KingQueen: “Running In Water” – unadulterated grit anchored in cutting-edge modern rock

Formed by Swedish lead singer INA, KingQueen is a pop rock band consisting of drummer Lemuel Clark, Nipun Nair on bass and synth, and guitarist Adam Gimenez. The Los Angeles based band has been seen on multiple platforms such as MTV, LOGO TV, Revry TV, VH1, and performing at the American Music Awards. The multi-nominated collective has opened for Jussie Smollett at Long Beach Pride, and performed at DTLA proud and OC Fair. KingQueen recently released their EP “Get Loud” and a music video for the track, “Running In Water”.

INA – Photo by Jose. D. Rodriguez.
Header Photo by Betsy Martinez

KingQueen embrace a blend of classic and modern rock, pumping out tracks with a lot of driving, frizzled guitar and anthemic harmonies that meet up with laser sharp keyboards, spirited rhythms and INA’s soaring vocals. They wouldn’t be out of place on ‘70s radio, in 80’s stadiums, or 90’s festivals, and on current millennium tours.

They practically have a timeless sound, where every one of their massive song choruses are perfectly designed for singalong experiences and euphoric audience participation. A knack many of their contemporaries hopelessly desire in vain.

A KingQueen song, is an invitation to a truly rocking, full-throttle jamboree that will have jumping up and down the aisles. The band prove on their EP, “Get Loud” that they know what it means to rock – with or without the aid of modern studio technology – weaving beautiful artistry that they are certain to easily perform in a live, concert setting.

Whatever the case, just put a microphone in front of INA and listen to her wail. Of course, the groundwork for the band’s delicious rock-pop foundation, is brilliantly crafted by the instrumentation and the passionate fervor of its players.

The result is this raw, unadulterated grit that crosses genres and anchors itself in cutting-edge modern rock. But take heed, underneath this immense cinematically-inclined, sonic bang, KingQueen harbor a sensitive beating heart, and a strong social consciousness that is laid out in timely fashion throughout the narrative of “Running In Water”.

“Are you living or are you just breathing, when tears are coming down for no reason. Say goodbye to everything you know. Welcome to your new life,” sings INA, as KingQueen invites us to reevaluate what makes us happy, and to not remain trapped in a life design, not of our own making.

The minute I first heard this song, I knew this band was something special. They are loud, triumphant, confident…and still consciously aware of the perils of our society. At the same time, frontwoman INA, has one of the most incredible voices currently prancing around her genre.

It’s a surprising that the band don’t yet get the mainstream exposure they so thoroughly deserve, but then again I’m happy for KingQueen to circle around the mainstream as sort of highly guarded indie secret.

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