Backstory:

Leading Theory was crafted in the urban heart of Detroit, Michigan, in the basement of an old vinyl record shop. Four friends with a shared passion for music and an unruly desire to shatter the status quo came together in 2010. The members include Cliff Dawson, a philosophical lead singer with an insatiable curiosity, Adam ‘Drake’ Drakos, the dynamic guitarist, Stevie ‘Strings’ Jacobsen, the bassist with a soulful vibe, and Tommy ‘Thunder’ Moretti, the drummer who can set your heart racing with his beats.

The band started performing at local bars, slowly but surely capturing the hearts of patrons with their unique sound. The turning point came in 2013 with the release of their first EP, ‘Breaking the Sound Barrier,’ which charted on local radio stations, catapulting Leading Theory into the broader music scene. They soon became known for their powerful lyrics that challenged conventional thought and their high-energy performances that left fans craving more.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Chasing the Horizon”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am G C F
I’ve been chasing the horizon, it’s slipping away
Am G C F
Running after tomorrow, losing today
Am G C F
Pushing through the noise, searching for a voice
Am G C F
In the chaos of the city, finding my own way

(Chorus)
Am G C F
So let’s sing out loud, shatter the dark cloud
Am G C F
We won’t be confined, in the shadows left behind
Am G C F
With every beat of our heart, we’re making a start
Am G C F
We’re chasing the horizon, we’re making our mark

(Verse 2)
Am G C F
We’re the misfits and the dreamers, in a world gone astray
Am G C F
Finding our truth, in the music we play
Am G C F
We’re the poets and the rebels, walking our line
Am G C F
In the silence of the night, we’re letting our light shine

(Repeat Chorus)

Band’s favorite fan:
Bobby ‘Rockhound’ Anderson

Testimonial:

“I’ve been following Leading Theory since their early days. I remember catching their set at a bar, and I was hooked right away. Their music isn’t just sound; it’s a movement. They challenge you to think, to question, and to feel. I’ve been to hundreds of their shows, and each one feels like an awakening. The song “Chasing the Horizon” particularly resonates with me; it’s about not being afraid to chase your dreams, no matter how unreachable they may seem. Leading Theory isn’t just my favorite band; they’re a life-altering experience.”

Backstory:
Cool Specimen is an innovative and avant-garde group that started stirring the musical pot in the bustling city of Chicago in 2013. The band was formed by four childhood friends; Jake, the lead vocalist, Leo, the drummer, Nick, the guitarist, and Arthur, the bassist. They had been close since elementary school, and their shared love of music eventually led to the formation of a basement band. Over time, the basement band grew into a full-fledged musical act that started performing at local venues, steadily growing in popularity. With their unique blend of sounds and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of their craft, Cool Specimen has become a beloved staple in the Chicago music scene.

Genre:
Cool Specimen’s musical style is a fusion of Indie rock and Electronica, with hints of New Wave. They possess a playful, edgy sound which is highlighted by their use of synthesized elements combined with raw, gritty guitar work.

Title:
“Stargazer’s Lament”

Full Song Lyrics:
Verse 1:
Gmaj Em Cmaj
Underneath the city lights, you’ve lost your way
Gmaj Em Cmaj
With the stargazers, you used to play

Chorus:
Gmaj Em Cmaj
Look up above, can’t you see?
Gmaj Em Cmaj
You’ve become a lament of the city

Verse 2:
Gmaj Em Cmaj
Now, the stars they don’t shine as bright
Gmaj Em Cmaj
In the noise, you’ve lost your night

Chorus:
Gmaj Em Cmaj
Lost in the crowd, where could you be?
Gmaj Em Cmaj
You’re just a stargazer’s lament to me

Bridge:
Gmaj Em Cmaj
Shine, shine, where could you be?
Gmaj Em Cmaj
In the city’s light, we’re just debris

Chorus:
Gmaj Em Cmaj
Look up above, can’t you see?
Gmaj Em Cmaj
You’ve become a lament of the city

Favorite Fan’s Name:
Lindsay Thompson

Testimonial:
“I’ve been a fan of Cool Specimen since their early days. There’s just something about their sound that resonates with me. It’s complex yet accessible, and their lyrics often feel like they’re speaking directly to my experiences. I love how they experiment with their music. It’s like they’re always pushing the envelope, always trying to bring something new to the table. Their song “Stargazer’s Lament” is my absolute favorite, and it’s one that I return to time and time again. It’s melancholic and reflective, and it always stirs something deep within me. Cool Specimen is my favorite band because they aren’t afraid to be different. They embrace their unique sound and they’re true to themselves, and that’s something that I both respect and admire.”

Backstory:
Strict Couple is an alternative rock duo that formed in the underground music scene of Seattle, Washington in 2012. The band consists of childhood friends, lead vocalist and guitarist, Adam Foster, and drummer, Jake Riley. Foster and Riley were known in high school for their strict work ethic and dedication to perfecting their craft, earning them their band name. They often skipped parties and social gatherings to practice, leading to an alternative rock sound that’s as refined as it is raw and authentic.

The duo’s chemistry on-stage is hypnotizing, with their music speaking volumes about their life experiences and struggles. They’ve poured their souls into their music, creating a unique sound that resonates with their fan base. Strict Couple’s rise to fame has been a roller-coaster ride of hard work, determination, and magnificent performances.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Chasing Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am – Em – G – D
In the alleyways of memory, chasing shadows of the past,
Underneath the city lights, where love was meant to last.
Broken dreams and shattered hearts, found solace in the rain,
In the echoes of our laughter, couldn’t hear the silent pain.

(Chorus)
C – G – D – Em
We were chasing shadows, lost in the world’s chaos,
Stuck in the labyrinth of love, with no compass to guide us.
Chasing shadows, lost in the dark,
Hunting for the spark, that could reignite our hearts.

(Verse 2)
Am – Em – G – D
Bitter sweet melodies, sung to the moonlit skies,
The sound of our heartbeats, drowned by city’s lullabies.
Dancing with our demons, hiding behind the masks,
In the maze of moments, lost in the time’s vast task.

(Chorus)
C – G – D – Em
We were chasing shadows, trapped in our own lies,
Sailing in the sea of sorrow, under the stormy skies.
Chasing shadows, looking for the light,
In the darkness of the night, hoping to take flight.

(Chorus)
C – G – D – Em
Chasing shadows, in the corners of our mind,
In the ruins of our love, what will we find?
Chasing shadows, but the sun is about to rise,
Maybe it’s time to open our eyes, and cut the ties.

Fan’s Name:
Emily Saunders

Emily’s Testimonial:
“I’ve been a fan of Strict Couple since their early days in the Seattle underground scene. Their authenticity and heart wrenching lyrics resonate with me in a way no other band does. Their song ‘Chasing Shadows’ speaks volumes to me and helped me through some really tough times. As a writer, I find their lyrics incredibly poetic and impactful. I’ve seen them live multiple times, and every performance is captivating. Their music isn’t just heard, it’s felt. It’s real, raw, and brutally beautiful. Strict Couple isn’t just my favorite band; they’re a part of my life.”

Backstory:

Born in the eclectic melting pot of musical influences that is Austin, Texas, the band “Well-Informed Ward” started as a group of high school friends jamming in their parents’ garages. The band consists of lead vocalist and guitarist Greg Simmons, bassist Brian ‘Bassman’ Turner, drummer Sam ‘Sticks’ Johnson, and keyboardist and backup vocalist Angie ‘Keys’ Martinez. The foursome quickly realized that their eclectic music tastes and shared love for thought-provoking lyrics could create something unique. They decided to form “Well-Informed Ward”, named after their favorite hangout spot in their hometown. Over the years, they have developed a loyal fanbase with their energetic live performances and engaging, thought-provoking lyrics, becoming a staple in the local Austin music scene.

Genre: Indie Rock with a hint of Blues

Title: “Echoes of the Mundane”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C Am Em G
Underneath the neon lights, in the heart of the mundane,
C Am Em G
Echoes of an ordinary life, whispers of the everyday.
C Am Em G
Looking for a sign, in the commotion of the now,
C Am Em G
Understanding the grand design, beneath the everyday somehow.

(Chorus)
F Am G C
Echoes of the mundane, reverberating in my brain,
F Am G C
A symphony of the simple, a melody of the plain.

(Verse 2)
C Am Em G
In every nook and cranny, in every street and lane,
C Am Em G
Lies a story untold, in the echoes of the mundane.
C Am Em G
Seeking serenity, in the cacophony of life,
C Am Em G
Finding beauty, in the echoes of the mundane strife.

(Chorus)
F Am G C
Echoes of the mundane, reverberating in my brain,
F Am G C
A symphony of the simple, a melody of the plain.

Fan Testimonial:

Fan’s name: Lacey Thompson

Lacey Thompson, a devoted fan since their first garage performance, loves everything about “Well-Informed Ward”. As she puts it, “Their music somehow manages to speak directly to my soul. The lyrics are profound and relatable – they capture the essence of everyday life and turn it into a beautiful melody. In a world full of noise, they manage to make the mundane extraordinary. ‘Echoes of the Mundane’ is my absolute favorite. Whenever I’m feeling down or stressed, I listen to that song, and it brings me a sense of peace and comfort. ‘Well-Informed Ward’ is more than just a band to me, they’re my lifeline.”

Backstory:
Shocked Employer is a band that formed out of the most unlikely of circumstances. The members; Jake, Lewis, Maria, and Kyle were employees at the same tech company. Each of them, in separate departments, filled their cubicles with musical instruments instead of laptops and code. They found solace in music during lunch breaks and after-hours, turning the company’s conference room into an impromptu jamming studio. One evening, after an especially grueling workday, they composed a song that resonated with their shared frustration. Inspired and energized, they decided to form a band, aptly named – Shocked Employer.

Their journey has been unconventional, using their corporate skills to their advantage. They handle their own marketing, bookings, and even creatively incorporate tech into their performances. The band has not only brought them closer as friends but also given them a unique platform to express their thoughts on corporate life and more.

Genre:
Alternative Rock/Indie Pop

Title:
“Overtime Blues”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Stuck in a [G] loop, inside a [Am] cubicle
[F] Watching the [C] clock, the day’s [G] unmoveable
[C] Spreadsheet dreams [G] and coffee [Am] machines
[F] Oh, the corporate [C] life ain’t [G] as it seems

(Chorus)
[C] I’ve got the [G] Overtime Blues [Am]
[F] Working all day, paying my [C] dues [G]
[C] In this suit and [G] tie, under neon [Am] skies
[F] Singing the [C] Overtime [G] Blues

(Verse 2)
[C] Monday mornings [G] and Friday [Am] nights
[F] Lost in code and [C] office [G] fights
[C] Emails ping, [G] phones endlessly [Am] ring
[F] Yearning for the [C] freedom only [G] music brings

(Chorus)
[C] I’ve got the [G] Overtime Blues [Am]
[F] Stuck behind screens, chasing the [C] news [G]
[C] From nine to [G] five, barely feeling [Am] alive
[F] Singing the [C] Overtime [G] Blues

The band’s favorite fan’s name:
Testimony from Sally Thompson:

“I’m Sally Thompson, and I work in a law firm downtown. Shocked Employer is my favorite band for a simple reason – they get it. They understand the frustration, the monotony, and the absurdities of the corporate life. Their songs are both a mirror and a relief. Listening to ‘Overtime Blues’ on my way home, nodding along to the rhythm and lyrics, it’s like they’re telling my story. This connection makes them more than just a band to me. They are companions through the grind, making it bearable with their music, humor, and honesty.”

Backstory:
Noisy Professor began its sonic journey in the eclectic music scene of Austin, Texas. Comprised of high school friends turned college music majors, Noisy Professor started out with humble intentions of simply sharing their love for music. However, their unique sound and contagious energy soon caught the attention of local music producers, and Noisy Professor found themselves playing at packed venues across the city. Despite their sudden taste of fame, the band remained grounded in their deep love for music and dedication to their studies, hence the name Noisy Professor.

Genre:
Noisy Professor’s music blends together elements of Alternative Rock and Indie Pop, creating an energetic and mesmerizing sound that leaves audiences wanting more. Their lyrics often contain philosophical elements, a nod to their academic roots, and are set to catchy, often complex musical arrangements.

Title:
“One Quantum Leap”

Full Song Lyrics with Chord Progression:

(Verse 1: C – G – Am – F)
Hey, step into my lab, (C – G)
I’ve got a world inside my head, (Am – F)
Quantum physics and Beethoven’s fifth, (C – G)
Under the microscope, it’s a holy gift. (Am – F)

(Chorus: C – G – Am – F)
One quantum leap to the starry skies, (C – G)
Through the wormhole where the mystery lies. (Am – F)
We’re just star dust in a grand design, (C – G)
In this cosmic symphony, your hand in mine. (Am – F)

(Verse 2: C – G – Am – F)
The universe is more than what we see, (C – G)
It’s the music, the rhythm, the melody. (Am – F)
Einstein’s dreams in a stardust sea, (C – G)
Let’s make a theory for our destiny. (Am – F)

(Chorus: C – G – Am – F)
One quantum leap to the starry skies, (C – G)
Through the wormhole where the mystery lies. (Am – F)
We’re just star dust in a grand design, (C – G)
In this cosmic symphony, your hand in mine. (Am – F)

(Bridge: C – G – Am – F)
Let’s measure the distance, let’s bend the time, (C – G)
In this infinite space, your love is mine. (Am – F)

(Chorus: C – G – Am – F)
One quantum leap to the starry skies, (C – G)
Through the wormhole where the mystery lies. (Am – F)
We’re just star dust in a grand design, (C – G)
In this cosmic symphony, your hand in mine. (Am – F)

The band’s favorite fan’s name: Lucy

Testimonial:
“I’ve been to countless concerts, but nothing compares to the energy and depth of Noisy Professor. Their music is like a journey through the cosmos. The lyrics make you think, the melodies make you move, and the atmosphere makes you feel like you’re part of something bigger. It’s not just music, it’s an experience. Noisy Professor isn’t just my favorite band, they’ve become a part of my life.” – Lucy

Backstory:

Stylish Classroom was formed in a small town in Oregon, when an English teacher and her four students discovered their shared love for music. It was during one of their casual jam sessions after school that they realized they had something special. All of them were equally passionate about music and had their unique strengths – Jill, the teacher, had an amazing voice and could also play the guitar; Ben, the cool kid, was a pro at drums; Lisa, the shy one, was surprisingly good at bass; Tom, the nerd, played the keyboard like a genius; and Mike, the jock, turned out to be a hidden talent with the saxophone.

Their music started as a blend of their individual tastes. However, over time, as they experimented more and explored shared influences, they began to mold a unique sound. Stylish Classroom’s journey started from playing at local county fairs and school events, and soon they started gaining recognition, eventually landing them a record deal that changed their lives.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Desks & Dreams”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Down the hallways, in the [D] corners of our minds
[Em] We found our calling, in a [C] Stylish Classroom kind
[G] Books and papers, music [D] became our theme
[Em] Here’s to the melody, of our [C] Desks & Dreams

(Chorus)
[D] Rocking out in the classroom, [G] beats breaking the silence
[Em] We found our voice, [C] in between the science
[D] Desks & Dreams, [G] we’re more than it seems
[Em] Singing out loud, [C] chasing our dreams

(Verse 2)
[G] Scribbled lyrics, on the [D] edges of our notes
[Em] From math to music, [C] we found our antidotes
[G] Teachers and students, [D] we broke the routine
[Em] Living our story, of [C] Desks & Dreams

(Chorus)
[D] Jamming in the schoolyard, [G] our rhythm defines us
[Em] No limits, no bounds, [C] nothing confines us
[D] Desks & Dreams, [G] we’re hitting the extremes
[Em] Playing our hearts out, [C] living our dreams

(Bridge)
[D] We’re the Stylish Classroom, [G] breaking the norm
[Em] From essays and tests, [C] a new sound is born
[D] Desks & Dreams, [G] we’re part of the streams
[Em] Making the music, [C] that fuels your dreams

(Chorus)
[D] Rocking out in the classroom, [G] beats breaking the silence
[Em] We found our voice, [C] in between the science
[D] Desks & Dreams, [G] we’re more than it seems
[Em] Singing out loud, [C] chasing our dreams

Fan’s Favorite Testimonial:

I’m Tim Jackson, Stylish Classroom’s number one fan! Their music speaks to me on a whole other level. It’s not just about the lyrics or the melody, it’s about the spirit they bring to the music. They’ve taken their love for learning and combined it with their passion for music, creating something truly unique. I relate to their journey, their dreams, and the way they break the norm. It’s like they’re singing my life’s story in every song. Stylish Classroom isn’t just a band for me; they’re a source of inspiration and a reminder to chase my dreams fearlessly.

Backstory:

Needy Directive initially formed in 2012 in the heart of San Francisco, California. The founding members, lead singer/guitarist Quinn Underwood and bassist Jake Tennyson, were both roommates at their college. They started off playing in local pubs and coffee shops, where their unique blend of sounds soon gained attention. They were later joined by drummer Eliot Weiss and keyboardist Lila Pemberton. Over the years, the band has faced numerous challenges, including personal differences, financial difficulties, and the ever-changing music landscape. But, their undying passion for music and their unique bond have kept them going.

Genre:

Needy Directive blends Indie Rock with a touch of Electronic Pop, creating a sound that’s as unique as their name. Their music is characterized by Quinn’s soulful vocals, Jake’s groovy bass lines, Eliot’s rhythmic drum beats, and Lila’s mesmerising keyboard tunes.

Title:

“One More Night In”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] One more night in, [G] staring at these walls,
[Am] Memories spinning, [F] as the silent night falls.
[C] Waiting for a sign, [G] craving for your call,
[Am] Trapped within my mind, [F] in an endless haul.

(Chorus)
[C] So, I’ll spend one more night in,
[G] Dreaming under this neon light.
[Am] Oh, I’ll spend one more night in,
[F] Hoping everything’s gonna be alright,
[C] Oh, everything’s gonna be alright.

(Verse 2)
[C] The clock keeps ticking, [G] as the shadows grow,
[Am] The emptiness is sickening, [F] but I’ve got nowhere to go.
[C] Lost in the echoes, [G] of yesterday’s show,
[Am] I’m just a silhouette, [F] in my own afterglow.

(Chorus)
[C] So, I’ll spend one more night in,
[G] Dreaming under this neon light.
[Am] Oh, I’ll spend one more night in,
[F] Hoping everything’s gonna be alright,
[C] Oh, everything’s gonna be alright.

Fan Testimonial:

My name is Sarah Langford and I live in Portland, Oregon. I’ve been a fan of Needy Directive since their early days. Their music is a kind of balm for my soul. The raw emotion in Quinn’s voice, the stories their songs tell; it’s all so powerful. I love how their music is a blend of indie rock and electronic pop, it’s refreshing and unique. Every song feels like a journey, and I’m always excited to see where they’ll take me next. Seeing them live is an experience I can’t put into words. Their energy, their passion, it’s contagious. They are, without a doubt, my favorite band.

Backstory:

Sociable Hate began their journey in a small suburban garage in Portland, Oregon. The band consists of four members: frontman and lead guitarist Alex Thompson, drummer Zack Harper, bassist Leo Mitchell, and keyboardist and backup vocalist, Sarah Walker. The band met in high school and bonded over a shared passion for music. They played at small gigs in high school and later in local bars, gaining a following because of their unique sound and profound lyrics. Their name, Sociable Hate, was chosen as an oxymoron to describe the conflict between societal norms and personal identity.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Distant Echoes”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Cm7 G7 Fm Bb
Lost in a world, full of faces,
Cm7 G7 Fm Bb
Struggling to find, our own places,
Cm7 G7 Fm Bb
Looking for truth, in empty spaces,
Cm7 G7 Fm Bb
We are the distant, we are the distant echoes.

(Chorus)
Cm7 G7 Fm Bb
Shouting out loud, in silent screams,
Cm7 G7 Fm Bb
Living our lives, in shattered dreams,
Cm7 G7 Fm Bb
We are the distant, we are the distant echoes.

(Verse 2)
Cm7 G7 Fm Bb
Puppets of society, strings pulled tight,
Cm7 G7 Fm Bb
Breaking free, with all our might,
Cm7 G7 Fm Bb
In the dark, we found our light,
Cm7 G7 Fm Bb
We are the distant, we are the distant echoes.

(Chorus)
Cm7 G7 Fm Bb
Shouting out loud, in silent screams,
Cm7 G7 Fm Bb
Living our lives, in shattered dreams,
Cm7 G7 Fm Bb
We are the distant, we are the distant echoes.

Band’s Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is undoubtedly Emily Richards. Emily has been a loyal follower of Sociable Hate since their early days, attending every live performance and promoting their music on social media.

Emily’s Testimonial:

“Sociable Hate is more than just a band to me. Their music speaks to me on a personal level and has helped me through some of the toughest times in my life. The raw emotion and honesty in their lyrics, coupled with their captivating melodies, set them apart from any other band I’ve come across. I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know them personally, and their authenticity and passion reflect in their music. They’re not just musicians; they’re storytellers, and their stories have become a huge part of my life.”

Backstory:
Barren Architecture was formed in the heart of the Rust Belt, in the industrial city of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The band was started by a group of three architects who had found a shared passion for music during their time studying at Carnegie Mellon University. They initially gathered in cramped studios, using the sounds of the city’s decaying steel structures and bustling streets as their inspiration. Their debut album, ‘Blueprints in Sound’ was a reflection of their roots, combining the raw energy of the city with the intricate design principles of architecture.

The trio was comprised of lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Aaron Cunningham, bassist and backup vocalist Jared Hill, and drummer Sam Duffy. Their initial struggle to break into the music scene fueled their determination and creativity, leading to a unique sound that began to draw attention. Their journey from drafting tables to sold-out gigs is a testament to their talent and tenacity.

Genre:
Barren Architecture chooses to not limit themselves to one genre. Instead, they combine elements of alternative rock, indie, and post-punk to create a unique sound that mirrors the complexity and depth of their architectural backgrounds.

Title:
“Steel and Concrete Dreams”

Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
[G] Steel and concrete dreams [D] echo in our minds,
[Em] Structures soaring high, [C] amidst the city lights.
[G] We etch them out in lines, [D] blueprint of our lives,
[Em] Amid the noise, the grind, [C] their beauty shines.

(Chorus)
[D] We are the architects, [G] of our own design,
[C] In every steel beam, [G] every chalk line.
[D] From the barren land, [G] we create the divine,
[C] In this architecture, [G] our dreams intertwine.

(Verse)
[G] The cityscape’s a canvas, [D] etched with grit and grace,
[Em] Where iron meets the sky, [C] our dreams find their space.
[G] From nothing, we construct, [D] foundations strong and true,
[Em] Our buildings stand tall, [C] against the sky so blue.

(Chorus)
[D] We are the architects, [G] of our own design,
[C] In every steel beam, [G] every chalk line.
[D] From the barren land, [G] we create the divine,
[C] In this architecture, [G] our dreams intertwine.

Bands Favorite Fan:
Our favorite fan has to be Hannah Summers. Hannah was one of the first to champion our music, even when we were playing to mostly empty rooms. She’s followed us on every step of our journey, from small Pittsburgh clubs to national tours. In her own words, “Barren Architecture’s music is like a sonic blueprint of our city. It’s raw, real, and yet has an elegance that speaks of their architectural background. They’ve managed to construct a unique sound that feels like home while pushing boundaries. It’s like watching your favorite skyline come to life in a song.” Hannah’s unwavering support has meant the world to us.