Backstory:

Substantial Trader was formed in 2004 when four high school friends found their common love for music. They were always the misfits, the ones who didn’t quite fit into any mold. Their shared rebellion against the mainstream led them to form a band in their small-town garage, piecing together remnants of old instruments and their shared dream of making music that mattered. As they improved their skills, they started performing at local events and slowly built a dedicated fanbase. By 2010, their unique music style had caught the attention of a local record label, and they released their first studio album.

They grew in popularity, their music resonating with those who felt like outsiders, just as they had. Their lyrics, filled with raw emotion and a powerful message of hope, touched many hearts and created a strong bond between the band and their fans. Their music became their voice – a loud, clear, and substantial voice that reached out across states and nations, trading their small-town dreams for global recognition.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Echoes in the Abyss”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Em / G / D / A
(Em) You and I, (G) painted in the night,
(D) Lost, but not alone, (A) just struggling to find the light.
(Em) We’re echoes in the abyss, (G) aching to be heard,
(D) Aching for the warmth, (A) of a kind, embracing word.

[Chorus]
C / G / D / Em
(C) Can you hear us, (G) can you feel the pain?
(D) We’re searching for the sun, (Em) lost in endless rain.
(C) We’re the echoes, (G) lost in the abyss,
(D) Struggling to be found, (Em) aching to exist.

[Verse 2]
Em / G / D / A
(Em) We are the unheard, (G) the unspoken cries,
(D) Lost in the abyss, (A) beneath the starless skies.
(Em) We’re echoes in the silence, (G) waiting to be found,
(D) Waiting for the day, (A) our voices make a sound.

[Chorus]
C / G / D / Em
(C) Can you hear us, (G) can you feel the strain?
(D) We’re searching for the dawn, (Em) lost in the endless plain.
(C) We’re the echoes, (G) lost in the abyss,
(D) Struggling to survive, (Em) aching to persist.

Just like the echoes, they found their voice and continue to resonate in the ears of listeners worldwide.

Favorite Fan:

Their favorite fan is Maddie, a 22-year-old college student who discovered their music during a particularly tough time in her life. In her words, “Substantial Trader’s music spoke to me when no one else could. Their raw energy and powerful lyrics gave me the strength to face my struggles head-on. They are my favorite band because their music isn’t just about entertainment; it’s about understanding, accepting, and fighting back. Every time I listen to ‘Echoes in the Abyss,’ I feel heard and understood. Their music is my refuge, my strength, and my voice.”

Backstory:
Tender Structure was founded in 2013, in a musically vibrant city of Austin, Texas. The group was formed by four college friends: lead vocalist and guitarist Jack Hardy, drummer Rachel Roberts, bassist Mike Evans, and keyboardist Kevin Mitchell. They all shared a common love for music and a desire to be more than just a college garage band. They decided to create music that resonates with their personal experiences and reflects their shared values. Tender Structure’s story is one of friendship, passion, and the collective pursuit of a dream.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Bridges In My Mind”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Am]Underneath the city lights, [C]far from where it’s safe and bright
[G]We built bridges in our minds, [F]trying just to pass the time
[Am]Struggling with words to find, [C]leaving all our fears behind
[G]In the echoes of the night, [F]we found our hearts intertwined

(Chorus)
[Dm]Bridges in my mind, [Am]built over time
[C]Holding on to [G]memories, we [F]strived to find
[Dm]Bridges in my mind, [Am]so hard to climb
[C]Yet with every [G]step, we [F]leave the world behind

(Verse 2)
[Am]Shadowed by the doubts we face, [C]guiding us in our chase
[G]In the quiet empty space, [F]we found a soothing grace
[Am]With every note, with every base, [C]we found our own place
[G]In this never-ending race, [F]we found our own pace

(Chorus)
[Dm]Bridges in my mind, [Am]built over time
[C]Holding on to [G]memories, we [F]strived to find
[Dm]Bridges in my mind, [Am]so hard to climb
[C]Yet with every [G]step, we [F]leave the world behind

Fan’s name:
Emily Thompson

Testimonial:
“Ever since I discovered Tender Structure at a local gig in Austin, they’ve been my favorite band. The raw emotion in their songs resonates with me. Their lyrics reflect experiences that feel deeply personal, yet universal. There’s a sense of authenticity in their music that’s rare to find these days. The song ‘Bridges In My Mind’ particularly strikes a chord with me. It’s about finding solace in our thoughts and memories, a theme that’s so relevant in our fast-paced lives. I’ve been following their journey since the early days, and it’s been amazing to see them grow while staying true to their roots. Their music has been a constant companion through my ups and downs, and for that, I’ll always be a fan.”

Backstory:

Perky Rape is a bold and quirky band that got its start in the heart of New York’s underground music scene. The band’s unusual name was borne out of a desire to reclaim the word ‘rape,’ a term used in horticulture to describe vigorous plant growth, and to turn it into a symbol of their own explosive creative energy. Comprising members John (vocals), Mike (guitar), Benny (drums), and Marcy (bass), Perky Rape formed during their college years, bonding over a shared love for eclectic music and a strong desire to challenge the status quo. The band members’ rebellious spirit, coupled with their unique musical approach, quickly captivated the local music scene, propelling them into the limelight.

Genre:

Perky Rape’s music style can be best described as a fusion of Punk Rock with a healthy sprinkling of Alternative Rock and Indie Pop.

Song Title:

“Nightshade Bloom”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Intro] E – A – D – G

(Verse 1)
E A D G
Underneath the moonlight, where secrets lie,
E A D G
Nightshade blooms, silence sighs.
E A D G
Lost in the shadows, love hides its face,
E A D G
Our hearts beat to a different pace.

(Chorus)
C G A E
Nightshade bloom, in darkness we confide,
C G A E
Underneath the stars, we’ve nowhere to hide.
C G A E
In this garden of night, we let love thrive,
C G A E
Nightshade bloom, you make us feel alive.

(Verse 2)
E A D G
Through tangled vines, we find our way,
E A D G
Where nightshade blooms, we’re led astray.
E A D G
Under the cloak of night, love starts to sing,
E A D G
In the silence, our hearts take wing.

(Repeat Chorus)

Fan Testimonial:

Our most dedicated fan goes by the name of Stevie. Stevie’s love for Perky Rape is unparalleled. He discovered the band during one of their early gigs in a cramped basement bar, and he’s been a die-hard follower ever since. He is not merely a fan of their music, but also of what the band represents – a rebellion against the conventional. Stevie’s favorite song is “Nightshade Bloom” which, according to him, encapsulates the band’s unique essence. He proudly testifies, “Perky Rape is more than just a band to me. They are a symbol of unapologetic self-expression and creative freedom. Their music is raw, bold and speaks to my soul in a way no other band ever has. They are my favorite because they dare to be different and, in doing so, give people like me the courage to do the same.”

Backstory:
Scary Attendance is an eclectic group formed in 2010 in the heart of Nashville, Tennessee. The band’s members, Blake (lead vocals, guitar), Spencer (drums, backing vocals), and Jenny (bass, backing vocals), were all classmates in high school, known for their shared love of music and their inclination for skipping classes – hence, the band’s ironic name, “Scary Attendance.” Over the years, they honed their talents in various local clubs and bars before finally getting their big break when a music producer happened to hear one of their performances.

Scary Attendance is admired for their raw energy, captivating storytelling, and their uncanny ability to take listeners on a journey through their music. Their bond, both as friends and bandmates, shines through their music, making them a stand-out in the industry.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Skipping Recess”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G] Once we were young, [D] fooling around
[Em] Skipping the rules, [C] making our sound
[G] Hallways echo, [D] with our laughter
[Em] We were kings and queens, [C] chasing after

(Chorus)
[D] Skipping recess, [G] under the sun
[C] We found our passion, [Em] we found our fun
[D] Scary attendance, [G] but we don’t mind
[C] In our music, [Em] our freedom we find

(Verse 2)
[G] Ditching the classes, [D] writing our songs
[Em] In every melody, [C] we belong
[G] Chasing dreams, [D] on an endless night
[Em] We found ourselves, [C] in the rhythm and light

(Chorus)
[D] Skipping recess, [G] under the moon
[C] Playing our music, [Em] it’s never too soon
[D] Scary attendance, [G] but we don’t care
[C] In this melody, [Em] our souls we bare

Fan Profile:
The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Lillian. Lillian has been following Scary Attendance since their high school days, she was their classmate and saw the band’s potential even before they were known. She never missed a local performance, and now travels the country to support their shows.

Testimonial:
“Scary Attendance isn’t just a band to me, they’re a part of my life. Their music speaks to my soul, tells stories that resonate with me, and their energy on stage is unparalleled. I’ve watched them grow from classmates skipping classes to create music, into this incredible band that’s taking the world by storm. Every show feels like a reunion with old friends. Their passion for music is infectious, and there’s no other band I’d rather follow.” -Lillian

Backstory:

Wasteful Focus, a band formed in the late 90s in the heart of New York City, was born from a shared love for music and a disdain for waste. The four members, Jake, Ron, Sam, and Tim, were all working mundane day jobs in offices and factories, feeling the slow drain of their creative energy. They decided to take matters into their own hands and create a band, using their passion for music to express their frustration with the wasteful habits they saw in everyday life. Their goal was to shift the focus of people from disposable culture to a more sustainable lifestyle through their thought-provoking lyrics and rocking tunes.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Reflections of Debris”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am (C) Look in the mirror, what do you see,
G (Em) A world of waste, consuming me,
Am (C) Fake smiles, plastic dreams,
G (Em) Nothing’s really what it seems.

(Chorus)
F (G) Reflections of debris,
Am (Em) That’s not who we want to be,
F (G) Time to rethink, time to refocus,
Am (Em) Before we become hopeless.

(Verse 2)
Am (C) Tired of living in a disposable world,
G (Em) Chasing after pearls, while diamonds are hurled,
Am (C) We need to understand, this can’t stand,
G (Em) Time to take command, and make a stand.

(Chorus)
F (G) Reflections of debris,
Am (Em) That’s not who we want to be,
F (G) Time to rethink, time to refocus,
Am (Em) Before we become hopeless.

(Bridge)
Am (C) Let’s break from this cage,
G (Em) Write a new page,
F (G) With every word, with every note,
Am (Em) Let’s keep this world afloat.

(Chorus)
F (G) Reflections of debris,
Am (Em) That’s not who we want to be,
F (G) Time to rethink, time to refocus,
Am (Em) Before we become hopeless.

Fan’s Name: Emily

Testimonial:

Emily has been a fan of Wasteful Focus since the band’s early days. “Their music speaks to me on a deeper level,” Emily says. “It’s not just about the catchy tunes or the addicting rhythm; it’s about the message they convey. They make me think about my lifestyle and the choices I make. It’s like they’re not just a band; they’re a movement. It’s beautiful, compelling, and inspiring all at once. That’s why Wasteful Focus is my favorite band, and I’ll support them till the end.”

Backstory:

Outstanding Cub was born in the vibrant music scene of Seattle, a city known for its rich musical legacy. The band was formed by five passionate musicians, each one bearing unique talents and an undying love for creating music. They all met at a local music festival and instantly connected over their shared love for a good melody and a memorable hook. Their camaraderie was instantaneous, leading to an explosion of creativity, and Outstanding Cub was born. The name of the band was inspired by the group’s collective spirit of always striving to exceed expectations, just like an unassuming cub that grows to become a magnificent creature.

Genre:

Outstanding Cub is best described as a fusion of Indie Rock and Synth Pop, characterized by their eclectic mix of vibrant melodies, ear-catching synth lines, and emotive lyrics.

Title:
“Vivid Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am – G – F – G
Underneath the neon lights, the city breathes, (Am – G)
Lost in the echo of our dreams, we’re running free, (F – G)
Through the maze of the night, where secrets lie, (Am – G)
Caught in the vivid shadows, you and I. (F – G)

(Chorus)
C – G – Am – F
In the vivid shadows, we come alive, (C – G)
Dancing in the echoes of the neon lights. (Am – F)
In the vivid shadows, we find our way, (C – G)
Lost and found in the allure of the moon’s sway. (Am – F)

(Verse 2)
Am – G – F – G
In the corners of the city, whispers roam, (Am – G)
Tales of the night, of lovers and their untold poems. (F – G)
In the vivid shadows, we write our tale, (Am – G)
Chasing the night, on a starlit trail. (F – G)

(Repeat Chorus)

(Outro)
C – G – Am – F
In the vivid shadows, we find our home, (C – G)
In the rhythm of the night, in the city’s tome. (Am – F)
In the vivid shadows, we become the poem, (C – G)
A melody of love, in the night’s sweet roam. (Am – F)

Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is a young woman named Hannah who lives in Seattle. Hannah has been a die-hard fan of Outstanding Cub from the day they formed. She’s been present at every gig, and her enthusiasm is infectious. She says, “Outstanding Cub is more than just a band to me. Their music resonates with me on a level that few things do. It’s like they’ve captured the essence of life and emotions in their songs. Every tune, every lyric seems to speak directly to me. It’s a spiritual experience listening to them. They’re like the soundtrack to my life. I can’t imagine a day without their music.”

Backstory:
Personal Treaty is a band born from the ashes of an old garage band in the underbelly of New York City. The members, initially four childhood friends – Jack Harrison (lead vocalist), Ricky Nelson (lead guitar), Billy Thompson (bass), and Richie Dawson (drums), decided to take their passion for music from their garages to the stage after a chance encounter with a local record producer at a Battle of the Bands. Their moniker, ‘Personal Treaty’, symbolizes their shared promise to stay true to their roots, their bond, and the music they create, regardless of the highs and lows that come along their journey.

Their journey to fame was not without its struggles. From playing at dingy bars to performing in front of audiences at music festivals, their climb to the top was slow and steady, but well worth the wait. They remained dedicated to their music, pouring their hearts and souls into every song they wrote and performed. Over the years, they’ve grown not just as a band, but as a unit that creates music that speaks their mind and soothes the soul.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Broken Chains”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Am C G D
In the shadows of the night, we stand,
In a world that’s not so bright, we band,
We’re just trying to break free,
From these broken chains, you see.

(Chorus)
Em G D Am
Broken chains, and scattered dreams,
Life’s not always what it seems,
But we’ll stand, come what may,
With our music, we’ll pave the way.

(Verse 2)
Am C G D
In the echoes of our song, we’re strong,
In a world where we belong, we long,
For a chance to break these ties,
Underneath the starry skies.

(Chorus)
Em G D Am
Broken chains, and scattered dreams,
Life’s not always what it seems,
But we’ll stand, come what may,
With our music, we’ll pave the way.

Band’s Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is Julia Roberts. Julia has followed the band since their initial days and has attended all their concerts. She’s been there with them through their journey, offering support and love. Julia says, “Personal Treaty is my favorite band because their music speaks to me. Their lyrics are raw and honest, and their energy is captivating. Each song tells a story that I can relate to. They have a way of reaching out and connecting with their audience that is rare and beautiful. Their song ‘Broken Chains’ is my anthem; it empowers me to break free and make my own path. I owe a lot to them, their music has been my sanctuary in hard times.”

Backstory:
Selfish Seed is a ragtag group of musicians who discovered their unique sound in the heart of Brooklyn, New York. Initially, it was just a side gig for them, as they juggled between their day jobs and love for music. The band was originally composed of three friends: Eli, Marcus, and Spencer, all of whom had known each other since high school. They played multiple gigs at local bars until a music producer, Jesse Briggs, happened to notice them. He saw their potential and took them under his wing, leading to the signing of their first record deal, which was just the push they needed to take their artistry to the next level.

The band’s name, Selfish Seed, is a metaphor for their musical journey. They believed they had to be selfish in pursuing their dreams, nourishing their passion like a seed until it matured into a fruit-bearing tree. The members often joke that they sacrificed their social lives to be a part of the band, hence the name. Their music tells their personal stories, struggles, joy, and heartbreaks, often resonating with their fans.

Genre:
Alternative Indie

Song Title:
“Drip of Destiny”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
Em – G – D – C
Em
Beneath the city lights, we found our voice,
G
In the noise and the chaos, we made our choice.
D
Running on dreams, fueled by the echoes,
C
Of a thousand voices, whispering solos.

(Chorus)
Am – Em – C – D
Am
We are the drip of destiny,
Em
Caught in the rhythm of a concrete symphony,
C
Sowing dreams in the heart of the city,
D
Blooming in music, oh so pretty.

(Verse)
Em – G – D – C
Em
Lost in the maze, chasing our hopes,
G
Tangled in melodies, tied with ropes.
D
Strumming the chords in a back-alley dive,
C
This is the rhythm that keeps us alive.

(Chorus)
Am – Em – C – D
Am
We are the drip of destiny,
Em
Caught in the rhythm of a concrete symphony,
C
Sowing dreams in the heart of the city,
D
Blooming in music, oh so pretty.

(Bridge)
F – Em – Dm – C
F
We are the selfish seed,
Em
Grown from a selfish need,
Dm
To sing our hearts out,
C
And let our souls bleed.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is Jamie, a graphic artist from New York. Jamie was drawn to Selfish Seed’s raw and authentic sound. Their music, particularly the song “Drip of Destiny,” became her creative muse. Jamie says, “Their unique sound and depth in the lyrics have a way of resonating with my soul. It’s like they capture the essence of life in the city, the dreams, struggles, joy, and the love. Their music is my refuge, my inspiration, and the soundtrack to my life. They are not just a band, they are a beacon of hope for dreamers like me.”

Backstory:
Esteemed Heart was formed in 2005 when four college friends, hailing from different parts of the United States, found a shared passion for creating soul-searching music. Adam, the lead guitarist and vocalist, was studying music composition, while Jason, the drummer, was an Art History major. Beth, the bassist and backup vocalist, was studying Philosophy, while Mike, the keyboardist, was studying English Literature. Their diverse backgrounds played a crucial role in shaping the unique sound of Esteemed Heart, as they blended elements from their respective fields into their music. Despite the initial struggle for recognition, their breakthrough came in 2008 when they won a local band competition, catapulting them into the spotlight.

Genre:
Esteemed Heart plays indie rock music, with elements of folk and alternative rock. Their lyrics are deeply philosophical and emotional, often reflecting life musings, love, and the human condition.

Title:
“Chasing Daylight”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse)
G C D Em
In the twilight, I found myself lost,
G C D Em
Thought the shadows, would pay off the cost.
G C D Em
In the cold night, under the star’s frost,
G C D Em
I’m chasing daylight, at any cost.

(Chorus)
G C D Em
Chasing daylight, in the depths of night,
G C D Em
It’s a tough fight, but I won’t lose sight.
G C D Em
With all my might, and with all my fright,
G C D Em
I’m chasing daylight, till I ignite.

(Verse)
G C D Em
In the heartbreak, I found my verse,
G C D Em
In the love’s quake, I found my universe.
G C D Em
In the sorrow, I found my curse,
G C D Em
Chasing daylight, in this rehearse.

(Chorus)
G C D Em
Chasing daylight, in the depths of night,
G C D Em
It’s a tough fight, but I won’t lose sight.
G C D Em
With all my might, and with all my fright,
G C D Em
I’m chasing daylight, till I ignite.

Favorite Fan:
Esteemed Heart’s favorite fan is Emily, a high school teacher from New York. Emily discovered Esteemed Heart during a particularly tough time in her life and their music provided her with much-needed solace. She loves how their lyrics are not just catchy, but also deep and meaningful – something she can relate to. Emily has been to every one of their concerts in the tri-state area and often posts about them on her social media.

Testimonial:

“Esteemed Heart is more than just a band to me. Their music has been a beacon of light, guiding me through the darkest of times. Their lyrics echo my sentiments and make me feel seen and heard. I’ve been to countless concerts, and their energy on stage is unmatched. I’ve met them a few times, and they are the most down-to-earth people. Esteemed Heart will always hold a special place in my heart.” – Emily, Esteemed Heart’s number one fan.

Backstory:
Blank Heat, a band born out of the searing heat of the Sonoran desert, was formed in 2007. The band is comprised of four childhood friends, Max Williams (vocals), Jesse Clarke (guitar), Tim Logan (drums), and Mark Burns (bass). They bonded over their love of music, exploring abandoned mines, and dreaming of escaping their small town. One sweltering day, they decided to form a band in the basement of Max’s house to beat the heat. The band slowly began to gain recognition in the local music scene, their infectious energy and raw sound earning them a dedicated following.

Genre:
Alternative Rock / Indie

Title:
“Desert Mirage”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
C G D Em
Dusty roads, aching hearts, where do we start?
C G D Em
Walking on dreams, in the desert heat, life isn’t always sweet

[Chorus]
C G D Em
But we’re chasing, always racing, towards that desert mirage
C G D Em
In the blank heat, we find the beat, in life’s camouflage

[Verse 2]
C G D Em
Broken dreams, fading stars, holding onto old scars
C G D Em
In the wild west, we gave our best, now it’s time for the test

[Chorus]
C G D Em
We’re still chasing, always racing, towards that desert mirage
C G D Em
In the blank heat, we find the beat, in life’s camouflage

[Outro]
C G D Em
So here we stand, guitar in hand, under a sky so grand
C G D Em
In the blank heat, we’ve found our beat, making our own bandstand

Favorite Fan’s Name:
Sarah Thompson

Testimonial:
“Blank Heat’s music gives me a sense of home. Their lyrics resonate with the rugged beauty of the desert, and their sound is an uncanny mix of raw energy and soulful melodies. I’ve followed them since their first basement gig, and they’ve evolved into a band that truly rocks. Their song ‘Desert Mirage’ is my personal anthem. Nothing beats blasting Blank Heat on a long drive through the open landscapes of Arizona. They’re my favorite band because they capture the spirit of the desert in a way no other band does.”