We introduced you to Runabay back in June, when we reviewed their EP, which was, appropriately enough called, ‘The June EP’. Since then the six piece indie/pop/folk band from the Glens of Antrim in Northern Ireland have been performing, including a date in London, and working on their new single, ‘This Day’, due out next week. We asked Runabay to give us their Essential Weekly Playlist. It’s a collaborative effort between Gary Graham (guitar/vocals) and Gerard McHugh (vocals/percussion), with every “I” referring to Gerard.
Gerard: There were so many bands that I found it very difficult to choose, so this list would probably change on an hourly basis. I’ve noticed there are a few Irish inspirations in there so there is a lot to live up to in what we do.
Nick Drake – ‘Time Of No Reply’
Love Nick Drake’s dark lyrics and haunting playing.
Coldplay – ‘See You Soon’
Gary and I both love this old b-side of Coldplay’s – one of their finest.
U2 – ‘Sunday Bloody Sunday’
Declan is a huge U2 fan so I am taking a liberty in saying that he will like this.
Fleet Foxes – ‘Helplessness Blues’
Amazing harmonies which we aspire to. Also loving Father John Misty at the moment.
Radiohead – ‘Reckoner’
No hype needed just listen.
Fionn Regan – ‘Black Water Child’
Back when he was signed to Bella Union this was one of my favourites from his debut album.
Sam Cooke – ‘Cry Me A River’
Beautiful soul classic – how songs should be sung.
Villagers – ‘Becoming A Jackal’
A contemporary Irish artist,Conor J. O’Brien has an amazing talent for songwriting.
Paddy Casey – ‘Sweet Suburban Sky’
This is the man whom Gary aspired to in his guitar playing.
Arcade Fire – ‘Here Comes The Nighttime’
One of the best (if not the best) live band on the planet.
Check out Runabay online on Twitter, Facebook, Soundcloud, YouTube and their website. ‘This Day’ comes out on December 5, and we’ll bring you more about that closer to the date.
