Stephanie’s DJ Pick of the Week is “Runner” by Alex G! “Runner” is the second and newest single from Alex G’s upcoming album, God Save the Animals. Alex Giannascoli began releasing music made in his bedroom on Bandcamp under the name Alex G in 2010. Early Alex G music was rough around the edges and a bit messy, yet still beautiful and melodic—a style that has become somewhat signature to his act, just with better production. He saw a few smaller independent releases until his first under Domino Records, 2015’s Beach Music. Following this release, Giannascoli found himself playing guitar on Frank Ocean songs and a growing fan base.
This track takes a sharp turn from Alex G’s previously released single, “Blessing”. “Runner” sounds like how a breath of fresh air feels. “I like people who I can open up to/Who don’t judge for what I say, but judge me for what I do,” Giannascoli sings as he opens the track supported by guitars, piano, and drums, doing a playfully melancholic dance together in song. A music video was released for “Runner” as well, which pays homage stylistically to Tom Petty’s video for “The Waiting”.
God Save the Animals is Alex G’s ninth album and features thirteen tracks including “Runner” and “Blessing”. In a press release for the album, Giannascoli says he was deeply inspired by the ideas of “spirituality and faith more as social language rather than religious doctrine”. Preorder God Save the Animals here, and be sure to catch Alex G live at the Brooklyn Bowl Sunday, October 9! Purchase tickets here.
Tune into 100.1 FM or lightning100.com to hear “Runner” by Alex G as Stephanie’s DJ Pick of the Week. Be sure to let us know your thoughts! Tweet at us with #L100DJPicks and share your take on the track.
