Dabbling coolly with grit of the 'the' band sound while borrowing ruminants of Brit rock's pop sensibility, Middle Distance Runner offer up something with the potential for a real fan based success. Hinting at better things throughout the six-track effort, the five-piece uses the formulaic idea of songwriting based around guitar/synth hooks layered with a full and strong rhythm section. What comes across are some very promising tracks for a band toying with the flirtation of national exposure, though lacking on the release is a tune with enough of a catch to bring them to that point. Finishing with a strong note, however, the closer "Man of the People" leaves the listener a memorable moment in this twenty-one minute escapade, which begs the question of what the band's second full-length will bring.
With a solid foundation for something slightly bigger, and a willingness to tour enough to take them there, Middle Distance Runner's pop based brand of indie rock is something to keep your eye on.
See also
Catchy, Generic, Fun, The Hives, Artic Monkeys
