REVIEW: Strong storytelling comes into focus on Not for Coltrane's 'Fuzziness and Breath'

Fuzziness and Breath is the title of the new EP from Bethlehem’s Not for Coltrane (the stage alias of singer-songwriter Michael Duck).

However, what quickly comes into focus is strong storytelling. This is particularly evident in the somber acoustic ballad “New York to Baltimore,” which also showcases Duck’s strong pipes.

Fuzziness and Breath kicks off with the catchy, up-tempo title track, which is pushed along by a bouncy bass riff (courtesy of guest musician Shawn Cavanaugh). The track also features veteran Lehigh Valley singer-songwriter and musician Dave Fry on mandolin and drummer Dave Deubler.

“New York to Baltimore” and a second acoustic ballad, the heartstring-tugging “Wish You Well,” follow. (“New York to Baltimore,” and the previously mentioned “Fuzziness and Breath” feature lyrics written by Jonathan Mitchican, with music composed by Mitchican and Duck)

Duck picks up the pace as he brings the four-track EP to a close with a lyrical trip to “The Rudy’s Ransom Annual Pancake Breakfast.”

“Rudy’s”— like the three tracks which precede it — has a pleasantly nostalgic vibe about it, reminiscent of a bygone era full of espresso-fueled singer-songwriters. And as a fan of ‘90s alternative rock and pop, trust me, there is nothing wrong with that.

Fuzziness and Breath is a well-rounded blend of coffeehouse pop and modern folk, filled to the brim with plenty of heart and soul. The album is available on CD and digitally, including Spotify, Amazon, iTunes, and YouTube.