New music from Cigarettes for Breakfast

Philadelphia-based shoegaze band Cigarettes for Breakfast has truly outdone themselves with their debut full-length record, Join the Circus. With 12 tracks of emotive and captivating music, the album is a stunning showcase of the band’s evolution and creativity, blending elements of shoegaze with alternative rock and subtle psychedelic undertones. From the very first track, “Up,” the band sets a new standard for the genre, delivering an energising sound of fuzzed-out guitars, driving drums and lofty vocal lines that intertwine to create a mesmerising and euphoric soundscape. The song dives into a laid-back breakdown full of twanging guitar tones and fluttering textures, immersing listeners in a world of swirling melodies and intricate guitar work.

The title track, “Join the Circus,” reveals the band’s versatility, starting with delicate synth pulses and soft vocals that spin lullaby-esque melodies. However, it quickly shifts gears as a crunching guitar riff ushers in an explosive grunge-inspired interlude before floating back to the tranquil sound of the verse. This dynamic approach to songwriting keeps listeners engaged and eager to explore the depths of the album.

One of the album’s standout tracks is “Drifting,” where Cigarettes for Breakfast displays their compelling command of melody. The song features punchy drums, lightly gritty guitar tones and alluring layered vocal lines that hover above, creating an engaging and memorable sound that stays with you long after the song ends. Another highlight is “Hollywood Daydream,” a moody rock anthem that encourages listeners to question societal expectations and embrace their true selves. The track is driven by a powerful wall of guitar sounds, which are contrasted by blissful vocal performances, creating an enveloping sonic landscape.

Throughout Join the Circus, Cigarettes for Breakfast takes listeners on a deeply personal and reflective journey through the ups and downs of life. With each track, the album captures moments of self-discovery, self-doubt, self-confidence, love and loss. The band’s name, a nod to the self-destructive tendencies of artists and musicians, is mirrored in the music’s vulnerability and introspection. Yet, despite the heavy subject matter, the album remains ultimately uplifting, leaving listeners with a sense of hope, determination and resilience.

As the album draws to a close with “Pretend,” listeners are treated to a contemplative and downtempo rock-focused shoegaze outing. Thematically covering ideas of illusion, self-deception and the search for authenticity, the song provides a fitting conclusion to the journey presented by the LP. The album’s final moments are completed by the short instrumental piece “Everything’s Alright,” adding a piquant chaser to bookend the sensational musical experience.

With Join the Circus, Cigarettes for Breakfast has crafted an album that’s as captivating as it is emotionally resonant. Frontman Matt Whiteford’s dedication and passion shine through in every note, making the record a must-listen for fans of shoegaze, alternative rock and heartfelt storytelling. With this debut full-length record, Cigarettes for Breakfast firmly establishes themselves as a pioneering act at the forefront of the shoegaze music scene.

Listen to Join the Circus below