The Runarounds as a band are a very unique case in the music scene. Unlike traditional groups, gathering members from their local scene, The Runarounds were assembled through a rigorous casting process initiated by Jonas Pate and Josh Pate, the creators of the hit series Outer Banks. The objective between the Pate twins was to find five genuine musicians who could not only act, but write, record, and perform original material as a cohesive group. From a pool of over 5,000 applicants in 2020, William Lipton, Axel Ellis, Jeremy Yun, Zendé Murdock, and Jesse Golliher were chosen to form the real-life nonfiction band capable of outshining its fictional origins.
The band has a little history with the DC area. As brought up in some on-stage banter at 9:30 Club on Feb. 20, the group performed one of their earliest shows in 2023, opening for Axel Ellis’ other project, Ax and the Hatchetmen. While the television series released in September 2025 provided a major platform to grow, the band has spent years in beach bars, college campuses, and opening for other artists. By the time they arrived in DC for this show, they were on the 25th show of the 2026 leg. They were no longer a “TV band,” but a more seasoned touring outfit selling out almost the entire tour.
When it comes to The Runarounds musically, it’s a very shared spotlight. Vocal duties and writing credits are distributed across all members of the band. The connection between the band is clearly not acted or fabricated and is a result of a genuine bond formed over the years of shared development. It was evident the band was having the time of their lives on stage, and in turn, so was the sold-out 9:30 Club. The musical identity of the band is a blend of indie rock, love, and a share of acoustic numbers.
The performance of “Arrhythmia (I Hope You Stay)” was a standout moment, showing off the band’s guitar power and emotional intensity. It also gave Zendé Murdock a chance to show off his incredible talent on the drums. Murdock is a younger drummer so he has some room to improve, but from what I saw at the 9:30 Club, he is truly one of the most aggressive and talented drummers in the indie scene right now. Watching him drum, you would think you’re watching a legend truly ascending into his zone.
Watch The Runarounds perform “Arrhythmia (I Hope You Stay)” live on YouTube:
Similarly, in “Chasing The Good Times,” the group was able to showcase their more alternative sound. Co-written and produced by Brad Shultz, the band has an incredible sound and is clearly supported by some big names. It’s exciting to think about what the future holds musically for the five-piece band.
The performance overall was a rare fusion of fiction and reality; the band poked fun at multiple times on stage, hinting at a new album/season “fictionally, non-fictionally.” The authenticity of performing the songs they wrote for the series and speaking on it is the primary driver of their success. Fans aren’t seeing actors play their part, but seeing the musicians who learned to act in order to deliver their sound on a global scale. The fact that the “Minivan Tour” has seen multiple venue upgrades and sold out nearly every stop on its 2026 itinerary is a testament to the power of connection the band brings to each show.
The Runarounds have successfully bridged the gap between their “Outer Banks” origins and their future as headlining rock stars. Their commitment to the music, the professional guidance behind them, and the visionary direction of Jonas Pete have created an entity that fits perfectly on screen for the masses and is respected by peers in the indie-rock community.
Here are some photos of The Runarounds performing live at 9:30 Club on Feb. 20, 2026. All pictures copyright and courtesy of Caden Forrester.
