Run River North set to play concert at the Teregram Ballroom
Folk band Run River North just released its sophomore album, Drinking From A Salt Pond, this past Friday, capturing the attention of many with their breathtaking harmonies and clever arrangements. Made up of six L.A. natives, with one USC alum, Daniel Chae, on vocals and violin, the band can be seen this Tuesday at the Telegram Ballroom in downtown L.A., with opener The Wild Reeds.
After the show, they hit the road for a national tour throughout March and April in support of the new album, playing many notable venues and the popular music festival, SXSW, in Austin. The band recently finished a North American tour opening for Relient K, and have played throughout L.A., with previous shows at the Levitt Pavilion, Grand Park, the Troubadour and more.
Run River North, formerly known as Monsters Calling Home, formed in 2011 when lead singer Alex Hwang wanted to compete in an L.A. music competition. He reached out to a small circle of musicians in the Korean-American community, and thus the band was formed. After the competition, they continued playing with each other. Band members include Chae (vocals, strings, electric guitar), Alex Hwang (lead vocals, guitar), Jennifer Rim (strings), Joe Chun (bass, vocals), John Chong (drums, vocals) and Sally Kang (vocals, keyboards).
Their music can be described as folk rock and alternative, very similar to Of Monsters and Men, but with influences from bands like Arcade Fire, the National and Cage the Elephant, whose influences are clearly heard in the new album Drinking From A Salt Pond. Working with producer Lars Stalfors, who also worked with Cold War Kids, Deap Vally, HEALTH and Matt and Kim, the new album takes a step back from the folk melodies of the first album and welcomes electric guitars and heavier drums, with songs like “Run or Hide” and “Pretender.” However, fans of the first album won’t be disappointed with Drinking From A Salt Pond, as many of the songs feature the beautiful arrangements, harmonies and violin parts associated with the band’s sound, with tracks like “Winter Winds” providing soft and striking melodies.
Run River North has been an inspiration to the Asian-American community. Yet, when the band was first establishing itself, they faced challenges as many people hadn’t seen six Koreans playing folk rock music together before. A popular band comprised of all Asian Americans that isn’t K-Pop is actually very rare. Nevertheless, when people hear the amazing music coming from the band, most judgements disappear because of their undeniable talent.
In an interview with the Daily Trojan, Run River North said they were excited to play the new album on their upcoming tour and see their fans’ reactions to the new direction they’re taking. In the future, they hope to continue touring around the world and play major festivals, like Outside Lands, growing their fanbase and sharing their talents with thousands. With an amazing sophomore album and a national tour set, a lot of great things are ahead for Run River North this year.