Infusion

Despite frequent critiques that live electronic sets can feel lackluster when performers stay rooted behind laptops and synthesizers without the kinetic presence of guitarists, The Sydney Morning Herald still singled out the electronica outfit Infusion for its overall Best Live Act honor rather than limiting the accolade to Best Live Dance Act. Australian audiences had long recognized the onstage and recorded vitality of the Melbourne-based group since its formation in 1998 by Frank Xavier, Manuel Sharrad, and Jamie Stevens. Via the Thunk and Roadrunner imprints, Infusion issued a series of well-received 12"s that drew notice from tastemaking DJs including Paul Oakenfold and Pete Tong. A devoted following developed gradually until 2004, when the band’s profile surged after securing a performance slot at the expansive U.K. Glastonbury festival and earning a declaration from Muzik magazine that Infusion was “a force to be reckoned with.” That August the trio crossed America while the 12"s “Girls Can Be Cruel” and “Do to You (In ’82)” ascended club playlists nationwide.