Senses: I'm Still Breathing Tour, Leaves Orlando Breathless and Wanting More

We might be in Winter Park, just on the outskirts of Orlando Fl--however the temperature is anything but winteresque here tonight. Nestled at the intersection of Aloma Ave, and Forsyth Rd sits The Conduit. Notorious for its punk and metal scene, tonight it becomes home to the undeniably awesome and talented band Senses.  Packing out venues across the states, we catch them rolling into the final stretch of their "I'm Still Breathing" tour.  And though they are no strangers to road life, this particular tour holds special significance. Not only is it a celebration of their most recently released EP "I'm Still Breathing", it's their first time performing in Florida, and it's a monumental milestone, the band's first headline tour.

This definitely won't be the last time you hear the name Senses--but if it's the first, allow me to introduce you.  Madison Taylor and Nick Sampson are the powerhouses whose kinship creates this "emo friendly, punk curious, “pop-rock“ duo .  Currently based out of LA, their music roots began in their formative years in the Midwest and West Coast, respectively. Singer-Songwriter and guitarist Madison Taylor got a taste of music early in life. Growing up, her mother, a singer herself, would always sing lullabies and bedtime prayers. She picked up a guitar and started writing songs in her teens and got a taste of the spotlight performing alongside her sister in Wisconsin dive bars. Meanwhile, in Fresno, Nick Sampson's introduction to music is like Madison's in its familial connection. His father was a singer and guitar player. Nick started out playing guitar but found his true passion playing the drums. Self-taught he made a name for himself playing for a variety of bands throughout high school and college.  

Separately making their way to Los Angeles, they connected on a chance encounter, orchestrated from powers that be on Craigslist.  Discovering their magnetic connection to the idea of challenging musical norms and their collaborative spirit, Senses was born. The duo has been making waves in the music scene since 2019. Their first EP "Take Me Out of Here" released in 2023, followed by numerous singles, leading to the duo getting signed by Hopeless Records and releasing their most recent EP in March 2025. They have been steadily building a loyal fanbase, winning the hearts of many and this evening is proof of that.

It's a packed crowd and stacked lineup, as tonight we are treated to two supporting acts.  MVSSIE (pronounced Mass-ee) along with her talented drummer took to the stage first.  She delivered a powerful performance with her vocals and stage presence.  This Sacramento native worked the whole room, from the stage to the crowd, and to the bar.  MVSSIE treated the crowd to a set that weaves through new and old tracks, including songs like "Therapy", "Self Sabotage" and "Wonderland", as well as a cover of Paramore's song "That's What You Get".  Without a doubt, MVSSIE is an artist to keep on your radar. Make sure to keep and eye out for upcoming shows and releases. And while you're at it, check out her recent collaboration with the band Nowhere Here on their track " Violet".

Cool and carefree brothers Bradley and Brett Anderson of Negative 25, hold down the number two spot, delivering a dose of high energy and pure fun. Composing music described as "Pop music for emo kids". Both are talented vocalists and skilled instrumentalists. Lighting up the night, Bradley lays down a solid bassline playing on a yellow and black StingRay bass, while Brett rocks out on a maroon and black Gibson guitar. Perfectly capturing the band's playful personality, they humorously request for a collective knuckle crack from the crowd. The room obliges and erupts with laughter and a visceral cringe at the sound, making it a memorable moment. Negative 25 moves confidently through a setlist, delivering tunes from album Xoxon25, singles from their catalog and getting everybody moving with their cover of Metro's Station "Shake It".  Be sure to keep an eye for this rising musical force.

Lit from above a two-tone gold PDP X7 drum set sparkles in the center of a raised stage. Behind it, a banner with the name Senses hangs as fog begins to slowly permeate the stage. As the lights dim, Nick, shirtless with white shorts, settles behind his drum kit. Beside him talented guitarist Jordan Keigher picks up a Fender Stratocaster guitar. Together they unleash the electrifying intro to the song "Diamonds on Your Dagger". Madison takes to the front of the stage: electric in bright pink pants, cool black boots, and a black t-shirt that reads " I Do All My Own Stunts", she takes in the crowd, takes a deep breath, and belts out the first lyrics of their song.  From there Madison effortlessly commands the stage, working corner to corner, radiating pure joy while rocking out alongside Nick and Jordan. The night was filled with high energy fueled by powerful vocals, tight musicianship, and a special connection with the audience.  Nick adds an undeniable energy to the stage from behind the kit. Making it look easy while playing intricate combinations, performing stick tricks and eyeing the crowd taking in all the moments of the night.

Madison chats with the room, highlighting this is their first time performing in Florida, and emphasizing their excitement to share who Senses is and how their creative process has evolved. With a big smile she shares how stoked she is to be performing for her 98-year-old grandmother in the crowd. Senses music is rich in meaningful lyrics, speaking about resilience and facing hard times, complemented by hard hitting and cool electronic components.  Madison continues to display her dynamic vocal range, flowing through songs like "Sleepwalker", "Novocain", "nosebleeds", and "Stabilizer", while also showcasing her guitar skills on "Me Against Me".  Their rock cover of Chappell Roans' song “Good Luck Babe" is undeniably a fan favorite.  The way the fans sang every lyric, danced, and connected with the band is amazing to see.  Displaying the true appreciation and bond they have with one another. Senses had the whole crowd dancing as they close out the night with "Better Than This”.  Madison worked her way from left to right high fiving each fan, then joins Nick and Jordan at center stage. Together they take a final bow, wave to the crowd, and savor the last few moments of the night at The Conduit.  

With a handful of shows left you can still catch them as they head west to Texas, Arizona and closing out the tour in California. Though some may compare Senses to other punk rock bands, they are undoubtedly forging a thrilling new path of their own, and it will be truly exciting to see where that journey takes them.