Dogs Run Free, consisting of Austyn Benyak and Zac Breitback, have taken an energetic departure from their previous single “Make Them Wonder Why” with their newest release “Tea Leaves.” On this song, they raise their hands and give into existential unpredictability, resisting hive mind nihilism and instead choose to “be free.”
Contemplating a timeless fear of never really knowing what comes next, the Ohio-based duo drive through it with a punchy beat and sheer willpower. The echoic vocals on this track are a staple of 90’s-esque punk, and here they transcend to carry the modern uncertainty. Is it too much to say that the shaky climate of past days didn’t leave, but simply took on a new form? Dogs Run Free shoulder that sentiment and say, “Nobody knows, neither do I,” but all we can do is keep going.
Though they sing about not knowing a way forward, this group definitely has one — don’t be surprised if you see them popping up more and more this upcoming year. Listen for yourself below: