SundayRunners' perfect pop

SundayRunners - SundayRunners
(Machine Records)
5 stars (out of 5 stars)
Reviewed: Oct. 26, 2004

Review by Tony Bonyata

For those who thought that beautifully crafted, hook-filled and expertly executed pop rock was a thing of the past, think again, because the Chicago-based rock band SundayRunners have just produced an amazing album overflowing with thought-provoking and often innocent lyrics, tight song structures, warm vocals and edgy guitars, all held together by a production rich in vivid colors and broad textures.
Led by Waukesha, WI-native Randy Diderrich, SundayRunners have wasted no time jumping right out of the gate with this promising self-titled debut, recorded earlier this year in Lake Geneva - as the effort just charted at number 16 last week in CMJ's Most Added Album to College Radio Chart (no easy feat for a new unheard of act). And while they may not yet be a household name, Diderrich has certainly made a name for himself in the past - first in the Milwaukee-based band Front of Truck, whose songs have appeared on popular television shows such as Jenny Jones, Party of Five and VH1's Record Breakers, among others. More recently Diderrich has also been on the road with Tobin Sprout (Guided By Voices) as his touring guitarist.
From the upbeat pop that graces this album on songs such as "Half My Height," "Everlasting Sun" and the opening track "Elected" (which, with its optimistic message of hope and trust, proves to be the perfect antidote to all of the the political mudslinging surrounding the Presidential Election this year) to the more introspective and haunting numbers "1993" and "Floor Toms Fall Away" to the lush melody and comforting harmonies that float ethereally over the skittish beat on the intoxicating "Memories Left At Sea," Diderrich and company have created the perfect modern rock soundtrack to a wide range of human emotions.
Whether other great bands such as Radiohead and The Pixies had a direct impact on Diderrich's songwriting or not, there's no denying some amount of influence exuded on the musician on songs such as the otherworldly "Into Your Head" and the punchy "Lip Biter"(respectively). But aside from these subtle persuasions, the true testament to Diderrich's talent lies in the fact that the majority of these compositions are uniquely his own.
With a debut filled with some of the most irresistible pop in music today, SundayRunners could quite honestly be the album of the year. They've got my vote.

SundayRunners will be performing at their Record Release Party also featuring Todd Bowie and The Karlz this Friday, October 29 at 9:00 pm at Hogs & Kisses, 149 Broad St., Lake Geneva, WI. (262) 248-7447. This will be a free show, as well a Halloween Costume Party with free giveaways.