Cantrel: South Africa’s Father-Son Rock Duo 

Drops New EP

 

 

Durban, South Africa’s unique father-and-son duo, Cantrel, featuring Neil and Jesse Breytenbach, proudly release their new two-track EP, “Something in the Orange,” now available on all digital platforms. 

Neil, a keyboardist for the legendary Prime Circle and a prolific songwriter with a treasure trove of unreleased music, also serves as an ambassador for Princess Charlene of Monaco, further highlighting his impactful presence in the music scene. The EP includes a radio edit and an acoustic version of the heartfelt track, originally written and performed by Country artist Zach Bryan, and reimagined by Cantrel into a compelling Adult Contemporary ballad that highlights Jesse’s rock voice.

“Country music has a rich tradition of storytelling, often painting vivid pictures with words. Our rendition of ‘Something in the Orange’ we hope to really draw in listeners into the song, making them feel like they are part of the story,”  adds Neil. 

And I’m damned if I do and I’m damned if I don’t

‘Cause if I say I miss you I know that you won’t

But I miss you in the mornings when I see the sun

Somethin’ in the orange tells me we’re not done.

Lockdown restrictions brought an unexpected gift to the family and South African music. Neil found himself at home more than usual. During breaks between online schooling, his son Jesse joined him for jam sessions – a first for the father-son duo. Fueled by this newfound creative connection and Neil’s sudden break from Prime Circle’s relentless touring, Cantrel was born. Now the duo tour together, having recently returned from Austria. Jesse takes the lead on vocals, while Neil provides the keys. Their close-knit relationship makes them a true rarity in the music world, and so far, they haven’t faced any major hurdles.

They share a passion for grunge and a love for ’90s bands like Nirvana, Linkin Park, Seether, and Limp Bizkit. Both Jesse (who started playing guitar at age 8) and Neil (who began on keys at the same age) developed their musical talents early on. Their athletic backgrounds further contributed to their well-roundedness in school. In Cantrel, Jesse takes on vocals and guitar, while Neil’s role extends to bass, keys, backing vocals, and rapping.

When looking back at the impactful songs they’ve created in their short time together, Neil loves performing the rock track “Jump,” relishing the crowd’s energetic response. However, a different song holds a special place in his heart: “Final Hour,” which he wrote in just 20 minutes for his mother—Jesse’s grandmother—during her final hours battling cancer. 

Have to leave you all today 

You know where I am going 

Gonna take away this pain 

And leave behind my sorrows 

More poignant tracks, “Chains,” and “Runaway” are dedicated to anyone facing abusive relationships. Cantrel delivers meaningful and relatable messages with each song, ready to make their mark on the music scene through their unique father-son bond.

 

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