RUN RIVER NORTH

Run River North

2014-03-20

Run River North is an indie folk rock group from San Fernando Valley, California. Alex Hwang (Vocals/Acoustic Guitar), Daniel Chae (Electric Guitar/Violin), Jenifer Rim (Violin), Joseph Chun (Bass), John Chong (Drums), and Sally Kang (Vocals/Keys) are the devoutly Christian, Korean American musicians who make up the sextet. The bands sound has been compared to that of Of Monsters And Men with their ensemble sound rooted in the folk genre. Hwang's vocals are sometimes soft and wispy, but they can also be strong and cutting. Those that attend their live shows make note that Hwang does not wear shoes on stage, to which he has said he likes to share his stories barefoot. Before being signed by Nettwerk Records, a Canada-based label that signed the band fun., the group was featured on Jimmy Kimmel Live. They recorded their self-titled debut album, Run River North, with producer Phil Ek, known for his work with Fleet Foxes, Built to Spill, and Band of Horses. Run River North explores generational responsibility, faith, understanding, self-reflection, and ancestry through exceptional musicianship, apt lyrics, and uproarious choruses. "Monsters Calling Home" speaks to the familial and generational struggles of the group, while "In The Water" uses staccato percussion to make perseverance unforgettable.
- Richard Martin

Quick Links:

More reviews tagged #Folk

  • reviewed 09/2010

    CHOCOLATE GENIUS
    Swansongs

  • reviewed 10/2006

    COWBOY JUNKIES
    Long Journey Home

  • reviewed 02/2006

    THE WOOD BROTHERS
    Ways Not to Lose

  • reviewed 09/2009

    BIRDIE BUSCH
    Pattern of Saturn

  • reviewed 02/2013

    Y LA BAMBA
    Oh February

  • reviewed 05/2011

    GORD DOWNIE AND THE COUNTRY MIRACLES
    The Grand Bounce

Compiled by the WYCE Journalism Club

The opinions expressed in these reviews are those of the individual volunteers that submitted the article and do not necessarily reflect the views of WYCE or GRCMC; nor its staff, donors, or affiliates.