Like most, if not all, genres of music, Psychobilly has a formula, and that formula is meant to be changed. The genre itself is a bastardization of multiple other genres and styles. Each band is unique, but still holds on to the meaning of the scene. These unique differences give fans endless possibilities in bands and styles to cling to. Straying from the traditional path, out of London, Ontario, Canada is Running From Daylight, who I have had the pleasure of having a great email conversation with.
At first listen, this band sounds like they are playing on a chicken wire covered stage in Austin, Texas. Strong classic country twang, but with elements of heavy metal and punk, Running From Daylight is a Psychobilly band that doesnt take things too seriously and knows the need to take time to have fun with friends. And the band is just that, a group of friends who have fun playing music. Running From Daylight is Andrew Bellini-Rutledge on vocals and guitar, Garrett Renders on upright bass and backing vocals, Tarek Rashwan on drums and backing vocals, and Troy Jasper on guitar and backing vocals. The guys can typically be found playing at The Richmond Tavern, as well as several other great venues and bars around the London, Ontario area. But, “being a big fan of the Cali Punk Scene I would really like to someday schedule a tour through California and make one of our stops at 924 Gilman,” says Garrett. Having released “Elvis Ain’t Dead Yet” in April, Running From Daylight is currently booking shows in promotion of the album.
The album itself is put out by the band without the assistance or push from any label, and they are incredibly happy with the results of their DIY efforts. According to Andrew, “we found the perfect producer/engineer to work with in Ryan Izzard of The Music Farm.” The passion behind the music came through when “Ryan matched my passion and energy for the project equally,” he adds. “Elvis Ain’t Dead Yet” was mastered by Rene “D La Muerte” Garcia at Batcave Studios to really round out the great psychobilly sound. “We have been lucky to collaborate with talented, helpful people. The whole process of refining our songs has been very enjoyable,” says Tarek.
The best representation of Running From Daylight would be the first 3 tracks off of the incredible “Elvis Ain’t Dead Yet”, Elvis Ain’t Dead Yet, Dead Man’s Crossing, and Between The Eyes. “Dead Man’s Crossing was the last song we wrote before recording the new album and it was the track we collaborated most to write,” stated Garrett. As the album progresses, so does the sound. Always trying to keep things fresh and not get too bored playing or writing, “unless specifically requested to, I will never do the same thing as Andrew at the same time” says Troy of his guitar playing. It keeps the guitar parts seperate and the listener interested and the possiblity of adding elements of banjo, or a larger percussion section, to include a firebell, will definitely do just that.
Starting with Dad’s record collection, guitar teachers, country classics, Rock & Roll, Punk Rock of all eras, and the encouragement of friends Running From Daylight have found their sound. Doing whatever they can to get their music out to all who would seek it, they can be found on Facebook , Instagram @rfdband and on Bandcamp where the new album can be purchased on CD, or digital download.
Links to the band below:
www.facebook.com/rfdband
rfdband.bandcamp.com