
As the sun dips into the horizon’s cradle, (C, G)
We dance and laugh, our spirits unshakable. (Am, F)
In this moment, we believe in the incredible, (C, G)
In the magic of us, of love so unbreakable. (Am, F)

(Chorus- C, G, Am, F)
With every strum, I’ll sing this starry-eyed serenade, (C, G)
In every beat lies a melody that won’t degrade. (Am, F)
With you, my dear, I’ve no reason to evade, (C, G)
In our hearts, we hold this starry-eyed serenade. (Am, F)

(Bridge- C, G, Am, F)
In the quiet corners of the world, we’ve wandered, (C, G)
In every sunrise, every dream we’ve pondered. (Am, F)
Through every song, it’s you to whom my heart’s anchored, (C, G)
In this starry-eyed serenade, our love’s asundered. (Am, F)

(Chorus- C, G, Am, F)
With every strum, I’ll sing this starry-eyed serenade, (C, G)
In every word echoes a vow that won’t betray. (Am, F)
With you, my dear, I’ve no reason to trade, (C, G)
In our hearts, we hold this starry-eyed serenade. (Am, F)

Outro:
And in the silence of the night, (C, G)
Underneath the stars, so bright, (Am, F)
I hold you close, everything feels right, (C, G)
In this starry-eyed serenade, we ignite. (Am, F)

Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is Lisa, a twenty-year-old student from Austin. Lisa says, “Plump Giraffe is my favorite band because their music speaks to my soul. It’s raw, poetic, and beautifully honest. Their song ‘Starry Eyed Serenade’ was like a beacon of hope during a particularly difficult time in my life. The lyrics touched my heart and made me feel understood and less alone. I appreciate their authenticity and the genuine passion they put into every song. Their music is a beautiful escape

Backstory:

Little Poetry was initially formed in the quiet town of Borehamwood, England in 2012. Comprised of four childhood friends – Helena, Alec, Toby, and Greg – the band used to jam together in their school’s music room, their raw talent resonating through the empty hallways. They were known for their raw lyrical talent, with Helena and Alec leading the songwriting. After graduation, each member took their own path, but destiny brought them back together in 2017, and that’s when Little Poetry was officially born. Their songs were filled with youthful nostalgia, echoing their shared past, and they soon gathered a local following. They then started playing in small venues across the UK, their poetic lyrics resonating with their audiences’ hearts.

Genre: Indie Folk

Title: “Barefoot in the Rain”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Am C G
Walk with me, down our old street,
Dm Am
Just like we used to, barefoot in the rain.
Am C G
Chasing the sunset, hearts in our throats,
Dm Am
Those were our days, barefoot in the rain.

[Chorus]
G C Am
We were young, we were wild,
Dm G
Chasing dreams, running miles.
G C Am
We were free, we were vain,
Dm G
Dancing barefoot in the rain.

[Verse 2]
Am C G
The old oak tree, our secret retreat,
Dm Am
Carving our names, barefoot in the rain.
Am C G
Laughter and tears, under the stars,
Dm Am
We made our vows, barefoot in the rain.

[Repeat Chorus]

[Bridge]
F C G
Those summer nights, those winter days,
Am F
The seasons changed, we stayed the same.
F C G
In joy and pain, through love and strain,
Am F
We danced on, barefoot in the rain.

[Repeat Chorus]

[Outro]
Am C G
Now we’re grown, paths have changed,
Dm Am
But in my heart, it’s still the same.
Am C G
In my dreams, I see your face,
Dm Am
Dancing with me, barefoot in the rain.

Fan’s Name: Emily Johnson

Testimonial:
“Little Poetry is my favorite band because their music speaks to me on a personal level. It’s as if they’ve put my thoughts and emotions into beautiful, heartfelt lyrics. ‘Barefoot in the Rain’ has a special place in my heart. It reminds me of my youth, the carefree days spent with friends, and the bitter-sweet feeling of growing up. Their music helps me escape the mundane, and for a few moments, I’m back in those golden days, feeling every emotion just as intensely. Their music is not just songs, it’s poetry crafted into melodies.”

Backstory:
Ironclad Mile is a thrilling story of school friends who shared a mutual love for music and an indomitable spirit to create something extraordinary. The band was formed in the small town of Fenton, Michigan, in 2008 by Steve ‘Iron’ Griffin and Mike ‘Mile’ Johnson. Steve, being a self-taught guitarist, and Mike, a prodigy drummer, started jamming in their school days, creating a unique fusion of rock, metal, and blues. Their strong bond and shared vision led them to form ‘Ironclad Mile.’ After completing their studies, they moved to Chicago in search of bigger crowds and better opportunities. There they met bassist Sarah ‘Ivy’ Kellerman and keyboardist John ‘Copper’ Harris, who added the missing elements to their music. Ironclad Mile was finally complete.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Rusty Chains of Yesterday”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1:
(Am) Walking down this lonely street, (D) haunted by the past,
(G) Rusty chains of yesterday, (Am) shadows they cast.
(D) Lost dreams, shattered hopes, (G) in our hearts they stay,
(Am) We are Ironclad Mile, (D) and we’ve got something to say.

Chorus:
(G) Break these rusty chains, (D) let your spirit fly,
(Am) With every beat of our hearts, (D) reaching for the sky.
(G) Let the music take control, (D) let your soul be free,
(Am) We are Ironclad Mile, (D) This is our decree.

Verse 2:
(Am) In the heart of the storm, (D) we found our voice.
(G) Amidst thunderous applause, (Am) we made our choice.
(D) Walking the ironclad mile, (G) towards the rising sun.
(Am) We are Ironclad Mile, (D) and our journey has just begun.

[Repeat Chorus]

Favorite Fan Testimonial:
Our biggest fan is undoubtedly Jimmy ‘Ironclad’ Stevens, a Chicago native and die-hard music enthusiast. Jimmy has followed us since our first gig in a tiny pub in Fenton. He claims that our music resonates with his soul and helps him navigate through life’s ups and downs. He writes, “I’ve seen a lot of bands in my life, but none like Ironclad Mile. Their music touches my soul, their words echo my thoughts. They are not just a band to me, they are my heartbeat, my solace. Their song ‘Rusty Chains of Yesterday’ inspires me every day to break my own chains and to strive for freedom and happiness. Ironclad Mile is not just my favorite band, they are part of my life.”

Backstory:
Submissive Amendment is a band that was formed in the gritty streets of New York City in the late ’90s. The band is an eclectic mix of four music enthusiasts – Antonio (vocalist), Harry (guitarist), Samuel (bassist), and Oscar (drummer), who met while attending a local music workshop. They all shared a common love for music packed with powerful messages and decided to form a band. Their journey began from playing in small clubs and underground gigs, developing their unique sound, and creating a loyal fan base. Their motto is “To change through music,” portraying their belief for a progressive society and using their music as a medium to voice their thoughts.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Song Title:
“Echoes of Freedom”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse)
Am F C G
In dark corners, we found light,
Am F C G
In silent screams, we found our fight,
Am F C G
In closed minds, we found insight,
Am F C G
In unjust laws, we found our right.

(Chorus)
Am F C G
Echoes of freedom, in our heart’s song,
Am F C G
In our band’s rhythm, we make it strong,
Am F C G
In unity, we know we belong,
Am F C G
With Submissive Amendment, we can’t go wrong.

(Verse)
Am F C G
In oppression, we found rebellion,
Am F C G
In despair, we found a legion,
Am F C G
In resistance, we found our mission,
Am F C G
In submissive amendment, we found our vision.

(Chorus)
Am F C G
Echoes of freedom, in our heart’s song,
Am F C G
In our band’s rhythm, we make it strong,
Am F C G
In unity, we know we belong,
Am F C G
With Submissive Amendment, we can’t go wrong.

Fan Testimonial – Jake Thompson:
Jake Thompson, a 23-year-old graphic designer from Brooklyn, is arguably Submissive Amendment’s biggest fan. According to Jake, “Submissive Amendment isn’t just a band, it’s a revolution. The way they portray socio-political issues in their music, it’s like a wake-up call for the world. Their song ‘Echoes of Freedom’ has become my anthem, reminding me of the change I want to be part of. They’re not just playing music, they’re voicing our thoughts, our struggles. It’s raw and real. That’s why I love them.”

Backstory:

Well-To-Do Share is a band that was born out of the eclectic neighborhood of Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Formed by childhood friends – lead vocalist Norah, guitarist David, bassist Mike, and drummer Tom – the four shared a passion for creating music that spoke to their experiences. They formed the band in 2015 after they had all graduated from university, deciding to follow their dreams rather than the traditional path. Their music is a reflection of their bond, a shared understanding of life and its ups and downs. They didn’t just want to perform; they wanted their music to be a shared experience with their audience, hence the name ‘Well-To-Do Share’.

Genre:

Well-to-Do Share identifies itself more within the Indie Folk genre, weaving narratives with their lyrics, while their sound is a mix of folk influences and modern beats, creating a distinctive style that sets them apart.

Title:

“One Silver Lining”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C#m A E
Once upon a summer breezy and bright,
F#m C#m D
We were children playing under the sunlight.
E A C#m
Your laughter was a melody, my heart’s delight,
D E A
Reminiscing those days, oh, what a sight.

(Chorus)
A E C#m
One silver lining in the darkening sky,
F#m A D
A beacon of hope when the tide is high.
E F#m C#m
In our hearts, oh, we will never say goodbye,
D E A
Together, under the stars, we lie.

(Verse 2)
C#m A E
Through the years, we’ve seen the world’s frame,
F#m C#m D
The ups and downs, and love’s tricky game.
E A C#m
But we held together, burning like a flame,
D E A
In the end, it’s just you and me, the same.

(Repeat Chorus)

F#m E D A – (x2)

(Repeat Chorus)

Band’s Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan is twenty-year-old college student, Emily from New Jersey. Emily discovered our music during one of our earliest shows at a local bar in Brooklyn. Since then, she has travelled to every one of our shows, no matter the distance. Here’s what she has to say:

“I love Well-To-Do Share not just for their music, but also their authenticity. Their lyrics are raw and heartfelt, speaking to experiences that I can relate to. It’s not just about the emotion; it’s about the shared human experience. They make me feel seen and understood. Also, they always make an effort to connect with their fans, making each one of us feel special. It’s more than just a band to me, it’s a community.”

Backstory:

Hideous Policy was formed in the gritty backstreets of Leeds, England, in 2010. Originally a trio, band members Leon “Locke” McIntyre, Rufus “Rusty” Haynes, and Oliver “Ollie” Shaw were childhood friends turned disgruntled employees in different sectors of the corporate world. They initially used their musical skills as an outlet for their frustrations with their workplace’s unethical practices and eventually decided to leave their nine-to-five grind to pursue music full-time. The band was later joined by bassist Emma “Em” Cassidy in 2012 after she was inspired by their raw and passionate performances at a local pub.

Genre:

Alternative Punk Rock

Title:

“Corporate Chains”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C Am F G
Once we were free, now we’re in chains,
C Am F G
Puppets on strings, playing the corporate game,
C Am F G
Trapped in offices, under fluorescent light,
C Am F G
Swallowed by the system, losing the fight.

(Chorus)
C Am F G
Corporate Chains, they bind us tight,
C Am F G
Drown us in policies, suppress our might,
C Am F G
But we’ll break free, cut through the lies,
C Am F G
In the name of truth, the phoenix rises.

(Verse 2)
C Am F G
In the mirror, a stranger looks back,
C Am F G
Lost in the grind, painted in monotone black,
C Am F G
But deep inside, a fire burns bright,
C Am F G
Ready to ignite, in the dead of night.

(Chorus)
C Am F G
Corporate Chains, they bind us tight,
C Am F G
Drown us in policies, suppress our might,
C Am F G
But we’ll break free, cut through the lies,
C Am F G
In the name of truth, the phoenix rises.

Fan’s Name:

“Hideous Policy is more than just a band to me. They’re a beacon of rebellion, a voice for the voiceless. Their music resonates with me on a personal level. As someone who’s been stuck in a corporate job I hate, their lyrics speak directly to my frustrations. I see myself in their music, and it gives me hope and the courage to make changes in my life.” – Testimonial by Sam Henderson.