Memphis has always been a city that makes space for musicians who don’t quite fit the mold, and Degenerate Breakfast is proof that the local music scene is alive, experimental, and a little unpredictable (in the best way).
Formed by a group of University of Memphis students and rooted in the city’s legendary DIY ethos, Degenerate Breakfast is quickly carving out a space in the local indie rock scene with their blend of jazz, rock, blues, and alternative energy. Their debut album dropped this summer, and they’re already working on a second record at the University of Memphis studio. In true Memphis fashion, they’re doing it their own way with free shows, affordable merch, and a mission to lift up other local bands along the way.
Who Is Degenerate Breakfast?
The band is made up of:
🎸 James Alberts – Lead guitar, with a foundation in blues and jazz.
🎷 Bridger Whittier – Rhythm guitar, saxophone, and onstage dancing.
🎤 Liam Wilde – Lead vocals, bringing the band’s eclectic vision to life.
🎸 Brandon Kelly – Bassist, Memphis native, and occasional “backwards keyboard” player.
🥁 Marshall Rambin – Drums and trumpet extraordinaire.
Together, they bring a mix of backgrounds and influences that make their sound hard to pin down…and even harder to forget.
Geeked, Tweaked, and Unapologetically Memphis
So, what does Degenerate Breakfast sound like?
“It’s for people who love music,” Liam told us with a grin.
And he’s not wrong. Their songs pull from a wide range of influences, weaving rock guitar solos, jazz saxophone lines, blues grit, and even hip-hop production techniques into something that feels uniquely theirs.
Their first album, released June 13, 2025, was recorded with producer Ryan Cleaver, who normally works in hip-hop, which gave the record an unexpected edge.
“You can hear that hip-hop influence on some of the production side,” Liam explained. “There are moments where the bass hits like an 808, and it shakes your whole car. It’s different, and that’s what we wanted.”
What’s in a Name?
If you’re wondering about the name, you’re not alone.
At first, not everyone was sold on “Degenerate Breakfast,” but as the band explains, it’s more of an idea than a title.
“For me, it was a beer and a cigarette at 10 in the morning,” James said. “But for someone else, it might be a waffle. It can be whatever you want it to be.”
Building Community Through Music
One thing that makes Degenerate Breakfast stand out is their commitment to the Memphis DIY scene.
“It’s not Nashville where people come in with money and free studio time,” Bridger said. “Here, we’re doing it ourselves.”
That means:
Free shows, like their upcoming outdoor event Cabana Calamity on September 5 outside Java Cabana in Midtown.
Affordable merch, often handmade by friends.
Supporting other bands, from Memphis groups like Blunt Force and After the Rain to Mississippi neighbors like Sock Rocket.
“The biggest thing we do to stay connected is put on free performances and curate good bills with other bands,” Brandon said. “If we all work together, Memphis can reclaim its place as the music city it already is.”
Upcoming Shows
Want to see them live? Catch Degenerate Breakfast at:
Growlers – August 29
Calamity Cabana (Java Cabana, Midtown) – September 5 (FREE show + vintage market)
Stay up to date with their upcoming shows here!
What’s Next for Degenerate Breakfast?
After a successful first album and shows that are quickly earning them a loyal following, the band is already working on their second project at the University of Memphis recording studio. They’re also eyeing festival slots like RiverBeat and Mempho Fest as the next step in building their audience beyond Memphis.
Their goal is to keep pushing Memphis music forward while staying true to their roots.
“We’re still a year and a half or two in, but our vision is big,” Bridger said. “We want to play the festivals, we want to tour, and we want to keep putting Memphis on the map,” Liam said.
Why Memphis Needs Degenerate Breakfast
Memphis is a city built on music that comes from the soul. And if you listen closely, you’ll hear that same grit, realness, and creativity in Degenerate Breakfast. From their community-first shows to their eclectic sound, they’re adding to the city’s legacy while reminding us that the scene thrives when everyone shows up.
As they put it best:
“Follow local bands, buy merch, show up for free shows. Even just being there is part of it. That’s what keeps Memphis music alive.”
