Shader – Runaway (2021)
Hailing from the North West region of England, Shader is a fresh-faced melding of Kings of Leon, Smashing Pumpkins, The Cure and The Smiths. Bringing together their passion, energy and enthusiasm, Stu Whiston (vocals and guitar), Mike Lo Bosco (lead guitar), Daz Edwards (bass) and Tom Turney (drums) pound out a unique pop-rock meets post-punk sound. Featured on Gig Slutz, Stoke Sentinel, BBC Introducing Stoke, Radio X, Alive and Gigging, Indie Midlands and XS Manchester, the UK-based lads are making waves on an international scale. The latest addition to their well-received discography is the provocative single ‘Runaway’.
Following their popular hit ‘True To Life’ (read our review here), Shader continues to pack a punch with their hard-hitting new single. Not one to turn away from the controversial aspects of life, ‘Runaway’ is, according to Whiston, “about the anxiety of everyday life, real versus fake, the upsurge of talentless TV celebrity culture becoming a legitimate career move and the overwhelming desire to run away to somewhere with some soul.”
Combining dynamic guitars, pounding drums and Whiston’s gruff vocals, ‘Runaway’ is Shader’s sonic representation of dissatisfaction, confusion and discontent with modern society. To ensure you feel the tiring hopelessness of reality, the single is filled with a frenzied pace that is both toe-tapping and overwhelming. Yes, you might want to slow down and face the situation, but Shader grabs you by the hand to take a plunge into difficult existence. The melodic tapestry has a head-spinning effect, but it is the poignant lyrical content that enhances the sentimentality of ‘Runaway’.
Using a personal narrative, Whiston engages with the listener speaking unspoken truths into the lads’ drained frustration. Yet, while there is a desperation in the provocative content, Whiston’s rich vocals add robustness to ‘Runaway’ with a lingering endearment. Teetering on the cusp of wistful despair and hopeful positivity for change, Shader weaves a golden thread into this tapestry of gritty dismay.
In addition to the single, Shader released an official music video for ‘Runaway’. Unfortunately, I have photosensitive epilepsy and cannot view the video because of its strobe effects, but I do want to share a comment on the seconds I did see. Instead of using a full film setting, the video shows a live performance of ‘Runaway’. The bright lights and individual appearances showcase Shader’s passion for music. Known for their high-paced shows, this video adequately represents the band in all their gigging glory. I may not have seen most of the video, but it makes me long for the day I see them live!
For more from Shader check out their official website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.
