Single Review The SoapGirls – ‘Running’

Words by Phil Ingham

I saw The SoapGirls supporting Wednesday13 at the O2 Ritz in Manchester in late Autumn last year. The band, formed by sisters Noemie and Camille Debray, brought quite the show. I was blown away by their energy, glittering presence and pacy setlist. The music was raw and punchy, with Noemie rocking some dirty guitar and Camille on rippling bass, combining to unleash some serious grunge-tinged numbers. It made me keen to follow their journey.

The next stage of that journey is here – the release of forthcoming album ‘Rebel DNA’ from which this single, ‘Running’, is the first release.

The new single comes as a surprise based on my experience of them in the live arena. Their live show was heavy and in-your-face whereas this comes across as a much more radio-friendly affair. The live show was explosive, with a hint of pop underneath the riffing. This release is very much a pop song but with an alt-rock underbelly.

That isn’t a bad thing. This is a versatile band and it’s great to hear them playing with genres. The result is a solid pop-rock track which could be the one to really open them up to new audiences.

Camille’s bass drives the track from the off, it’s a real hook throughout the song. Then the vocals hit, bringing beautiful harmonisation from the sisters. It could almost be an overly sweet pop number if it wasn’t for the razor lick of Noemie’s guitar slicing subtly through the saccharine. It’s the ideal song for early Spring; sunshine and a soft breeze, but carrying the hint that a storm could still roll in.

It isn’t a song built on complex arrangements or twisting musical flourishes. It’s simple, it’s catchy and it makes you smile.

There is a retro feel to the track that evokes memories of The Bangles or Blondie, but with a grungy undercurrent that makes it something fresh. The chorus is the most persistent of earworms which you will inevitably find yourself humming out loud several times throughout the day.

According to the band, the song is about loving someone and never giving up the chase, and an emotional integrity shines throughout the song.

‘Rebel DNA’ promises to bring both pop-leaning songs and heavier music to their fans, and this single is a fantastic example of the former.

‘Running’ proves the band can deliver a sugar-coated hook without smothering the fire that made them impossible to ignore on stage. The girls’ fierce independence lets them create exactly the music they want, and that freedom makes them an exciting proposition.

If the rest of the album continues in the vein of this first release, it could be something genuinely special.