It can be difficult for a band to make a name for themselves in the expansive world of

rock and pop music, even if they have an original and pleasing sound. Run Kid Run is a new Christian-minded band coping with that exact problem; their music and their message are great, but many of their fans consider the band from Illinois one of the Rock/Pop genre’s best kept secrets.

In their second studio album, Love at the Core, Run Kid Run manages to maintain a solidly up-beat feel. The songs, though short, have catchy melodies in a similar style to more well-known bands like The All American Rejects. “Sure Shot” is a fast-paced and animated song, coupled with flowing lyrics and a lively beat. The song is an encouraging call for young Christians to come together and speak out about their faith. The theme is presented with dramatic lyrics which are, unfortunately, left behind by the rushing tempo. The words can be hard to understand at times, as they are pronounced in such quick succession, but the lack of articulation does little damage to the song as a whole.

“The Emergency” has a similar message, but with a more serious tone. The melody is alluring, but it is mostly played by a jarring electric guitar, giving the song a stormier feel than others on the album.

Run Kid Run seems to specialize in energetic songs that would fit perfectly on a dance floor. The main title, “Love at the Core” drives on at a slightly slower pace than is typical for this band, but it still sustains the lively feel of the whole album. The love song “One In A Million” portrays the spirited feeling of young love with a fresh and active tune and an original take on a classic song-topic.

“Rescue Me”, the first song on the album, has a plucky air with a quick but strong sound. The song demonstrates the classic struggle of humans with disappointment and loss with lyrics like “I have a failure condition, motivation to speak slow,”  but at the same time it offers a bit of comfort by quickly answering with “in the making you see what I can be, a revelation, a new creation carries me,”

“Fall into the Light” highlights the impressive vocals of lead singer David Joshua Curtis, and smoothly pairs the swift lyrics with guitar riffs that are almost worthy of Guitar Hero.  

The passionate and worshipful “My Sweet Escape” (not related to the Gwen Stefani song) is one of the more obviously Christian songs on the album, which may be unattractive to some, but many will find the song inspiring.

The final song on the album is “Freedom”, the most lyrical song on Love at the Core, and Run Kid Run’s most popular song of late. “Freedom” is a heartfelt ballad with and powerful mood overall that leaves a profound feeling on the listener.

For a band that only formed five years ago, Run Kid Run has really been able to produce quality songs that fans of Relient K or Swichfoot will love. The youthfulness and lively tone of all of their songs and their uplifting message are what make this band notable, and what will keep their fan base strong for years to come.