What makes Run for Cover by Gary Moore notable?

'Run for Cover' not only reached number 5 on the UK Albums Chart but also produced the hit single 'Out in the Fields,' which became one of Moore's most recognized tracks. The album is notable for its collaboration with former Thin Lizzy guitarist Scott Gorham, further cementing Moore's influence in the rock genre and demonstrating his capacity to merge blues-rock with mainstream appeal. Released on September 2, 1985, 'Run for Cover' marked Gary Moore's commercial peak following his breakthrough with the album 'Corridors of Power' in 1982. By this point, he had established himself as a prominent figure in rock music, known for his expressive guitar work and emotive songwriting. This album came after a series of successful singles and showcased Moore's ability to blend genres while appealing to a wider audience.

Who is Run for Cover for?

Run for Cover works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, introspective listening sessions and dynamic emotional journeys.

How many songs are on Run for Cover?

Run for Cover has 10 tracks, running approximately 45 minutes.

Run for Cover

Gary Moore · 1985

45 min · 10 tracks · blues

A powerful blend of hard rock and blues, infused with emotional guitar solos and introspective lyrics.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Run for Cover — The title track stands out with its urgent energy and compelling narrative about evading life's challenges, encapsulating both the album's themes and Moore's signature guitar prowess.
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Out in the Fields — This collaboration with Scott Gorham features an anthemic chorus and showcases Moore’s ability to weave personal storytelling into a broader commentary on loss and longing.
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Empty Rooms — A poignant ballad that highlights Moore's emotional vocal delivery and outstanding guitar solos, capturing the essence of heartbreak and regret.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The album combines strong songwriting with impressive guitar work, though it lacks a fully cohesive flow.

What we noticed

The album opens with a title track that features a driving rhythm and layered guitar harmonies, setting a high-energy tone.
Several tracks, like 'Empty Rooms' and 'Out in the Fields,' showcase extended guitar solos that dominate the arrangements.
The lyrics often reflect personal introspection, with melodies that shift between powerful choruses and softer verses.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady, consistent energy levels
introspective listening sessions
dynamic emotional journeys
mid-tempo reflective moods

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album marked Moore's commercial peak and wider recognition after earlier successes.
Career context: Released on September 2, 1985, 'Run for Cover' marked Gary Moore's commercial peak following his breakthrough with the album 'Corridors of Power' in 1982. By this point, he had established himself as a prominent figure in rock music, known for his expressive guitar work and emotive songwriting. This album came after a series of successful singles and showcased Moore's ability to blend genres while appealing to a wider audience.
Stylistic neighbors: Joe Bonamassa· Peter Green· Eric Clapton