Project Description
Interview with
RUN RIVER NORTH
Interviewer – Dave Bruce
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LA-based Korean-American Alternative group Run River North release “Wake Up” – an instantly-anthemic, jubilant, call to action. It’s a song that the trio says that “finally seemed to shake us out of the melancholy of the past three years.” From the triumphant string intro, to the exhilarating chorus, the song calls on you to “smell the roses” and “Wake Up!”
Having ushered in a new era of the band with the release of Monsters Calling Home, Vol.1 earlier this spring, RRN are set to embark on yet another exciting chapter with the second half of that EP collection, Monsters Calling Home, Vol. 2. With a fistful of their most ebullient, catchy, and radio-friendly songs to date, the trio-Alex Hwang (guitar/vocals), Daniel Chae (guitars/vocals), and Sally Kang (keys/vocals)— have completed their journey into the light, focused fully on a fresh, joyful sound while embracing their true communal identity and feeling-driven instincts. And with lead single “Wake Up” paving their way, it’s clear that 2019 will be looked upon as the year Run River North truly began.
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How did you two meet? When did you start writing music together?
The three of us met through the band. Everyone knew of each other through music and the relationship really formed when Alex asked each person to join him on stage for a talent competition.
What kind of music did you grow up on? Which artists inspired you?
We grew up on KPop, Evanescence, and everyone else in the TRL glory days. Some artists that have inspired our music include The Killers, Damien Rice, and DJ Doc.
Your latest track is called ‘Wake Up.’ What can we expect from the new release?
In the new single “Wake Up”, you can expect pop melodies mixed with our unique sensibilities and heartfelt lyrics.
What inspired you to write the song?
The song caught us by surprise. We were in the thick of writing songs for the next EP. Our brains were like spaghetti because we were in session after session. When we got in to write with Nick Anderson of The Wrecks, it felt like magic. It was so effortless and fun, but it was also a pure reflection of where our minds were at.
How has your sound evolved over the years?
Our sound has changed from a folksier rock to an aggressive alternative rock, and now to a dancier electronic rock.
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Can you share a highlight of your career? Or a moment you will never forget?
A highlight was definitely playing Summersonic in Osaka and Tokyo ans Pentaport in South Korea. As Korean-Americans born and raised in California, it was an amazing feeling to play our music in the land of our parents.
Who are your music influences? And what music are you listening to at the moment?
Music influences include The Killers, Arctic Monkeyz, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, TV On the Radio, Evanescence, and The Kills. At the moment, Idles, Clairo, and Can is in heavy rotation.
What is one thing people might be surprised to know about you?
Sally’s favorite band growing up was Evanescence.
Do you have any major goals or aspirations you are still striving towards?
Major goals include touring the world, playing bigger stages, and growing as a band.
Finally, a few questions for some quick answers –
FAVORITE:
Album – Chronic 2001
Artist – Kendrick Lamar
Movie – Ace Ventura 2: When Nature Calls
Place to visit – South Korea
Venue to play – Bowry Ballroom
Food = JG Melon Cheeseburger
Drink – Heart Coffee Rosters
Person in History – Mother Teresa
Tattoo – (if you don’t have one, one you would get?) – Don’t have one, but i would probably get a tattoo that serves a function, like a mile marker over time
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Check out RUN RIVER NORTH below
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