There’s something immediate about “Factory Flowers” as LAKESIDE X shapes its identity.
Factory Flowers is LAKESIDE X’s Single Out Now
Factory Flowers unveils a dark and industrial sound. The track pulsates with a driving rhythm that grips listeners.
The vocals carry an eerie, almost hypnotic quality. They blend with the pulsating synths and sharp percussion. The song’s structure defies pop conventions, making it feel like an experimental journey. The atmospheric soundscape embodies mystery and intensity without losing focus. The band channels the spirit of ’80s pioneers while sounding fresh and innovative. Their approach feels deliberate, balancing nostalgia with forward-thinking production.
The industrial undertones add a mechanical heartbeat to the track’s core. Drums hit with precision, echoing the relentless energy of a night in a Berlin club. LAKESIDE X manages to capture that same urgency and pulse through their performance. This song would easily energize a dance floor while immersing listeners in a cinematic audio experience. The layering of synths creates depth, giving the impression of walking through a futuristic metropolis.
Factory Flowers blends atmospheric melodies and distorted elements, creating a vivid emotional terrain. The sound occasionally recalls Depeche Mode’s moody synthpop but injected with higher voltage. Its intensity shares DNA with The Prodigy’s raw electronic aggression and Muse’s dramatic flair. The mix delivers intrigue and accessibility in equal measure. It invites repeated listens to unravel its complex sonic textures.
Every production choice maintains a clear vision rooted in noir aesthetics and electronic experimentation. The synth work includes cutting-edge sound design paired with vintage tones. This duality enhances the track’s timeless yet contemporary feel. It blends organic and synthetic sounds to maintain a human pulse within a digital world. LAKESIDE X proves themselves skilled architects of darkwave futurism here.
Factory Flowers is a statement: a bold exploration of sound and atmosphere. It successfully melds gloom, energy, and texture into one cohesive experience. This single stands out for its ability to transport listeners to a stunningly vivid setting. LAKESIDE X offers a new beacon in the darkwave and industrial music landscape.
Lakeside X are an alternative independent pop/rock band from Prague, Czech Republic, blending classic synth-pop influences with modern electronic music and alternative guitar sounds. Their music combines melancholy and energy, layered synthesizers with guitars, and is defined by the fragile, distinctive voice of frontman and songwriter Janne Marvannen.
With a career spanning over two decades and four studio albums, the band has performed at major festivals including Wave-Gotik-Treffen, NCN Leipzig, EXIT Festival (Serbia) and Rock for People (Czech Republic), and have shared stages with Depeche Mode, Front 242, Mesh, Suicide Commando or And One.
Current line-up: Janne Marvannen (vocals/songwriter), Robert Broj (keyboards), Igor Dvorský (drums), Jakub Zachoval (guitar).
Tonight was the annual big birthday bash of the founder of Wanstock, Geoff Wainsborough. Wanstock started in 2018 and this was my third consecutive year. Wanstock was held over 2 big nights – Friday 20th and Saturday 21st of March, with a bill loaded with ten star acts, local and imported.
Night 1 – Friday Night
Straight Shooters
Friday night was opened by the Strait Shooters, a classic pub rock band who covers all the classic hits from ZZ top, Free and The Angels, just to name a few. They are fronted by Andy Baker on vocals, Peppi Maio on guitar, Max Coleman on bass, Greg Pedley on drums and Bruce Mountjoy on guitar. It’s a hard gig to open the show at 5pm to a venue that is just starting to fill, but Strait Shooters came on full of energy and even had a handful of dancers/punters come straight to the front of stage.
Stonetrip is a classic hard rock 5-piece band. Lead by Mark Ritchie on vocals, Simon Croft on guitar, Kevwah on bass (only for tonight, stepping in for Sebastian Barahona), Brett Spicer on drums and Mick Malusa on guitar. They play all original music, that is passionate and heartfelt, keeping classic rock alive and kicking.
Stonetrip
Stonetrip’s music has strong pounding drum beats and guitar laden tunes. Ritchie’s clear and commanding vocals complement the beats. Stonetrip has found the perfect balance between voice and music, neither one over powering the other. They remind me of the 80’s classic big hair rock , without the glamour makeup. They obviously have built a good following of fans as I saw many punters enter with Stonetrip t-shirts on.
Stonetrip
Stonetrip has just released an EP “The Fight” available on digital download and have great merchandise available on their facebook page. If you like 80’s hard rock, this is the band for you. I hope to see and hear more of their music soon.
I have never seen Bachelor Girl live, but like most people I can sing the chorus to the musical ear worm “Buses and Trains”. So, I was keen to see them perform live. Bachelor Girl was formed by pop duo Tanya Doko (vocalist) and James Roche (keyboard and backup vocals) in 1992. Tonight they are also joined by Peter Hayden on drums and Shannon Trottman playing guitar.
Bachelor Girl
Tanya is a pocket rocket on stage; whose small stature hides an incredibly big voice. Bachelor Girl delivered tonight with their music and vocals sounding just like their recorded albums. “Permission to shine” and “Help” (by the beatles, but sung in the John Farnham style) were stand outs. Tanya is a gorgeous woman with the biggest smile and she, James and the band have an infectious sound of happiness.
Bachelor Girl
“Waiting for the day” their debut album was released in 1998 and this year something very special is about to happen. On Friday the 27/3/26 they are releasing a re-imagined single off the album “Treat me good” with a very special guest Jess Mauboy. A little birdy told me that this project is much bigger than one song and maybe a tour to back it up. So, keep a watch out to see if the rumors are true. It could be a huge year ahead for Bachelor Girl.
Sadly, Dragon has no original members on stage and at times it sounds like Mark Williams and band sing Dragon, but boy do they do it well. Though Marc, Todd Hunter and the original members can never be replaced, this is an awesome version of Dragon and a brilliant way to keep the music alive and live.
Dragon
This version of Dragon is fronted by Mark Williams on vocals, Bruce Reid on guitar, Tim Firth on drums, James Gillard on bass and James Flemming on keyboard. All the hits were played; Magic, Evil, I’m still in love and Amen. The crowd took over many of the choruses and packed out the area in front of the band.
Dragon
The last song of the set “Are you old enough” was dedicated to friends that have passed including Marc Hunter and Rene Gayer. They even gave a nod to Mark’s solo career with a great version of “Show no Mercy.” Dragon played a 60-minute set of 13 hit songs. Dragon really got the party started and I must say it was the biggest Wanstock crowd I have seen. The dance floor was packed.
1927 was the final act for tonight. Headed by Eric Wiedeman the only original member of the band. He has surrounded himself with very talented musicians.
1927
1927 opened with “To love me” and the followed with the iconic hits off the Ish album including “You’ll never know” and “If I could”. Erics voice was in fine form and all the songs had the original 1927 sound. This was a great performance with the 8th song of the evening having a INXS moment (one of my kind) thrown in the middle. 1927 played a 13 song set and night one finished with some pyro techniques and a big bang.
I first saw Day Dreamers 3 years ago. They were young boys, possibly not old enough to order a drink. Now 3 years later, the boys have turned into professional musicians. Their playing, voices and stage presence have evolved and shows great growth. They still play fast, chaotic, punky, surf music but it is now more polished.
Day Dreamers
They played mostly original music but threw in a Midnight Oil and Ramones cover. Lead by Zak Rakitic on vocals and guitar, Jordan Rakitic in bass, Nick Dordevic on drums and Daniel Lee on guitar. I would say my only complaint was that they didn’t play “We are going on a Macca’s run”, but the rest of the set made up for it. The band thanked Geoff for his support and let slip that he had paid for the transport on their last tour. Thanks Geoff for believing in home grown talent and supporting them.
Standing Room Only have been at the last 3 Wanstock I have been to. They are a 3-peice band headed by Aaron O’Brien on drums and vocals, Bill ‘Fozzy” Folino on guitar and vocals and Jim Currell on bass and vocals. They play mainly original with a sprinkle of covers for extra fun. The unique 3-peice are high energy and come with a rent a crowd called “The Roomies”.
Standing Room Only
It is always great to see these 3 perform their classic rock mix. You can check out their current album “Lost Highway” on all good streaming services. As always Standing Room only do not disappoint. Very entertaining.
I am sure I saw The Machinations in the 80’s with many other bands at a large gig at the Myer Music Bowl, but I have definitely not seen them in a long, long time. The Machinations are a synth-pop band with a touch of punk. They originated in Sydney in 1980. The band today consists of Fred Loneragan on lead vocals, Larry Doyle on keyboard, Kristy Turdgett on backup vocals, Tim Doyle on guitar, Craig Hooper on bass (ex-Reels) and Katherine Bray on drums (1st official performance with them).
Machinations
Though Fred, like all of us has aged he still moves around the stage like it’s the 80’s. They played a 10 song set containing the hits “Intimacy”, “Precious way ” and “Got no say in it” and I was transported back to the 80’s like none of us had aged.
Gone is the big hair, replaced by leather and cow boy hats. Put on dark glasses and surround yourself with beautiful talent women and you never age. Brian Cadham and band have the ‘Rock Star’ look oozing out of them, but it’s one thing to look good on stage, how does Pseudo Echo sound? They sound as good, if not better than when my 16-year-old self snuck into the pub to see them in the 80’s (Sorry mum).
Pseudo Echo
The current lineup for Pseudo Echo is Brain Cadham on vocals and guitar, Valentina Krakovska on backup vocals, Andrea Krakovska on guitar, Michael Kasif on keytar and backup vocals, Danny Ammar on keyboard and backup vocals and Elliott Orban on the drums. This year marks their 40th anniversary (I cannot be that old) and their sound is tight and polished. Pseudo Echo had the best sound of the night.
Pseudo Echo
The crowd loved every moment of their performance. They played the hits “Living in a Dream”, “Love an adventure”, “Listening” and of course closed with “Funky town”. They did a fantastic cover of “Nutbush city limits” with the start sung by the incredible voice of Valentina. You can see Brian is the driving force behind and in front of the band and Pseudo Echo exceeded my expectations. If they are playing near you, I highly recommend you go and see them. You will not be disappointed. And lastly, how good is it to see a keytar on stage again.
The Romantics are an American rock band formed in 1977 in Detroit. They are known for their power pop and new wave music. They appeared on stage at 9.30pm and looked exactly like how you imagine an ageing American rock band to look. Fluffy hair, coloured glassed, stylish with a touch of glitz. I don’t remember The Romantics from their hay day, so I can’t compare them to their past live sound. I can only tell you what I saw tonight.
The Romantics
Musically they are very guitar driven with a strong, relentless drum beats. The drummer sits raised up behind the other band members, who all stand up front sharing the limelight. Most choruses are sung by all 4 up front. Many of the rhythms and beats sounded familar and I found myself singing along to “What I like about you” and “Talking in your sleep”.
The Romantics
The Romantics are made up of Wally Palmer on lead vocals, rhythm guitar and harmonica, Coz Canter on lead guitar, Bruce Witkin on bass, Joey Malone on rhythm guitar and Mike Rizzi on drums. The Romantics made a special trip for 2 performances only. One in Sydney at Selina’s and here is Melbourne, then straight back to the USA. They played a 14 song set and the crowd ate it up.
As always there was a special guest performance by Tony Catz and his electric ukulele, who played 3 songs both nights and led a crowd performance of “Sweet Caroline”.
Filling in the gaps between bands and also doing a great job of MC was the King of cruise ships, world touring, winner of the 2024 comedian of the year Doug Chappel Jrn. Fresh from his sold out shows at the Edinburgh Festival in Scotland. Doug was joined by the very funny Nick Trapani and newbies Kaileb Hyland (Friday only) and Matt Coombe (Saturday only). If you love comedy you can regularly see them perform at the Comics Lounge (North Melbourne) Or if you are overseas Doug is doing a tour of Canada and the USA in September.
Most gigs are a stroll in the park compared to Wanstock. Wanstock is a marathon over 2 big nights and 10 bands. It is the biggest annual birthday party (open to everyone) I have ever been too. Happy Birthday Geoff. Thanks for supporting live music and for having Ozgreeny Photography and myself as your guests, and to everyone else; the bands, lighting, sound, crew and staff thank you for the access and for making us so welcome.
Now I just need to recover for next year.
Photos by OzGreeny Photography
With special thanks to On The Map for the media access.
“Reckless” is the third album from British singer Chez Kane, who collaborated with Danny Rexon for the next time. The frontman of the Swedish rock band Crazy Lixx wrote and produced the album, which is completely inspired by the ’80s, starting with the artwork, which is full of clichés. With Kane on the front cover,… Continue Reading →
Edgar Allan Poe Grave: Why It Was Moved and Why Some Call It a Mistake
The tale of Edgar Allan Poe’s final resting place carries mystery and controversy. When people moved his grave, some questioned whether that decision altered the essence of his legacy.
The grave of Edgar Allan Poe in Baltimore has a strange history, including a controversial relocation that still sparks debate today.
In 1849, Baltimore laid Edgar Allan Poe to rest, and the shadows of his life obscured his burial. His grave stood unmarked and simple, offering a humble farewell to his turbulent existence. It was a stark contrast to the brilliance of his literary contributions. The absence of a monument mirrored the neglect of his genius.
By 1875, the public sentiment had shifted, ignited by a newfound appreciation for Poe’s work. A fundraising drive, affectionately dubbed ‘Pennies for Poe,’ emerged. Contributors offered their spare coins, hoping to provide a proper tribute. They desired a monument that matched the grandeur of his legacy, a beacon for literary pilgrims.
A Story Buried in Time
What if you woke up buried alive?
The campaign succeeded, and organizers exhumed Edgar Allan Poe’s remains for a grander reburial. In their quest for reverence, they made significant choices. The new monument stood tall, yet its size felt discordant with the spirit of his first resting place. The juxtaposition raised questions: was this truly an honor or a mistake?
Moving Poe’s body meant relocating history itself. From a humble corner of Westminster Hall to a prominent position in the cemetery, the shift was dramatic. Yet, the new spot lacked the intimate solitude of his original grave. Was it a gift or a gaffe to disrupt his eternal slumber?
The Truth Behind This Dark Practice
The decision brought mixed emotions. Some fans rejoiced, celebrating the newfound visibility of their literary idol. Others felt an unsettling disquiet, believing that the move stripped Poe of his essence. His grave no longer reflected the subtlety of his soul but rather the demands of public adoration.
As time passed, the new monument became a pilgrimage site. Each visitor brought fresh flowers and tokens of admiration. Poe’s legacy blossomed in the public eye, yet a shadow lingered. Did the elaborate surroundings dilute the raw power of his work?
The Hidden Meaning Behind The Grave of Edgar Allan Poe Was Moved… And Some Believe It Was a Mistake
Poe’s original grave, though forgotten, whispered secrets of his life and struggles. It represented the realness of his humanity, starkly contrasting with the larger-than-life persona crafted by society. In literature, as in life, authenticity often dwells in the shadows.
Now, as discussions surround literary memorials, Poe’s story serves as a cautionary tale. The balance between honor and authenticity remains delicate. As admirers continue to pay their respects, the question haunts: Was moving Poe’s grave a tribute fit for a king or a mistake that altered his eternal narrative?
Today, visitors can still see Edgar Allan Poe’s grave in Baltimore, making it one of the most famous literary burial sites in the United States.
The guitar virtuoso Matteo Mancuso reveals the official video Solar Wind, featuring the legendary Steve Vai. The song is taken from his new album Route 96, which will be released on 24 April via Music Theories Recordings.
Requiring no introduction, Steve Vai stands among the most awe-inspiring guitarists in the world. For more than five decades, he has continually redefined the limits of the instrument. He has also openly praised the young Sicilian guitarist Mancuso, widely regarded as one of the most exciting emerging talents today, as he pushes the guitar to new frontiers of his own. So having the two appear on the same song is a mesmerising spectacle.
Solar Wind is the opening track on the as yet released new album from Mancuso and sees the multiple Grammy winner and instrumental guitar mastermind Vai trade licks with Mancuso. Having him appear on the record was a huge honour, says Mancuso, and his contributions ended up making the opening track the most important song on the album. “Solar Wind is a really special song to me. I believe Steve brought a whole new dimension to the music. I was listening to a lot of his solo records like Passion And Warfare while composing this music. He sent back his parts in just a couple of weeks and what he played was spectacular. It’s not shreddy, I wanted something melodic rather than over the top, but still very Vai-like.”
There are many reasons for the young musician to feel proud of album number two – named after his year of birth, as well as the 96kHz audio sample rate Steve Vai recommended him to record at. Solar Wind is the second song to be released from the album following Isla Feliz featuring the Gypsy Jazz whirlwind Antoine Boyer.
Mancuso burst on the scene in 2023 with his debut album The Journey after his prodigious ability caught the attention of the likes of Tosin Abasi, Al Di Meola, Dweezil Zappa and Steve Vai. The release of his debut with its perfect storm of dazzling fingerstyle technique and beautifully crafted compositions saw him adorn the front covers of multiple Guitar magazines, being hailed as the “world’s hottest virtuoso,” “the young guitarist redefining virtuosity,” and saw his international touring take flight with sold-out shows across Europe and the US.
Perhaps the biggest difference between the debut and Route 96 is the musical confidence on display. The concepts are more orchestrated and developed, with Mancuso showing no shortage of creative wind in the sails. As he goes on to explain, the first album was mainly arranged in a rehearsal room, working out the structure and flow of Mancuso’s music in real-time. This time, the process was much more streamlined.
One of the big differences between Mancuso and the large majority of his peers is his musical open-mindedness. He’s the kind of player who can not only exist but thrive in a variety of different styles.
Route 66 features Matteo alongside Riccardo Oliva (bass) and Gianluca Pellerito (drums) and was recorded at Fico D’India Studios in Casteldaccia, Italy and produced by Matteo along with his father Vincenzo Mancuso.
Australian pop icons Bachelor Girl return with a bold new take on their 1998 hit, Treat Me Good, teaming up with beloved powerhouse vocalist Jessica Mauboy for the release, out today. Originally unleashed on the duo’s debut album, Waiting for the Day, this mammoth new version is the first taste of the band’s anticipated forthcoming redux album that will feature an epic haul of acclaimed household name artists who bring their prowess to the reimagining of the tracks.
Slated for a June release, Waiting For The Day: Artist Sessions is a complete reinterpretation of the double Platinum album that captivated the world. “We (somewhat audaciously!) began to ask some of our favourite Aussie artists and friends if they would lend their voices and/or instrument to our bucket list project,” beams Tania Doko. “What started with one, became 13 artists on this 15 track Redux album, and we could not be more chuffed they enthusiastically said yes.”
The duo has today also announced their Waiting For The Day Redux tour which will kick off in their home town of Melbourne at Brunswick Ballroom on August 8, before moving through Brisbane, Adelaide and finishing off in Sydney at The Factory Theatre on October 18. Tickets are on sale now from www.bachelorgirl.com.
Treat Me Good with Jessica Mauboy offers a reimagined version of the earlier classic, bringing a modern edge, and blending its nostalgic grooves with Mauboy’s soulful intensity to deliver a vibrant anthem of empowerment and self-worth. It’s a collaboration that proves timeless songs can evolve with heart, purpose and renewed spirit.
Genuinely so gracious to have Jessica Mauboy gifting her voice to this iconic song, Doko said, “Treat Me Good was written 3 decades ago, and we *still mean it. It’s been reinvigorating to create this full circle moment. Jess Mauboy’s contribution is the prize here, with the song now taking on an added sisterhood narrative – standing for the self, AND each other. It’s humbling to learn how much the song meant to Jess, from her busking Bachelor Girl tunes in Darwin, to singing her face off with us in the studio while 7 months pregnant with Mia. It’s a ‘pinch us’ moment all round.”
“The first twenty seconds of Jess opening her mouth to sing was gob smacking,” adds James Roche. “We all looked like the kid from ‘Home Alone’.”
For Mauboy, one of Australia’s most celebrated and versatile artists, the collaboration adds another milestone to an extraordinary career spanning nearly two decades. A multiple ARIA Award winner and the first Indigenous Australian solo artist to debut at No.1 on the ARIA Albums Chart, she has amassed six Top 10 albums, 16 Top 20 singles and more than 30 combined Platinum and Gold accreditations. Beyond music, she has starred in acclaimed productions including The Sapphires, Bran Nue Dae and served as a coach on The Voice Australia. In 2025, Mauboy was inducted into the NIMAs Hall of Fame, further cementing her legacy as an enduring force in Australian entertainment.
“Treat Me Good has always been one of those songs that instantly takes you back,” says Mauboy. “I grew up hearing Bachelor Girl on the radio, so getting the chance to re-record such an iconic Australian song with them felt really special. What I love most about it is how real it feels, its message about respect and love still resonates today. Recording this new version together was a beautiful way to honour the heart of the original while sharing that emotion with a whole new generation.”
Tania Doko and James Roche of Bachelor Girl have proven their enduring, beloved status in Aussie music culture. Their debut Buses and Trains earned James APRA Song of the Year in 1999 and remains one of the most played Australian compositions since its release. The iconic hit also made waves in Asia, Scandinavia, Europe and the US, including a signing by legendary A&R Clive Davis, Arista records. Their critically acclaimed ARIA winning Waiting for the Day album spawned another four releases still on rotation today, including Treat Me Good, Lucky Me, Blown Away and Permission to Shine. With a catalogue defined by exceptional songwriting and soaring vocals, the duo continue to captivate audiences, recently touring alongside legendary acts including Simple Minds, Icehouse and The Corrs.
SUN 18 OCT | THE FACTORY THEATRE, MARRICKVILLE NSW | 18+
Tickets available from https://www.factorytheatre.com.au/ | (02) 7208 4482 | Century Box Office
Think Like A Key 2025 Getting high on life, American mystic immerses listeners into music of the spheres and brings it down to earth to celebrate his time-defying album. That Bobby Callender isn’t spoken about in the same reverential tones … Continue reading →
Two-time JUNO Nominee ‘Samantha Martin & Delta Sugar’ release their second single “The Shape I’m In” from their upcoming record A Beautiful Buzz. The single is available on Friday March 27 on all available platforms HERE. Stream the YouTube audio HERE.
Originally written and recorded by legendary Canadian rock outfit The Band, “The Shape I’m In” stands as one of this country’s most electrifying musical exports—though many listeners don’t realize the song’s deep Canadian roots. Samantha Martin & Delta Sugar reclaim the classic with a bold, full-bodied reinterpretation, transforming it into a fiery, soul-drenched revival powered by their explosive 10-piece line-up.
Featuring searing horn arrangements, gospel-charged backing vocals, and Samantha’s powerhouse, southern-revival delivery, the track surges with grit, swagger, and raw emotional release. Adding even more star power, JUNO Award-winning multi-instrumentalist Steve Marriner (MonkeyJunk) joins the band, bringing his unmistakable tone and roots authenticity to a performance that feels both reverent and radically alive.
The result is a triumphant celebration of a Canadian classic—reimagined with the sweat, soul, and unrelenting energy that has made Samantha Martin & Delta Sugar a must-see force on international stages.
Samantha Martin & Delta Sugar are set to release their new live album A Beautiful Buzz via Gypsy Soul Records on May 22, 2026. Captured during the band’s Love Is All Around Tour across Western Canada in 2022, the album documents the raw power, soul, and communal energy that have made Samantha Martin & Delta Sugar one of Canada’s most electrifying live acts.
The CD and limited edition gatefold double vinyl editions of the album are available via www.samanthamartinmusic.com/store with the digital edition available on all streaming platforms HERE.
Samantha Martin & Delta Sugar occupy a rare space in modern roots blues music: deeply reverent of soul and gospel tradition, yet unafraid to push those forms into something louder, sweatier, and fiercely alive. Led by Martin’s unmistakable, powerhouse vocal delivery, the band has earned a reputation as one of Canada’s most commanding live acts, equal parts grit, grace, and emotional force.
A two-time JUNO Award nominee and seven-time Canadian Blues Award nominee for Female Vocalist of the Year, Samantha Martin has long drawn comparisons to the great soul shouters of the past. As Rhythm & Booze put it, “Samantha Martin’s name can be talked of in the same sentence as Etta James, Tina Turner, and Aretha Franklin. It’s soul for the modern age with a turbocharger.” Paris Move (France) went further, calling her “indispensable, Samantha Martin, the new Southern soul tornado.”
Those comparisons aren’t casual. Over the course of their catalogue, discerning listeners will hear echoes of Mavis Staples, Sharon Jones, Otis Redding, Booker T. & the MG’s, and the Memphis Horns, all filtered through a modern, road-hardened sensibility. It’s classic soul DNA delivered with contemporary urgency and volume. As Glide Magazine noted, “a jaw-dropping display of vocal prowess that highlights this band’s brand of supercharged blues. Comparisons of soul greats run rampant, but like Brittany Howard, Samantha Martin might be the next musical game changer.”
Mixed by Renan Yildizdogan and Ross Hayes Citrullo, the in-house team at Gypsy Soul Records, A Beautiful Buzz marks a first for the band: a long-overdue live album capturing the raw electricity that has defined Samantha Martin & Delta Sugar onstage for over a decade.
Recorded during the band’s Love Is All Around Tour across Western Canada in 2022, A Beautiful Buzz was born under extraordinary circumstances. Originally scheduled for January and repeatedly delayed by the final wave of COVID-era disruptions, the tour finally launched in November, with Martin six months pregnant. Undeterred, a 13-person touring party loaded into a sprinter and rental car and pushed west from the sub-zero cold of Saskatoon toward the West Coast.
Photo: Paul Wright
Night after night, the shows carried a heightened emotional charge, but one final performance stood apart, crackling with urgency, joy, and the awareness that one chapter was closing just as another was about to begin. That moment became A Beautiful Buzz, a testament to resilience, love, and transformation, capturing a band at full throttle and an artist on the edge of profound personal change.
For many listeners, the album lands somewhere in the lineage of Joe Cocker’s Mad Dogs & Englishmen, a communal, unrestrained live soul revue where horns, grit, gospel, and sweat collide. It’s not a polished live souvenir; it’s the sound of a band at peak intensity, feeding off the room and giving it everything back.
With a new studio album already in development for 2027, A Beautiful Buzz stands not as a detour or placeholder, but as a deliberate statement, finally committing to record the live force that made Samantha Martin & Delta Sugar essential in the first place.
“The Love Is All Around tour, initially set for January 2022, faced the trials of postponement until November 2022—marking the closing chapter of COVID-era delays. By the time the tour kicked off, I was six months pregnant with my son. I’ve never been one to be easily deterred. So, clad in a winter jacket that barely zipped, our 13-person touring party loaded into a sprinter and a rental car and embarked on a tour from the sub-zero temperatures of Saskatoon to the balmy West Coast of Canada. Each show was a whirlwind of energy and emotion, but one stood out above the rest. Perhaps it was the excitement of the final show, or maybe it was the realization that my life was about to change in a big way. Whatever the reason, the atmosphere was electric, filled with a beautiful buzz that I wanted to share with you. This album captures the magic I felt, and is a testament to resilience, love, and the power of music amidst life’s transformations.” – Samantha Martin
“That’s Love” (written by Stephen Bruton) is a song that immediately resonated with Sunjay for its honesty and perspective. Rather than presenting it as a gentle roots’ interpretation, Sunjay wanted his version to feel alive and full-bodied, leaning into groove, energy, and warmth.
Built around a dynamic band performance, the arrangement blends blues, Americana, and classic pop influences. The production avoids overcomplication and Sunjay lets the song’s message speak directly to lived experience.
Commenting on the single Sunjay says, “This song captures love exactly as it is, joyful, chaotic, and impossible to control. We wanted the recording to feel just as alive as the lyric.”
Drawing on a rich musical and cultural background, Sunjay has quickly established himself as one of the UK’s rising stars in the blues and roots scene. His performances have been praised as “mature and confident,” while his guitar playing has been described as “superb, brilliant, experienced, intricate, and faultless.” His style moves effortlessly between folk and blues, creating a sound that is both authentic and distinctive.
“That’s Love” follows the release of Sunjay’s first single, “Take Out Some Insurance,” which has already received airplay on BBC Radio 2. Sunjay is also set to appear on The Blues Show with Cerys Matthews on Monday 30th.
LIVE DATES 2026
17 MAY – FOREST FOLK CLUB, FOREST OF DEAN
18 MAY – WARWICK FOLK CLUB
20 MAY – BANBURY FOLK CLUB
21 MAY – ANCHOR FOLK CLUB, SURREY
29 MAY – STABLES 2, MILTON KEYNES
31 MAY – SALTBURN BLUES CLUB
2 JUNE – SWALLOW THEATRE, DUMFRIES
3 JUNE – DUNFERMLINE FOLK CLUB
6 JUNE – NETTLEHAM LIVE, LINCOLNSHIRE
“That’s Love” OUT NOW on all digital platforms HERE
Split The Sheets will be released September 18th, 2026
Pre-orders now open via https://www.sunjay.tv/
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