Jeff Runnings RIP
Jeff Runnings RIP
I actually knew Jeff Runnings. Not …..well, not like his closest friends and family. Yet I knew the guy. Music threw us together but it was the man himself that guaranteed the contact was maintained. i.e. The way he was in real life.
Friends turned me onto his band For Against, an absolute must listen for anyone who likes The Chameleons, The Sound, Comsat Angels, The Names, Danse Society etc. When I moved into writing it was around the time of the For Against revival. I was excited to receive their comeback album, Shade Side Sunny Side, for review. It seemed both amazing to be part of and normal at the same time. I remember arranging an interview as well, except it was with the returning Harry Dingman rather than Jeff. I cannot recall why and Harry was absolutely brilliant in any case. Fast forward and on a couple of occasions I remember expanding the [sic] Magazine End Of Year reviews to include celeb contributions. Jeff’s articles and selections were always great. I also recall him showing me his rejection letter from 4AD as if it were a trophy and a source of pride.
I’m not sure any of this is quite the reason why we kept up contact on socials. It was more just how great he was. So positive. About…. everything. Someone like Soft Kill might have an album out, and it would be “Amazing” according to Jeff. An Alvvays record…… “Incredible” Anyone on Slumberland…. I mean, Franky Rose…. jeez…he’d be doing cartwheels. You get my drift. Of course me being me, easily swayed, I went out and acquired these predominantly ‘fair to middling’ releases and I’d roll my eyes at Jeff because of course in my eyes the true brilliance was For Against. Not these lesser wannabe’s. Then I’d find myself humming their music weeks later.
Jeff didn’t have a magazine but he championed music just as much as I did. And he was mostly right.
Jeff you were infernal and I’ll always be grateful. I loved our online chats. l loved your singing voice and your music.
Until we meet again.