The Heat Run is an indie-groove-folk collective based in Philadelphia. Brothers Mike and Steve Schaller began their musical collaboration as Oso, but it evolved into something new that demanded a new name and a fresh start when Steve introduced his brother to Ms. Mandy Shearer, an old friend from Virginia. A musical and romantic connection was immediate and they began churning out a bountiful harvest of new material that drew inspiration from the classic outlaw country, bluegrass, and soul records in Mandy’s record collection as well as the indie, surf, dub, and psychedelic rock in Mike’s. The now married couple introduced the batch of songs to the other members of Oso (including bassist Mike Gordon and drummer Josh Fullam) and the soulful, foot-stomping, hand clapping, group sing-a-longs that define The Heat Run’s music ensued. The addition of utility musician Frank Ewing (Downtown Harvest) on the accordion, saxophone, and percussion solidified the need for a new name to go with the new lineup and the new sound.

The Heat Run’s self-titled debut album was recorded in warehouses, churches, garages, basements, bedrooms, closets, and backyards throughout the Philadelphia area and was released in March 2011. It features songwriting credits from four members and singing, clapping, and stomping from just about everyone.  

Here's what people are saying about the record...

“The self titled debut album from The Heat Run is flat out amazing, the songwriting is incredible, all partnered up with the perfectly executed harmonies, instrumentation, and a well mixed yet raw recorded sound.” – Folk You Philly

“The Heat Run, is very much about pristine vocal harmonies and warm folk tones (with generous  forays into the brothers’ funkier side as well). They’re calling it “indie groove.” I’m calling it a pretty fun record.” – The Key

“The Heat Run, a new band from Philly, are masterful harmonists…This multi-genre-spanning album released earlier this march is full of life and love.” – Tour De Vaap

“Every single track sounds full and complete, with amazing attention to detail. There are no wasted seconds on any song... Mandy Schaller has the voice of a soulful angel that will keep you hooked.” – The Ticket

“Most often acoustic folk, sometimes pop-y jam-band rock and other times heartfelt balladry, The Heat Run’s March debut varies musically. But it’s the vocal arrangements they put together that’ll really catch your ear. But since there’s a man and wife and his brother in the band, that may be what connects them so well, naturally.” – Philadelphia City Paper