Jeffrey Runnings, Founder, Bassist and Vocalist of For Against, Dies at 61

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It is with sadness that we report the passing of Jeffrey Runnings, an original member, bass player, and vocalist from the Nebraska-based independent group For Against. He was 61 years old.

I sadly bid farewell on March 3rd, as I learned of Runnings’ passing following his brave fight against Stage 4 cancer, according to Independent Project Records.

Ever since they kicked off in Lincoln, Nebraska back in 1984, I’ve been a fan of For Against. Known for their drifting, rhythmic dream pop vibe that one critic described as straddling the British post-punk of Joy Division and the ethereal soundscapes of Kitchens of Distinction, they truly stood out. Their debut single was “Autocrat/It’s a Lie.

Back in the day, I was into some pretty cool bands that released tunes on various labels. For instance, I’d spin their 80s hits like “Echelons” from 1987 and “December” from 1988, both on Words on Music. Fast forward a few years, and I was grooving to their Rainbow Quartz releases – “Aperture” in ’93 and “Mason’s California Lunch Room” in ’95. Last but not least, they dropped “Shelf Life” on the World Domination label in ’97.

In the year 2002, 2008, and 2009, the band went back to Words on Music for their LPs. Meanwhile, Runnings published a solo album titled “Primitives & Smalls” in 2016, which was released by Saint Marie Records.

Next year, the label IPR is set to release another solo album titled “Piqued” that Runnings recorded last year. This will include a four-track EP containing uncommon recordings from the late 1980s. The lead single, “Batman Forever,” is now available for listening here.

Bruce Licher, the founder and co-owner of Independent Project Records, expressed that Jeffrey Runnings was more than just a friend and a talented musician and songwriter; he was someone who lived and breathed music.

For years, Jeff would eagerly share music with his friends that he believed they’d appreciate, sending handwritten letters with records or mixtapes he thought were perfect for them. Even in the mid-21st century, when he shared his latest album with me, it was on a cassette tape mailed through the post. Such a thoughtful gesture could not have been more special. His distinctive voice will be deeply missed.

Hailing from Omaha, Nebraska, on the 22nd of April, 1963, Jeffrey Scott Runnings spent his childhood amassing records and honing his piano skills. As a natural left-hander, he mastered playing right-handed guitars in an unconventional manner, flipping them upside down. Moreover, he held a deep affection for felines and gained experience working at a cat café in his native town.

Among those who carried on after him are his spouse, Sean; his brother Steve, along with Linda, his partner; nephews Rudy (Darcy) and Phil; niece Christina; and his uncle Gerald. His sister, Karen, passed away before him.

Donations can be made to his GoFundMe page.

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2025-04-15 19:25