The Heat Run is an indie-groove-folk collective based in Philadelphia. Brothers Mike and Steve Schaller began their musical collaboration as Oso, but it evolved into something new that demanded a new name and a fresh start when Steve introduced his brother to Ms. Mandy Shearer, an old friend from Virginia. A musical and romantic connection was immediate and they began churning out a bountiful harvest of new material that drew inspiration from the classic outlaw country, bluegrass, and soul records in Mandy’s record collection as well as the indie, surf, dub, and psychedelic rock in Mike’s. The now married couple introduced the batch of songs to the other members of Oso (including bassist Mike Gordon and drummer Josh Fullam) and the soulful, foot-stomping, hand clapping, group sing-a-longs that define The Heat Run’s music ensued.

To fill out the sound they added multi-instrumentalist Frank Ewing, formerly of Downtown Harvest. They are also often joined by Ben Trout on keys and Mark Henderson and Tina Marie on percussion. The crew has been meeting for revivals up and down the East Coast from Roanoke to upstate New York.

The Heat Run’s self-titled debut album was recorded in warehouses, churches, garages, basements, bedrooms, closets, and backyards throughout the Philadelphia area. It is a true collaboration, with songwriting credits spread between the three Schallers, and bassist Mike Gordon. Each member performed on multiple instruments and almost everyone contributed vocals. The record is due for release in 2011.

Spectral country and soul from Philadelphia