LeBarons Premiere Their Slow-Burning Single, “Running River”

There’s no sense in running away from what got you here, and LeBarons is a band that is proud of their influences. That becomes quite clear in listening to their brand new single “Running River.” A mid-tempo, slow-burning modern alternative country track, the inspirations are quite clear when you consider the instrumentation, the melody, lead singer Chris MacDonald’s voice, and just the general overall vibe.

Produced by the band’s bassist, the JUNO Award-winning John Dinsmore, “Running River” is a clear ode to some of rock and folk’s greatest names. You can hear Fleetwood Mac in the ambiance of the song, and certainly Bruce Springsteen in MacDonald’s vocal approach. The vocals feature the same type of urgency that Springsteen often uses. It all conspires to make for a captivating and engaging song.

Discussing “Running River,” MacDonald states:

“When I picked up the guitar and began playing with the chords that would become ‘Running River,’ it was the chorus that came to me first. This is often the case for many of my songs. Ultimately, I wanted to write something that sounded like it could be track seven from a Springsteen b-side album. At the same time, I tried hard to channel (Tom) Petty on the chorus. Or at least, as much as a guy who doesn’t sound like either can. I was also inspired by sparser instrumentation, which led to the vibe. The lyrics are an amalgamation of past moments where desperation became the fuel for escape.”

LeBarons also pride themselves on their roots. They are a fully independent act, hailing from the Toronto and Hamilton area. This is their first new music to come since the release of their 2023 album Days are Mountains. That record performed well for the band, garnering them radio play, magazine features, and industry praise. The band has been at it since 2014, intent on crafting their own unique style of alternative country, featuring lush, atmospheric soundscapes and vivid lyrical stories. The band is more versatile than your average Americana act. They can do country but also feature elements of folk, rock, and alternative acts.

As a unit, LeBarons are ok with paying their respects. Because they realize they wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for those who paved the way for them.

LeBarons “Running River” single artwork