“Living & Breathing” Showcases Alex Runo’s Dignity and Spirit

This EP is an ambitious combination of rock, soul, a tinge of pop if you squint, an intimate collection of songs about anything that can be felt under the sun.

One thing that needs to be established right away is Alex Runo can sing. That guy can and will hit a note like it’s his lifeline – or maybe to some extent, it is, considering the quality of the songs on this record. Comprising six tracks including a live studio version of “White Flag”, they are arranged eclectically, showcasing the range and the type of tunes the EP has to offer.

“No Good Gone” comes on strong, with effects that last, work, and help with the whole song – the chorus is catchy, more than enough to make new listeners stay on for the ride. Synthy keyboard can be often caught mingling with rusty-sounding guitar in the best way possible. The same vibe can also be experienced in “White Flag”, a full, funky rock song that comprises riffs that suit and compliment the chorus really well.

The title track takes the cake, that’s for sure. “Living And Breathing” is tamer than the previous one, starting off with isolated piano and vocals – which are heavenly. The tune itself has potential and promise, as this song features a head-bobbing melody that would get anyone hooked. The lines of “Cause there’s something magic in the mindedness that you bring / I know I’m living and breathing when I’m with you” and “I can take your world / try to make it all make sense / but I don’t know if I want to” are delivered brilliantly; this one is truly solid for a title track.

“Paper Love” has a strong gospel and orchestral vibe, somehow balancing out the spectrum of sound prevalent on this EP. From hints of synth to isolated piano parts – is that a semi-switch up or are we in too deep in this record? The effects are a nice touch, especially during the part of these following lines: “There’s nothing to see here / all is well / I landed in your arms / when I fell” 

If it begins strong, Runo makes sure that it ends strong as well. “I Am More Than This” has an incredibly catchy melody, with harmonization between guitar and piano adding depth to it all. Not to mention what the song itself means, showcasing self-belief and the strive to be more: “I don’t know if this’ll take me / all I know is it’ll never break me”. It captures the very essence of soul, making the entire record more meaningful than ever.

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