In the mid-80s, when the hairspray-soaked Sunset Strip scene was in full swing and synths threatened to overtake guitar-driven rock, Gary Moore unleashed his electrifying album "Run for Cover." This wasn't just another blues-rock record; it was a ferocious statement from a guitar virtuoso who refused to be silenced by the changing musical tides.
Hailing from Belfast, Northern Ireland, Moore was no stranger to the blues. He'd cut his teeth in Skid Row and Thin Lizzy, honing his chops alongside Phil Lynott. But with "Run for Cover," Moore stepped into the spotlight as a solo artist, ready to unleash his full potential.
The album was a raw, unfiltered blast of blues-rock energy. Tracks like the scorching "Military Man" and the heartfelt ballad "Empty Rooms" showcased Moore's versatility as a guitarist and songwriter. His playing was a force of nature, a whirlwind of lightning-fast licks and soulful bends that could melt your face off one minute and break your heart the next. The album's title track, a high-energy rocker, became an instant classic and a staple of Moore's live shows. "Out in the Fields," a duet with Phil Lynott, resonated with fans of both artists and became one of the album's most enduring tracks.
"Run for Cover" wasn't without its controversies. The album's title track, a duet with Phil Lynott, sparked debate due to its lyrics about the Troubles in Northern Ireland. Some accused Moore of trivializing the conflict, while others praised him for addressing a sensitive issue through his music. The track's accompanying music video, featuring footage of military conflict, further fueled the controversy.
The album's production was a collaborative effort between Moore and longtime collaborator Peter Collins. They captured the raw energy of Moore's live performances while adding a touch of studio polish. The recording took place at various studios, including Windmill Lane Studios in Dublin, where U2 had recorded some of their early albums. The album's cover art, featuring Moore in a military-style jacket, also garnered attention and further cemented his rebellious image.
Despite the controversies, "Run for Cover" was a commercial success, cementing Moore's status as a guitar hero and solidifying his place in the pantheon of blues-rock greats. The album's legacy is undeniable, its influence echoing through countless guitarists who followed in Moore's footsteps. It's considered a high point in Moore's career and a must-have for any fan of blues-rock.
"Run for Cover" is more than just an album; it's a testament to the power of the blues to transcend boundaries and connect with listeners on a visceral level. It's a reminder that even in a world obsessed with flashy trends and disposable pop, there's always a place for raw, unfiltered passion and the searing sound of a guitar unleashed.
