What makes Running by Information Society notable?

'Running' became a notable hit in the U.S., peaking at number 9 on the Billboard Hot Dance Club Songs chart. Its blend of new wave and freestyle elements not only defined much of Information Society's sound but also influenced the broader electronic dance music landscape in the mid-1980s. Released as Information Society's debut single, 'Running' marked their entry into the music scene in early 1985. At this point, the band was still establishing its identity, having recently signed with the label Tommy Boy Records after forming in 1982. The track's successful reception laid the groundwork for their future in the emerging electronic and dance genres.

How many songs are on Running?

Running has 4 tracks, running approximately 24 minutes.

Running

Information Society · 1985

24 min · 4 tracks · new wave

Synth-driven grooves meld with infectious melodies, creating a euphoric soundscape that captures the essence of 1980s dance music.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Running (vocal remix) — This version showcases the band's signature synth-pop style while highlighting catchy vocal hooks that contributed to its club success.
→
Running (instrumental) — The instrumental version emphasizes the intricate production and melodic structure, allowing listeners to appreciate the song’s sonic layers without lyrics.
→
Running (Percappella) — This unique take strips down the instrumentation to focus solely on vocal harmonies, showcasing the band's vocal prowess and rhythmic phrasing.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental

48 /100

Foothills

Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

The single showcases strong synth-driven melodies and solid production typical of its era, but lacks depth for long-term engagement.

What we noticed

The first track features a prominent synth line that drives the rhythm, while the vocal remix layers harmonies over a steady dance beat.
The third track introduces variations in tempo and structure, creating a different feel while maintaining the core melody.
The final track is an instrumental version that emphasizes the melodic hooks without vocal distractions.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — 'Running' marked Information Society's entry into the music scene and established their identity.
Themes: 1980s dance culture· synth-driven euphoria
Career context: Released as Information Society's debut single, 'Running' marked their entry into the music scene in early 1985. At this point, the band was still establishing its identity, having recently signed with the label Tommy Boy Records after forming in 1982. The track's successful reception laid the groundwork for their future in the emerging electronic and dance genres.
Stylistic neighbors: Depeche Mode· New Order· Erasure