Running Numbers @ The Jazz Cafe Camden

Running Numbers @ The Jazz Cafe Camden

 

Running numbers are a Hip-hop and Drum and Bass band from Brighton who have a very individual sound that is really a pleasure to watch. However the Jazz Cafe has a strange door policy and let people in very slowly so people in the que were all concerned that they would not get in time to watch Running Numbers. This seemed to cause a real problem outside and I think a review of the way they deal with customers may be an advantage. Once in the door there is a central bar which splits the club in two, and seems to be quite slow. There was plenty of room to dance and also great drink deals, £2.20 for a pint of larger and sprit and mixer combos.

 

However Running Numbers themselves played a fantastic set of Hip hop with the crowd loving every minute. Beth who is the female vocalist really put a lot of energy into this performance as did the other members of the band. You can tell that these guys have had a lot of different influences in their music which makes for a truly original sound that everyone is guaranteed to love!

 

I think we will be seeing some great things from these guys who I feel will be going very far, seriously get to their gigs if you can, while they are playing smaller venues. My prediction is that one day they will only be playing big stages; I know I am glad to have witnessed these guys at the Jazz Cafe Camden. I managed to catch up with Running Numbers afterwards to do a quick interview-

So how long have Running numbers been together?

Running Numbers started in 2009

 

How did you guys get together?

 

We are all musicians and old friends that came together through various other projects and have a very similar outlook on music.

 

What style of music would you describe running numbers?

 

The original concept of the band was to be a live Hip Hop act, but through our various influences and love for the whole bass music movement, it now leans towards Hip Hop, Dub-Step and Drum and Bass.

 

So can you tell me a bit more about the members of the band...

 

Andy has been producing electronic music and rapping and playing percussion for around ten years. He spends hours staring at the computer screen to perfect the bands unique sound. On stage MC Fadadoo, the alter ego is dedicated to getting the whole crowd moving into a dancing mayhem.

 

Beth has always lived and breathed music, composing her first full song at the early age of 9. She plays piano, flute and sings. She has a serious talent to create a hook and always has a new composition to bring to the studio.  Her love for MOP and drum and bass give her heart felt vocals a slightly aggressive style mixed with the very gentle tones of a Cornish siren.

 

Pete been DJing for over ten years, he originally got into djing from being transfixed on the scratching and turntableism, and has put in hours creating his ninja like skills. Since joining the band he has branched out into the realm of samplers, percussion and electronic drums. This enables him to expand from the constrictions of just using a turntable. Pete is also responsible for all the artwork and styling.

 

Jono is another member whole can play a number of instruments including, Drums, Saxophone. He writes about five wicked tunes a week and is always there with a fresh chorus for the ladies. His Drum skills are immense and have to be seen. This guy has got the funk!

 

 

Who would you say has been a real influence on the band?

 

Running Numbers have a huge amount of influences ranging from The Roots to Michael Jackson’s, to Dangermouse, Prodigy and Quantic Soul Orchestra plus so many more from completely diverse artists and mainstream pop acts..

 

 

Who would you say has been your major influence on yourself while you were growing up?

 

Family, Friends and Idols.

 

Can you remember what your first music album and single was?

 

Beth: Root Juice "Cant keep living this way" Dire Straights "Money for nothing"

 

Andy: Skee Low "I wish “Prodigy “Gilted Generation”

 

Who would you say are some up and coming acts that you think the readers should look out for?

 

People to look out for! and listening to ..

Bloodman. on deca rhythm .. Amazing producer

Serial knowledge .. Dope uk hip hop

Sub motion orchestra ..

Gentleman's dub club.. live !

 

Yeah I love Gentlesman's Dub club too have to agree with that one.

Thanks so much guys really looking forward to what the rest of 2011 brings for you, can't wait to see the new stuff..

 

www.runningnumbersmusic.co.uk