Opening Statements - 15x15

This puzzle was recently rejected by the New York Times team, for now obvious reasons. Wait, don’t leave! The average solver may not even pick up on one of the main issues (hint: it has to do with theme inconsistency). I countered with a more consistent theme set, but alas, it wasn’t to be. I first made this puzzle about six months ago, and I like to think that if I made it today I would be more careful in picking theme answers. While I could remake it with the new theme set I discovered and try to have it published elsewhere, honestly I still like it too much as is to rework a new version. One reason? 21-Across and 50-Down double as names of some of my favorite bands. All in all this grid is a perfect fit for this misty island of misfits!

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Squeaky Clean - 15x15

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Moonshot - 23x21