Backstory:
Hailing from the vibrant music scene of Austin, Texas, Misty Breath came together in 2015 when four friends decided to turn their dorm room jam sessions into something more. The chemistry between them was undeniable—Chris Hawke on vocals and guitar, Becca Franklin on bass, Toby Marks on drums, and Melinda Rose on keyboard. After winning their college’s Battle of the Bands, they realized they had something special. They dropped out of school, dedicated themselves fully to music, and Misty Breath was born.

Misty Breath’s journey was not smooth sailing. They played in dive bars and small clubs, slowly building a following. Their break came in 2018 when they were discovered by a talent scout at SXSW. Their unique blend of bluesy melodies, haunting lyrics, and indie rock vibes quickly caught the attention of the wider music industry, propelling them from the local scene to the national stage.

Genre:
Indie Rock with Blues Influence

Title:
“Midnight Dew”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Am] Underneath the crimson sky, [Em] where the moon hangs so high
[G] Caught between the echoes of our [C] whispered goodbye
[Am] Walking through the midnight dew, [Em] I feel the cold seeping through
[G] My tattered heart still yearning for [C] you

(Chorus)
[F] Midnight dew, [C] oh how I miss you
[G] Our love was wild, untamed, [Am] and so true
[F] In the darkness, I’m [C] reaching for you
[G] But all I grasp is the [Am] midnight dew

(Verse 2)
[Am] Shadows dance in the quiet night, [Em] beneath the pale moonlight
[G] I’m lost in memories of how we [C] used to fight
[Am] Love so fierce, it burned so bright, [Em] now it’s an endless night
[G] Walking alone through the [C] midnight dew

(Chorus)
[F] Midnight dew, [C] oh how I miss you
[G] Our love was wild, untamed, [Am] and so true
[F] In the silence, I’m [C] screaming for you
[G] But all I touch is the [Am] midnight dew

(Bridge)
[F] In this world of broken dreams, [C] nothing is as it seems
[G] All that’s left is the ghost of [Am] you
[F] In the cold morning light, [C] I’ll keep searching through the night
[G] Till I’m no longer chasing the [Am] midnight dew

(Chorus)
[F] Midnight dew, [C] oh how I miss you
[G] Our love was wild, untamed, [Am] and so true
[F] In the shadows, I’m [C] longing for you
[G] But all I find is the [Am] midnight dew

Fan Testimonial:
Misty Breath’s number one fan has to be Sammy Martinez. As a first-year college student, Sammy stumbled upon one of their earliest gigs in a local Austin bar. He was immediately hooked and has followed their journey to stardom ever since. He said, “Misty Breath’s music has this raw, powerful emotion that just gets under your skin. Their songs have gotten me through some really tough times. There’s just something about the way they blend melancholy lyrics with such beautiful melodies. It’s like they’ve turned heartbreak into an art form, and it’s just mesmerizing. I can’t wait to see where their journey takes them next.”

Backstory:

Giving Insight was formed in the vibrant music scene of Nashville in 2012. Three college friends, Nathan Hartman (vocals and guitar), Eliot James (drums), and Liz McAllister (bass and vocals), decided to take a leap of faith and pursue their shared dream of creating music. Despite their diverse musical backgrounds, the trio found a common ground in their love for introspective lyrics and soulful melodies, hence, the name ‘Giving Insight’. The band gained a substantial following after their performances in local bars and cafes, eventually landing a record deal in 2014. Their journey is a testament to their grit, and above all, their deep-rooted passion for music.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Reflections in the Rain”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[D] Sitting on a bench in the [G] middle of the park,
[A] Watching as the world keeps [D] spinning in the dark,
[D] People passing by with their [G] umbrellas in the rain,
[A] Each of them hiding their own [D] kind of pain.

(Chorus)
[G] Look at the reflections in the [D] rain,
[A] They hold stories of joy, stories of [D] pain,
[G] In every drop, there’s a [D] memory to gain,
[A] That’s life, reflected in the [D] rain.

(Verse 2)
[D] Old man feeding pigeons, [G] child with a kite,
[A] Dreams and sorrows blending in the [D] city’s night,
[D] Raindrops on the pavement, like [G] tears unshed,
[A] Every heart carries a story [D] unsaid.

(Chorus)
[G] Look at the reflections in the [D] rain,
[A] They hold stories of joy, stories of [D] pain,
[G] In every drop, there’s a [D] memory to gain,
[A] That’s life, reflected in the [D] rain.

(Outro)
[D] So when it rains next time, just [G] watch and see,
[A] Stories unfold, as you let your mind [D] be free,
[D] Every raindrop is a secret, [G] a whispered plea,
[A] In the reflections, find your story, [D] let it be.

Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Cheryl Thompson. Cheryl has been following Giving Insight since their initial performances in Nashville. She’s been to every concert within a 100-mile radius and owns all their merchandise. Cheryl’s favorite song is “Reflections in the Rain,” as she finds the lyrics incredibly powerful and personally uplifting, often helping her navigate through tough times. She says, “Giving Insight isn’t just a band for me, they’re my invisible support system. Their music has a unique way of speaking the truth and giving me perspective when I need it most. It’s like they’re sharing a piece of their soul, which helps me understand my own.”

Backstory:
Quarrelsome Wage was born out of a basement in a small Midwestern town. Four college friends, tired of their monotonous jobs and uninspired by their studies, decided to channel their frustrations into music. With lead singer Matt Ross, guitarist Jake Dixon, bassist Andy Oliver, and drummer Mike Weller, they began their mission to bring a raw and refreshingly honest voice to the music scene. Their music reflects the struggle of the working class, the angst of youth, and the desire for change, all tied together with a healthy dose of rebellion.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Echoes of the Silent”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C G D
They promised us a dream, but they sold us a lie,
Em C G D
In a world full of greed, beneath the hollow sky.
Em C G D
We work our hands to bone, with no end in sight,
Em C G D
In this working-class anthem, we find our might.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
Echoes of the silent, voices in our head,
Em C G D
Breaking the chains, in this life we’ve led,
Em C G D
Keep the faith, let the revolution spread,
Em C G D
In the echoes of the silent, we’ll no more be misled.

(Verse 2)
Em C G D
The wage of our quarrel, painted in sweat and tears,
Em C G D
In the face of injustice, we’ll conquer our fears.
Em C G D
We’ll break these rusty shackles, reclaim our right,
Em C G D
Underneath the starlit, revolutionary night.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
Echoes of the silent, voices in our head,
Em C G D
Breaking the chains, in this life we’ve led,
Em C G D
Keep the faith, let the revolution spread,
Em C G D
In the echoes of the silent, we’ll no more be misled.

Fan Testimonial:
Their biggest fan, a blue-collar worker named Tom, was drawn to Quarrelsome Wage’s music because he felt that it mirrored his own experiences. He says, ‘Their music speaks to me on a personal level. The raw emotion and brutal honesty in their lyrics resonate with my own struggles. The message of hope and rebellion in ‘Echoes of the Silent’ became my anthem. Quarrelsome Wage isn’t just a band to me, they are the voice of the silenced majority, the voice of people like me.’

Backstory:
Forthright Hearing was formed in the eclectic city of Austin, Texas in the summer of 2010. The four-piece ensemble consists of lead vocalist/guitarist Emily ‘Em’ Johnson, drummer/backup vocalist Jeremy ‘Jay’ Anderson, bassist Tony ‘Tone’ Rodriguez, and keyboardist/backup vocalist Amy ‘A.K.’ Klein. The group met at a local music festival and found instant chemistry in their shared passion for storytelling through their music. They named themselves “Forthright Hearing” as a testament to their desire to express their thoughts and feelings honestly and plainly with the intent to connect with their audience on a deeper level.

Genre: Folk Rock/Americana

Title: “Whiskey and Rhymes”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1: (C G Am F)
I met her in a bar, under smoky neon lights (C G)
She had a voice, as smooth as aged whiskey on the rocks, (Am F)
Dressed in denim and dust, she was a desert bloom, (C G)
In a field of cactus, under a Texan moon. (Am F)

Chorus: (G C Am F)
She was whiskey and rhymes, under the starry night, (G C)
A dreamer’s delight, with heartache in her eyes. (Am F)
She was a song, sung in the wild, (G C)
A wandering child, lost in her own style. (Am F)

Verse 2: (C G Am F)
She spoke of open roads, with no end in sight, (C G)
And the freedom that comes, with the morning light. (Am F)
Her laughter was the melody, that danced in the wind, (C G)
Our hearts found rhythm, where the pavement ends. (Am F)

Chorus Repeat: (G C Am F)

Bridge: (Am F C G)
Whiskey and rhymes, like a love untamed, (Am F)
In the desert night, we both danced in the rain. (C G)

Chorus Repeat: (G C Am F)

Fan Testimonial:
“I’m Bailey, and I can’t describe how much I love Forthright Hearing. Their music cuts deep and resonates with my experiences. I discovered them while going through a rough patch in my life. ‘Whiskey and Rhymes’ became my anthem, helping me find solace and strength. Emily, Jay, Tone, and A.K. are not just musicians, they are storytellers who tug at heartstrings with their honest lyrics and soulful melodies. Their music speaks volumes, and they’ve become my refuge in a world of noise.”

Backstory:

Unknown Monopoly, a spark of brilliance born out of the most unlikely places – a dingy basement in Akron, Ohio. Five childhood friends, Pete Stevenson on vocals, Sam “Rusty” Rustovich on lead guitar, George “Georgie” Watson on bass, Jimmy “Jazz” Carlson on drums, and Ben “The Professor” Phillips on keyboards, united by their shared love for music, began their journey in 2005. Initially, they were just a garage band playing high school gigs, but their unique sound and raw energy quickly began drawing a crowd, earning them a cult following. They toured local pubs and clubs, self-releasing their music, until being discovered by local indie label ‘Hex Records’ in 2010.

Known for their electrifying performances, the band’s big break came when their independently produced debut album, ‘Dystopian Dream’, reached number 3 on the Billboard Indie charts. Their journey since has been a rollercoaster ride of sold-out concerts, chart-topping hits, and hardcore fan adoration, making Unknown Monopoly one of the most promising bands in the US indie-rock landscape.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Neon Rebellion”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Am] Drifting through the city as the [G] night unfolds,
[Dm] Chasing shadows, chasing [Am] dreams untold.
[Am] Underneath the neon lights, we [G] found our home,
[Dm] Unknown Monopoly, we’re [Am] rock and roll.

(Chorus)
[C]We are the voice of the [G] silent crowd,
[Am]We’re the neon rebellion, [Em] loud and proud.
[F] We are the music that [C] sets you free,
[G] We are Unknown Monopoly.

(Verse 2)
[Am] Strumming to the rhythm of the [G] heartbeat’s drum,
[Dm] In the name of rock, we’ve only [Am] just begun.
[Am] With courage in our hearts and [G] fire in our souls,
[Dm] We ignite the night, let the [Am] good times roll.

(Chorus)
[C]We are the voice of the [G] silent crowd,
[Am]We’re the neon rebellion, [Em] loud and proud.
[F] We are the music that [C] sets you free,
[G] We are Unknown Monopoly.

Fan’s Testimonial:

“My name is Lydia Green and I am a die-hard Monopolian! Unknown Monopoly isn’t just a band for me, it’s a lifeline. Their music has seen me through tough times, and their playlist is the soundtrack of my life. The raw energy of Pete’s vocals, the sharp riffs from Rusty’s guitar, the pulsating rhythm of Jazz’s drums, the melodic hum of Georgie’s bass, and the enchantments from The Professor’s keys – it’s magic. They are my favorite band because they are REAL. Their music resonates with my soul and I feel like they give voice to my thoughts. Their songs are not just music, they are anthems for all of us who dare to dream and rebel against the ordinary. Long live Unknown Monopoly!”

Backstory:
Spectacular Dress, formed in the small coastal town of Newburyport, Massachusetts, started as a hobby for neighborhood friends Alex Dalton, Garrett Mitchell, and twins Michael and Samuel Bradford. The four friends, fresh out of college with nothing to do in their hands, decided to utilize their passion for music one fine evening in their old garage. They combined their diverse musical tastes and influences, ranging from rock, blues, country, and folk, to create a unique sound that would soon capture the hearts of listeners. From performing at local bars and pubs to opening for major bands, the foursome quickly made their name in the local music scene.

In 2017, they released their first major album, “Tales of the Seaside,” which received critical acclaim for its introspective lyrics and catchy tune. The band’s steady rise to fame was a testament to their talent, determination, and commitment to their craft. However, they remained grounded, with their main goal being to create music that resonates with their fans.

Genre:
Folk-Rock

Title:
“Ocean’s Whisper”

Lyrics:
Verse 1:
G Am
“Underneath the moonlight, on the Newburyport shore,
C D
We’d share stories, dreams and more.
G Am
Laughter echoed with the waves, as we strummed our guitars,
C D
There we realized, we could reach the stars.

Chorus:
G Am
The ocean’s whisper in our song,
C D
A melody where we belong.
G Am
In the rhythm of the tide, in the midnight’s hush,
C D
We found our voice, in the evening’s blush.

Verse 2:
G Am
The small town charm, in the summer’s glow,
C D
Crafted tales in music’s flow.
G Am
Four friends, one dream, under the twinkling stars,
C D
Strumming tunes, healing old scars.

Chorus:
G Am
The ocean’s whisper in our song,
C D
A melody where we belong.
G Am
In the rhythm of the tide, in the midnight’s hush,
C D
We found our voice, in the evening’s blush.”

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a lady named Louise Bennett. Louise, a retired teacher from their hometown, has been a fan since their early days. She says, “Spectacular Dress is more than just a band for me. Their music is like a soothing balm, it has helped me through some tough times. The boys are incredibly talented, but what touches my heart the most is their humility and genuine love for music. Every song feels like a personal narrative, connecting me with them on a deeper level. They’re my favorite not just for their music, but for being the lovely human beings they are.”

Backstory:

Jealous Approval was never the first choice for the band’s name. In fact, they had gone through several iterations before settling on something that reflected their tumultuous journey in the music industry. Formed in 2005 in the busy city of Boston, Jealous Approval is comprised of four members: lead vocalist and guitarist, Andrew Ryan, bassist, Jason Clarke, drummer, Paul Mitchell, and keyboardist, Rebecca Gray. The group was initially a mix of college friends and strangers who connected through their shared love for music. They began their musical journey playing in small local pubs, often to a crowd of less than twenty. However, their raw talent and soulful music soon caught the attention of a talent scout, leading to their first record deal. Critics were initially dismissive, labeling them as “just another band,” but Jealous Approval proved them wrong, creating a sound that was uniquely their own.

Genre: Alternative Rock

Title: “Burning Bridges”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]

(Em) Walking on the (G) line, we’re (D) playing with fire,
(Em) Crossing the (G) stream, where (D) burning bridges lie,
(Em) Chasing the (G) dream, with (D) hearts on our sleeves,
(Em) We are the (G) children of the (D) wild, wild breeze.

[Chorus]

(C) We are the (G) burning bridges, (D) lighting up the skies,
(Em) We are the (G) echoes of the (D) past, the truth in your lies,
(C) We seek (G) jealous approval, (D) in this world so wide,
(Em) We are the (G) burning bridges, (D) with nothing to hide.

[Verse 2]

(Em) Riding the (G) storm, we’re (D) dancing in the rain,
(Em) Breaking the (G) norms, we (D) rise above the pain,
(Em) With our (G) spirits high, and (D) hopes on the line,
(Em) We are the (G) chasers of the (D) divine.

[Chorus]

(C) We are the (G) burning bridges, (D) lighting up the skies,
(Em) We are the (G) echoes of the (D) past, the truth in your lies,
(C) We seek (G) jealous approval, (D) in this world so wide,
(Em) We are the (G) burning bridges, (D) with nothing to hide.

Fan Name: Maddie Thomas

Testimonial:

Maddie Thomas, a 25-year-old graduate student from Boston, first discovered Jealous Approval at a small pub gig in 2006. Since then, she’s been their most dedicated fan, following them on tour and supporting them through every album release. “Jealous Approval fills a void in the music industry with their raw, honest lyrics and powerful performances,” Maddie says. “Their music resonates with me on a personal level and has been a constant companion through my highs and lows. I’m proud to be their fan and will continue to support them wholeheartedly!”

Backstory:

Thin Knife emerged from the misty alleyways of Brooklyn, New York in the late 2000s. The band was formed by frontman, Jace Thompson, who was a small-time accountant by day and a passionate songwriter by night. Thompson’s unique blend of haunting vocals and poetic lyrics, blended with the dynamic backing of drummer, Reese Harrison, bassist, Ivy James, and lead guitarist, Leo DeMarco, quickly garnered the attention of the local music scene. Their rise to prominence was fueled by a series of high-energy performances in underground clubs, where their aggressive sentiments resonated with listeners who were hungry for something different.

In 2015, Thin Knife firmly established themselves in the music industry with their debut album, ‘Slice of Life’. Their distinctive sound, coupled with their heartfelt and thought-provoking lyrics, has continued to captivate audiences and critics alike, earning them a dedicated fanbase worldwide.

Genre:

Alternative Rock/Indie Rock

Title:

“Edge of Oblivion”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Em]Walking down the [G]shadows of a [D]road I’ve known,
[Em]Carrying the [G]weight of a [D]heart turned stone.
[Em]Echoes of the [G]past whisper [D]in my ear,
But [Em]I keep on [G]walking, I won’t [D]let fear steer.

(Chorus)
I’m on the [C]edge of oblivion,
With a [G]thin knife in my hand.
Will it [D]be my salvation,
Or the [Em]end of this barren land?

(Verse 2)
[Em]Every step I [G]take, every [D]choice I make,
[Em]Feels like I’m [G]walking a [D]tightrope for heaven’s sake.
[Em]Silhouettes of [G]dreams, fading [D]in the light,
But [Em]I won’t give [G]up, I won’t [D]give up the fight.

(Chorus)
I’m on the [C]edge of oblivion,
With a [G]thin knife in my hand.
Will it [D]be my salvation,
Or the [Em]end of this barren land?

(Outro)
[Em]With every [G]breath, I will [D]stand,
Against the [C]edge of oblivion,
With a [G]thin knife in my [D]hand.

Band’s Favorite Fan:

Our favorite fan is Sophia Miller. Sophia has been with us since the very beginning. She was there at our first gig in Brooklyn, right in the front row, her eyes filled with excitement and belief. She’s followed us around the country, showed up at every backstage, and spread the word of Thin Knife through fan clubs and social media. Sophia even has our lyrics tattooed on her arm.

Sophia’s Testimonial:

“I found Thin Knife at a time in my life when I was lost and their music spoke to me on a deeply personal level. They have a unique ability to mix raw emotion with catchy rock melodies that just resonates with me. Their lyrics have become my anthems. For me, Thin Knife is more than just a band, they’re a beacon in the storm. Their music inspires me to keep fighting, to keep believing, no matter how hard it gets.”

Backstory:

Shy Creature is a band that originated from the sleepy town of Evansville, Indiana in the mid-2000s. All four members – lead vocalist and guitarist Alice, bassist Mike, drummer Zach, and keyboardist Lily – met in high school and bonded over their shared love for 90s grunge music and their shared ambition to make it big in the music industry. Their journey from playing in their high school auditorium to headlining indie music festivals is a story of friendship, hard work, and resilience. Drawing on each member’s individual experiences, struggles and triumphs, Shy Creature’s music is a reflection of life, love, and everything in between.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Title:

“Whispered Adventures”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am7 G
“Out in the night, under city lights,
Dm7 C
We were chasing stars, and whispered adventures
Am7 G
Skinned knees, hearts on our sleeves,
Dm7 C
Breaking all the rules, our youth was our treasure.”

(Chorus)
Fmaj7 G
“Can you hear the whisper?
Em7 A7
Of our wild hearts beating
Fmaj7 G
We were just shy creatures
Em7 A7
In a world that was fleeting.”

(Verse 2)
Am7 G
“Time flew by, like a lullaby,
Dm7 C
We grew up, but held onto our dreams,
Am7 G
In their eyes, we were still the shy,
Dm7 C
Creatures of the night, craving unseen.”

(Chorus)
Fmaj7 G
“Can you hear the whisper?
Em7 A7
Of our wild hearts beating
Fmaj7 G
We were just shy creatures
Em7 A7
In a world that was fleeting.”

Favorite Fan Testimonial:

My name is Hannah. Shy Creature is my favorite band, without a doubt. Their music has a way of speaking to my soul. Their song “Whispered Adventures” became my anthem during my fight against depression. It’s about holding onto who you are, even when the world is trying to change you. The band members are genuine and humble, always taking the time to interact with their fans. It’s not just about the music with them, it’s about the connection. They might be ‘Shy Creatures’ but their music is anything but shy. It’s bold, heartfelt, and unapologetically real.

Backstory:
Gray Paper is an indie rock band that was born in the heart of New York City. The trio consists of childhood friends Adam Levine on the guitar, Brendan Smith on drums, and Emily Scott on vocals. They began their musical journey in the small garage of Adam’s house, performing at local gigs and open mic nights while working part-time jobs. Their passion for music was evident in their soulful performances, gradually catching the attention of local record labels. The band’s breakthrough came in 2015 when they were signed to a small indie record label, launching their career into the mainstream.

Genre: Indie Rock

Title: “Voices in the Dark”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Am] You are whispers in the night, [G]
Echoes in the corners of my mind [F]
[Am] Shadows dance across the walls, [G]
I hear your voice as the twilight falls [F]

(Chorus)
[C] Voices in the dark, [G]
Calling out my name
[Am] I’m lost in your echo,
[F] I’ll never be the same.

(Verse 2)
[Am] In the stillness of the night, [G]
Your memory takes flight [F]
[Am] The silence is too loud, [G]
I’m lost in the crowd, but you’re not around [F]

(Chorus)
[C] Voices in the dark, [G]
Pulling at my heart
[Am] Without you here, [F]
Everything just falls apart.

(Bridge)
[Dm] I’m reaching out, [G]
Can’t you see?
[Am] Your voice, your echo,
[F] It’s the only thing that’s left of me

(Chorus)
[C] Voices in the dark, [G]
They’re tearing me apart
[Am] I’m holding on, [F]
But you’re already gone

(Outro)
[C] Voices in the dark, [G]
A melody, a spark
[Am] Your echo lingers on, [F]
In every song.

Favorite Fan:
Gray Paper’s most dedicated fan is a 22-year-old college student named Sarah Thompson. She discovered their music during her freshman year and has been hooked ever since. According to Sarah, “Gray Paper’s music has a raw and authentic feeling that is rare in today’s music scene. Their lyrics resonate with me on a deep level, making me feel seen and understood. I’ve been to nearly all their concerts and each performance was a unique experience. Their song ‘Voices in the Dark’ is my favorite – the lyrics, the melody, and Emily’s powerful voice blend to create a hauntingly beautiful piece of art. Gray Paper is not just a band to me, they’ve become an integral part of my life.”