Backstory:
Subtle Company was formed in the small town of Mansfield, Ohio, where the four founding band members, Hank, Marty, Leon, and Tommy, were all childhood friends. Growing up in working-class families, their love for music provided a refuge from the hardships of daily life. They would spend hours practicing in their parents’ garages, honing their skills and dreaming of one day performing on the biggest stages. In high school, they organized a small neighborhood concert and with the overwhelming response, realized they had something special. After graduation, they decided to take a leap of faith and transform their passion into a full-time career. They packed up their barely functioning van and headed to Los Angeles to chase their dreams. They faced countless rejections and struggles, yet their bond and love for music kept them going. After years of patience and perseverance, they finally got their break when their song, “Melancholic Whispers,” caught the interest of a popular radio station.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Feathers in the Wind”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Am Em
Look at the skyline, it’s painted with despair,
D G
Broken dreams scattered, like feathers in the air.
Am Em
Our hearts are heavy, under the city light’s glare,
D G
We’re wandering souls, just trying to find where.

[Chorus]
C G
We’re feathers in the wind, silently we spin,
D Em
In a dance with destiny, where do we begin?
C G
We’re feathers in the wind, in a world that’s paper-thin,
D Em
Hold on to hope, it’s the only war, we’re destined to win.

[Verse 2]
Am Em
Hold my hand tight, as we walk the road of life,
D G
Making our melodies, cutting through the strife.
Am Em
We’re more than shadows, lost in the moonlight,
D G
We’re stories untold, burning so bright.

[Chorus]
C G
We’re feathers in the wind, silently we spin,
D Em
In a dance with destiny, where do we begin?
C G
We’re feathers in the wind, in a world that’s paper-thin,
D Em
Hold on to hope, it’s the only war, we’re destined to win.

Fan Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan is Claire Stevens, a college student from Boston. Claire discovered Subtle Company during a particularly rough semester, and their music became her solace. She says, “Subtle Company’s music has been my escape and my comfort. Their lyrics resonate with me on such a deep level and their melodies are always so compelling. It’s like they understand the struggles of my generation. They are not just a band to me, they are my subtle company in the loneliest times. Without a doubt, they’re my favorite band, and their song “Feathers in the Wind” is my anthem.”

Backstory:
Formed in the vibrant city of Austin, Texas, Nutritious Curtain is an unconventional medley of four lifelong friends, who came together in 2015. The band members, Joe (vocalist), Ethan (guitar), Mike (drums), and Oscar (bass), all hail from different musical backgrounds but share a mutual love for music that speaks to the soul. Their bond dates back to their high school days when they were just four kids with big dreams and a shared garage, brimming with the passion for creating music that’s more than just auditory enjoyment. The band’s name, Nutritious Curtain, is a nod to their belief in the nourishing power of music and its fundamental role in veiling the harsh realities of life with a soothing, rhythmic solace.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Rippling Echoes”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse)
[G] Underneath the [C] sky so blue,
[G] Searching for a [D] clue,
[G] In the rippling [C] echoes of [D] time,
[G] We often lose what’s [D] truly prime.

(Chorus)
[C] Let’s swim against the [G] tide,
[C] Unleash the spirit we [D] hide,
[G] In these rippling [C] echoes, we [D] find,
[G] Our sanctuary, [D] leaving worries behind.

(Verse)
[G] Through the winding [C] paths we roam,
[G] Yet in music, we [D] find home.
[G] In the rippling [C] echoes of [D] song,
[G] We know where we [D] truly belong.

(Chorus)
[C] Let’s dance in the moon’s [G] light,
[C] Bask in the star’s [D] sight.
[G] In these rippling [C] echoes, we [D] see,
[G] Freedom, love, [D] and unity.

Favorite Fan Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan is Sandy, a music teacher from Houston. She says, “Nutritious Curtain isn’t just a band to me – it’s an emotional journey. Their music helps me find solace in my hectic life. Their lyrics resonate with my innermost feelings and thoughts. I love how their songs always tell a story, a tale that often feels like my own. Their music isn’t just heard, it’s felt. And that’s why Nutritious Curtain is my favorite band.”

Backstory:

Far-Off Dime came into existence in the bustling city of Seattle in the year 2010. The band was formed by five college friends: Jeremy, Harrison, Luke, Stacy, and Mike. They spent their days juggling between college assignments and jamming sessions. Each one of them had a unique taste in music which blended together to create something extraordinary. Their love for music and their shared dream of making it big in the industry gave birth to Far-Off Dime. Their songs are inspired by the ups and downs of life and the quest of finding oneself amidst the chaos.

Genre:

The music of Far-Off Dime is an eclectic mix of Rock, Pop and Soul. Their tunes resonate with the listeners, drawing them into a world of profound emotions and raw energy. The band has a unique way of incorporating rock elements in soulful melodies which sets them apart from the crowd.

Title:

“One Last Ride”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am G F C
Waking up in the middle of the night,
C G Am F
Chasing dreams that took flight.
G F C Am
The road is long, the journey wild,
Am F C G
All I have are stories untold.

(Chorus)
C G Am F
So let’s take, one last ride,
G C Am F
Under the moon and starlit sky.
C G F Am
With our hearts beating wild,
Am F C G
One last ride, before we say goodbye.

(Verse 2)
Am G F C
In this world full of noise and lies,
C G Am F
We found a truth that never dies.
G F C Am
With every beat, every strum,
Am F C G
We’ll play our song, till the night is done.

(Chorus)
C G Am F
So let’s take, one last ride,
G C Am F
Under the moon and starlit sky.
C G F Am
With our hearts beating wild,
Am F C G
One last ride, before we say goodbye.

The band’s favorite fan’s name:

Alyssa Richards

Testimonial:

“Far-Off Dime is more than just a band to me. Their music resonates with my life, helping me navigate through my highs and lows. I remember being at their first concert, and their energy was so infectious that I’ve been hooked ever since. Each of their songs tells a story that feels personal and real. The band’s commitment to their music and the authenticity of their lyrics is what makes them my favorite.”

Backstory:

Formed in the dim-lit basement of an old Victorian house in New Orleans, ‘Velvety Believe’ weaved their roots into the music scene in 2005. The band was initially just a trio of childhood friends – lead guitarist and vocalist, Miles Stevenson, drummer, Andy Watts, and bassist, Anna Moreau. As they ventured into the world of music, their unexpected encounter with violinist, Theo Laurence at a local jazz bar, added a surreal edge to their soundscape. This unlikely quartet combined their love for blues, soul, and rock to create a unique sound that transcended the typical genre boundaries, resonating with an array of music enthusiasts. Over the years, they’ve gained a reputation for their mesmerizing live performances and meaningful lyrics wrapped in powerful melodies.

Genre:

Blues Rock with a touch of Soul

Title:

“Shadow Ballet”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Underneath the [Am] neon sky,
[G] Dance the shadows, [Dm] paintin’ the night.
[F] Whispered secrets, [C] silent words,
[G] Echo in the [Am] unseen world.

(Chorus)
[F] Shadow ballet in the [G] moonlit lane,
[C] Twirls around in the [Am] pouring rain.
[Dm] Hold on tight, [G] don’t let it fade,
[C] In the dark, we’ll [F] find our way.

(Verse 2)
[C] Silhouettes in [Am] black and blue,
[G] Telling tales of [Dm] love and rue.
[F] Lost in rhythm, [C] lost in time,
[G] Dancing to life’s [Am] secret chime.

(Chorus)
[F] Shadow ballet in the [G] midnight breeze,
[C] A moment’s peace in the [Am] wild unease.
[Dm] In the whispers of the [G] night,
[C] We’ll find the strength to [F] reignite.

Testimonial:

“Hi, I’m Rosie Peterson, Velvety Believe’s biggest fan! I’ve been a die-hard believer since their first local gig in 2005. Their music speaks to the soul like nothing else. It’s not just about the lyrics or melody, it’s the raw emotion they bring to the table. Every song they create is like a story unraveling before your eyes, touching your heart, making you feel seen and heard. ‘Shadow Ballet’ is just another testament to their genius. It’s as if they’ve woven my life into a song. Velvety Believe is more than just a band to me, they’re like a beacon of hope in the dark. They make me feel less alone in this vast universe and for that, they’ll always be my favorite.”

Backstory:

Forked Chapter was born in the bustling grit of Detroit, Michigan, in 2015. Five childhood friends, Jake Holman (lead vocals), Ryan Decker (lead guitar), Zachary Arnold (bass), Dylan O’Brien (drums), and Grace ‘Gypsy’ Oxford (keyboards), who used to play gigs in their parents’ garages, decided to unite their musical talents and form a band. Their mutual love for music and shared hardship growing up in a city on the verge of bankruptcy bonded these five souls together. Their journey has been a testament to their resilience and passion.

Starting out as a garage band, Forked Chapter quickly gained popularity in their local music scene due to their soul-stirring lyrics and unique sound. Their rise to fame was unprecedented when their demo got into the hands of a record executive during a music festival in Nashville. Since then, their music has resonated with fans all over the world, making Forked Chapter one of the most promising bands of this generation.

Genre:

Forked Chapter is best known for their Alternative Rock with a touch of Blues.

Title:

One of their most-loved songs is called “Echoes of Yesterday.”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1: (Am, C, G, F)
“Caught up in the gale, (Am)
we lost our way. (C)
Torn sails, broken tales, (G)
echoes of yesterday.” (F)

Chorus: (Am, F, C, G)
“Yesterday’s gone, (Am)
and our song remains unwritten, (F)
Let’s turn the page, (C)
on echoes of yesterday.” (G)

Verse 2: (Am, C, G, F)
“Stormy seas, darkened dreams, (Am)
a journey that’s yet to be. (C)
Lines on our faces, (G)
are echoes of yesterday.” (F)

Chorus: (Am, F, C, G)
“Yesterday’s pain, (Am)
is not today’s burden, (F)
We’ll forge our own path, (C)
No more echoes of yesterday.” (G)

Favorite Fan Testimonial:

Our favorite fan is a woman named Melissa from Boston, who has been with us since our garage band days. She’s attended every single one of our shows within a 200-mile radius of her home. Here’s what she says about us:

“Forked Chapter is not just a band to me, they’re a lifeline. Their music speaks to my soul, it’s raw and real. It’s like they’ve somehow encapsulated my life experiences into their lyrics. “Echoes of Yesterday” helped me move on from a painful past. I felt every word, every chord, and it was therapeutic. They are more than my favorite band, they’re my saviors.”

Backstory:
Zigzag Agreement started out in the humble city of Austin, Texas, in 2005. The band members — guitarist Ben Sawyer, drummer Nina White, bassist Eric Douglas, and lead vocalist Lisa Collins — met in high school and bonded over their shared love for music and drive for creative expression. They started out as a garage band, playing at local bars and nightclubs, their music filled with raw energy and passion. Their name ‘Zigzag Agreement’ was born out of a shared sense of quirky humor and a desire to avoid the conventional, just like their music.

Their breakthrough happened in 2008 when they were discovered by a record producer during one of their live performances. Since then, the band has gone on to release multiple albums and perform at music festivals around the world, captivating audiences with their unique sound and electrifying performances. Despite their success, the band remains grounded, keeping their close friendship at the heart of their music.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Spirals and Echoes”

Full song lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G] Down the alley where the shadows play,
[Em] I find my solace at the break of day.
[C] Spirals and echoes, they whisper your name,
[D] In the heartbeats of the city, I’m in the game.

(Chorus)
[G] Spirals and echoes, [D] can’t you see?
[Em] You’re the rhythm, [C] the melody.
[G] Spirals and echoes, [D] in your light,
[Em] We’ll dance together, [C] into the night.

(Verse 2)
[G] Under neon lights, where dreams take flight,
[Em] I weave the tales of our star-kissed night.
[C] Spirals and echoes, in the canvas of time,
[D] I paint your love, in words and rhyme.

(Chorus)
[G] Spirals and echoes, [D] can’t you hear?
[Em] Your song in my heartbeat, [C] loud and clear.
[G] Spirals and echoes, [D] with you near,
[Em] We’ll make a symphony, [C] for the world to hear.

Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan’s name is Tommy. Tommy has been with Zigzag Agreement since their early days, showing up to almost every local show they played. To him, Zigzag Agreement is not just a band but a part of his life. He says, “Their music speaks to me on a personal level. It has helped me through some really tough times. The raw emotion, the energy, it’s like they put my feelings into words. And their performances? Absolutely breathtaking! I can’t imagine a world without their music. Zigzag Agreement is more than my favorite band, they are a lifeline.”

Backstory:

Jubilant Example is a collection of five charismatic individuals who came together on a whim, united by their shared love for music and a desire to bring joy to their listeners’ lives. The band members, Tobey, Sally, Chad, Jasmine, and Marcus, started as a ragtag team of independent musicians who played in various bars around New York. One fateful night after an open mic event, they got together for an impromptu jam session which revealed an unexpected chemistry among them. That night, Jubilant Example was born, and they’ve been making music that ignites the spirit ever since. They believe music is a language that speaks directly to the soul and their journey has been about spreading that positivity and passion.

Genre:

Jubilant Example specializes in Indie Pop with an infusion of Soul.

Title:

“Boundless Sky”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G]Underneath the boundless [D]sky, [Em]where dreams are born to [C]fly,
[G]Strumming on the chords of [D]love, beneath the stars [Em]above. [C]
[G]We’ll make this night our [D]canopy, [Em]wrapped in sounds of [C]melody,
[G]In the rhythm of the [D]love we found, our hearts will [Em]pound. [C]

(Chorus)
[G]We are the Jubilant [D]Example, [Em]music is our [C]temple,
[G]Under the boundless [D]sky, we let our spirits [Em]fly. [C]
[G]We play the songs of [D]love and life, [Em]amid the strife,
[G]Under the boundless [D]sky, our dreams will never [Em]die. [C]

(Verse 2)
[G]In the pulse of the [D]city’s heart, [Em]we play our [C]part,
[G]Through every high and [D]low, with our music [Em]we glow. [C]
[G]We’re the rhythm in the [D]chaos, the [Em]calm in the [C]hustle,
[G]Under the boundless [D]sky, our spirits [Em]dance. [C]

(Chorus)
[G]We are the Jubilant [D]Example, [Em]music is our [C]temple,
[G]Under the boundless [D]sky, we let our spirits [Em]fly. [C]
[G]We play the songs of [D]love and life, [Em]amid the strife,
[G]Under the boundless [D]sky, our dreams will never [Em]die. [C]

Fan’s Testimonial:

The band’s favorite fan is an energetic college student named Maddie. Maddie stumbled upon Jubilant Example at a local bar in New York and instantly fell in love with their music. Jubilant Example’s joyful, infectious energy and uplifting melodies made Maddie feel seen and heard, resonating with her own life experiences.

Maddie says, “Jubilant Example isn’t just a band to me, they’re a constant reminder of the life-affirming power of music. Their songs have been my solace, my celebration, and an endless source of inspiration. I’ve never encountered a band that fills every note with so much love and positivity. There’s authenticity in their music that’s hard to come by, and I feel it every time they play. In essence, they are the jubilant example of what music should be!”

Backstory:
Unusual Floor was formed in 2010, when college roommates James “Jimmy” Walter and Stephen “Stevo” Peters decided to fuse their individual musical talents into a sound that was at once novel and captivating. Jimmy, a skilled drummer whose passion was jazz, and Stevo, an alternative rock enthusiast with a talent for playing the bass, began experimenting with their genre-blending beats in their garage. They later enlisted the lyrical skills and strong vocals of Kelly “Kells” Dawson, a childhood friend and coffee shop songwriter. Their shared love of musical exploration laid the foundation for the diverse and intriguing sound that is Unusual Floor.

In 2012, they released their first EP titled “Barefoot Groove,” which showcased their unique fusion of jazz and alternative rock. The band’s fresh sound quickly gained a loyal following. Over time, they expanded their band with the addition of keyboardist Laura “Lulu” Reynolds and guitarist Sam “Sledge” Fenton. With five members, Unusual Floor’s sound took on even more depth and complexity, cementing their reputation as a band that consistently breaks expectations and defies genre norms.

Genre:
Jazz-infused Alternative Rock

Song Title:
“Rhythm of the Rain”

Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G]Standing by the [D]window,
[Am]Watching as the [C]rain starts to fall,
[G]Echoes of the [D]thunder,
[Am]Matching the [C]rhythm in my soul.

(Chorus)
[G]Rhythm of the [D]rain,
[Am]It’s the beat [C]that drives me insane,
[G]Rhythm of the [D]rain,
[Am]It’s the music [C]that heals the pain.

(Verse 2)
[G]Walking on the [D]wet streets,
[Am]Feeling the [C]coolness on my skin,
[G]Sounds of the [D]falling drops,
[Am]They drown out the [C]chaos within.

(Chorus)
[G]Rhythm of the [D]rain,
[Am]It’s the song [C]that soothes my brain,
[G]Rhythm of the [D]rain,
[Am]It’s the melody [C]that breaks the chain.

(Bridge)
[G]Listen to the [D]rhythm,
[Am]In the silence [C]it remains,
[G]It’s the [D]rhythm of the [Am]rain,
[Am]Echoing [C]our gains and pains.

(Ending Chorus)
[G]Rhythm of the [D]rain,
[Am]It’s our anthem [C]in refrain,
[G]Rhythm of the [D]rain,
[Am]It’s the music [C]that will sustain.

Favorite Fan:
Alexis Baker is Unusual Floor’s self-proclaimed number one fan. Alexis first heard the band’s unique sound during their performance at a local music festival and has been hooked ever since. “There’s just something about their music that resonates with me,” Alexis says. “It’s like they’ve taken the chaotic, beautiful mess that is life and turned it into something that you can tap your foot to. Their blend of jazz and rock is unlike anything I’ve ever heard, it’s soothing yet invigorating. And don’t get me started on their lyrics – they’re poetry set to music. Every song feels like a story I can relate to or a journey I want to take. Unusual Floor is simply my favorite because their music speaks to me on a level most bands can’t even reach.”

Backstory:
Originating from the spirited town of Austin, Texas, Masculine Promise is a musical outfit that rose to prominence in the local music scene during the late 2000s. The band members, childhood friends, were once just a group of teenagers, jamming in their garage, dreaming of playing on a bigger stage. When lead vocalist and guitarist, Andy “Griff” Griffin, penned a heartfelt song about their collective journey and struggle, “Masculine Promise” was born. The song didn’t only give the band its name but also gave a voice to their raw, emotionally charged performances that resonated with the audience on a personal level. This band is a testament to the power of passion, friendship, and the promise of masculinity in its truest form—resilience, courage, and integrity.

Genre:
Alternative Indie Rock

Title:
“Dusty Roads”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em G
I’ve been walking down these dusty roads,
D A
been searching for a place to call home.
Em G
My heart is heavy, my soul is worn,
D A
but I got a promise to keep before the dawn.

(Chorus)
C D
A masculine promise, not a shallow boast,
G Em
To keep pushing on, to the last post.
C D
A masculine promise, more than words,
G Em
It’s the courage in us, that soars like birds.

(Verse 2)
Em G
There’s no stopping, no turning back,
D A
Even when the skies are pitch black.
Em G
We’ve got each other, we’ve got the will,
D A
With a masculine promise, we’ve got the skill.

(Chorus)
C D
A masculine promise, not a hollow claim,
G Em
It’s the fire in us, it’s not a game.
C D
A masculine promise, etched in stone,
G Em
Till the end of time, we’re never alone.

Favorite Fan:
Becky Thompson is Masculine Promise’s biggest fan. An Austin local, she was there at their very first gig and hasn’t missed a show since. To her, Masculine Promise is more than just a band. Their music has been a constant companion through her ups and downs. “Their songs speak to me on a spiritual level. I see myself in their lyrics, in their journey. The masculine promise, to me, is about standing tall in the face of adversity, about never backing down, and that’s the message I take from their music. They’re my favorite band because they’re real people making real music. I feel like they’re singing my life’s story, and that’s powerful stuff!”

Backstory:
Red Act, a band that burst onto the scene in 2015, is comprised of four childhood friends from Cleveland, Ohio: lead singer and guitarist Drake Matthews, bass player Mark Davis, drummer Chris Parker, and keyboardist Ryan Mitchell. Growing up in a neighborhood brimming with culture and music, these friends found solace and inspiration in their shared love for rhythm and harmony. They began their musical journey by performing at local school events and later graduated to playing at small clubs in the city. Their blend of unique sound and emotional lyrics quickly caught the attention of an independent music label that helped launch their music career.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Shadows of Yesterday”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em (add9) G Cmaj7 Am
Torn pages, scattered dreams, echoes of our history,
Em (add9) G Cmaj7 Am
Beneath the weight of the world, we found our mystery.

(Chorus)
Em G Cmaj7 Am
In the shadows of yesterday, we found our way,
Em G Cmaj7 Am
Running from the world, but not from yesterday.

(Verse 2)
Em (add9) G Cmaj7 Am
To the rhythm of the rain, we danced away our pain,
Em (add9) G Cmaj7 Am
In the corners of our youth, we hid our truth.

(Chorus)
Em G Cmaj7 Am
In the shadows of yesterday, we lost our way,
Em G Cmaj7 Am
Running from ourselves, caught in yesterday.

(Bridge)
Em (add9) G Cmaj7 Am
But the echoes fade, as we step into the light,
Em (add9) G Cmaj7 Am
No more shadows to cast, only dreams to ignite.

(Chorus)
Em G Cmaj7 Am
In the shadows of yesterday, we found our day,
Em G Cmaj7 Am
No more running, no more hiding, it’s time to play.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Lisa, a librarian from their hometown. Lisa has been following their music since their earliest performances at the school events. The band loves her unwavering support and the fact that she has attended almost every concert they’ve ever performed. Lisa’s favorite song is “Shadows of Yesterday”. She says, “Red Act’s music resonates with me on a deep level. Their songs are emotional and profound, and I feel a deep connection to their lyrics. Every time I listen to ‘Shadows of Yesterday’, it takes me on a journey of self-discovery and healing. Red Act’s music has helped me through some of the toughest times in my life.”