Backstory:
Near Interpretation was formed in the bustling city of Seattle in 2014 by childhood friends Tom Wilson and Nick Landon. After years of experimenting with different musical styles in their parents’ basements, the duo finally discovered a sound that was uniquely their own. Combining elements of electronica, rock, and punk, they started creating music that was raw, authentic, and full of energy. They later recruited the talented drummer, Emily Clarke, and the versatile bassist, Luke Bennett, through local music festivals and open mic nights. With the addition of Emily and Luke, Near Interpretation quickly gained a reputation in the city’s underground music scene as a band that was fearless and ready to push boundaries.

Genre:
Electronic Punk Rock

Song Title:
“Echoes of the Unknown”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Em (Em/G) D (D/F#) Am (Am/C)
Hear the echoes of the unknown, falling like rain in the dark,
C (C/E) G (G/B) D (D/F#)
Whispering words we used to know, etched on the canvas of the heart.
Em (Em/G) D (D/F#) Am (Am/C)
Lights from the city dim and slow, as we chase shadows in the park,
C (C/E) G (G/B) D (D/F#)
With each step, we’re letting go, setting fire to the spark.

[Chorus]
C (C/E) G (G/B) D (D/F#)
Echoes of the unknown, they’re calling us home,
Em (Em/G) Am (Am/C) D (D/F#)
Through the labyrinth of the night, beneath the twilight dome.
C (C/E) G (G/B) D (D/F#)
In our hearts, a silent song, a tale that’s yet to be told,
Em (Em/G) Am (Am/C) D (D/F#)
The echoes of the unknown, they’re turning silver to gold.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a 20-year old college student named Mia. She followed Near Interpretation since their inception and has attended every single concert, even traveling across states to see them perform. Mia loves the band for their authentic and fearless approach to music. She admires their ability to experiment with different genres and their courage to push the boundaries of the conventional music scene. Near Interpretation’s music has been a constant companion for Mia during her highs and lows, their lyrics resonating deeply with her personal experiences. She says, “Their music speaks to me on so many levels. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s incredibly powerful. Near Interpretation isn’t just a band to me, it’s a part of who I am.”

Backstory:

Authorized Menu is an eclectic group of musicians who found each other by chance in a small, downtown coffee shop in Austin, Texas. The band is made up of former chef turned lead vocalist, Billy “Menu” Menendez; classically trained violinist and keyboardist, Helena “Harmony” Johnson; self-taught drummer, Ian “Beat” Barker; and prodigious bassist, Jake “Bass” Bassett. Each was pursuing their own solo career until one fateful day when they spontaneously jammed together during an open mic night at the coffee shop. Their collective chemistry was undeniable, and realizing that they made better music together than apart, Authorized Menu was born.

Their name was a playful nod to Billy’s culinary past and the band’s shared love for food, combined with their shared belief in the freedom to create unorthodox music. Authorized Menu quickly gained a reputation in the local scene for their unique sound and charismatic performances. With their stellar fusion of genres, they are fast becoming a sensation far beyond the confines of Austin, Texas.

Genre:

Indie Fusion Pop

Title:

“Coffee and Dreams”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am G F C
Coffee in the morning, I got dreams on my mind,
Am G F C
Waking up to music, it’s the rhythm of life.
Am G F C
Scribbled songs on napkins, in the heart of the night,
Am G F C
We’re cooking up a melody, under the neon light.

(Chorus)
F C G Am
We are Authorized Menu, we’re serving up the new,
F C G Am
Brewing indie fusion, just for you.
F C G Am
A dash of pop, a sprinkle of jazz,
F C G Am
Creating a feast, in the name of music’s craft.

(Verse 2)
Am G F C
From the coffee shop to the stage, we’re turning the pages,
Am G F C
In the book of our journey, lighting up faces.
Am G F C
Every note’s a flavor, every chord’s a spice,
Am G F C
Whipping up a symphony, in this musical paradise.

(Chorus)
F C G Am
We are Authorized Menu, we’re serving up the new,
F C G Am
Brewing indie fusion, just for you.
F C G Am
A dash of pop, a sprinkle of jazz,
F C G Am
Creating a feast, in the name of music’s craft.

Fan’s Name:

Riley Gordon

Testimonial:

“Authorized Menu has been my favorite band since the first time I heard them at a local coffee shop. Their unique blend of indie, pop, and jazz is just magical. I’ve seen them grow from performing for the baristas to selling out concert halls. Their music has a certain authenticity and passion that I’ve never seen before. Each song feels like a carefully prepared dish, with different flavors and textures that somehow blend perfectly. No one does it quite like Authorized Menu. Their music is my comfort food, it’s what I turn to when I need to feel understood, when I want to celebrate, or just unwind. They’ve made my life richer, one song at a time.”

Backstory:

Easy Singer was formed in the bustling heart of London in 2013. The band was born when old school friends, lead vocalist Steven Johnson and guitarist Sam White, met in a dingy basement club and decided to dust off their old instruments. Joined later by bassist Tony Williams and drummer Danny Jones, the band started their journey, jamming in Steven’s garage and playing at the local pubs. Easy Singer’s fame began to grow when they were discovered by a record label executive during a gig at a famous underground club in the city.

Their moniker, ‘Easy Singer’, was adopted from an old phrase Steven’s granddad used, describing the ease with which the young Steven could carry a tune. The name stuck, and it became a symbol of their approach to music—uncomplicated, heartfelt, and genuine.

Genre:
Indie Pop-Rock

Title:
“Under The City Lights”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Underneath the city [G] lights,
[D] Found a place where [Em] dreams take flight.
[C] Hum of the city, [G] whispers in the dark,
[D] Here we found our [Em] spark.

(Chorus)
[G] Under the city [D] lights, we [Em] found our way,
[C] Music in our hearts, had [G] so much to say.
[G] Here we stand [D] now, on the [Em] edge of night,
[C] Ready to sing, under these [G] city lights.

(Verse 2)
[C] Strumming tunes in [G] subway trains,
[D] Songs of love, joy, and [Em] pains.
[C] From crowded streets to [G] smoky bars,
[D] Our music reached out to [Em] stars.

(Chorus)
[G] Under the city [D] lights, we [Em] found our way,
[C] Pushing through the dark, [G] to a brighter day.
[G] Here we stand [D] now, under the [Em] city lights,
[C] Ready to sing, to these [G] city nights.

(Band’s Favorite Fan)

Our favourite fan is Sarah Thompson. Sarah has followed us since our very first gig at the local pub. She’s been at every concert, cheering us on, and even helped us sell our first self-made album at her café. Here’s what she has to say about us:

“I’ve been a fan of Easy Singer since day one. Their music speaks to my soul in a way no other band has ever managed to do. The honesty in their lyrics, the passion in their performance, it’s just awe-inspiring. Their song “Under the City Lights” is my go-to track on a hard day. Easy Singer is more than just a band to me, they’re like a beacon of hope and strength. Their journey from a garage band to a well-recognized Indie Pop-Rock band is nothing short of inspiring.”

Backstory:

The universe of music welcomed Writhing Student in the summer of 2008. The band was born in the dusty, underground corridors of Yale University’s music department, where four ambitious students discovered a shared passion for creating compelling music. Jason Weaver, the charismatic frontman, came together with the fiery guitarist, Mark Thompson, the soulful drummer, Sarah Monroe, and the mellow bassist, Liam Davis, to form the essence of Writhing Student. They started as a college band, performing at university events, local gigs, and small venues around New Haven, Connecticut. Their unique sound, combining alternative rock and experimental jazz, quickly grabbed the attention of indie music enthusiasts. Writhing Student became known for their compelling lyrics and innovative composition, earning them a loyal fanbase and the reputation as one of the most promising indie bands in the Northeast.

Genre:

Alternative Rock/Experimental Jazz

Title:

“Library Ghost”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am C G D
In the quiet halls, under the dim light,
Am C G D
Sits a lonely ghost, lost in his own plight.
Am C G D
His eyes are on the books, but his mind is somewhere else,
Am C G D
In a time where he was more than just a shadow of himself.

(Chorus)
F C G Am
He’s the Library Ghost, always there but unseen,
F C G Am
Living in the pages, in the worlds that have been.
F C G Am
Once a writhing student, now a forgotten host,
F C G Am
In the heart of the library lives the lonely ghost.

(Verse 2)
Am C G D
He turns the tattered pages, a whisper in the silent room,
Am C G D
His story lost in ages, his existence merely assumed.
Am C G D
He looks for solace in the words, finds comfort in the lines,
Am C G D
In the sanctuary of books, where his solitude aligns.

(Chorus)
F C G Am
He’s the Library Ghost, trapped in time’s cruel jest,
F C G Am
In the echoes of the quiet, where his memories rest.
F C G Am
Once a writhing student, now a phantom most,
F C G Am
In the chorus of the library sings the lonely ghost.

The band’s favorite fan’s name:

Tommy “Bookworm” Phillips

Testimonial:

“I’ve been a fan of Writhing Student since their first gig at the Yale Underbrook. Their music resonates with me in a way that no other band does. ‘Library Ghost’ feels like it was written for me. As a Literature major, I can relate to the solitude of a library and the loss in the pages of a book. Writhing Student’s unique blend of rock and jazz gives me a sense of belonging. Their music has become the soundtrack of my college life.”

Backstory:

Jovial Councillor was born in the heart of Oakland, California, as the brainchild of five college friends back in 2012. Each member of the group had a different musical background, but shared a collective love for pop culture, politics, and storytelling. The group was named Jovial Councillor as a cheeky nod to a local council member who was known for his jolly disposition. After several years of performing at local gigs and word-of-mouth marketing, they had their breakthrough in 2015 with the hit song “Chasing the Sun” which garnered them national attention.

The quintet is known for their lively performances, playful lyrics, and tight-knit camaraderie. Their unique music style, inspired by political satire and daily life events, has earned them a dedicated fanbase. Despite their rapid rise to fame, the band has stayed true to their origins and continues to use their platform to promote positive changes in their community and beyond.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Midnight City”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am, Em, G, D
We were born in a midnight city,
where the stars don’t shine so pretty,
two lost souls just trying to get by,
in the echoes of neon light and petty fights.

(Chorus)
C, G, Am, F
In the midnight city, where the dreams are gritty,
we found love in the low-lit alleys,
in urban tales and graffiti hearts,
we turned our pain into art.

(Verse 2)
Am, Em, G, D
Through the smoke and the concrete maze,
we found our voice, we found our place,
in the rhythm of the midnight city,
we found our hope, we found our gritty.

(Chorus)
C, G, Am, F
In the midnight city, where life ain’t always pretty,
we found each other in the chaos,
through broken strings and broken dreams,
we made our own melodies.

Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan’s name is Tyler. He’s been with us since our days of playing in small pubs around Oakland. A true-hearted music lover, Tyler has shown up to almost every one of our shows, often with a homemade sign to show his support. In his testimonial, he says, “Jovial Councillor is my favorite band because they’re so much more than their music. They’re about community, camaraderie, and advocating for change. Their lyrics speak to everyday life and they put on the most energetic live performances. My favorite song of theirs, ‘Midnight City’, actually helped me through a tough time in my life. Their music really speaks to me, and I can’t wait to see what they do next.”

Backstory:
Fumbling Vegetable was formed in the eclectic city of Austin, Texas, where the members first met at a farmers market. The four members – Jason ‘Jalapeno’ Smith (guitar), Larry ‘Lettuce’ Larson (bass), Penny ‘Pepper’ Peterson (keyboard), and Tommy ‘Tomato’ Thompson (drums) – were all stallholders selling their respective vegetable-themed products. They bonded over their shared love of music and dedication to sustainable farming, eventually deciding to form a band and promote their environmental advocacy through song. After a few impromptu jam sessions in the market, their unique sound started attracting crowds, leading to their decision to record and perform beyond the market.

Genre:
Fumbling Vegetable’s sound is a blend of Indie Rock and Folk, infused with a hint of Country. Their lyricism leans towards environmentalism and the joys of farming, often delivering messages around sustainability, love for the earth, and simple living.

Song Title:
“Carrot and Stick”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am C G F
I’ve got a carrot, I’ve got a stick,
Am C G F
Walking down the road, so thick.
Am C G F
My heart is heavy, my feet are quick,
Am C G F
Underneath the sun, so slick.

(Chorus)
Dm Am C G
Oh, Mother Nature gives, Mother Nature takes,
Dm Am C G
In her arms, there ain’t no fakes.
Dm Am C G
We’re just a fumbling vegetable in this world,
Dm Am C G
Sowing seeds, as love unfurls.

(Verse 2)
Am C G F
The garden grows, the garden sighs,
Am C G F
Underneath the moonlit skies.
Am C G F
Whispered secrets, true and wise,
Am C G F
In every turn, a sweet surprise.

(Repeat Chorus)

Favorite Fan:
Their favorite fan is Sally ‘Squash’ Sampson, a fellow farmer and environmental activist from Austin, Texas.

“Squash” says, “Fumbling Vegetable is my favorite band not just because of their catchy tunes that get me through long days on the farm, but also because of their message. They advocate for sustainable farming and environmentalism in a way that’s accessible and fun. Their music carries the spirit of the land, the love for our Earth, and it just resonates with me. They’re more than just a band; they’re a movement.”

Backstory:

Hailing from the rain-drenched city of Seattle, Careful Hose emerged onto the indie music scene in 2016. The band is comprised of childhood friends, frontman Joel “Jett” Peterson, drummer, Tim “T-Bone” Andrews, bassist, Caleb “CJ” Johnson, and lead guitarist, Kaitlyn “KT” Thompson. The members, who had played in various garage bands throughout high school, sought to create a sound that was uniquely their own. They decided to name the band Careful Hose as a nod to their childhood mischief of water fights with garden hoses and the inevitable need to be careful not to flood their parents’ basements.

Genre:

Indie Rock/ Alternative

Title:

“Echoes in the Rain”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em G D A
Underneath the city lights, we found our way,
Em G D A
In the echoes of the rain, we learned to play,
Em G D A
Scribbled dreams on napkins, in a city cafe,
Em G D A
Promised we’d make them real, come what may.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
In the echoes, echoes in the rain,
C G D Em
Found our purpose, found our pain,
C G D Em
In the echoes, we found our name,
C G D Em
Careful Hose, we’re here to play.

(Verse 2)
Em G D A
Strumming chords on rooftops, underneath the moon,
Em G D A
Singing out our hearts, in a harmonious tune,
Em G D A
Beckoning the stars, to dance along,
Em G D A
In the echoes of the rain, we found our song.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
In the echoes, echoes in the rain,
C G D Em
Found our music, found our claim,
C G D Em
In the echoes, we found our fame,
C G D Em
Careful Hose, we’re here to claim.

Testimonial:

Name: Emma Thompson

“Careful Hose has been my favorite band since I first heard ‘Echoes in the Rain’. Their music speaks to me in a way that no other band does. It’s not just about the melody, but the raw, honest lyrics that feel as if they’ve been pulled from my own life experiences. They’ve created a sound that is unique and authentic, and it’s absolutely captivating. From the energetic guitar riffs to the powerful drum beats, everything about their music is just perfect. I can feel the emotion in every word they sing, and it resonates with me on a deep level. I’ve been to every one of their concerts in Seattle, and I can’t wait to see where their music takes them next. Careful Hose isn’t just a band to me, they’re a part of my life, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Backstory:

‘Welcome Attempt’ was formed in a small, bustling town of Nashville, Tennessee in 2012. The band was initially a collection of childhood friends – passionate about music and bonded by their shared dreams of making it big in the industry. Their journey began in their high school days, where they started out as a garage band, earning a name for themselves by performing at local events and high school parties. Their unique sound and lyricism soon caught the attention of a local record label, and their journey to stardom began.

The band experienced a significant breakthrough after releasing their debut album in 2015, which resonated with audiences across the country. They continued to attract a diverse and passionate fan base with their heartfelt performances and unique style. Despite the hardships and trials of the music industry, ‘Welcome Attempt’ always stayed true to their roots, creating music that represented their journey and experiences.

Genre:
Alternative Rock / Indie

Title:
“Chasing Shadows”

Full song lyrics:

Verse 1:
(Am)
In the city lights, where dreams become the night
(G)
We are just shadows, chasing after time
(D)
Look around, look around, what do we find?
(Am)
But echoes of our laughter, lost in the city’s rhyme

Chorus:
(G)
We are Chasing Shadows, in the dark
(D)
Lost in time, like a forgotten spark
(Am)
But in our hearts, there’s a burning mark
(G)
Chasing Shadows, is just the start

Verse 2:
(Am)
In the endless night, under the neon light
(G)
We are just dreamers, fighting the silent fight
(D)
Look up, look up, what do we see?
(Am)
But the canvas of the universe, painting our destiny

Repeat Chorus:
(G)
We are Chasing Shadows, in the dark
(D)
Lost in time, like a forgotten spark
(Am)
But in our hearts, there’s a burning mark
(G)
Chasing Shadows, is just the start

Band’s Favorite Fan:
‘Welcome Attempt’s’ favorite fan is a young woman named Lily. She’s been following the band since their early days, attending every concert, buying every album, and always sharing their music on her social media platforms. Lily’s enthusiasm is contagious and has often been a ray of light for the band during tough times.

Lily’s Testimonial:
“This band, Welcome Attempt, they’re more than just musicians to me. They’ve provided the soundtrack to my life. Their music has been there through my ups and downs, their words have been a comfort and a guide. I feel like they’re singing my story, and that connection is beyond words. They are my favorite band because they make music that is raw, real, and resonates with me on a deep level.”

Backstory:
Gorgeous Bulb was formed in 2016 in the bustling city of Boston, Massachusetts. Childhood friends, drummer Dave ‘Bulldozer’ Miller, guitarist Mike ‘Magic’ Johnson, and bassist Chris ‘Crippler’ Smith, had played in various high school bands but yearned to create something more original and resonant. They were introduced to charismatic frontman, Louis ‘Lighthouse’ Taylor, a British expat with a distinctive voice, in their local music store. After a jam session that lasted an entire weekend, they knew they had something special. Thus, Gorgeous Bulb was born.

Gorgeous Bulb spent the next few years honing their sound in local bars and clubs. Their relentless gigging and unique sound caught the attention of independent record label, Subterranean Riffs. In 2019, they released their debut album, ‘Illuminated Paths’, which was met with critical acclaim and allowed them to embark on their first national tour.

Genre:
Alternative Rock/Indie

Title:
“Shadow Ballet”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
G Em C D
Look at the shadow, dancing in the twilight,
G Em C D
A ballet in the dimming light.
G Em C D
Echoes of love, whispers of sorrow,
G Em C D
Tomorrow’s another day, another fight.

(Chorus)
G Em C D
Shadow ballet, I’ll dance with you,
G Em C D
In the moonlight, under the sky so blue.
G Em C D
I’ll fight the dawn, till the morning dew,
G Em C D
Shadow ballet, I’ll dance, just me and you.

(Verse 2)
G Em C D
Under the starlight, the dance continues,
G Em C D
Two hearts beating in different hues.
G Em C D
The night is ours, till the sun renews,
G Em C D
In the shadow ballet, we’ve got nothing to lose.

(Chorus)
G Em C D
Shadow ballet, I’ll dance with you,
G Em C D
In the moonlight, under the sky so blue.
G Em C D
I’ll fight the dawn, till the morning dew,
G Em C D
Shadow ballet, I’ll dance, just me and you.

Band’s Favorite Fan’s Name:
Sophie Williams

Why and How This Band is Her Favorite:
“I’ve been a fan of Gorgeous Bulb since their first gig at a local bar in Boston. The raw energy, the emotional depth of the lyrics, their unique sound – it all spoke to me. To see them grow and evolve as a band, to follow them on this incredible journey has been nothing short of inspiring. Their music has been a constant companion through my own highs and lows. The song ‘Shadow Ballet’ holds a particular place in my heart – the melody, the lyrics, the emotion it evokes, it’s indescribable. Gorgeous Bulb isn’t just a band to me, it’s an emotion, a way of life.”

Backstory:
Knobby Delivery was formed in 2010 in the bustling streets of Brooklyn, New York. The founders, Pete ‘Knobby’ Jefferson, a bike courier, and his childhood friend Mark ‘Delivery’ O’Connor, a postal worker, came together during one fateful evening jam session. They found a unique sound in their shared experiences of the day-to-day grind and the extraordinary characters they met during their delivery runs. Adding two more members, Lisa ‘Fast Track’ Evans on drums and ‘Package’ Joe Matthews on the bass, their quirky street-inspired music quickly gained a faithful following.

Genre:
Knobby Delivery plays a unique blend of alternative rock and folk, known for their rich storytelling and vibrant harmonies. They have carved out a niche for themselves in the indie music scene, their sound a unique reflection of the city they love.

Title:
“The Brownstone Serenade”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1 (Am, D, G, Em):
(Am) Winding streets, (D) concrete beats,
(G) Letters in hand, (Em) I’m a delivery man.
(Am) Brownstones rise, (D) under city skies,
(G) Got a song to serenade, (Em) every window pane.

Chorus (C, G, D, Em):
(C) Singin’ high, singin’ low, (G) through the sun, sleet, and snow,
(D) Knobby wheels spin and roll, (Em) melodies from my soul.
(C) The city echoes my refrain, (G) in love with the joy, the pain,
(D) The Brownstone Serenade, (Em) the rhythm of the trade.

Verse 2 (Am, D, G, Em):
(Am) Faces blur, (D) stories stir,
(G) Every letter, every box, (Em) a key to a hidden world.
(Am) Through the noise, (D) find my voice,
(G) A song to the city, (Em) in every delivery.

Repeat Chorus.

Favorite Fan’s Testimonial:
My name’s Ellie and I swear, I’m Knobby Delivery’s biggest fan! I first heard them at a dive bar in Brooklyn. Their music, it’s just so real. It feels like they’ve taken pieces of the city, the people, the spirit, and turned it into a song. Their tracks, especially my favorite – “The Brownstone Serenade”, to me, it’s about how every person has a story, every place has a tale. No other band captures the heart and soul of New York like Knobby Delivery. Their music isn’t just a listening experience, it’s a journey.