The latest split-single release from Running Joke allows a peek into Tom Matheson's sonic maturation. His previous four-piece, SIAMESE, successfully introduced themselves into the local and interstate scene with a grunge-alt-rock-shoegaze melting pot of nineties influenced snarl; Running Joke, however, is shaping up to be a new sound altogether. In shedding the cynicism of youth, the solo-artist pairs joyous melodies with tongue-in-cheek lyrics that aren't shy to address the bleaker parts of life. Uniting rock sensibilities with unorthodox pop influences, both singles are reminiscent of artists such as Slow Pulp, Broken Social Scene, and Meat Wave.

Praise for Running Joke:
"Undeniably, they're stellar tracks that showcase the full extent of Matheson's musical identity. While 'Community' kicks off with blissful, clean guitar tones, it soon shows its teeth as a crushing breakdown pairs with slick rhythms and their powerful voice." - Tyler Jenke (Rolling Stone Australia).

"A pair of gutsy indie rock songs from Adelaide outfit running joke that are as hooky as they are bone-brittle." - Bandcamp (New & Notable).

"The sort of record that you just --know-- will go off live. Quieter moments, verses with a sweet groove and a chorus that kicks. What's not to love?" - Tommy Faith (Triple J).

Running Joke on the double single release:
"Both 'Community' and 'GBY' came at a strange time in my life. I was touring with a few bands at the time and with university and work I barely had any time to write. These two tracks just sorta popped out of me in the little pockets of time I had between everything. Leaving behind the bitterness of my youth and being open with feelings and vulnerability had a huge impact on these songs. It allowed me to open a can of worms and really dig into some deep personal issues that had been simmering in the back of my mind for a long long time. 'Community' can be broken down into two parts, the first, following an existentialist view on humanity, and the absurd ways we coexist within the world. The second part looks at futurism, and given the current circumstances we are in - it looks pretty bleak. I'm not entirely sure what 'GBY' is about - there is a lot to unpack there personally. Fear of abandonment, death and the future were having huge affects on me at the time, albeit most of it completely irrational."