Two Strikes deliver their powerful new anthem ‘Run Away’
Yorkshire-based alt-rock trio Two Strikes are rapidly cementing their place on the scene, and their latest single ‘Run Away’ is a striking testament to their emotional depth and raw talent. Building on the momentum of their debut effort ‘Control’, this distinctively different second release is a deeply personal anthem that marries emotional intensity with a pounding rock sound, a juxtaposition that creates an impactful listening experience throughout.
The song takes on an even deeper meaning for the band, with two members having recently lost their fathers. This personal connection gives ‘Run Away’ a raw, authentic edge, as it delves into the complex emotions of grief- struggling between holding on and the overwhelming desire to escape. Drummer Joe Bothamley encapsulates this in his reflection on the track: “The grieving process can feel like you’re stuck in a place you don’t want to leave, because it means letting go. But at the same time, you want to run away from it all.”
The song skillfully weaves a rhythmic and lyrical repetition, echoing the persistent phrase “on and on and on.” This cyclical structure mirrors the relentless, almost meditative nature of the lyrics, reinforcing the song’s thematic focus on the enduring emotional weight carried throughout. The repetition becomes a vital part of the storytelling, as it takes on a hypnotic quality, drawing listeners into a space where the passage of time and the experience of grief feel infinite and inescapable.
As the song transitions into the chorus, the instrumentation swells, building into a powerful and anthemic release. This dynamic shift in sound mimics the overwhelming, all-consuming waves that grief can bring, with the rising intensity of the music reflecting the emotional crescendo. The chorus feels larger than life, almost cathartic, as the sound grows and expands, mirroring the internal struggle and the emotional surges that grief can evoke.
One of the song’s standout moments comes in the form of a rich and textured instrumental breakdown, where the guitar takes centre stage. Here, the song ventures into almost progressive rock territory, with a meticulously crafted guitar riff that builds in complexity and intensity. The gradual layering and expansion of the instrumental section provide a mesmerising, almost trance-like progression that allows the song to breathe and evolve in unexpected ways.
Two Strikes’ ability to blend heartache with powerful rock arrangements marks them as an exciting new presence in the alt-rock world. Their debut single ‘Control’ already made waves, and with ‘Run Away’ they show that they have no intention of slowing down.