Supertramp, for many, is an unfamiliar band; however, throughout their career, they’ve had significant releases. They’re considered one of the most influential bands of the ’70s and ’80s. Led by Rick Davies, they continuously worked on their sound over five albums to finally reach their sixth “Breakfast In America,” an album that propelled them to the pinnacle of fame, turning them into superstars.
The sound of this work was pleasing and comprehensible for the masses, without forsaking their progressive and technical origins, albeit keeping them in the background. It catered to the auditory needs of both connoisseurs and amateur listeners. Today, we comment on “Breakfast In America,” a ’70s classic worth listening to from start to finish.
What can we hear?
The perfect combination and balance between Pop and Rock. The compositions in the album are based on the Wurlitzer piano, which is present for most of the album’s duration. Speaking of composition, every one of the ten tracks in “Breakfast In America” is well-thought-out. Despite a predominant pop vibe, the progressions, chords, melodies, and arrangements are unpredictable. They reflect the arduous work that only high-level musicians can bring to life. Here lies the uniqueness of this work great musicians crafting these pieces with the highest musical quality in terms of design and production.
We hear music of the highest quality the guitars are relevant and, when they shine, they do so with meticulous planning. The vocals and choirs elevate the album, making it sound grand regardless of the era. The bass provides a rhythmic groove to the songs. Dougie Thomson’s execution with fingers is clearly defined. The drums are precise, anchoring the band well and marking a series of obligatory elements that evoke the band’s progressive style. Lastly, the wind, brass, and string arrangements are the icing on the cake that elegantly decorates “Breakfast In America.”
Many critics compared the band to Genesis, possibly due to their Progressive Rock influence. However, in our opinion, Supertramp sounded like a band ahead of their time an ensemble that evolved to evoke collective virtuosity. Although ‘Breakfast In America’ was released in 1979, its level could be mistaken for a release from the mid-’80s.
The Commercial Success of "Breakfast In America"
Two songs positioned the album as a resounding commercial success: “The Logical Song” and “Breakfast In America.” Their success didn’t come for free. Both songs exhibit exceptional technique in the execution of each instrument, and their melodies are exceptionally memorable simply and complexly top-tier pop. Noteworthy are the bridges in both songs, in “The Logical Song” with a terrific saxophone solo and a series of progressive obligations, and in “Breakfast In America” with a series of circus-style vocals accompanied by orchestral winds and percussions. Two songs with finely tuned production that captivated all types of listeners.
This album set the precedent as a pioneer in ’80s pop, serving as a school for a wave of bands and artists that created entire anthems throughout this decade. Just listen to songs like “Just Another Nervous Wreck” to hear the influence this band achieved. Their rock roots are very noticeable, especially in the guitars, drums, and epic guitar solos.
An Unparalleled Conclusion
After a series of ballads, the album concludes with “Child Of Vision,” a track that confirms the band’s groove and mastery in arrangement and composition. It maintains the sound of the Wurlitzer piano throughout the song but presents it brilliantly with a riff that adds a heart-pounding emotion to the entire track. Perhaps this is the most progressive song on the album, with an outro that sounds very much like a ‘jam’ from musicians from another planet.
“Breakfast In America” is a classic that laid the groundwork for ‘80s commercial music, an album that explores the infinite possibilities of music, grounded at a softened popular level… A gem!
How do you think ‘Breakfast In America’ by Supertramp compares to other influential albums of its time in terms of its blend of progressive rock and mainstream appeal? Leave us your comments!
