Seven Quick Questions: Long Distance Runner

With hype building as singles are teased out, the release of Long Distance Runner's debut 7-inch No Value is fast approaching. The supporting tour kicks off at Whammy this Friday, with stops in Palmy, Wellington and Hamilton. To initiate the warm up stretches we caught up with guitarist Jono Glenday for a swift chin wag...

1. So, for those who are a little slow off the mark, who is Long Distance Runner and what’s your buzz?

Long Distance Runner is Jono, Richard, Sam, Simon, and Calum. We formed in May last year and play heavy, loud music that combines melody and distortion.

2. You’re a veritable supergroup of sorts. How did members of Parents, Sere and How Get all end up on the same stage together?

Simon and I wanted to have the freedom and excitement of trying something new and thought about some killer musicians and people that we'd keen to play with. We met up, talked about what we were aiming for and started practicing the following week.

3. The bands name: what's the origin behind it?

We went through a long list of potential names and settled on Long Distance Runner. It's partly inspired by the Fugazi song but we also love the imagery - the exhaustion, desperation and exhilaration that go along with the name.

4. You’re all seasoned touring musicians by now. Got any effective techniques for breaking up the monotony and loneliness of the road?

Touring New Zealand is pretty straightforward but I'm always amazed at how quickly everyone enters a touring mindset. Stupid games, stories, and the eventual in jokes are key. Staying relaxed and having the show logistics sorted long before you head out.

5. Though your well acquainted with the country by now, what destination are you most looking forward to seeing on your imminent tour?

I'm excited for all of the shows and all of the lineups are great. I often have the best time at the smaller shows, so I'm really excited to play Palmerston North.

6. The lyrics to ‘No Value’ have a distinctly anti-capitalist leaning. Do you have a staunch political stance as a band?

'No Value' is anti the waste of today's throwaway culture and the constant drive toward cheap and meaningless products. We're not overtly political but at this point, everything is political. By putting on shows and releasing music, we support a safe space for people to enjoy and participate in local music.

7. Who in the group has the most stamina? What is the furthest distance they’ve run? Any cross country champions in your midst?

Richard cycles from Ponsonby to Tamaki and back every day, so he is low key the fittest in the group.

Check out the lead single 'No Value' below and if you live in the North Island, catch Long Distance Runner live in the not-too distant future...

Long Distance Runner 7" Release Tour

Friday 17th March, Whammy, Auckland w/ sere, Love Mess, Markdown + Human Resource
Thursday 23rd March, Snails, Palmerston North w/ Carb on Carb
Friday 24th March, Innermost Gardens, Wellington w/ Carb on Carb + Unsanitary Napkin
Saturday 25th March, Hamtown Smackdown, Zeal, Hamilton