Double Run

“Where is Double Run?”

The physical location of Double Run is just south of Rochelle, GA, no larger than a thumbtack hole on a map. However, the question is better phrased as “what is Double Run?” because, for these four musicians, Double Run is the lifeblood of their music, the backdrop to their stories and the starting place of something much bigger than they could have ever imagined.

The band’s early history bears little resemblance to its current status. The brothers, Mark and Jason Brown, dabbled in the conventional band life, playing in a few projects here and there with other musicians, but ultimately finding their rhythm with each other. They reunited as an acoustic guitar duo, and as they began booking shows, they named themselves after their hometown as a tribute to the community that had raised them. Mark’s talent as a songwriter soon emerged, pulling inspiration from Kurt Cobain, a childhood favorite, and Chris Cornell. Jason, with experience in bass and rhythm guitar, began studying the art of lead guitar, developing his signature straightforward and effective solos and fills. Traces of many artists such as John Fogerty, Tom Wisniewski, and Jack White can be felt in Jason’s rhythmic style of top melody.

Less than 15 miles away, future members Alex Helms and Tyler Ledford were jamming together in what would become the “practice shack” – a 12 x 12 shed that would be the birthplace of many Double Run originals. When Mark and Jason’s acoustic scheme outgrew itself, friend of the band and first bassist Jeremy King introduced Mark to Tyler. Only 17, Tyler blew Mark’s mind with his skills, influenced by some of the best names in rock like Neil Peart, Dave Grohl, and Danny Carry.

When King parted with the band to pursue other projects, Tyler introduced Alex to the brothers, and it was soon clear that he was the missing piece. An accomplished guitar player, Alex had some experience on the bass, and as it became his main instrument of choice, his style soon developed and was inspired from bass players such as Justin Chancellor, Rex Brown, Robert Deleo, and of course Flea.

At present, Mark and Jason continue to work full time jobs to support their band, while Tyler and Alex pursue a collegiate education in the music field. Double Run is currently littering the state of Georgia with gigs at any venue or backyard party they can to support band costs. Having recorded over 20 songs to date and written twice as many yet to be recorded, the members of Double Run have matured musically and as businessmen. Many fans and listeners have pointed out their heavy influences from 90’s grunge and alternative with just a touch of southern roots, creating an affectionately named genre Alternative Americana.

Ask one of these band members what Double Run is and the answer you will receive is much more than a set of coordinates on a map. To them, Double Run is a megaphone for the dreams of four brothers, on a mission to tell the world that they are here to stay.