An invigorating rock album out today from Vancouver-based band JBNG, Run consumes with its dynamic fusing of various aesthetics — from the foreboding grungy flair of “Barely Know You” to the peppier garage-rock charm within “Brutus.” A series of impressive singles preceded the album, with “So Nice” and “Barely Know You” catching our ears last month. Run, which represents JBNG’s sophomore album, is a thorough success from the band.
Alongside guitar-led sounds that span from moody intrigue to impassioned vigor, the production emphasizes the stirring vocals of frontman Jaben John Groome. Initially a bassist, Groome began singing last year, finding the power of unleashing one’s singing voice as helping to manage the more pervasive symptoms of a bipolar diagnosis. His tonal range is commanding, fondly reminiscent of a cross between Eddie Vedder and John Rzeznik.
A multitude of highlights show throughout. “They’re out to get you,” menacing vocals emit alongside pulsating rhythms on “Out to get you,” a masterful display of climactic rock darkness. Meanwhile, touches of funk and dreamy psych are apparent on the fantastic “Brutus,” amongst the album’s more laid-back, melodic standouts. Run is a consistently gripping display of quality rock production and songwriting from JBNG.
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“Brutus” and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.
