Dubstar

Dubstar formed in Newcastle in 1993, Sarah Blackwood's warm, distinctive vocals and the band's melodic synth-pop sound giving them a quality that was immediately recognisable. They signed to Food Records and released their debut album 'Disgraceful' (1995) — a record of extraordinary melodic invention that showed a band capable of real emotional depth.

'Not So Manic Now', 'Stars', and 'No More Talk' were all excellent singles. 'Not So Manic Now' in particular — with its melancholy melody and Blackwood's understated delivery — was one of the most distinctive British singles of the year. The album reached number eighteen.

Dubstar have continued to record and perform, their sound evolving while maintaining the core qualities that made the debut essential. Blackwood has also had a successful career with other projects. They remain one of the most underrated British synth-pop acts of their era.