Photography by @waynebordoliphotography
Breadcrumbs are not just another band; they are a collective of seasoned musicians who found each other through a shared passion and a dash of mid-life experimentation, resulting in a sound that’s both refreshingly raw and deeply engaging. Pinning down their exact sound involves navigating a delightful map of indie reference points. There are clear nods to post-punk sensibilities, evidenced by cited influences like Wire and TV Personalities, all suggesting an appreciation for angularity, intelligent composition, and perhaps a certain minimalist aesthetic. A comment on their Bandcamp page succinctly captures this blend: “Dry Cleaning meets Wire”.
I recently met with the band and delved into their origins, influences, and the chaotic-yet-charming process behind their music. The band’s genesis story is also wonderfully unconventional. It all started with a 50th birthday bash. Dave Burton, lead guitarist, who was celebrating the milestone, decided to put on a gig, pulling together friends and musical acquaintances. What began as a one-off, quickly sparked something more. “Andy (Andy Neill, lyricist and lead vocals) asked if anyone wanted to form a band and do some of his songs” explains Dave. This casual invitation ignited a creative flame, leading to the formation of Breadcrumbs.
All four members of Breadcrumbs bring a variety of musical histories and experience to the group. Andy had previously amassed a collection of songs from his solo work. He had also played in a Wire cover band with Bill Waugh, who, in turn, had been in bands with Dave. Geoff Suggett previously played with ‘The Lavender Faction,’ a band which had notable success in the 1990s. This merging of different experiences has resulted in a distinctive sound. More importantly, the band shares an experimental approach to music with two of them taking on new instruments for this project: Bill learned to play the bass, and Geoff switched from guitar to acoustic drums.
Their musical style is hard to pin down, which is precisely what makes it so engaging. ‘Grumble punk’ (thanks Dave) seems to fit, capturing their blend of post-punk energy and thoughtful, often humorous, lyrics.
“We’ve got a range of so many guitar-based band influences,” Dave shares, highlighting the variety that shapes their sound. They’ve also been compared to anarcho-punk acts from early 1980s acts like The Mob and Zounds much to their surprise and delight.
Andy is the songwriter, bringing in initial ideas as a guitar recording with vocals. The band then collaborates in shaping the music. “Andy provides the initial song, then we just elaborate,” they explain. ‘That’s how it pretty much always works.’
This democratic process allows everyone to contribute, resulting in music that is both personal and collective. Lyrically, their songs often draw from everyday frustrations and observations. ‘CAPSLOCK’ from their first album is a prime example. A fine song about the frustration and mundanity of typing away and not realising you’re typing in capital letters because you forgot to press the shift key.
‘Where did that come from?’ I ask. ‘Just forgetting to hit the shift key,’ says Andy, eliciting laughter.
‘During the course of any given day, whenever Andy feels some kind of light frustration, he writes a song about it,’ observes Dave revealing the source of their often quirky themes.
I point out that ‘Taxibooker’ is another such song. ‘I used to go out with a friend of mine and I thought you don’t want to book a taxi because you never know what might happen,’ explains Andy. Hard to argue with, I guess.
But it was the splendidly engaging track ‘Scooter Baby’ that confirmed that there was something in the newly formed band. ‘’When Andy sent us that song, that was the one that made me think ‘I’m in, hook, line and sinker!’ recalls Geoff.
‘Andy’s lyrics are really good, they’re interesting and they’re about specific ideas,’ Bill agrees whilst reflecting that ‘a lot of music is more focussed on the sonic side of things rather than lyrical content’
It is very important to the band that the audience at their gigs can hear the lyrics above the music. ‘Whenever we play live, we always see the sound engineer and ask them to make sure the audience can hear the vocals,’ says Dave.
But the band is not aiming for any particular demographic, they want to appeal to everyone. ‘Andy’s kids are in their twenties,’ says Geoff, ‘and they love us.’ Their music, and lyrics, are certainly relatable and there is something for everyone; family friendly grumble-punk, if you like.
Despite the clear talent and dedication, Breadcrumbs face the challenges of breaking through and find themselves navigating the obstacles of being a band in the modern age, grappling with social media presence and gig bookings. They note the frustrations of getting gigs, particularly outside their immediate circle of contacts but cannot quite put their finger on the reason why.
‘Whenever we try to contact the promoters and venues and stuff, it’s like pissing in the wind,’ laments Dave. Yet, they remain optimistic. They appreciate the support of local figures like Mark Elliott, who co-owns the brilliant Engine Room venue, and who has been instrumental in promoting their work. They also have faith in the vibrant local music scene. ‘It’s the healthiest I’ve ever seen it. I absolutely love it,’ enthuses Bill.
As the conversation concludes, it is evident that they are more than just a band; they are a group of friends united by a shared love of music and a commitment to creating something genuine. Their upcoming album, forged in the face of time constraints and injected with a healthy dose of silliness, promises to be a testament to their enduring passion and unique spirit. Fans can eagerly await its release, knowing that it comes from the heart of a band that truly loves what they do.
Breadcrumbs new album, intriguingly titled ‘The Breadcrumbs,’ is complete and as well as their signature short, sharp, quirky tracks, it features two new ballads (‘but with noisy bits.’) With a launch gig planned at The Engine Room in June they are poised to generate a genuine buzz and leave more than just sonic trails. In a music scene fizzing with potential, they offer something unique: a raw, honest, and utterly compelling slice of North East grumble punk.
Album Launch Gig at The Engine Room on 27 June 2025
Tickets here! https://www.ticketweb.uk/event/breadcrumbs-launch-the-breadcrumbs-the-engine-room-tickets/14466253
Album Release on 30 June 2025
Follow the band here!
Facebook @breadcrumbstheband
Instagram @breadcrumbstheband
Album available here
