Rock darlings Foo Fighters return with energetic new single “Run,” which serves as the promo for upcoming album, ‘Concrete and Gold.’

They’re back! Who? Foo Fighters baby.  After a three-year hiatus between full-length studio albums, the band announced they’d drop Concrete and Gold in September. But before that announcement, they dropped the promo single, “Run,” months ahead of the album’s release date.  How does “Run” play ultimately? It rocks.

“Run” surprisingly begins with a certain amount of restraint.  The first half of the intro lacks any sense of ferocity. The same can’t be said of the second half, which begins the build-up.  That build-up is propelled by drums and capped off with biting guitars. It’s safe to say, the intensity and tempo arrive ‘just in the nick of time.’ Once the intensity is achieved, there’s a clear departure from the melodic beginning.

The first verse is wild to say the least.  It’s not that Grohl doesn’t sing melodically, but clearly, the intent is grit and intensity as opposed to tunefulness. The melodic finesse returns on the chorus:

“Before the time runs out / There’s somewhere to run / Wake up / Run for your life with me / In another perfect life / In another perfect light / We run / We run / We run / Run!”

Naturally, the frenzy returns on the second verse.  Even so, the second verse is shorter.  By this point, the M.O. is clear.  Listening to “Run” for the first time, it’s a bit off-putting.  After another listen, it lays better.

Final Thoughts

All said and done, “Run” is an intriguing return from Foo Fighters. Perhaps it’s not a surefire hit, but there are plenty of things to like about it.  The guitars roar, the drums pound, and there some beautiful melodic moments. The accompanying music video is a sight to behold to say the least.

Foo Fighters • Concrete and Gold • RCA • Release: 9.15.17

Photo Credit: RCA