Originally posted as part of the February 2009 issue.
The Running Is Different, but Why?
And that's a good thing
The Running is not simple. A myriad of styles integrate their sound, and make for an enjoyable concert experience. You never know exactly what you might hear next, and they know it. Their MySpace page defies anyone to attempt to define their style, and it is a daunting feat.
Formed in March 2006, The Running is best described in terms of their individual parts. With band members known as “MIKEDUB” (guitar and vocals), “AZ” (drums), “Christ” (bass and keyboard), and “The Reginald JJ Pow! – Hype Man Extrodinaire,” The Running comes at you from a variety of directions.
Their guitar section involves a mix of blues, Hispanic, and reggae playing, which drives their sound. The bass playing follows the down beat slap of the drumming which creates the uniquely ethnic feel to the music.
You know it’s different you just can’t figure out why.
The voices are outrageously fun. The lead singer’s pedantic lyrical style moves from guttural song to a spoken word reggae spit without effort.
With this unique style, the band is able to put their stamp on a variety of songs. During their packed set at Bowling Green bar Tidballs, The Running covered songs from System of a Down, Snoop Dog, and the Fresh Prince of Belair. Of course, The Running aren’t just a cover band, they also perform originals like Evangelist Blues and Body Rock.
At first glance the Running will draw interest in their sound, as they do not sound like any other band, but in time the style they use can become formulaic. It’s a problem when the Fresh Prince of Belair sounds a lot like your original content.
For the hardcore Running fan, that isn’t an issue. The crowd literally couldn’t get enough of the band, enthusiastically screaming after every song, but for long term viability, the Running could use some work on their song writing chops.
The Running is certainly worth the 5 dollars door price at Tidballs, because they offer something exciting to any venue that they play. With a little work, the niche that The Running has carved out for itself, could expand into something great. For now enjoy the band’s Running start.