New Music: The Young Runaways

If you’re looking for a new indie-pop band to get your teeth into in 2012, I’d suggest The Young Runaways as a first port of call. The band are a six-piece from Birmingham and the West Midlands, fronted by Matt Pinfield and Harriett Woodcock. They use violins, trumpet, trombone and keys in addition to the standard guitar, drums and bass to give their indie-pop sound a folky and orchestral infused edge. Woodcock’s voice sits beautifully on top of Pinfield’s to create harmonies that sit well on both haunting, slower tracks and upbeat poppy numbers.

Debut EP There Is A World Outside was released in early 2011 and features the brilliant What Happened To Us?, an up-tempo track about heartbreak. The catchy hook, epic violins and climactic crescendo ensures you are left with the memory of this song long after its played out. Those with a good ear may recognise the band’s most popular song Closer from the Peugeot 107 and 207 adverts in summer last year.  Its twee, summery sound is perfect for banishing those winter blues, and is mildly reminiscent of the likes of One Night Only.

During 2011, the Young Runaways held tour support slots for Stornoway and Fyfe Dangerfield, and have already promised brand new tracks for fans to look forward to this year. The band’s mix of elegant pop and folk-indie is broad enough to appeal to almost anyone. Definitely worth a listen for fans of the likes of Bombay Bicycle Club, The Drums and Two Door Cinema Club.

youngrunaways.co.uk