Divergent - Runnin' Free (2024) Hi-Res

If I didn’t know better, I could have sworn that Divergent’s Runnin’ Free was pulled off some 1970s lost recording. When you read deeper into the band’s biography, it all makes sense – this is a collection of performers that originally put pen to paper many years back. Divergent has some serious chops, whether it be through the sultry and smooth lead vocals or the band’s ability to go head-long into some thoughtful and deep instrumental sections. There has never been a time where five minutes has went by so quickly; anyone fortunate enough to listen in will be taken on a life-changing journey.

The genesis of folk-rock outfit Divergent began in Iowa, where James Richards (guitar, keys, vocals) and Mike McAlister (bass, vocals) forged a creative partnership as young teenagers, cultivating a love for music and performing.

In high school, they formed a four-piece cover band, Chautauqua Road Band. When they went to separate universities, the band faded, and the reality of adult life took hold, pushing their music to the back burner.

Almost 40 years later, they reunited the Chautauqua Road Band, bringing in James’ brother, Paul Richards, on drums and vocals. After an eight-year run of playing classic rock covers, the reunited Chautauqua Road Band came to an end, and James, Mike, and Paul decided to continue, focusing on original music.

Divergent recently unveiled the music video for “Runnin’ Free,” the title track of their debut album. It’s a song about the passion and resilience of rebellious young love.

We caught up with Divergent to talk about how “Runnin’ Free” finally came together, the takeaway from the video, and their creative process.