The Breakfast (previously
The Psychedelic Breakfast) is an American rock band that is often associated with the jam band scene, even being called a "fifth-generation jam band".
History
The band was formed in East Haven, Connecticut in 1998, during which time all the original members met: guitarist Tim Palmieri, bassist Ron Spears, drummer Adrian Tramontano and keyboardist Jordan Giangreco. They decided on their first name, Psychedelic Breakfast, based on the suggestion of Tramontano's cousin. It is a reference to Pink Floyd's song "Alan's Psychedelic Breakfast" from their album
Atom Heart Mother.
Besides playing cover songs by classic rockers such as The Doors and Floyd, they released a self-titled DIY studio album in 1999. The band's popularity began to rise after four songs from this album were featured on the MTV series
Undressed.
The band won their first Jammy for being "New Groove of the Year" in 2004. Around the same time, the band decided to change their name due to misnomers of the seriousness of the band leading to the loss of booking for shows and festivals.
Spears defended the choice, though, saying that "the Music is what is important, not the name."
While supporting their 2005 release,
Real Radio, the band performed a national tour, at times backing up popular bands such as The Wailers, moe., North Mississippi Allstars, and Gomez. In early July of 2006, Giangreco left and the band continued on as a trio.
Current
The band is also known for a high level of musicianship. In the current incarnation, instrument swapping between members is not uncommon. Guitar virtuoso Tim Palmieri also plays keyboards, drums and bass. Both Spears and Tramontano are highly proficient guitar players. Tramontano also plays the keyboards. Such swaps are usually reserved for encores.Members of the Breakfast also share vocal duties. While lead vocals are typically handled by either Palmieri (a baritone) or Spears (a tenor), Tramontano will occasionally act as a lead vocalist, but is most often heard providing harmonies.
On August 3rd, 2007, it was announced that Matt Oestreicher will be joining the band as the new keyboardist.
Ron Spears left the band, playing his last show on New Years Eve 2007. Shortly thereafter, the band announced that Chris DeAngelis would be joining The Breakfast on bass to replace Spears. DeAngelis, a CT native has played with VT's Turkey Bouillon Mafia and shared the stage with members of P-Funk, DBB's Eric Kalb, Dave Grippo (TAB), Fred Hersch, Chris Parker, and others.
Discography
- 1999 Psychedelic Breakfast
- 2001 Deuce ? Sonance
- 2003 Bona Fide ? Sonance
- 2005 Real Radio ? Horizon Music Group
- 2006 Moxie Epoxy ? Horizon Music Group
References
External links
Breakfast, TheBreakfast, TheBreakfast, TheBreakfast, The