VicBeta Trip, the new project from Toronto multi-instrumentalist Steve Lewin, announces his debut full-length album Superette, out September 26 on Having Fun, the rock imprint of We Are Busy Bodies. The first advance single, “Juliet,” lands June 13 and offers a high-energy introduction to Lewin’s matured sonic vision. Melodic, emotionally resonant, and firmly rooted in the atmospherics of Britpop and the grit of 90s alternative rock, “Juliet” kicks off a ten-track journey that bridges nostalgic textures with fresh perspective. It marks Lewin’s return to his roots under the Beta Trip moniker, drawing influence from Elbow, Radiohead, and Pearl Jam.
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“Juliet” is a hook-heavy, propulsive alt-pop song that examines misguidance, both in others and in oneself, while leaning into themes of growth, perspective, and closure. With layered guitars, rich harmonies, and a melodic sensibility that balances grit and shimmer, the track brings a catchy collision of melody and drive. Though it carries the appearance of simplicity, “Juliet” was crafted over many years, performed for audiences across the world in varied ideations, but never recorded, until now. It finally came together amidst the reflection and recalibration that sparked Beta Trip, and in doing so, not only found its way onto Superette, but easily claimed itself as the lead single. The result sets the tone for an album that fuses introspection with anthemic energy.
Superette is a carefully curated collection of dynamic tracks, ranging from guitar-driven slow burns to radio-ready standouts. Its sound palette stretches from the cinematic sweep of Elbow and the textured melancholy of Radiohead to the earnest punch of Nada Surf, Toad the Wet Sprocket, and Teenage Fanclub. Lewin wrote, performed, and produced the entire album himself, grounding the songs in a raw, personal space that still feels wide open and inviting. The album’s name, Superette, borrowed from the small, independently run corner stores, reflects its ethos: a tightly packed collection of essentials, each full of character and variety. Released under We Are Busy Bodies’ rock imprint Having Fun Records, the album marks a new chapter for Lewin. His previous EPs earned support from SiriusXM, CBC, and independent stations across Canada. With Beta Trip, nods to early collaborators while tapping into the sound and spirit that first shaped his musical identity.
