“Batman Forever” by Jeffrey Runnings

If the name Jeffrey Runnings doesn’t sound familiar, then you might recognize For Against, the iconic post-punk/shoegaze outfit from my own town of Lincoln, Nebraska. Runnings has been the band’s frontman since 1984, and during that time, they’ve released a series of acclaimed albums including 1988’s December and 2008’s Shade Side Sunny Side.

Later this year, Runnings will release a new solo album, Piqued, on the legendary Independent Project Records label. First single “Batman Forever” is more stripped down and skeletal than you might expect from For Against’s frontman, but it’s no less haunting thanks to Runnings’ imploring vocals and minimal instrumentation.

Sadly, Runnings was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer last year, and is currently in hospice care. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to raise support for Runnings and his husband during this difficult time. And if you’re in Lincoln on February 8th, a benefit concert for Runnings will be held at the Unitarian Church of Lincoln.