Backstory:
Rundown Symbol burst onto the music scene in the mid 90s, made up of four small-town friends: lead singer Jonas Reynolds, guitarist Paul “Storm” Durant, bassist Billy “The Kid” McAllister and drummer Lenny “Sticks” Mickelson. Hailing from the remote corners of New Hampshire, they all shared a common dream of making it big in the world of music. Their tight-knit friendship and shared passion for music helped them navigate the ups and downs of the industry and their early struggles. The band’s name, Rundown Symbol, is a tribute to their roots, reflecting the crumbling industrial town they come from, yet the hopes it still carries.

Genre: Alternative Rock

Title: “Echoes of Silence”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em7 G
Wandering down the lonely road,
C9 D
Searching for the stories untold.
Em7 G
Broken homes, fallen stars,
C9 D
These are the echoes of silence.

(Chorus)
G D
Echoes of silence, we are hearing,
Em7 C9
In the heart of the night, it’s searing.
G D
Echoes of silence, we keep bearing,
Em7 C9
In our hearts, the wounds are tearing.

(Verse 2)
Em7 G
On the ruins, in the mist,
C9 D
Carries a dream, we can’t resist.
Em7 G
Through the shadows, far and wide,
C9 D
Echoes of silence, can no longer hide.

(Chorus)
G D
Echoes of silence, piercing and clear,
Em7 C9
In the cold wind, it’s all we hear.
G D
Echoes of silence, in fear we kneel,
Em7 C9
In the echoes, our souls reveal.

Fan’s Name: Sarah Thompson

Testimonial:
“I’ve always loved music, but the first time I heard Rundown Symbol, it was different. Their raw emotion, the haunting melodies, and the way their lyrics spoke to me, it was like they were telling my own stories. They’ve become the soundtrack to my life. Their song ‘Echoes of Silence’ helped me through a lot of hard times. It’s more than just a band for me. They’re like the friends I’ve never met, telling me it’s okay to feel, to hurt, to hope. Rundown Symbol is not just my favorite band, it’s a part of who I am.”

Backstory:
Conscious Meal was born in a small town in Oregon, where four college friends decided to combine their passion for music and environmental activism into a unique sound experience. The band members, Jack “Sage” Henson, Leon “Lentil” Daniels, Katy “Kale” Thompson, and Ian “Indigo” Parker, all shared a common love for organic farming and a sustainable lifestyle. Their unique perspective and lifestyle became the foundation for Conscious Meal, a band that not only entertains but educates its audience about conscious living. The band started performing at local farmers markets, quickly gaining a small but dedicated following. They vowed to spread their music and message beyond their small town, dreaming of a world filled with conscious choices and sustainable living.

Genre:
Conscious Meal’s music is a fusion of Indie rock and Folk with a hint of Jazz, creating a genre of their own – Eco Melodic Rock.

Title:
“Harvest Moon Serenade”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[C] Under the harvest moon we [G] find,
[Am] Songs of the Earth on my [Em] mind.
[F] Footsteps on the fertile [C] ground,
[G] Echoing a rhythmic sound.

(Chorus)
[C] Serenade the moon, [G] sing to the stars,
[Am] Love the Earth, bear [Em] its scars.
[F] Show the world what [C] we are made,
[G] In this Harvest Moon Serenade.

(Verse 2)
[C] Seeds of hope in [G] our hands,
[Am] Nourished by the [Em] forest’s band.
[F] We reap what we [C] sow,
[G] In the Earth’s perpetual glow.

(Chorus)
[C] Serenade the moon, [G] sing to the stars,
[Am] Love the Earth, bear [Em] its scars.
[F] Show the world what [C] we are made,
[G] In this Harvest Moon Serenade.

(Outro)
[C] Under the harvest moon’s [G] glow,
[Am] Seeds of change we [Em] sow.
[F] With love, and tears, and [C] sweat,
[G] This is a serenade we’ll never forget.

Favorite Fan:
The band’s favorite fan is Emily “Eco Em” Saunders. Emily has been following Conscious Meal since their very first performance at the local farmer’s market. She describes Conscious Meal as “Pure magic. The way they blend their music with their message is mesmerizing. They don’t just sing about conscious living, they live it. The authenticity in their music is palpable. Their song ‘Harvest Moon Serenade’ is my anthem. I think it’s time we all listen to the Earth’s rhythm and live in harmony with nature. Conscious Meal is not just my favorite band; they are my inspiration.”

Backstory:
Amusing Conduct began as a group of friends, just five college roommates in the dorms of Berkeley who shared a passion for music and a penchant for bizarre. Each member was studying a different field, which resulted in a unique blend of influences and styles that ultimately shaped their music. Over time, these friends became a family of musicians who found great joy in creating music that is unpredictable, playful, and brimming with energy.

In 2010, they began performing at local venues, offering an experiential journey for audiences with their peculiar sound and lively performances. Their ability to improvise and experiment came from their diverse backgrounds, which included neuroscience, visual arts, philosophy, astrophysics, and theater. Their strength truly shone when they harnessed these differing perspectives to create something that was uniquely their own.

Genre:
Alternative Rock with a blend of Jazz and Punk.

Title:
“Synaptic Fizz”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[C] Tangled up in a melody, [G] fireflies in my brain,
[Am] Nervous system dancing, [F] a synaptic champagne.
[C] Thoughts weave into dreams, [G] painting pictures bright,
[Am] under the starlit canvas, [F] of the cerebral night.

(Chorus)
[G] Pop the cork, let it out,
[Am] this is what we’re all about.
[C] Synaptic fizz, in our minds,
[F] Where chaos and clarity binds.

(Verse 2)
[C] Ideas colliding, [G] in the corners of my head,
[Am] Thoughts lost in translation, [F] in the words unsaid.
[C] A universe within, [G] galaxies yet unseen,
[Am] In the cosmic playground, [F] of the mental machine.

(Chorus)
[G] Pop the cork, let it out,
[Am] this is what we’re all about.
[C] Synaptic fizz, in our minds,
[F] Let’s ride the waves, of our cerebral tides.

Favorite Fan Testimonial:
My name is Marianne and I am an Astrophysics student. Amusing Conduct is my favorite band not just because they create music that is an absolute delight to listen to, but because they manage to weave complex scientific and philosophical concepts into their lyrics. They make my academic passions feel cool and relatable, and that’s not something every band can do. Every time I listen to their songs, I find myself getting lost in the melody, but also in the thoughts and ideas they present. Their music is a constant source of motivation and inspiration for me.

Backstory:
Composed of four lifelong friends from the small town of Nashville, Indiana, Traumatic Warmth was born in a humble garage, where they first discovered their shared passion for music in the summer of 2010. The band members, lead vocalist and guitarist Ryan Turner, bassist Ethan Chambers, drummer Gavin Reid, and keyboardist Jeremy Williams, established their bond over late-night jam sessions, each bringing a unique flavor to the mix. Inspired by their personal heartbreaks, struggles, and small-town experiences, they channeled their raw emotions into writing their own music. Traumatic Warmth took their name from their shared belief that even the most painful experiences can bring about personal growth and warmth.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Broken Chains”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
C G Am F
Broken chains on the floor,
C G Am F
Echoes of a love, ain’t no more.
C G Am F
Lost in the depth of bitterness,
C G Am F
Shadow of a past, we couldn’t resist.

[Chorus]
C G Am F
Oh, the warmth in the cold,
C G Am F
From the stories untold.
C G Am F
Rising from the ashes, we stand bold,
C G Am F
In the traumatic warmth, we found gold.

[Verse 2]
C G Am F
Memories etched in our hearts,
C G Am F
Through the pain, we made our start.
C G Am F
In the wreckage, we found our song,
C G Am F
In the silence, we found we belong.

[Chorus]
C G Am F
Oh, the warmth in the cold,
C G Am F
From the stories untold.
C G Am F
Rising from the ashes, we stand bold,
C G Am F
In the traumatic warmth, we found gold.

Band’s Favorite Fan:
Cassie Thompson.

Cassie’s Testimonial:
“I’ve been a fan of Traumatic Warmth since their garage days and what makes them my favorite band is their authenticity and the rawness in their music. They have this extraordinary way of expressing their pain and turning it into something beautiful you can connect to. Their songs are a reflection of the struggles we all go through, and it’s comforting to know that we’re not alone. ‘Broken Chains’ particularly resonates with me. The way they encapsulate the emotions of a traumatic past transforming into strength and warmth is pure genius. Their music is literally a beacon of hope in the dark.”

Backstory:

Thoughtful Thinking was born in the heart of San Francisco, California, when three college friends ventured into the world of music, with the goal of bringing something new to the table. Lead vocalist and guitarist, Diana, was studying philosophy, while bassist Jake was an English Literature major and drummer Sam was an art student. The three friends, bonded over their love for music and deep philosophical discussions, which eventually led to the formation of ‘Thoughtful Thinking’ in the fall of 2015. Their unique fusion of ideas and musical influences translated into emotionally charged, thought-provoking songs, quickly gaining a following among their peers before spreading to a larger audience.

Genre:

Indie Pop-Rock

Title:

“Ripples in Time”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C G Am F
I cast a stone into the sea,
C G Am
Watched the ripples run from me,
F C G Am
Thinking ’bout the days gone by,
F C G Am
Every laugh, every sigh.

(Chorus)
F G C Am
Ripples in time, you’re on my mind,
F G C Am
Circles we go, in this ebb and flow.

(Verse 2)
C G Am F
Beneath the moon’s gentle glow,
C G Am
Reflecting on what I know,
F C G Am
Each moment, a gem so rare,
F C G Am
Every breath, a silent prayer.

(Chorus)
F G C Am
Ripples in time, our lives intertwined,
F G C Am
Circles we go, in this ebb and flow.

(Bridge)
F G Am F
We are but stardust, in this grand design,
C G Am F
Living, loving, in this ripple of time.

(Chorus)
F G C Am
Ripples in time, your hand in mine,
F G C Am
Circles we go, in this ebb and flow.

Bands Favorite fan:

Our favorite fan is Carlos. Carlos has been with us since our first gig in a dingy basement in San Francisco. He took the time to understand our music and lyrics, which he claims resonate with his own life experiences. In Carlos’s words, “Thoughtful Thinking isn’t just a band. It’s a journey. A journey that takes you through the trials and tribulations of life, making you realize the beauty of existence. Their music makes me introspect, dream, and, most importantly, feel. For me, they are the sonic embodiment of life itself.”

Backstory:

Tall Paper was born out of a college dorm room in Berkeley, California in 2011. Founding members, Liam Moore (vocals, guitar) and Noah James (drums), were roommates with a shared passion for retro rock and roll. One day while studying for their mid-terms, they stumbled upon an abandoned piano in the campus “free to take” area. They wheeled it into their dorm room and it became the missing puzzle piece for their dream band. They were later joined by Melissa Hughes on bass and Sam Thompson on keys, two fellow students they met at a local open mic night. The name ‘Tall Paper’ was a nod to their student days, referencing the tall stacks of paper they had to study from, and their aspiration to stand tall in the music industry.

The band started out playing gigs in local bars and college events, their energetic performances and unique sound quickly gaining them a loyal following. In 2013, Tall Paper was spotted by a talent scout at an underground music festival. The rest, as they say, is history. Today, the band tours internationally and has released three successful albums, their music a unique blend of rock, pop, and indie.

Genre: Indie-Rock, Pop

Title: “Dorm Room Blues”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Dorm room walls closing in, [C] studying ’til the break of dawn
[G] Tired eyes and crumpled paper, [C] a dream of a band being born
[D] In a world of textbooks and theories, [C] we found music in the night
[D] Dreams scribbled on tall paper, [C] under the dim room light

(Chorus)
[G] We’ve got the dorm room blues, [D] no more time to lose
[C] Heart beating with the rhythm, got [G] nothing else to choose
[D] Our dreams penned on tall paper, [C] echo through the halls
[G] With every strum and drum beat, [D] we’re tearing down the walls

(Verse 2)
[G] Found a piano on the corner, [C] wheeled it through the campus gate
[G] Struck a chord, felt the magic, [C] knew it was worth the wait
[D] Late-night jamming, under the stars, [C] crafting our unique sound
[D] Tall paper full of dreams, [C] look at us now, we’re homeward bound

(Chorus)
[G] We’ve got the dorm room blues, [D] no more time to lose
[C] Heart beating with the rhythm, got [G] nothing else to choose
[D] Our dreams penned on tall paper, [C] echo through the halls
[G] With every strum and drum beat, [D] we’re tearing down the walls

(Bridge)
[G] Tall paper and dreams, [D] life’s not what it seems,
[C] With music, we soar, [G] with every beat, we explore

(Chorus)
[G] We’ve got the dorm room blues, [D] no more time to lose
[C] Heart beating with the rhythm, got [G] nothing else to choose
[D] Our dreams penned on tall paper, [C] we’re breaking the norms
[G] From our humble beginnings, [D] in a Berkeley dorm

Fan Testimonial:

Our band’s favorite fan is Timmy Parker. Timmy, a computer science graduate, has been with us since the beginning, attending our college gigs, and actively promoting us on social media. He says, “Tall Paper embodies the spirit of our generation. Their music resonates with the struggles we go through and their energy is infectious. They are a testament to the fact that dreams can be achieved if you have the courage to pursue them.

Backstory:

‘Venerated Learning’ came to life in the bustling music scene of Austin, Texas in 2012. The band was formed by a group of high school friends, who shared a common love for music and a unique perspective on life. The members include the charismatic lead vocalist, Ethan Wade, the dynamic guitarist, Liam O’Connell, the soulful bassist, Noah Sullivan, and the thrilling drummer, Mason Riley. Their bond doesn’t just revolve around their shared passion for music, but also their shared experience of being high school teachers. They often use their experiences in the classroom to inspire their music, hence the name ‘Venerated Learning’.

The band started off by performing in local bars and clubs, slowly building a loyal fan base with their distinctive sound and profound lyrics. Their big break came when their self-released album caught the attention of a prominent music producer. From there, they went on to sign a record deal and have been gaining popularity ever since. Their music is a testament to their deep love for education and the unique perspective it provides.

Genre:
Indie Folk-Rock

Title:
“The Lesson Unseen”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
G C G D
Walking down the halls, echoes of laughter behind closed doors,
G C G D
Every classroom a universe, each mind an unexplored shore.

(Chorus)
G D Em C
Teach me the language of stars, the calculus of the heart,
G D C
The Lesson Unseen, the truth in between.

(Verse 2)
G C G D
In every word and equation, a whisper of life’s rotation,
G C G D
In every face, a story unfolds, a testament of creation.

(Chorus)
G D Em C
Teach me the rhythm of the earth, the poetry that gives birth,
G D C
The Lesson Unseen, the truth in between.

(Bridge)
Em C G D
And as the bell rings, the learning lingers,
Em C G D
In the heart of every learner, the flame of knowledge flickers.

(Chorus)
G D Em C
Teach me the symphony of silence, the algebra of resilience,
G D C
The Lesson Unseen, the truth in between.

Fan’s Testimonial:

My name is Cassandra and I’m a huge fan of Venerated Learning. Being a teacher myself, their music deeply resonates with me. It’s not just about the melody or the beat, it’s about the profound message behind their lyrics. It’s like they’re singing the unsung stories of every teacher and student. Their music has become my daily anthem, and their song “The Lesson Unseen” is my absolute favorite. It beautifully captures the essence of teaching and learning. Venerated Learning is more than a band to me, they are the voice of the unspoken heroes in classrooms everywhere.

Backstory:
Humongous Measure was formed in the bustling heart of New York City, in 2010, as a group of friends sharing a common love for music. The band members, Charlie (vocals), Sam (drums), Alex (bass), and Ethan (lead guitar), were childhood friends who spent their high school years playing music in their garage, honing their skills, and dreaming of stardom. They wanted to create something unique, something that would make people feel and relate. They were passionate about blending their diverse influences, creating a sound that was unlike anything else. Their hard work and determination began to pay off when they started playing in local bars and, before they knew it, their unique style caught the attention of a local record label.

Genre:
Alternative Rock / Indie Pop

Title:
“Under the City Lights”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
Em C G D
Caught in the maze of this concrete jungle,
Em C G D
Chasing dreams under the city lights.
Em C G D
Broken hearts and faded memories,
Em C G D
Hold on tight, we’re taking flight.

(Chorus)
Em C G D
Under the City Lights, we find our way,
Em C G D
In the hum of the night, we start to sway.
Em C G D
With our hearts on fire, and souls burning bright,
Em C G D
Under the city lights, everything feels right.

Fan Testimonial:
Name: Lisa Miller

Testimonial:
“Humongous Measure is more than just my favorite band – they are like family to me. Their music has been there for me in my highs and lows, making me feel understood and connected. It’s not just the lyrics, but the emotion with which they play – it’s raw and genuine. I remember the first time I heard ‘Under the City Lights’, it was like they were speaking my story. Their music has helped me find my own way, just like they found theirs under the city lights. They are my favorite band because their music isn’t just a sound, it’s a feeling – a humongous measure of real, heartfelt emotions.”

Backstory: Grouchy Priest was formed in New Haven, Connecticut in the late 90s by the unlikely duo, Ethan and Jason. Ethan, a former altar boy turned disillusioned philosophy major and Jason, a music theory prodigy who quit Juilliard, bonded over their shared dissatisfaction with societal norms and their love for music. Ethan and Jason’s unorthodox story is reflected in their music, which often explores the interplay between religious iconography and modern society. The band’s name, Grouchy Priest, is a nod to their rebellion against traditional institutions.

Genre: Grouchy Priest is best known for their unique sound which is a blend of Indie Rock and Alternative Folk.

Title: “Sacred Cynicism”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1:
Am
In the shadow of the steeple, where the lost souls convene,
E
we trade our sacred hearts for something less serene.
F
In the prayer’s echo, I find no reprieve,
G
but in the sinner’s song, I begin to believe.

Chorus:
C
Sacred cynicism, my new religion,
G
no holy water, just the rain’s baptism.
Am
No confession booth can cleanse my truth,
E
in the church of the disillusioned, I find my proof.

Verse 2:
Am
The choir sings of salvation, but I hear a different tune,
E
one of shattered faith and a love that’s immune.
F
No more Hallelujahs, just the silence of the night,
G
in the whispers of the wind, I find my holy rite.

Chorus:
C
Sacred cynicism, my divine intervention,
G
no priest’s sermon, just my own reflection.
Am
No Sunday service can dictate my purpose,
E
in the cathedral of skepticism, I find my worship.

Fan Testimonial: A faithful fan, Dylan, from Boston, says, “Grouchy Priest’s music speaks to my soul. Their lyrics verbalize the internal struggle of faith and doubt in the modern world. They’re not afraid to question societal norms, and their music resonates with me in a way no other band’s does. I’ve followed them since their debut, and their growth as musicians is astounding. The raw honesty in their songs, especially ‘Sacred Cynicism’, is what makes them my favorite band. Their music helped me through some tough times, and for that, I’ll always be a devoted fan.”

Backstory:
Big Owl is a band hailing from the indie music scene of Austin, Texas. Formed in 2013 by high school friends, Travis Hill (vocals/keyboard), Fred Corbin (bass), Luke Jennings (drums), and Benji Green (guitar), they started out playing in basement parties, gradually gaining a loyal fanbase with their distinctive sound and passionate performances. Their music, deeply influenced by their shared love for folk music and rock ‘n’ roll, ultimately resulted in a unique sound that they proudly call their own. Despite starting out with humble beginnings, they have since made a name for themselves in the music industry, performing at various music festivals around the country.

Genre:
Indie Folk Rock

Song Title:
“Underneath the Whispering Pines”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Dm F
Underneath the whispering pines,
G C
We found our truth entwined,
Dm F
In a melody, in a rhyme,
G C
Our hearts beat in time.

(Chorus)
Dm F
Oh, under the pines,
G C
Underneath the moonlight’s design,
Dm F
We found love, we found life,
G C
Underneath the whispering pines.

(Verse 2)
Dm F
Beneath the canvas of stars,
G C
We strummed our old guitars,
Dm F
Sang of hope, sang of scars,
G C
In the quiet of the night, we found our spark.

(Chorus)
Dm F
Under the stars,
G C
With our guitars,
Dm F
We found hope, we found art,
G C
Beneath the canvas of stars.

(Outro)
Dm F
Oh, under the whispering pines,
G C Dm
We found love, we found life,
F G
We found all we sought,
C
Underneath the whispering pines.

Bands Favorite Fan:
Our favorite fan’s name is Lucy. She’s been with us since our basement days, and her energy and devotion to our music has been unparalleled. She said, “Big Owl’s music is like a healing balm for me. Their lyrics touch my soul, and their tunes make my heart dance. I’ve been through hard times, and their music has been my constant companion. Their song ‘Underneath the Whispering Pines’ is my favorite. It speaks of hope, love, life – all things that we need more of in this world. That’s why Big Owl is, and will always be, my favorite band.”