Runaways
Self-Released, 2019
8/10
A Brooklyn based songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, Kris Kelly penned Runaways after spending half a decade traveling South America with just his guitar and a few belongings. With the help of musicians from Tori Amos and Ani DiFranco’s band, Kelly delivers very creative tunes here where folk and chamber-pop are in attendance.
“Birthplace” starts the listen with acoustic guitars and pretty singing from Kelly on the folk inspired opening that brings in orchestral ideas, and “We Flew” continues the creativity in the indie-pop and chamber friendly tune.
In the middle, “Cracked Porcelain” is a busy, lush and layered gem, while “In This Valley” is a sparse but no less precise example of the varied instrumentation and elegance that Kelly possesses.
Deeper cuts offer us the moody “More”, where rhythm is key, and “Brother” is nearly 9 minutes of breezy melodies that make this one of the album’s best. “Sunstone” exits the listen much like started- organic, melodic and an overall sunnier delivery.
Not only did Kelly’s time in South America provide the inspiration for this fine album, he also met his now husband on the trip. As one might expect, Runaways is lyrically very much a personal affair with much self-discovery, while musically it’s adventurous and flowing with innovation.
Travels well with: Rufus Wainwright- Want One; Destroyer- Destroyer’s Rubies