B-Side Guys

For an artist who built his reputation recording in a “no-frills bedroom studio,” Eric Sleeper’s decision to craft his latest single “Run!” in a professional Rockaway studio marks a decisive shift—though not necessarily in the direction you might expect. Rather than buffing away his edges, the New Jersey native has weaponized higher production values to sharpen them.

The track represents a compelling evolution for Sleeper, whose previous releases like “Emily” and “Son of a Gun” established his ability to merge dreamy atmospherics with bare-bones recording techniques. Here, that signature dreamlike quality remains intact but takes on new dimensions, supported by the kind of spatial depth that only comes from professional acoustics and careful microphone placement.

What’s particularly striking about “Run!” is how it manages to maintain Sleeper’s self-described “homegrown” authenticity while expanding his sonic palette. The DNA of his influences—from Elliott Smith’s intimate whispers to Nirvana’s raw power—remains evident, but it’s filtered through a lens that’s distinctly his own. The production choice to push his vocals forward in the mix emphasizes the urgency of his delivery, particularly fitting for a song about breaking free from prescribed identities.

This natural evolution makes sense for an artist who started with just an acoustic guitar at 14 before gradually incorporating MIDI keyboards and developing his distinctive approach to arrangement. The expanded sonic landscape of “Run!” feels less like a departure and more like the logical next step for a songwriter who has always valued the minimalistic approaches of influences like Nick Drake and Bob Dylan while incorporating more contemporary elements.

The result is a track that honors Sleeper’s underdog narratives and DIY roots while proving he can translate his bedroom-born authenticity to a bigger stage. It’s a reminder that sometimes running forward doesn’t mean running away from who you are.