One of our best local bands, Running Down Romance is calling it quits after years of bringing us great times and memories
Something about the music business is really hard on bands. It seems that the overwhelming odds are that a band will either:
- Break up due to personality conflicts OR
- Die in a fiery plane crash
I’m sad to report that last week, I got a very disheartening phone call from Dan Crowder. Dan informed me that due to personality conflicts arising during a recent show he had decided to end the bickering and just end Running Down Romance.
The details of what happened are known by those involved and those close to them and I wont go into it here. Lets just chalk it up to “irreconcilable differences” (thats a term I learned from my ex wifes lawyer) and leave it at that. I’m not sure in this case that ANY band member is particularly happy about it but perhaps they will all move into things that each please them more individually.
Jeremy Dollar, long time power drummer has been playing with another much heavier rock band for some time and from what I understand is happier doing all original songs and rocking out.
Joel Maxey, lead guitar player who replaced Jamie Free several years ago has been hanging with a alternative rock crowd and has roots in slightly different music as well. Joel teaches guitar at The Levee and will probably find another band as well.
Mike Wilson, I’m not sure what to say. If you know Mike you know what I mean. Coming from a modern rock background, Mike was a bit of an outsider. Part wordsmith, part IT man, with a past you probably cant really fathom, nor do you want to.
And lastly there is Dan Crowder. his rough bluesy voice sometimes in such strained shape that it requires a bit of his medicine in the form of the venues ‘house wine’, AKA Jager to get him through the night. Dan shared with me that his music in Albany certainly wont come to an end. Look for him to reform ‘something’, perhaps the ‘Dan Crowder Project’
I’m sad to see this band go. Their CD is still in my playlist and will probably stay there forever. I personally remember lots of good times with each and every one of these guys,
Their last show ever will be at Big Rax this Friday night, 11/9/2012
For this farewell show, original lead guitarist and co writer of the majority of their songs, Jamie Free will take back the lead guitar duties for one last time.
Get out and see this show. I’m guessing by the last set, there will be some tears shed.
Dan Crowder Jamie Free Joel Maxey Michael Wilson Jeremy Dollar. Take care guys, I wish each and every one of you the best.