"Loved loving you, but it's hard to train a stray" lead vocalist Seamus Keane croons in "Runaway," the newest single from the quintessentially Irish American folk rock group The Narrowbacks.
"Loved loving you but I'll always run away, run away, run away."
Despite being set to be released just days before St. Patrick's Day, a period which will see The Narrowbacks 'fire it up' with a slew of what are sure to be raucous gigs around the tristate, "Runaway" is one of the band's more melancholic tunes, akin to their 2016 song "Want You Back."
Blending traditional Irish melodies with modern rock influences, the new song "is a reflection of our journey as a band and the experiences that have shaped us along the way," Keane says.
"We poured our hearts and souls into this track, and we can't wait for listeners to hear it."
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Indeed, "Runaway" sees the band revisit themes of good times being at odds with sustainable relationships, reminding fans The Narrowbacks have some heart underneath their trademark banter.
It also reminds us that The Narrowbacks are no one-trick pony. While they've covered the Irish classics (and covered them well), their originals, which tend to feature Irish trad interpretations, run the gamut from roof-raising pub anthems ("Streets of Woodlawn") to sweet, sentimental earworms ("Rosie" and "Shannon") to more thoughtful, politically-tinged commentaries ("Lost Generation").
On the whole, The Narrowbacks' discography is like a distinctly Irish American journey through the highs and lows of a wild night out followed by a brutal hangover. "Runaway," which comes more than a decade after The Narrowbacks released their first album "Fire It Up," is a perfect fit.
The soon-to-be-released single has won early praise from none other than Larry Kirwan, the former frontman of Black 47 who now hosts Celtic Crush on SiriusXM and is often regarded as a sort of godfather of Irish American music.
“The Narrowbacks have been one of the premier New York Celtic Rock bands for over 10 years," Kirwan says.
"With 'Runaway,' they've added shades of Mellencamp at his best.
"Time for the Bhoys to hit the Heartland!”
Of course, fans will be wondering if "Runaway" is a set-up for a new album, but Keane tells IrishCentral that while another single will be released before the summer, no full album is in the works.
"Runaway” will be available on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music on Friday, March 8.
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About The Narrowbacks
Hailing from the bustling streets of New York City, The Narrowbacks - Seamus Keane, Barry Walsh, Fionn McElliogott, Pat Keane, Alex Aitken, Will McKee, and Joe Miller - are a dynamic Irish folk rock band known for their electrifying live performances and infectious melodies.
With a sound that seamlessly blends traditional Irish music with modern rock influences, The Narrowbacks have captivated audiences around the world and earned a dedicated following.
Through their heartfelt lyrics and spirited performances, The Narrowbacks continue to push boundaries and redefine the boundaries of contemporary folk music.
The Narrowbacks have 13 shows lined up for March, with more shows scheduled through the summer.
For more information about The Narrowbacks and their music, visit their official website, Facebook, and Instagram.
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