Backstory:

Starry Frame was born in the heart of Seattle in 2014. The quirky duo, Peter Schrute on vocals and guitar, and Jenna Pickett on drums, met in a local record shop, bonding over their mutual obsession with 80s indie rock and 70s folk music. They started jamming together in Schrute’s garage, creating a unique blend of the two genres that soon caught the local curiosity. Their passion for music and the desire to bring something new to the world led to the formation of Starry Frame.

The name Starry Frame came from Schrute’s deep fascination with Vincent Van Gogh’s ‘Starry Night’. The duo believed they were framing their music in a vivid, expansive universe, just like Van Gogh’s famous painting. They released a few songs on the internet, and the local community quickly embraced their unique sound, leading to the rapid growth of their fan base.

Genre: Indie Folk-Rock

Title: “Cosmic Carousel”

Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em G
Underneath the cosmic dome,
C D
We spin around, lost and alone.
Em G
Caught in time’s relentless hold,
C D
Chasing stories yet untold.

(Chorus)
G D
On the Cosmic Carousel,
Em C
We’re spinning round and round.
G D
Love’s echo, an elusive sound,
Em C
In our Starry Frame, it’s found.

(Verse 2)
Em G
In the constellation’s glow,
C D
We find a rhythm, steady and slow.
Em G
In the universe’s grand design,
C D
Our hearts, like stars, align.

(Chorus)
G D
On the Cosmic Carousel,
Em C
We’re weaving tales of light.
G D
In the universe’s endless night,
Em C
In our Starry Frame, it’s bright.

Band’s Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Susan, a librarian from Portland who has attended every single one of their shows since their formation. Susan shared, “Starry Frame’s music is like a cosmic ballet for my soul. Their blend of indie and folk brings a freshness that is a balm in today’s chaotic world. Peter’s vocals have a soothing quality that makes you feel seen and heard, and Jenna’s drumming feels like the heartbeat of the universe. The band’s artistry is truly one-of-a-kind and I wouldn’t miss a single show.”

Backstory:
Soft Weight emerges from the heart of San Francisco, born out of the unlikely friendship between a jazz enthusiast, James ‘Jazzman’ Thompson and a grunge rock devotee, Steven ‘Rage’ Munro. Meeting at a local open mic night, their mutual respect for each other’s raw talent and contrasting musical style spurred a desire to create something unique and groundbreaking. Thus, Soft Weight was formed, blending elements of smooth jazz with the edgy, raw power of grunge rock. The addition of cellist Marie ‘Mellow’ Epstein and drummer Toby ‘Thump’ Davis, they crafted a sound that was both heavy and light, the auditory equivalent of a feather wrapped in lead.

Genre:
Jazz-infused Grunge Rock

Title:
“Unseen Balance”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Dm G C
The melody of the night,
Dm G C
We dance in the stark moonlight.

Dm G C
On the edge of sorrow and delight,
Dm G C
In our souls, the unseen balance ignites.

(Chorus)
Am E F
We’re soft weight, our minds resonate,
Am E F
In the chaos, we find our mate.

(Verse 2)
Dm G C
The sound of the roaring sea,
Dm G C
The quiet whisper of the gravity.

Dm G C
The balance that sets us free,
Dm G C
Soft weight, is our unique symphony.

(Chorus)
Am E F
We’re soft weight, our hearts vibrate,
Am E F
In the silence, we find our fate.

(Outro)
Dm G C
We’re soft weight, in the jazz we relate,
Dm G C
In the grunge, we find our state.

Favorite Fan:
Our favorite fan’s name is Josh. Josh tells us that he was never a fan of just one music genre. He tended to float between jazz, grunge and rock without ever finding a band that perfectly fused those elements together. That is until he discovered us, Soft Weight. He tells us that our music is like a thrilling journey of sound, each song a new adventure. He loves the way our jazz influences give a rich depth to our grunge rock undertones, creating a sound he describes as ‘sensational’. He states, “Soft Weight is my favorite band because they dare to dance between genres, creating a unique soundscape that’s a treat for the ears.”

Backstory:

Derived from a common love for music and a shared affinity for art, Tan Custom was formed in a small garage in the town of Wayward, North Dakota. The members, mostly childhood friends, started experimenting with music during their high school years, honing their skills as they juggled between part-time jobs and college applications. The band name stems from their desire to customize the mundane into something extraordinary, much like a tanning process that turns raw hide into beautiful leather. Their journey from the garage to local pubs, and eventually to large stages has been a testament to their dedication and talent.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Fading Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Intro] G D Em C

(Verse 1)
G D
Underneath the city lights, chasing dreams,
Em C
Tied by the threads of restless nights.
G D
We’re more than just what we seem,
Em C
Lost but found between the fading shadows.

(Chorus)
G D
Fading shadows, oh, they don’t define us,
Em C
We are the architects of our own skyline.
G D
In the echoes of the night, we’ll find trust,
Em C
Hold on tight, for the dawn is nigh.

(Verse 2)
G D
Every heartbeat speaks a tale untold,
Em C
Spinning secrets in this cosmic hold.
G D
In the grand scheme, we play our role,
Em C
Lost and found in the fading shadows.

(Chorus)
G D
Fading shadows, oh, they can’t confine us,
Em C
We are the wanderers of this astral timeline.
G D
In the silence of the night, we find trust,
Em C
Hold on tight, for the dawn is nigh.

(Outro)
G D
We are the dreamers of the day and the night,
Em C
Lost and found in the fading shadows.

Fan Testimonial:

“I’m Julie from Ohio. Tan Custom is my all-time favorite band. Their music speaks to me on a personal level. The lyrics, the tone, and the rhythm, everything resonates with my life experiences. It’s as if they know exactly what I’m feeling and they paint it perfectly with their music. They’re more than just a band to me, they’re my emotional outlet. ‘Fading Shadows’ is particularly special because it got me through some very tough times, reminding me of the dawn after the darkest nights. Keep rocking, Tan Custom!”

Backstory:

Insecure Selection is a British band that was formed in the small town of Ashford, Kent, in 2015. The original band members, Ethan Jenkins (vocals/guitar), Lucy Rogers (drums), and Sam Evans (bass) were high school friends who shared a common love for music. Over the years, they began jamming together, eventually forming an indie rock band that would help them escape the mundane, small-town life. Discovered by independent record label owner, Jonny Walker during a local music festival, they were quickly signed up and have since released two albums, earning them a modest following and a burgeoning reputation in the indie rock scene.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Title:

“Our Truths, Your Lies”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C – Em – Dm – G
They say this small town’s got nothing for us,
Yet we found our voices in the silent chorus.
The world’s an open book, but the pages are torn,
Our hearts are the ink, our truths are born.

(Chorus)
F – C – G – Am
Your lies are shadows in the summer light,
Our truths are songs in the endless night.
Insecure Selection, that’s our name,
Our music, our armor in this game.

(Verse 2)
C – Em – Dm – G
Small town dreams in big city skies,
Through the echoes of truth and the web of lies.
Our sound is the echo, our melody the cry,
Insecure Selection, till the day we die.

(Chorus)
F – C – G – Am
Your lies are shadows in the summer light,
Our truths are songs in the endless night.
Insecure Selection, no room for shame,
Our music, our shield, in this endless game.

(Bridge)
Am – Em – F – C – G
In the noise of the world, we found our sound,
In the chaos of life, our harmony’s found.
Insecure, yet strong, our selection, our fight,
Your lies, our truths, in the endless night.

(Chorus)
F – C – G – Am
Your lies are shadows in the summer light,
Our truths are songs in the endless night.
Insecure Selection, we stake our claim,
Our music, our soul, in this endless game.

Fan Testimonial:

“I’m Daisy from Ashford, and Insecure Selection is my favorite band, hands down. I love their raw energy and the honesty in their lyrics. Their songs really echo with the struggle of finding your identity in a world that’s full of contradictions. It’s like they took our small town story and put it to music. Plus, it’s not just about the music, it’s about the friendship and camaraderie between Ethan, Lucy, and Sam that gives their band a unique vibe. They are the voice of my generation, the voice of every small-town kid with big city dreams.”

Backstory:
Small Story originated from the heart of New York City in 2013. The band consists of four members – Ethan, the lead vocalist and guitarist; Jake, the drummer; Mary, the bassist; and Zoe, the keyboardist and backup vocalist. They were high school friends who decided to express their collective love for music by forming a band. They found solace in creating music that represented their journey and the experiences they shared as friends. Their music is an ode to their suburban life and the small stories that have greatly shaped their existence.

Genre:
Indie Pop

Title:
“Stardust Melodies”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verses)
Em C G D
Wandering through avenues of the night,
Em C G D
We found solace in the city’s quiet light,
Em C G D
Our hearts resonated with the rhythm of the streets,
Em C G D
And our souls danced to the tales we’re yet to meet.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
Stardust melodies fill up the air,
Em C G D
Their echo whispering tales of love and despair,
Em C G D
We are writers in the canvas of the sky,
Em C G D
Painting our small story with hues of goodbye.

(Verse)
Em C G D
As the dawn breaks, we see the city’s charm,
Em C G D
Wrapped in the rhythm, holding life’s warm arm,
Em C G D
We hum the tunes of our undying dreams,
Em C G D
Creating verses from life’s intricate schemes.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
Stardust melodies fill up the air,
Em C G D
Their echo whispering tales of love and despair,
Em C G D
We are writers in the canvas of the sky,
Em C G D
Painting our small story with hues of goodbye.

Band’s Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan’s name is Sarah. Sarah first discovered Small Story during a local gig in a Manhattan bar. She instantly fell in love with their music, calling it “a breath of fresh air in the bustling city.” Sarah has since attended all their shows, bought all their albums, and has even created a fan club for them. She says, “Small Story’s music is an echo of our lives – the struggles, the victories, and the quiet moments in between. They narrate our everyday tales with such beautiful melodies that you can’t help but feel a part of their journey. They are not just a band; they are my favorite storytellers.”

Backstory:
Flat Pair, hailing from the small town of Asheville, North Carolina, is a duo comprised of childhood friends turned musical partners, Jesse Bonner and Elliot “El” Turner. They spent countless summer nights under the starry southern sky, strumming on their guitars and dreaming of a life built on their shared love for music. After years of honing their craft and experimenting with different sounds, they decided to form Flat Pair, a testament to their shared upbringing and vision.

Jesse, a self-taught guitarist, draws his inspiration from the rush of the evergreen landscapes and the comforting rhythm of small-town life. El, a drummer by passion and a lyricist by fate, finds his muse in the most mundane, the most ordinary, and the most overlooked aspects of life. Together, they create a heartfelt blend of music that resonates with their fans and leaves them longing for more.

Genre:
Folk-Rock

Song Title:
“Drifting Apart”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Been a while since we last [C] spied,
[D] Silence creeping from the [Em] night.
[G] Felt the warmth of summer [C] breeze,
[D] Heard the whispers of the [Em] trees.

(Chorus)
[G] Drifting apart, yet stuck in [Em] time,
[C] Searching for signs in your [D] rhyme.
[G] Our solstice sunset, [Em] once so bright,
[C] Fades away in the [D] moonlight.

(Verse 2)
[G] Your laughter echoes in the [C] wind,
[D] A melody I can’t [Em] rescind.
[G] Our memories intertwine, [C] unbind,
[D] In the corners of my [Em] mind.

(Chorus)
[G] Drifting apart, yet stuck in [Em] time,
[C] Chasing your light, my only [D] crime.
[G] Our solstice sunset, [Em] once so dear,
[C] Is just a shadow, [D] I fear.

Favorite Fan:
Flat Pair’s favorite fan is undoubtedly Leah Peterson. Leah was one of the first people to believe in their music when they were starting out and has been following them ever since. As a testimonial, Leah once said, “Flat Pair’s music is more than just songs to me. It’s about connection, nostalgia, and finding beauty in the ordinary. Their words echo my thoughts, their tunes touch my soul. In their music, I find my home. They’re not just my favorite band; they’re a part of my journey, my life.”

Backstory:
Tart Measurement was born in the musical hotbed of Austin, Texas, and is composed of long-time friends, singer-guitarist Harper, bassist Weston, drummer Kevin, and keyboardist Isabelle. They all grew up together, experiencing their adolescence in tandem, full of shared dreams and aspirations. They spent their teenage years busking on the streets of Austin, honing their music skills, and creating a distinct sound that would eventually build the foundation of Tart Measurement.

Upon graduation, they moved into a shared loft, turned it into a makeshift recording studio, and started producing their music. Their deep-seated bond and mutual respect for each other translated into their music, and it wasn’t long before they were discovered by a local record producer. With their unique sound, they quickly rose through the ranks of the Austin music scene, and before they knew it, Tart Measurement was a household name.

Genre:
Indie Pop

Title:
“Citrus Skies”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Underneath the [D] citrus skies, [Em] you and I,
[C] Dancing on the [G] notes of life, [D] soaring high.
[Em] Hand in hand, we [C] paint our dreams, [G] on this canvas of [D] time
[Em] Our love’s a [C] Tart Measurement, [G] sweet and fine. [D]

(Chorus)
[G] Through the [D] Citrus Skies,
[Em] In our love, we [C] rise,
[G] With every heartbeat, [D] every sigh,
[Em] Underneath the [C] Citrus Skies.

(Verse 2)
[G] Our silhouettes [D] against the dawn, [Em] etching memories [C] on the lawn,
[G] Your laughter is my [D] favorite song, [Em] in this Tart Measurement [C] we belong.
[G] With the hues of [D] love so bright, [Em] we will dance through [C] every night,
[G] Underneath the [D] Citrus Skies, [Em] We’ll forever [C] take flight.

(Repeat Chorus)

(end)
[G] Underneath these [D] Citrus Skies, [Em] our love will never [C] compromise,
[G] In this Tart Measurement, [D] we realize,
[Em] How sweet and tart, [C] our love, our life, [G] under the Citrus [D] Skies.

Favorite Fan:
Tart Measurement’s biggest fan is a woman named Melinda Grey. Melinda fell in love with Tart Measurement when she stumbled upon one of their impromptu street performances in downtown Austin. She was amazed by their unique sound and vibrant energy, and quickly became a regular at all their gigs. For Melinda, Tart Measurement isn’t just a band, but a movement that inspires her to live life to the fullest. In her words:

“I’ve been a music lover my whole life, but I’ve never come across a band like Tart Measurement. Their music isn’t just sound, it’s an experience – a celebration of life, love, and friendship. Their songs inspire me, comfort me, and make me feel understood. The unique blend of their voices and instruments in unison feels like home. Tart Measurement is more than my favorite band; they are my beacon of hope and joy.”

Backstory:

Dependent Formula began as a group of high school friends from a small town in Ohio. Although they all came from different musical backgrounds, from classical violin to garage punk rock, they shared a common love for music and a dream to create something totally unique. After years of writing songs in their parents’ basements and playing at small local venues, they finally got their breakthrough when a music producer happened to hear them at a county fair. Impressed with their innovative sound and raw talent, the producer signed them to his label, giving them the chance to share their music with the world.

Genre:
Dependent Formula’s music is a unique blend of Alternative Rock and Electronic music.

Song Title:
“Variable Heartbeat”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
G / Em / D / C
Do you remember when we used to dance,
G / Em / D / C
Underneath the starlight in a trance?
G / Em / D / C
Our hearts were the rhythm, the night our stage,
G / Em / D / C
In a fleeting moment, we wrote our page.

(Chorus)
D / Em / C / G
Our variable heartbeat, a dependent formula,
D / Em / C / G
An equation of love, can’t escape this enigma.
D / Em / C / G
We’re variables in this vast cosmic arena,
D / Em / C / G
Just a dependent formula, in the grand schema.

(Verse 2)
G / Em / D / C
Now we’re miles apart, in different time zones,
G / Em / D / C
But when I close my eyes, I’m not alone.
G / Em / D / C
Our love is a constant, not a variable to fade,
G / Em / D / C
In this dependent formula, our memories are made.

(Chorus)
D / Em / C / G
Our variable heartbeat, a dependent formula,
D / Em / C / G
An equation of love, can’t escape this enigma.
D / Em / C / G
We’re variables in this vast cosmic arena,
D / Em / C / G
Just a dependent formula, in the grand schema.

Favorite Fan’s Name: Emily

Emily has been a fan of Dependent Formula since their early basement days. For her, the band stands out not just for their unique sound, but the depth and complexity of their lyrics. She loves how they blend different genres and their ability to convey emotions through their music. Emily never misses a show when the band is in town and often travels to see them perform. She says, “Dependent Formula’s music has been the soundtrack to my life. Their songs resonate with me on a personal level, and I feel like they’re telling my story through their lyrics. They’re not just a band to me, they’re like family.”

Backstory:

Near Adjustment was born in the dive bars and dimly lit garages of Seattle, Washington. What started as a group of childhood friends messing around with instruments, soon evolved into a band with a clear, unique sound. The members, lead vocalist/guitarist Evan Thompson, bassist Jesse Turner, drummer Ethan Wilson, and keyboardist Jenny Parker, all shared a love for music that vibrated with the intensity of the city’s rainy nights. Although their initial start was humble, they quickly won the hearts of the local scene, and from there their fame began to grow.

Their first big break came when a scout from a small independent label caught one of their performances, and was captivated by their raw talent and authentic sound. Shortly after, the band was signed, and they released their debut album, which was received with raving reviews. With a unique blend of melancholic melodies and a gritty sound reminiscent of the city they grew up in, Near Adjustment represents the voice of a new generation.

Genre:

Alternative Rock / Indie Rock

Title:

“Echoes in the Rain”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] It’s just another [Em] night in this old town,
[C] Echoes of our love, [D] they’re all around,
[G] Walking down these [Em] streets in the pouring rain,
[C] Trying to fight the pain, [D] but it’s all in vain.

(Chorus)
[G] Oh, the Echoes in the Rain, [Em] they’re calling out your name,
[C] Lost in the memory, [D] bound by the pain,
[G] Down every alley, [Em] down every lane,
[C] I hear your voice again, [D] Echoes in the Rain.

(Verse 2)
[G] The city lights [Em] reflect in puddles on the ground,
[C] Your memory is everywhere, [D] in every sound,
[G] I can’t escape [Em] these ghostly chains,
[C] Trapped in your remains, [D] caught in the rain.

(Chorus)
[G] Echoes in the Rain, [Em] they’re driving me insane,
[C] Like a haunting refrain, [D] playing again and again,
[G] No matter where I go, [Em] it’s always the same,
[C] Your voice calls my name, [D] Echoes in the Rain.

Fan’s Testimonial:

“My name is Lisa Peterson, and Near Adjustment is my favorite band. Their music is raw, passionate, and it resonates with me. ‘Echoes in the Rain’ is my go-to song when I’m feeling down or nostalgic. It’s like they’ve captured the essence of longing and love lost in their lyrics. Every melody they craft, every chord they strike, it’s like they’re telling my story. It’s personal, it’s real, and that’s why I love them. They’re not just a band to me; they’re a lifeline, a voice that understands.”

Backstory:

Formed in a dimly-lit garage in the heart of Seattle, Rewarding Reaction is the brainchild of four musicians who believed in the power of music to express heartfelt emotions. Born out of a high school friendship, the bandmates Gary (vocals), Tom (Lead Guitarist), Jason (Bass), and Kevin (Drummer), started their journey in 2008, blending their shared love for music with their individual styles. Their band name, Rewarding Reaction, signifies the cathartic release they experience every time they perform and the reciprocal energy they receive from their audience.

After years of struggle and local gigs, their break came in 2013 when their demo was picked up by an independent record label. From garage rehearsals to sold-out stadium concerts, Rewarding Reaction has remained true to their roots, touching the hearts of their fans while staying authentic to their distinctive sound.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Wakeful Whispers”

Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Waking up to the [G] whispers, the [Am] echoes in my [Em] mind,
[C] Trapped in thoughts that [G] linger, in [Am] love that’s hard to [Em] find.

(Chorus)
[F] Wakeful whispers, [C] silent screams,
[Am] Lost in the chaos of [G] shattered dreams.
[F] Stand up tall, [C] face the storm,
[Am] We are the night, [G] breaking the dawn.

(Verse 2)
[C] Pictures on the [G] wall, old [Am] memories in [Em] frames,
[C] Time may take it [G] all, but the [Am] feeling still [Em] remains.

(Chorus)
[F] Wakeful whispers, [C] silent screams,
[Am] Lost in the chaos of [G] shattered dreams.
[F] With every breath, [C] ignite the light,
[Am] We are the shadows, [G] dancing in the night.

Testimonial:

Fan’s name: Emily

“Rewarding Reaction has been my favorite band for as long as I can remember. Their music carries such raw emotions that resonates with me on a deeply personal level. Being someone who has been through a lot, their songs have been my solace during my darkest times. The lyrics, coupled with their distinct sound, create a perfect symphony of feelings. I can’t imagine my life without their music. They are like friends who are there to comfort me, inspire me, and make me feel understood. For that, Rewarding Reaction will always have a special place in my heart.”