Released in 1985, Gary Moore’s Run For Cover represents a pivotal moment in his career, showcasing his growth as a versatile guitarist and compelling songwriter. While this was his fifth solo release, one that presented a sonic shift towards a more melodic rock sound that incorporated elements of hard rock and blues, success was almost guaranteed as these were the elements that would not only define this record but Moore’s illustrious career.
Run For Cover may be recognised for exploring themes of love, resilience, and introspection, but it’s Moore’s exceptional performances on the guitar that are the highlight throughout the entire record. Yes, the polished 80s sound, blending synthetic elements, also helps to build a highly enjoyable sonic presentation, but when you have such an incredible artist as Moore, the result is a timeless release that will appeal to just about any music lover. However, some may not realise, certainly not immediately, that Run For Cover is more akin to a Gary Moore and Friends release as Glenn Hughes and Phil Lynott contribute to the lead vocals throughout the record. Still, despite this changing aspect, Run For Cover flows seamlessly and is an album experience from start to finish.
Produced, recorded, and mixed with kid gloves, the lossless Apple Music stream, a CD-quality counterpart, is not only thoroughly enjoyable but is truly engaging. Yes, it could do with a remaster, but the 80s production styling remains present within this particular master, ensuring that you’ll feel right at home with the sound of the recording; if you’re an 80s-era music lover, that is.
Run For Cover opens the record with a slow burn before setting the tone for the album with its driving rhythm and anthemic chorus. Out of all the songs from the album, this title track is, arguably, the most radio-friendly with Moore’s distinctive guitar riffs, and vocal licks, combined with synthesised elements that make this one of the best rock and roll tunes from the mid-80s.
Reach For The Sky has a blues-driven guitar styling that is immediately identifiable as Moore’s signature sound. While Glenn Hughes takes over on lead vocals, and the shift is noticeable, it’s not a distractive element, particularly after repeat listens. Nevertheless, the song's soaring presentation ensures it’s highly compelling and seamlessly blends with the other songs from the record.
Military Man was co-written with Phil Lynott and he also delivers the lead vocals masterfully with a bombarding style that is amongst Lynott’s greatest vocal presentations and perfectly fitting of the song’s subject matter. While not released as a single, Military Man is a hidden gem that deserves more attention than it often receives. Yes, the ballad-style shift midway is a little strange, until you get to know the song, but the more you listen to the album, the more Military Man finds its way into your soul for the combination of Lynott’s gritty edge and Moore’s poignant and expressive guitar virtuosity is a heavenly match.
Empty Rooms (1985 Version) is a re-recorded version of the song originally featured on Victims Of The Future. Choosing a preferred edition is nearly impossible as both are exceptional and the one I prefer tends to be the one I’m listening to in the moment. Let’s just say that we’re incredibly fortunate to have two different versions of what could be considered a career-defining song.
Out Of My System is your quintessential mid-80s album-only tune, but don’t let that deter you for this unassuming song will compel you from the very first note to the last, thereby ensuring that the album experience is maintained.
Out In The Fields is, arguably, the most iconic and likely the most recognisable tune from the album as it was the lead single and another perfect collaboration between Lynott and Moore. The dual vocals add depth, while the song’s explosive energy and intricate guitar work create a sense of urgency, thereby ensuring that Out In The Fields is an anthem of the 80s; even though it lacks a catchy, earworm-styled, chorus.
Nothing To Lose is a mid-tempo rocker that emphasises hooks and melody. Glenn Hughes once again delivers some killer vocals for this tune and it’s the perfect collaboration of these two great artists. As to why this tune was not considered for release as a single is anybody’s guess for it has chart-topper written all over it and is, arguably, the best song on the album.
Once In A Lifetime is most certainly ensconced in 80s synth-rock and, at times, it can be a little too dated to the era. That said, it’s a solid track but is unlikely to be the first song anyone thinks of when considering Run For Cover.
All Messed Up is a straightforward energetic rocker with Hughes on vocals. The hard-hitting approach, combined with raw guitar riffs, and a punchy rhythm section, is reminiscent of ZZ Top and is amongst the greatest recordings of Moore’s career.
Listen To Your Heartbeat blends rock and pop stylings, showcasing Moore’s versatility as an artist. It may be an album-only tune, but Listen To Your Heartbeat is a thoroughly enjoyable closing track that will encourage you to listen to the album again and contemplate the music you’ve just heard.
There’s no denying that Run For Cover is a landmark release, in Gary Moore’s career, for it bridged the gap between his hard rock roots and the melodic sensibilities that would define his legacy. The result is an album that captures Moore’s technical brilliance and ability to reach music lovers with a timeless emotional resonance. While Run For Cover will appeal to just about any music lover, fans of Moore, and melodic rock, will find this an essential listen and worthy of inclusion in their record collection.