BJ had left his first band, Negative Space, after extensive playing/touring had left him burnt out and  after awhile realized he still wanted to travel and play.  Feeling reprieved after catching a breathe from the rigors of club gigging , being on the road and band life in general, Sugarcoat was formed. The band found it's feet in the local scene and cashed in their recognition from their efforts in their former band Negative Space.