Destined for Greatness: SENSES electrifies at The Beacham in Orlando, Florida
The air is filled with a sense of excitement as fans line the street of Orange Ave for tonight's show at the Beacham. Fans are thrilled to rock out with the incredible band The Summerset as they headline their "Meet Me at the Record Store Tour." But honestly, I'm just as pumped to rock out with the band SENSES. For I had the pleasure of catching them in 2025 when they set out across the states on their "I'm Still Breathing" tour. A monumental moment for them, as it was their first time headlining. Their show was filled with high energy, pure joy, and an undeniable connection with fans. And, since then, Madison Taylor and Nick Sampson have been working hard, solidifying themselves as a powerhouse duo destined for greatness.
Currently based out of LA, Madison's and Nick's musical roots began in their formative years in the Midwest and on the West Coast, respectively. They connected on a chance encounter, orchestrated by the powers that be on Craigslist. Madison leads as the powerful voice and primary songwriter of the group, while Nick anchors their sound with his dynamic drumming and songwriting as well. SENSES has released multiple singles along with two EPs, "Take Me Out of Here" (September 2023) and “I’m Still Breathing” (March 2025). Their single “Tiptoeing” off their latest project amassed over two million streams on Spotify. In addition to their own headlining tour, they have shared the stage with such talents as Carlie Hanson, Leah Kate, Charlotte Sands, Marianas Trench, and tonight, Summer Set. They will also be performing at the Outloud Music Festival this summer and at Vans Warped Tour this fall. Along the way, Madison and Nick have built both a loyal following and strong sense of community among their fans, and tonight I know it will only continue to grow.
The crowd grows bigger with every minute that passes. As the clock nears 8:15, the lights fade and cheers ring out around the room. Nick Sampson takes a seat behind a sweet yellow and black sparkled PCP X7 drum kit. Joining him is talented guitarist Chance Taylor. With a quick glance at one another, they unleash an attention-grabbing instrumental introduction. Dressed in black combat boots, a white midriff tank top, and black shorts accented with bright red lettering, Madison Taylor bursts onto the stage. With a huge smile and infectious energy, Madison wastes no time launching the Beacham into the song "Clean Cut" as the crowd lets out a cheer. She continues with songs from SENSES' newest EP: "Gonna Make Sure," "Obsessed," and the beat-driven single "Skin." The room grows more immersed in their music with every note they play. Madison works every inch of the stage, locking eyes with the room and chatting up the crowd. Her voice is powerful and expressive, giving life to every lyric she sings. Taking us through SENSES' catalog, she slows things down with the song "You + I," showcasing her vocal versatility. A true highlight of the night was when the band unexpectedly performed a stellar reimagined version of the 2003 Hilary Duff hit "Coming Clean." Everyone at the Beacham is singing along with smiles on their faces, including me. Hillary Duff would have been proud. And, if impressive covers are your thing, check out SENSES' cover of Chappell Roan's monstrous hit, "Good Luck Babe."
Though seated at the kit, Nick Sampson's drum work most certainly does not go unnoticed. Consisting of a snare, hi-hat, two toms, a kick, and three cymbals, though simple to some, it creates an impressive and powerful sound. He is undoubtably the heartbeat of the performance. His technical skill is captivating to watch as he effortlessly works the kit, combining focus with finesse. Impressing the audience with stellar stick tricks, creative fills, and his infectious energy.
Madison's and Nick’s stage presence is full of joy and magnetism, drawing the audience in and amplifying the excitement of their set. As they continue to move through the night, they play their hit "Tip Toeing," along with "Onto Something" and "Diamonds on Your Dagger," piercing the room with even more raw energy. Chance Taylor shreds on his electric Ernie Ball Music Man Cutlass guitar, adding layered texture to their sound.
As their set nears its end, they perform “Playing Dead” and “Sleeping Walking." SENSES officially closes out the evening with “Better Than This," a song off their 2023 EP Take Me Out of Here. The excitement in the room is thrilling as the crowd dances—myself included again—savoring every last moment of the performance. As the final notes echo through the Beacham, Madison, Nick, and Chance take one last moment to soak in the room before taking their final bow.
To have had the opportunity to cover SENSES again was truly a privilege. Their music and showmanship continues to captivate every stage they step upon. So whether you are a fan already or one just discovering SENSES' music, I can only say they are on their way to greatness, and I’m happy to be on board for the ride and excited to see where their journey takes them.
