Backstory:
Intent Mark was formed in the bustling streets of downtown Chicago back in 2009, initially as an impromptu ensemble of friends who just loved music. They were college buddies, each from a different major, yet all tethered by their shared passion for music. Their name, ‘Intent Mark’, was inspired by the tattoo of an exclamation mark that the lead vocalist, Mike Holden, had on his forearm. He said it represented their collective intention to make a mark in the world of music.

The band started gaining recognition after winning a local battle of the bands competition. Their unique sound, combined with their undeniable charisma, quickly caught the attention of local producers. Within a year, they were signed by an indie label and started recording their own music. Their career took off rapidly, and by 2012, they were touring on a national level, capturing hearts across the country.

Genre: Alt-Rock/Pop

Title: “Shadows in the Spotlight”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am G D Em
In this world of neon lights, we paint our dreams,
On city walls that echo silent screams.
And in the noise, we try to find some peace,
Running wild, yet yearning for release.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
We are shadows in the spotlight,
Chasing dreams in the moonlight.
In a dance that never ends, we spin,
Our hearts beating to the rhythm within.

(Verse 2)
Am G D Em
Through crowded streets, under a starless sky,
We leave our intent marks, aiming high.
In the rhythm of the night, we lose our fears,
With each strum, wipe away our tears.

(Chorus)
C G D Em
We are shadows in the spotlight,
Dancing wild through the silence of night.
In a world that’s spinning too fast, we find,
The song that echoes the rhythm of our mind.

The band’s favorite fan’s name: Allison Grey

Testimonial:
Allison Grey, a journalist from California, has been a loyal fan of Intent Mark since their early days. She says, “There’s something about Intent Mark that speaks directly to my soul. Their lyrics tackle real-world issues and emotions, while their melodies are absolutely infectious. I remember the first time I heard ‘Shadows in the Spotlight’; I was going through a rough patch, and their music gave me the strength to push through. That’s the power of Intent Mark. Their music is more than just entertainment—it’s therapy.”

Backstory:

Outgoing Thing was formed in the bustling city of Austin, Texas, in 2015. School friends and fellow music enthusiasts, Jake (lead vocalist and guitarist), Mike (drummer), Sarah (keyboardist), and Tom (bassist), united to express their shared love for music. Their initial performances were limited to school gigs and local pub Sundays. However, their unique sound soon started to gather attention, leading to opportunities to perform on larger platforms. Their journey was not without struggles, but the strong bond between them kept them going. Their energy, passion, and dedication for music transformed them into the band that is now loved by many all around the world.

Genre:

Alternative Rock

Title:

“Fractured Rainbows”

Full song lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Am] Driving down the [G] winding roads,
[Dm] Past the fields where we once [Am] roamed.
[Am] Memories start to [G] unfold,
[Dm] In my heart, they steady [Am] hold.

(Chorus)
[C] Fractured rainbows in the [G] sky,
[Dm] Reflecting the tears that we once [Am] cried.
[C] Between the smiles and the [G] goodbyes,
[Dm] We built our dreams, under those [Am] skies.

(Verse 2)
[Am] Chasing shadows in the [G] fading light,
[Dm] We swore we’d never let love [Am] out of sight.
[Am] In the pages of time so [G] tight,
[Dm] Our story shines oh so [Am] bright.

(Chorus)
[C] Fractured rainbows in the [G] sky,
[Dm] Echoing the laughter that never [Am] died.
[C] Amidst the chaos and the [G] lullabies,
[Dm] Our love endures, under those [Am] skies.

Fan’s Testimonial:

“Hi, my name is Emma, and I am a massive fan of Outgoing Thing. They aren’t just a band to me; they’re like a beacon of hope, an outlet for my emotions. Their music, especially ‘Fractured Rainbows’, has helped me through some hard times. It’s like they pen down my feelings and sing them out loud. I am grateful to them for making music that resonates with so many of us. They are my absolute favorite band, and I am super excited to see what they have in store for us in the future!”

Backstory:
Black Machine was formed in the industrial heartland of Detroit in 2006. The original members, frontman Jack “Ripper” Morgan and drummer Tommy “Piston” Jones, were childhood friends who grew up in the shadow of factories and assembly lines, dreaming of a life away from the monotony of the blue-collar grind. They were later joined by guitarist Nikki “Siren” Douglas and bassist Sam “Grinder” Walsh, completing the powerful quartet. They started playing at small local gigs, their unique sound echoing through the brick warehouses and steel mills. Their music, a raw fusion of industrial noise and gritty rock, caught the attention of a local music producer who signed them to his independent label. Their rise was meteoric, their sound resonating with people across the nation.

Genre:
Industrial Rock

Title:
“Steel and Fire”

Lyrics:

Verse [C#m, E, B, A]
Underneath the city’s skin, (C#m)
In the heart of the iron sin, (E)
We’re born in furnace, in steel and fire, (B)
Machines of dreams, of raw desire. (A)

Chorus [E, B, A, F#]
We’re the Black Machine, (E)
Showered in sparks, in moonlight we gleam. (B)
In rhythm of hammers, we find our song, (A)
In the heart of metal, we belong. (F#)

Verse 2 [C#m, E, B, A]
In the grime and the grit, we stand, (C#m)
With guitars, drums, and mics in hand, (E)
We’re born of the factories, the smoky haze, (B)
Of the grinding gears, in the assembly maze. (A)

(Repeat Chorus)

Bridge [F#, A, E, B]
We rise with the sun, we fall with the stars, (F#)
We’re forged in the rhythm of the city’s scars. (A)
In the pulse of the pistons, we find our beat, (E)
In the steel and the fire, we find our heat. (B)

(Repeat Chorus)

Fan Testimonial:
My name is Lisa and I’m Black Machine’s number one fan. In their music, I find the echoes of my own life – the hard work, the grit, the struggle, and the dreams. Their unique industrial rock sound speaks to me on a visceral level. Their song “Steel and Fire” especially resonates with me. The rawness, the energy, the defiance – it encapsulates everything I love about them. Black Machine isn’t just a band to me; it’s a symbol of my life.

Backstory:

Weak Equipment was formed in a small Midwestern town in the late 90s when four high school friends discovered their shared love for music. They started out as an average garage band, with torn speakers and second-hand instruments, hence the name – “Weak Equipment”. The band includes Tom Strickland (vocals and guitar), Jack Hollis (bass), Paul Greenfield (drums), and Chris Orlowski (keyboard). Their shared passion for music led to numerous local gigs, slowly building a dedicated fan base. After years of hard work and commitment, the band was finally spotted by a talent scout in 2005, leading to their first record deal.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Song Title:
“Echoes in the Attic”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Woke up to the echoes in the attic [D]
[Em] Memories of you, static and erratic [C]
[G] Rummaging through dust and forgotten times [D]
[Em] Found a piece of you, intertwined with rhymes [C]

(Chorus)
[G] Echoes in the attic, whispers of the past [D]
[Em] Love that was so frantic, we knew it wouldn’t last [C]
[G] Now I’m just a relic, holding on too fast [D]
[Em] To echoes in the attic, echoes from the past [C]

(Verse 2)
[G] Fingerprints on vinyl, faded photographs [D]
[Em] Traces of our love story, epitaphs [C]
[G] Recollecting dreams, wrapped in sepia tones [D]
[Em] In this attic, among the cobwebbed bones [C]

(Chorus)
[G] Echoes in the attic, whispers of the past [D]
[Em] Love that was so frantic, we knew it wouldn’t last [C]
[G] Now I’m just a relic, holding on too fast [D]
[Em] To echoes in the attic, echoes from the past [C]

Fan Testimonial:

Steve Robertson, a die-hard fan, says, “Weak Equipment is more than just a band for me – it’s a lifestyle. Their lyrics resonate deeply with my experiences, and their music has always been there for me. “Echoes in the Attic” is my all-time favorite. The depth of emotion in the lyrics, the haunting melody, and the raw energy of their performances is unparalleled. From their humble beginnings to their rise to fame, they’ve remained true to their roots, and that’s why they’re my favorite band.”

Backstory:
The journey of Sarcastic Training began in the desolate town of Laredo, Texas, in 2006 when four estranged high school friends reunited at their ten-year reunion. They discovered their shared passion for music, particularly their mutual fondness for irony-laden lyrics combined with funky groves, had evolved but never diminished. Lead vocalist and guitarist, Tobias “Toby” Stevens, brought along his high school sweetheart and talented drummer, Melissa “Missy” Knight. The dynamic duo was joined by their childhood friends, bassist, Ronald “Ronny” Harper, and keyboardist, Samuel “Sammy” Griffith. They started out playing at local pubs and dive bars, soon becoming the town’s favorite, their music a cathartic release for the locals from their monotonous, small-town lives.

The band had their breakthrough in 2009 with their hit single “Irony in the Rain,” which caught the attention of a local radio DJ. The song was played relentlessly, propelling Sarcastic Training onto a bigger stage. With their unique sound and witty lyrics, they quickly gained a regional, and eventually, a national following. Despite their growing popularity, Sarcastic Training has stayed true to their roots, often returning to play in their hometown, their sarcastic lyrics and infectious beats a testament to their humble beginnings.

Genre:
Sarcastic Training has carved their niche in the Indie Rock scene with a twist of Funk.

Title:
“Lessons in Laughter”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
G C
Walking down these empty streets,
D G
Got no shoes upon my feet.
C D
Laughing at the irony,
G C
Of a world that’s lost its beat.

[Verse 2]
G C
Lost my job, but found my soul,
D G
Paid my dues, achieved my goal.
C D
Amidst the chaos and the strife,
G C
Found the rhythm of my life.

[Chorus]
G C
Lessons in laughter, school of pain,
D G
Life’s a sarcastic training game.
C D
In the echoes of my mind,
G C
Sanity’s a treasure hard to find.

(repeat Verse 1, Verse 2, and Chorus)

Favorite Fan:
Their favorite fan is named Jenny Williams. Jenny says, “I’ve followed Sarcastic Training since their early days in Laredo. Their music, it’s raw and real. And it’s not just the music, it’s the lyrics. They speak to me on a personal level, their words echoing my own experiences. Their song ‘Lessons in Laughter’ got me through some tough times. There’s something about Toby’s voice, the way it resonates with my soul. It’s like they understand, they’ve been there. Sarcastic Training isn’t just a band to me, they’re like old friends sharing their wisdom through music. It’s why they’re my favorite band, and always will be.”

Backstory:
Founded in Seattle in the late ’80s, Unrealistic Engine began as a group of ambitious college friends who shared a deep love for music. The founding members, Terry (vocals), Dan (guitar), Max (bass), and Nick (drums), started the band in their campus dorm room. It wasn’t long before they were touring local bars and clubs, building a reputation for their distinctive sound. The band’s name, Unrealistic Engine, was inspired by their belief that music could fuel their passion and drive their dreams, no matter how unrealistic.

Genre:
Unrealistic Engine is best known for their unique fusion of rock and electronica, a genre that’s come to be known as “Electro-Rock.” They are celebrated for their ability to merge the raw, unfiltered energy of rock music with the pulsating rhythms and futuristic sounds of electronica.

Title: “Neon Dreams”

Full Song Lyrics:
Verse 1: (C G Am F)
In the shadowed streets, where the city sleeps
We’re chasing echoes, under neon dreams
With every beat, our hearts scream,
We are alive, in this machine

Chorus: (F G C Am)
Neon dreams, and heartbeats scream
Living life, in Unrealistic Engine theme
In the pulse of lights, we find our means
In the heart of night, we chase, neon dreams

Verse 2: (C G Am F)
Through the static noise, we find our voice
In the chaos, we make our choice
With electric pulse, and digital cries,
We’re running wild, under neon skies

Chorus: (F G C Am)
Neon dreams, and heartbeats scream
Living life, in Unrealistic Engine theme
In the pulse of lights, we find our means
In the heart of night, we chase, neon dreams

The Band’s Favorite Fan:
Our favorite fan is Jessica Thompson. Ever since she discovered our music during a difficult period in her life, she’s been an ardent supporter. Jessica says, “Unrealistic Engine’s music has been my rock. Their lyrics speak to me, their energy moves me, and their passion inspires me. ‘Neon Dreams’ is my anthem and it’s helped me through some really tough times. The band may have unrealistic in their name, but their impact on my life is very real.”

Backstory:
Apprehensive Percent is a band that came to life in the music clubs of downtown Chicago in the late 2000s. The band was formed by five college friends who shared a common love for music and a dream to create a unique sound that transcends genres. Despite having different musical backgrounds, they united their varied talents to create a new blend of music that swiftly won the hearts of their listeners. The band’s journey has been marked by a constant yearning for musical innovation and a commitment to creating a deep emotional connection with their fans. They have faced challenges along the way, but sheer passion and the drive to communicate through their music has seen them through.

Genre:
Alternative Rock/Electronica

Title:
“Crimson Delusion”

Full Song Lyrics with Chord Progression:
Verse (Am, Em, G, D):
(Am) In the city of broken dreams,
(Em) We found a melody to redeem,
(G) Our hearts beating in the crimson twilight,
(D) Lost in the rhythm of the endless night.

Chorus (C, G, Am, F):
(C) In the crimson delusion, we found our place,
(G) Drowned in the music, lost in space.
(Am) We are the echoes of silent scream,
(F) Living on the edge of this elusive dream.

Verse (Am, Em, G, D):
(Am) Through the echoes of a fading refrain,
(Em) We paint a canvas with shades of pain.
(G) The sound of silence, in it, we confide,
(D) Dancing with shadows, where fears collide.

Chorus (C, G, Am, F):
(C) In the crimson delusion, we found our place,
(G) Drowned in the music, lost in space.
(Am) We are the echoes of silent scream,
(F) Living on the edge of this elusive dream.

Their favorite fan’s name and testimonial:

Name: Sarah Jennings

Testimonial: “Apprehensive Percent is more than just a band to me. Their music resonates with my soul. Whether I’m happy, sad, or just in a contemplative mood, their songs have a unique way of reaching out to me. The band members are down-to-earth and incredibly talented. I’ve attended their concerts from the time they were performing in small clubs to now when they headline major music festivals. They have remained true to their musical roots while evolving with each new album. Apprehensive Percent isn’t just my favorite band — it’s a part of my life.”

Backstory:
Born from the eclectic and artistic streets of Brooklyn, New York, Wet Knot is a band that thrives on the unconventional. The four-piece group was formed in 2012 when friends and starving artists, Devin “Salty” McCrae (lead vocals, guitar), Haley “Storm” Thornton (bass, vocals), Oscar “Tide” Lopez (drums), and Mira “Wave” Kim (keys, vocals), decided to change their fortune by harnessing their love for music. Adopting the name Wet Knot, a nod to their shared affinity for the ocean, they began performing in local bars and subway stations, quickly gaining a local following that appreciated their unique blend of genres and raw, emotional lyrics.

Fast forward to 2021, Wet Knot has two successful albums under their belt and have toured extensively around the world. They maintain their grassroots ethos, often giving impromptu performances on the beaches of California or the streets of Paris, fostering a sense of community with their fans. Their journey is a testament to their commitment and love for music.

Genre:
Wet Knot’s music can be broadly categorized as alternative rock, but they defy traditional labels by incorporating elements of surf rock, punk, and indie pop, creating a unique and captivating sound.

Title:
“One More Wave”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[Am] Deep down beneath the [G] blue,
[D] I’m searching for a [Em] truth,
[Am] Something that connects me [G] to you.

(Chorus)
[C] Ride on one more [G] wave,
[D] Don’t be afraid to [Em] stay,
[C] Let the sea wash [G] our fears away,
[D] In the end, we’ll find our [Em] way.

(Verse 2)
[Am] You are the anchor [G] that keeps me steady,
[D] Your love is like a [Em] wave, always ready,
[Am] Even in the storm, [G] we hold on heavy.

(Chorus)
[C] Ride on one more [G] wave,
[D] Don’t be afraid to [Em] stay,
[C] Let the sea wash [G] our fears away,
[D] In the end, we’ll find our [Em] way.

(Outro)
[Am] We’re just a Wet Knot, [G] on an endless sea,
[D] Holding strong and [Em] forever we’ll be.

Fan Testimonial:
Wet Knot’s most dedicated fan is Sophia “Sunny” Martinez. Sunny has attended every single concert since their humble beginnings in the subways of Brooklyn. She fell in love with their music during a difficult time in her life, and it has since become a source of strength and inspiration for her. “Wet Knot isn’t just a band to me; they’re a lifeline. Their music is a mix of raw emotion and comforting familiarity. It’s like coming home. I can’t imagine my world without their music. They’re more than my favorite band; they’re a part of who I am,” she said.

Backstory:
Misguided Passage, a four-piece band, was formed in the bustling music scene of Austin, Texas, in 2013. The founding members, lead vocalist Riley Kimball, lead guitarist Chris McKnight, bassist Jeffery Harper, and drummer Troy Mason, were college friends who started jamming in their dorm rooms at the University of Texas. They each had unique musical influences, from the grunge of the 90s to the folk rock of the 60s. They started by performing at local bars and college events, which led to them gaining a loyal fan base. Gradually, Misguided Passage started writing their own music and in 2015, they released their first album, which was a hit on the indie charts.

Genre:
Indie Rock

Title:
“Echoes Through Time”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
G [Em] Hear the whispers in the wind, [C] dancing around the flame
[D] Lost souls searching, reaching out, [Em] whispering our name
[Em] Beneath the moonlight’s ghostly glow, [C] secrets start to unwind
[D] In the silence of the night, [Em] we start to find

(Chorus)
[G] Echoes through time, [D] they’re speaking to you and me
[Em] As the night unwinds, [C] can’t you see?
[G] Tales of love, courage, and plight, [D] woven into the night
[Em] Lost in time, [C] in the echoes, we find our light

(Verse 2)
[G] Under the starry tapestry, [D] we continue our quest
[Em] Chasing shadows, chasing dreams, [C] never stopping to rest
[G] Every step, every mile, [D] another story unfolds
[Em] In the echoes of time, [C] our destiny holds

(Repeat Chorus)

Fan’s Testimonial:
“My name is Sarah Richardson, and I have been a die-hard Misguided Passage fan since their early days. Their lyrics speak to me on a personal level, their music stirs something deep within my soul that I didn’t even know existed. It isn’t just about the catchy tunes or the riveting guitar solos, but the stories they tell with each song. ‘Echoes Through Time’ particularly resonates with me and the band’s ability to communicate profound messages through their music is why they are my favorite. They are not just musicians, but storytellers traversing the realm of melodic sounds. I look forward to their journey and being a part of it.”

Backstory: Honorable Pig was formed on the outskirts of Austin, Texas in the summer of 2007. The four members, hailing from different corners of the US, met at a local music festival and found common ground in their shared love for music that didn’t fit neatly into one genre. The band’s name, Honorable Pig, was inspired by a ceramic pig statue that was awarded to the winner of a local barbecue contest, a nod to the group’s Texan roots. Over the years, the band has carved out their unique sound and built up a dedicated fan base with their high energy performances and heartfelt lyrics.

Genre: Honorable Pig plays a distinctive blend of Southern Rock, Country, and Blues, with a touch of Folk.

Title: “Barbecue Blues”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C G F C
I’m sitting here with my barbecue blues,
G F C
Smoke rising high, missing you.
A minor G F C
My heart’s on the grill, sizzling slow,
G F C
Underneath the Texan glow.

(Chorus)
F C G C
Oh, Honorable Pig, take away my pain,
F C G C
Turn my sorrow into sweet smoked grains.

(Verse 2)
C G F C
The coals burn bright, in the cool night air,
G F C
Your memory lingers everywhere.
A minor G F C
In the hickory smoke, in the fiery pit,
G F C
Everywhere, I see your silhouette.

(Chorus)
F C G C
Oh, Honorable Pig, hear my mournful song,
F C G C
In this smoke and heat, where I belong.

Favorite Fan: The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Eleanor. Eleanor, originally from Austin, TX, has been following Honorable Pig since their inception. Her dedication to the band is unmatched, attending every concert within a 100-mile radius, and she claims that their music has been her lifeline through some of her toughest times.

Eleanor’s Testimonial: “Honorable Pig isn’t just a band to me. Their music is raw, real, and it touches my soul. I’ve laughed, cried, and found strength in their lyrics. They’re more than musicians; they’re storytellers, and they’ve created a soundtrack to my life. There’s never a moment when I don’t want to hear their music. I am, and always will be, their biggest fan.”