Nothing For Breakfast - Nothing For Breakfast

by Lisa Torem

published: 11 / 6 / 2014

Nothing For Breakfast - Nothing For Breakfast

Label: Nothing For Breakfast
Format: CDS

Astonishing debut EP from Florence-based Italian-American group, Nothing For Breakfast

Review

So, this is Nothing For Breakfast’s debut and self-produced EP? It’s hard to believe, but apparently true. Well, give this EP a listen and you’ll be amazed that this ensemble hasn’t rattled the recording ranks for decades – they’re that astonishing. It seems that some of the magic that shines through is a result of the lads’ long-term relations and collective musical passions. Jonathan Shackleford (guitar and vocals), Samuele Cangi (vocals and guitar), Francesco Cangi (bass and backing vocals) and Marco Cali on drums are incredible musicians who share a brilliant history. Shackelford is an American whose parents ran a university in Florence. Cali is currently considered one of the best percussionists there. Samuel and Francisco Cangi are both multi-instrumentalists. ‘Stranger’ starts off the EP with unrelenting energy. “Don’t know where I am/Does anybody?” Those vocals are hard-to-resist. Shackleford’s pitch is consistently perfect, and he instinctively knows when and where to yank us into his virile universe. Next up is ‘Pretty Girl’. “Singing songs with you/Never mind the moon.” His voice escalates and crescendos whilst blissful strumming swirls below. This is one of several tear-in-the-throat performances. There’s a 60’s style lovability here, but also an underlay of the more contemporary Coldplay. ‘Yes It’s OK’ celebrates “Freedom from those who can’t see the light.” The gorgeous melody and entire arrangement glimmers with thematic integrity and the band’s signature guitar sound never ceases to excite. ‘Mrs. Queen’ has its share of quirky lyrics and a sideways progression. The band shows off some sizeable and contagious riffs. ‘Drunk Shoes’ takes more stabs at unconventionality. It’s a fantastic mix of throbbing sound bytes, loopy wordplay, funky rhythms and captivating call and response. Props to the tightness of this outstanding quartet. But Nothing For Breakfast can also capture elegantly the thrill of a new romance. In ‘Caught Her Tonight’ they prove that love at first sight is timeless. “I’ve never seen something so gorgeous before,’ Shackleford sings, like a gushing lover across a crowded room. Lush Beach Boys like backing vocals vie for attention as psychedelic guitar and burnishing back beats trickle below. The bonus track, a cover of Nirvana’s ‘Drain You’, recalls Ian Hunter’s saltiness and bar room bravado. But although Nothing For Breakfast brings to mind some other great acts, their repertoire is unique and genuinely passionate. I just can’t wait to hear their next recording.