What makes Running in the Family by Level 42 notable?

'Running in the Family' reached number 1 on the UK Albums Chart and produced several successful singles, including Lessons in Love, which became one of the band's signature tracks. The album is notable for its blend of genres, influencing the sophisti-pop movement and solidifying Level 42's place in British music history. Released on March 16, 1987, 'Running in the Family' was Level 42's fifth studio album. At this point, the band had already achieved significant commercial success with their previous albums, but this release marked a shift towards a more polished and radio-friendly sound, coinciding with their peak popularity in the United Kingdom.

Who is Running in the Family for?

Running in the Family works well if you're into long, immersive listening sessions, dynamic emotional journeys and reflective and introspective moods.

How many songs are on Running in the Family?

Running in the Family has 9 tracks, running approximately 49 minutes.

Running in the Family

Level 42 · 1987

49 min · 9 tracks · new wave

A vibrant fusion of jazz-funk grooves and catchy pop melodies that define the sound of late '80s British music.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Lessons in Love — This track showcases Level 42's signature blend of catchy hooks and intricate musicianship, becoming an anthem for a generation and a defining moment in their career.
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Children Say — With its thoughtful lyrics and smooth jazz-inflected melody, this song captures a sense of nostalgia while exploring themes of innocence and societal change.
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Running in the Family — The title track represents the album's core theme of familial bonds intertwined with personal experiences, featuring sophisticated arrangements and strong vocal performances.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album blends jazz-funk and pop effectively, showcasing strong arrangements but not reaching status.

What we noticed

The album opens with a strong lead single, 'Lessons in Love', which features a prominent bass line and layered synths that set the tone for the rest of the record.
Several tracks incorporate intricate arrangements with brass and string sections, particularly evident in 'Running in the Family' and 'Fashion Fever'.
The tempo varies throughout, with tracks like 'Children Say' and 'It's Over' providing a slower contrast to more upbeat songs like 'Freedom Someday'.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

long, immersive listening sessions
dynamic emotional journeys
reflective and introspective moods
steady, consistent energy levels

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on March 16, 1987, 'Running in the Family' was Level 42's fifth studio album. At this point, the band had already achieved significant commercial success with their previous albums, but this release marked a shift towards a more polished and radio-friendly sound, coinciding with their peak popularity in the United Kingdom.
Stylistic neighbors: Jamiroquai· Earth, Wind & Fire· Chic