New York’s lively music scene is buzzing with the release of Eating & Drinking & Being In Love, the debut album from talented singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Theo Kandel, via Nettwerk Music Group. This album serves as an earnest tribute to the intricate relationships and formative experiences that define one’s 20s, encapsulating the essence of youth through a moving story of 11 expressive tracks.
Theo Kandel has carefully curated a collection of singles leading up to the album, including the introspective “On My Mind,” the poetic “Lunch” inspired by Frank O’Hara, the nostalgic “The Painters,” and the delightful “Honeydew Moon.” Each track sets the tone for Eating & Drinking & Being In Love, creating a cohesive narrative that celebrates the beauty found in everyday moments. As Theo aptly puts it,
When you’re in love—or in your 20s and trying to live a young, vibrant life with the people you care about—that’s what it is: Eating & Drinking & Being In Love.
This sentiment is reflected in the album’s ability to resonate deeply with listeners, evoking memories of shared laughter and intimate gatherings.
The recording process took place at Grand Street Recording, a studio with a rich musical history formerly known as the Hit Factory. Under the guidance of producer Jack Kleinick, Theo poured his heart into the album over a focused four-day session. When I’m writing songs, I need something visceral and tangible to sink my teeth into he explains. This philosophy is the foundation of the album’s themes, highlighting the significance of time spent with loved ones, even in moments that may seem trivial.
Track-by-Track Highlights
Each track off the album shares a glimpse into a different moment of Kandel’s life with realistic, yet romantic lyricism. Instrumentally, he takes an overall stripped-back, organic approach with clear folk influences.
First up is the short title track, “Eating & Drinking & Being In Love.” This dreamy 1:25-minute monologue introduces the emotional tone of the album, where he summarizes it as “the best of life.”
“Honeydew Moon” follows. It reveals Kandel’s conversational singing style, with clear, natural diction and minimal production, emphasizing the groundedness of the project. He recounts hallmarks of youth throughout – sunsets, the moonlight, chugging wine, and singing together.
“Lunch” combines tonal depth and warmth with lighthearted lyrics. It is an ode to the simple things – lunch together, drinking coffee, smoking cigarettes. Warm harmonies and a choral, drum-packed post-chorus highlight the track.
In “The Painters,” Kandel professes love to someone he views as his other half. People create their stories as they go through life, painting a new scene every day. This track has a radiant, upbeat energy.
Next is the more melancholy “Fixer Upper.” This track speaks on finding a perfect home for a relationship at an imperfect time; something not uncommon in the whirlwind of someone’s 20s. Kandel’s vocal technique shines most here in the chorus where he displays his pretty vibrato. The bittersweetness permeates every element, with even the guitar giving off a weeping impression.
“Nothing New” continues the theme of simple pleasures, reading like a journal entry. Kandel’s message here is that life is vibrant and fresh as long as the right person is by his side. The cycles of the world may become mundane, but their relationship will never.
“One More Night (With My Friends In the City)” is the epitome of the New York youth experience. The lyrics may seem silly, but they are realistic; “Drinks are all $20 and they’re watered down.”
Next is the nostalgic “On My Mind.” Through various scenes of his adolescence, Kandel shares his understanding that life is about trying it all, learning to fail forward, and practicing radical acceptance.
An interlude then seamlessly carries the story forward. “Joshua Tree (Interlude)” seems to recall an acid trip experience in the desert through spoken-word poetry: “My world became the stars above. They breathed as I did.”
Continuing the surreal vibe is “Romanticizing Poets.” This track evokes the ambiance of Paris, France, with emotional strings that float beautifully in the background. Kandel’s inclusion of tasteful vocal cracks shows his sincerity and passion, bringing in a slight country element.
Closing out the album is “Teeth.” It gently serenades the listener with a minimal first half, gradually adding to the instrumentals with time. This addition of layers acts as a satisfying conclusion to the sonic story.
Musically, Eating & Drinking & Being In Love showcases Theo’s distinctive style, blending elements of folk with a subtle rock energy. The tracks are lavish with authenticity, drawing on his experiences and observations. Each song invites the listener to find joy in the mundane and appreciate the connections that enrich our lives.
This fall, Theo is set to embark on an exciting tour alongside fellow artist Jordy Searcy, making 14 stops across the United States. The tour will take him to vibrant cities such as Austin, Nashville, New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. Additionally, he will support The Script at the Brooklyn Paramount on September 30, further expanding his reach within the music community.
Theo Kandel’s musical journey began at the tender age of four when he picked up the violin. Over the years, he explored various genres, blending indie, pop, and electronic influences while maintaining a strong folk foundation. His evolution culminated in his debut EP, Spin Cycle, which garnered acclaim from prominent publications like FLAUNT and Ones To Watch. Following this, his 2022 EP, What if it all works out in the end?, showcased standout tracks that echo the legacy of folk icons such as Jackson C. Frank and James Taylor.
In 2023, Kandel signed with Nettwerk, solidifying his position as a rising star. His recent stripped-down EP, Somewhere Along the Trail, Vol. 1, featured the lead single “Flight to JFK,” which has already amassed over 500,000 streams.
With Eating & Drinking & Being In Love, Theo Kandel invites listeners to celebrate the magic of youth and the bonds that shape our lives. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this enchanting artist live this fall, and find tickets now on his website.
Stream Theo Kandel’s debut album now on Spotify and Apple Music.
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