Backstory:
Born in the heart of Alabama, Ornery Complex was formed in 2005 by three rebel high school friends, Ray Blackwood, Jesse “Dusty” Mason, and Johnny “Fingers” McAllister. The boys spent their formative years sneaking into local blues and rock ‘n’ roll joints, absorbing the music and culture that seemed to permeate every corner of their hometown. Ornery Complex was born from jam sessions in Ray’s garage, fueled by the raw energy of their youthful rebellion and deep love for music. Over the years, the band gained recognition for their heart-piercing lyrics and soul-wrenching harmonies, eventually signing with a major label in 2010.

Genre:
Southern Rock and Blues

Title:
“Sweet Tea and Summer Dreams”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
E A E B
Sweet tea in my hand, sun high above,
E A E B
Dreaming of a girl I used to love.
A E B E
Walking barefoot on the hot, dusty road,
A E B E
Life was simple, or so we were told.

[Chorus]
A E B E
Sweet tea and summer dreams,
A E B E
Underneath the Alabama sun beams.
A E B E
Lost in love, lost in time,
A E B E
Her memory lingers like a sweet old rhyme.

[Verse 2]
E A E B
Her laughter rang out like a sweet melody,
E A E B
Echoes of it still haunt me.
A E B E
In the heart of the South, we found our youth,
A E B E
In the heat of passion, we found our truth.

[Chorus]
A E B E
Sweet tea and summer dreams,
A E B E
Underneath the Alabama sun beams.
A E B E
Lost in love, lost in time,
A E B E
Her memory lingers like a sweet old rhyme.

Fan’s Name: Billy Jo Armstrong

Billy Jo’s Testimonial:
Ornery Complex is more than just a band to me; they’re like a soundtrack to my life. Their Southern Rock and Blues style takes me back to simpler times, reminding me of my roots. “Sweet Tea and Summer Dreams” especially resonates with me, it paints a vivid picture of my own youthful Alabama summers. The blend of heartfelt lyrics and soulful melodies encapsulates everything I love about the South. I’ve been their number one fan since their garage days, and I’ll proudly wear that title until the end.

Backstory:
“Bony Land” began their journey in the eclectic city of Austin, Texas, formed by an unlikely pairing of an ex-banker named John, with a passion for music, and a vintage record shop owner named Tom. John, the lead vocalist and bassist, had always sought a creative outlet away from the monotony of his banking job. Tom, the guitarist and vocalist, had spent countless hours exploring various music genres in his shop, fueling his desire to create something unique on the music scene. One day, while John was browsing through Tom’s record shop, the two started discussing their mutual love for music, leading them to form “Bony Land.”

The duo created a unique sound that seemed to bridge the gap between traditional genres. They started performing at local music bars, where their popularity skyrocketed. Listeners were captivated by their experimental approach to music and the authenticity in their lyrics. This humble Texan band quickly became a staple in the Austin music scene, and their journey had just begun.

Genre:
Bony Land’s music is a fusion of Psychedelic Rock and Indie Folk.

Title:
“Haunted Plains”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1:
Am
Watch the sunset on these haunted plains,
E
Where our dreams and memories remain.
F
Casting shadows in our hearts,
C
A melody of love departs.

Chorus:
G
Haunted plains, don’t you cry,
Am
We’re just wanderers under the sky.
F
With our music, we’ll heal the pain,
C
On these, our haunted plains.

Verse 2:
Am
In the quiet of the night, we strum,
E
To the rhythm of a distant drum.
F
In the echoes of the past,
C
We find our freedom at last.

Chorus:
G
Haunted plains, starts to smile,
Am
With our song, we reconcile.
F
Music flows like soothing rain,
C
On these, our haunted plains.

Fan Favorite:
The band’s favorite fan is a 28-year old music teacher named Stephanie. Hailing from their hometown, she has been a fervent supporter since their first performance. According to her, Bony Land is her favorite band because their music is not just melodious, but also evocative and tells a story. She stated, “Their music is a breath of fresh air in today’s mainstream music scene. It’s the perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation. Every song feels like a journey, a story that you’re part of. And I think that’s why I love ‘Bony Land’. They’re real and so is their music. And ‘Haunted Plains’ is a masterpiece that moves me every time I listen to it.”

Backstory:
Milky Setting was born in the heart of a small town in Maine, where four childhood friends discovered their shared passion for music. Ethan, the lead singer and guitarist, was raised in a family of folk musicians and had an innate talent for crafting poetic lyrics. Benny, the drummer, discovered his rhythm on the pots and pans in his mother’s kitchen. Motivated by their shared love for music and a desire to escape the monotony of their small town, they formed Milky Setting. After years of performing at local gigs and writing their own music, their breakthrough came when they were discovered by a well-known producer who was vacationing in Maine.

Genre:
Indie Folk Rock

Title:
“Under the Drizzle”

Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em C
Raindrops on the windowpane,
D G
Soft whispers of a sweet refrain,
Em C
Daylight fades into the night,
D G
Under the drizzle, we ignite.

(Chorus)
C G
Under the drizzle, by the light,
D Em
Our hearts aflame, burning bright,
C G
In the silence, our song takes flight,
D Em
Under the drizzle, you’re my sight.

(Verse 2)
Em C
A melody in your laughter’s ring,
D G
The rhythm of love that you bring,
Em C
In the twilight, our souls align,
D G
Under the drizzle, your hand in mine.

(Chorus)
C G
Under the drizzle, by the light,
D Em
Our love’s a beacon in the night,
C G
In the echoes, our dreams take flight,
D Em
Under the drizzle, you’re my delight.

Favorite Fan:
Their favorite fan is Eliza, a 25-year-old freelance writer from Brooklyn. Eliza discovered Milky Setting during one of her late-night YouTube sessions, and their music immediately resonated with her. She says, “Milky Setting’s music is a comforting blend of nostalgia and hope. Their lyrics touch the very core of my being and make me feel seen and understood. I turn to their music when I need to be uplifted and when I need a companion for my solitude. They are not just my favorite band; they are my safe haven.”

Backstory:

Equatorial Trading was formed in 2007, in the college town of Athens, Georgia, when a group of friends known for their diverse musical tastes decided to join forces. Fueled by their collective love for world music, they spent their nights jamming in their garage, perfecting their unique sound. Over time, they became a local sensation and soon embarked on nationwide tours, capturing the hearts of audiences with their eclectic, energetic performances.

The band is comprised of the charismatic lead vocalist and guitarist, Andy, the percussionist and backing vocalist, Mark, the bass guitarist, Lucas, and the keyboardist, Sam. The name ‘Equatorial Trading’ was inspired by their passion for diverse musical influences from around the equator region, infusing their music with a variety of rhythms and sounds that they felt traded and merged into something entirely new and unique.

Genre:

World Music/Indie Rock

Title:

“Tropical Rainfall”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C G Em D
Underneath the palm trees swaying,
C G Em D
In the heart of this lush paradise,
C G Em D
Listening to the Earth’s sweet serenade,
C G Em D
As the tropical rainfall pounds in cadence.

(Chorus)
C G Em D
Oh, the rhythm of the Tropical Rainfall,
C G Em D
Echoes the heartbeat of this land.
C G Em D
In the rhythm of the Tropical Rainfall,
C G Em D
We feel the pulse of life in our hands.

(Verse 2)
C G Em D
Trading stories under starlit skies,
C G Em D
As the warm wind whispers sweet nothings.
C G Em D
In the echoes of the jungle’s lullaby,
C G Em D
We dance to the beat of the island’s heart.

(Chorus)
C G Em D
Oh, the rhythm of the Tropical Rainfall,
C G Em D
Sings the soulful song of this land.
C G Em D
In the rhythm of the Tropical Rainfall,
C G Em D
We find the melody of life in our hands.

Fan Name:

Lindsay

Testimonial:

“My name is Lindsay, and I’m a die-hard fan of Equatorial Trading. I discovered them while studying abroad in Athens, and their music immediately struck a chord with me. Their unique blend of world music and indie rock is refreshing and exciting. The lyrics transport me to a different world, a tropical paradise that feels so alive and vibrant. Their song ‘Tropical Rainfall’ is my absolute favorite; it’s like a rhythmic journey that connects me to the Earth. Their music is both soothing and invigorating. Equatorial Trading is my favorite band because they not only entertain but also enrich my soul with their music.”

Backstory:
Decimal Procedure was born out of a college mathematics club at the University of Texas, Austin. The founding members, Jimmy “Pi” Pearson (lead vocals), Trig “Tangent” Thomas (guitar), and Larry “Logarithm” Lynch (drums), found common ground in their love for complex equations and heart-thumping rock music. As their bond grew, so did their passion for creating a unique sound that would blend their two worlds together. They started playing at college parties, and their quirky mathematical references quickly caught on, earning them a dedicated fan base. After graduation, they decided to pursue their passion for music full time, thus Decimal Procedure was officially formed.

Genre:
Math Rock/Alternative Rock

Title:
“Square Root of Heartache”

Full Song Lyrics:

[Verse 1]
Em C
Underneath the moonlight,
G D
Your love’s a quadratic equation.
Em C
Complex and undefined,
G D
My heart’s lost in calculation.

[Chorus]
G D
You’re the square root of my heartache,
Em C
Can’t solve you, it’s my mistake.
G D
Tangled in your love’s theorem,
Em C
Lost in the algorithm of this dream.

[Verse 2]
Em C
You’re the sequence to my series,
G D
The cosine to my sine wave.
Em C
In the matrix of your love,
G D
I’m just a variable to be saved.

[Chorus]
G D
You’re the square root of my heartache,
Em C
Can’t solve you, it’s my mistake.
G D
Tangled in your love’s theorem,
Em C
Lost in the algorithm of this dream.

[Bridge]
Am Em
In your derivative I’m falling,
Bm C
In your integral, I’m calling.
Am Em
For your love, I’d cross the axis,
Bm C
But your heart’s more elusive than the Galois’ practice.

[Chorus]
G D
You’re the square root of my heartache,
Em C
Can’t solve you, it’s my mistake.
G D
Tangled in your love’s theorem,
Em C
Lost in the algorithm of this dream.

Fan’s name and testimonial:

Fan – Isaac Newton

Testimonial: “As a Physics student and a lover of rock music, Decimal Procedure is the perfect band for me. Their music is phenomenal, but it’s their lyrics that have me hooked. I’ve never seen a band that so seamlessly blends complex mathematical concepts with raw emotion. It’s like they’re speaking directly to my math-loving heart. Plus, they put on an incredible live show. Decimal Procedure isn’t just my favorite band, they’re a way of life for me.”

Backstory:
Skinny Fee is a dynamic band from the heart of Boston, Massachusetts. Formed in 2012, the band consists of four old college buddies – Mike “Spike” Henderson on lead vocals, Jack “Flash” Thompson on drums, Tim “Rusty” McDonald on guitar, and Neil “Buzz” Kennedy on bass. Their name, ‘Skinny Fee,’ is a playful nod to their days as struggling students, living on ramen while dreaming of making it big in the world of music. The four friends would often joke about their ‘skinny fee’ in reference to their limited budget.

Skinny Fee spent years playing in local bars and small college festivals before being discovered by a talent scout during a gig at a local pub. Their breakthrough came in 2015 when their debut album ‘Broken Pennies’ hit the charts, solidifying their place in the music industry. Skinny Fee is known for their genuine friendship, energetic performances and lyrics that resonate with everyday life.

Genre:
Skinny Fee is primarily an Indie Rock band. Their music is characterized by raw, melodic tunes infused with a hint of grunge and a dash of punk.

Title:
One of their most acclaimed songs is titled ‘Shoestring Dreams.’

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
Am, F, C, G
In this old town, where the sun goes down,
On the wrong side of the tracks.
We’ve got dreams bigger than the holes in our shoes,
And love stronger than any attack.

(Chorus)
Dm, F, C, G
Shoestring dreams, and dollar bill wings,
In the back of a rundown car.
We’re shooting for the moon, with a beat-up tune,
And hoping we’ll go far.

(Verse)
Am, F, C, G
With every chord, every word we’ve scored,
We’ve got something to say.
It’s a skinny fee, but it’s all we see,
We wouldn’t have it any other way.

(Chorus)
Dm, F, C, G
Shoestring dreams, and dollar bill wings,
Hoping destiny’s not too far.
We’re singing for the stars, from rundown bars,
With every broken string on this guitar.

The band’s favorite fan:

Skinny Fee’s favorite fan is Jessica “Jess” Allen. Jess is a librarian by day, but a die-hard Skinny Fee fan by night. She’s been following the band since their earliest gigs and is known for being front and center at all their shows. In her words, “Skinny Fee isn’t just a band to me. Their music is a part of my life. The rawness, the energy, the authenticity – it all speaks to me on a different level. From their lively performances to their down-to-earth personalities, everything about Skinny Fee is just so real. ‘Shoestring Dreams’ is my anthem. It reminds me that dreams are worth pursuing, no matter the hurdles. I can’t imagine my playlist without Skinny Fee.”

Backstory:
Wry Comment is a four-piece band born in the heart of the bustling music scene of Seattle. The members, childhood friends Tony Gibson (lead vocals, guitar), Jeremy Wells (bass), Ben Anderson (drums), and Leo Mitchell (keyboard, backing vocals) found their love for music during their high school days. They bonded over their shared passion and started playing together in their parents’ garages before moving onto local pubs and small stages. Their unique take on music and their fresh perspective, coupled with their undeniable talent, quickly saw them rise in popularity and they were soon playing at larger venues and signing record deals. The band’s name, Wry Comment, stems from their approach towards life and music; they always incorporate a sense of humor to their thought-provoking lyricism, making their music both fun and insightful.

Genre:
Their music genre is a blend of Alternative Rock and Indie Pop, bringing together the best of both worlds. Wry Comment is known for their catchy tunes, engaging lyrics, and a playful yet deep interpretation of life, love, and everything in between.

Title:
“Chasing Shadows”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
C-G-Am-F
Casting out my line in a sea of faces,
C-G-Am-F
Can’t tell if we’re running or just stuck in places.
C-G-Am-F
Shadows on the wall, tell a different story,
C-G-Am-F
But who can really tell in this territory?

(Chorus)
G-Am-F-C
We’re just chasing shadows, in the dark,
G-Am-F-C
Trying to catch a spark, to light our way.
G-Am-F-C
In this maze of mirrors, where do we start?
G-Am-F-C
We’re just chasing shadows, anyway.

(Verse 2)
C-G-Am-F
Painting pictures with echoes of laughter,
C-G-Am-F
Seeking the happily ever after.
C-G-Am-F
Dreams are like smoke, they change with the wind,
C-G-Am-F
But we’ll keep chasing shadows, till we find what’s within.

(Chorus)
G-Am-F-C
We’re just chasing shadows, in the dark,
G-Am-F-C
Trying to find a mark, in this play.
G-Am-F-C
In this hall of echoes, where do we part?
G-Am-F-C
We’re just chasing shadows, always.

The band’s favorite fan:
The band’s favorite fan is a woman named Emily Thompson. Emily discovered Wry Comment during a difficult time in her life and claims their music pulled her through. She relates deeply to their lyrics and has been to every single one of their concerts since she first heard them. “Their music is like therapy. It’s honest, relatable, and above all, it makes you think. It’s not just a band for me, it’s a lifeline. Wry Comment has a magical way of making you feel understood and heard, even in a crowd of thousands,” says Emily.

Backstory:

Deep Prison was formed in the mid-2000s in the underbelly of Chicago’s vibrant music scene. The band’s name originates from the experiences and struggles of its members, who have all served prison time for non-violent offenses. Their goal was not just to make music, but to share their stories of redemption and second chances. The band comprises lead vocalist and guitarist Jake ‘The Rake’ Harrison, bassist Carl ‘The Wall’ Williams, and drummer Stan ‘The Man’ Jefferson.

They started off performing at local bars and clubs. Word quickly spread about their electrifying performances and raw, emotionally resonant lyrics. Over time, they gained a dedicated fan base that resonated with their unique narratives of struggle and redemption. Their music offers a beacon of hope to those who have had similar experiences, proving that it’s possible to turn one’s life around.

Genre:

Blues Rock

Title:

“Cage of Silence”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Am G
In this cage of silence, I’m alone,
D Am
Trapped within the echoes of my own stone.
Am G
The sun is nothing more than a faint glow,
D Am
My dreams are buried six feet below.

(Chorus)
C G
I’m fighting in this deep prison,
D Am
Against the chains of my own decision.
C G
In the dark, I’m seeking the horizon,
D Am
Learning to dance with the shadows in unison.

(Verse 2)
Am G
My past mistakes, a heavy chain,
D Am
Each link a memory sealed with pain.
Am G
But in the music, I find my release,
D Am
A song of freedom, a moment of peace.

(Chorus)
C G
I’m soaring from this deep prison,
D Am
A bird set free, a new vision.
C G
In the night, I chase the crimson,
D Am
Finding the dawn within the prison.

Favorite Fan Testimonial:

“My name’s Billy Thompson. I’ve been a fan of Deep Prison since their early days. Their music speaks to my soul on so many levels. I spent five years behind bars and their music was my solace during some of the toughest times in my life. They’re not just a band to me, they’re a symbol of resilience and hope. Their song ‘Cage of Silence’ became my anthem, reminding me that even in the deepest prisons, we can find our way to freedom. Their raw authenticity and relentless spirit make them my all-time favorite band.”

Backstory:

Queasy Funeral first took form in the dimly lit basement of a Boston thrift store in 2012. Founded by school friends, Timothy Krauss (vocals, guitar), Rebecca O’Shea (bass), and Liam McAllister (drums), the trio initially started as a garage punk band, practicing after hours in the thrift store owned by Rebecca’s aunt. From their humble beginnings, they developed an uncanny ability to blend dark humor with macabre themes, turning morbidity into catchy melodies and ironic, thought-provoking lyrics.

Their sound evolved over time, drawing influences from punk, grunge, and a sprinkle of dark folk. Queasy Funeral soon gained local popularity with their unique performances, vibrant energy, and unconventional themes which resonated with an audience seeking something different and thought-provoking in music.

Genre:
Punk/Grunge with elements of Dark Folk

Title:
“Kaleidoscope Casket”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse)
Am – C – G – E

A kaleidoscope casket, we’re all gonna taste it,
Am – C – G – E
A dance in the dark, don’t you try to fake it.
Am – C – G – E
Life is a gasp, a moment’s stake,
Am – C – G – E
In the end we’re all just a cosmic mistake.

(Chorus)
F – C – G – Am

Bury me deep, beneath the willow,
F – C – G – Am
Sing a lullaby, hum on the pillow.
F – C – G – Am
We’re all actors, on a stage,
F – C – G – Am
Curtains fall, in death we engage.

(Verse)
Am – C – G – E

A kaleidoscope casket, shades of despair,
Am – C – G – E
Silent echoes, no one to care.
Am – C – G – E
When the light dims, when the music fades,
Am – C – G – E
We’re all just jesters in death’s charade.

(Chorus)
F – C – G – Am

Bury me deep, beneath the willow,
F – C – G – Am
Dance on my grave, let the winds billow.
F – C – G – Am
We’re all actors, on a stage,
F – C – G – Am
Curtains fall, in death we engage.

Favorite Fan’s Name:
Miles Henderson

Testimonial:

Miles Henderson, a self-proclaimed superfan, says, “Queasy Funeral has a way of coupling the macabre with the beautiful, and it’s just captivating. I’ve been to every show they’ve hosted in Boston. They take the unspoken fear of mortality and make it something you can dance and sing to. It’s therapy disguised as punk, and I love them for that. They are a band that challenges norms. They’re my favorite because they’re not afraid to confront the reality of life and make art out of it.”

Backstory:
Velvety Tissue was formed in the heart of London in 1999, when four friends, with a shared love for music and an eclectic mix of influences, decided to turn their passion into a reality. The band members, Jamie on vocals, Ethan on guitar, Ryan on drums, and Lisa on bass, had previously played in various garage bands throughout their teenage years, but decided to come together to create music that truly speaks to their souls. Their music reflects their diverse backgrounds and personal experiences, resulting in a unique, fresh, and honest sound. Over the years, Velvety Tissue has been steadily building a loyal fanbase and has become a well-known name within the underground music scene.

Genre:
Alternative Rock

Title:
“Scraps of My Heart”

Full Song Lyrics:

VERSE 1:
Am F C G
Pick up the pieces of my shattered dreams,
Am F C G
Rip apart the seams of my broken heart.
Am F C G
Lost in the echoes of love’s sweet song,
Am F C G
In the silence, we’ve drifted apart.

CHORUS:
Am F C G
Scraps of my heart, torn and tossed,
Am F C G
In the storm of love, we’re lost.
Am F C G
Pick up the pieces, mend the tear,
Am F C G
In the rhythm of love, we’re here.

VERSE 2:
Am F C G
Shadow of love in the moonlit night,
Am F C G
In the darkness, you’re my guiding light.
Am F C G
Whispered secrets in a velvet kiss,
Am F C G
In the melody of love, we exist.

(CHORUS)

Favorite Fan Testimonial:
“My name is Emily and I’ve been following Velvety Tissue since their inception. Their music resonates with me on so many levels. Every song feels like a personal message, a raw and vulnerable confession. ‘Scraps of My Heart’ is my favorite; it’s a perfect blend of melancholy and hope. I’ve seen them perform live multiple times and the energy they bring on stage is electrifying. There’s a sense of unity and connection that you feel in their concerts. For me, Velvety Tissue isn’t just a band, they’re a beacon of inspiration and a testament to the power of music.”