Dutch art-rock/punk band Real Farmer, consisting of Jeroen Klootsema (vocals), Marrit Meinema (bass, vocals), Leon Harms (drums), and Peter van der Ploeg (guitar, backing vocals), released ‘Run By Animals,’ the second single off their upcoming album, Two Wrongs Don’t Make A Right, on January 23.
The new song sounds like it was plucked off of an early Of Monsters and Men album, My Head Is an Animal, to be specific. Meinema’s monotone vocals and a crunchy bassline come together to create a masterful melding of indie folk and rock. It’s a complete departure from the band’s typical sound.
On ‘ Run By Animals,’ the rowdy and abrasive singing found in the usual punk tracks of the band’s discography are swapped for a somber and almost reverent approach. Don’t be mistaken; the change of pace doesn’t come with a shiny new coat of paint. Polish is not a priority for Real Farmer, and that’s still evident by the gritty sonic stylings found on ‘ Run By Animals.’
This single takes a measured approach to showcasing versatility. Despite the flecks of brightness brought by airy harmonies, the track still retains a level of edge that is intrinsic to the band. Tempo doesn’t hinder their ability to be rugged, raw, and most importantly, real.
The somber affectation is justified. Thematically, ‘ Run By Animals’ is about isolationism. The song concerns itself with those left behind and forgotten. It’s music for the forlorn, and Meinema agrees, noting in a press release:
“‘ Run By Animals’ is about society not listening to victims of violence, oppression, femicide. Comfort is only afforded to those who are distanced far from these things, who keep themselves distanced. It’s hard to get people to listen, because it involves unlearning many wrong ‘ truths’ that are deeply ingrained in the western world.”
It’s a meaning that is in no way, shape, or form apparent in the sparse lyricism but immediately reveals itself once you possess the knowledge and give the song a couple more spins.
Official Music Video for Run By Animals
Real Farmer 2026 Tour Dates
The band is gearing up for an EU and UK tour in May and June of this year. However, the dates have yet to be announced. A couple of live shows with support from Peter Doherty will be played in February.
02/17 — Utrecht, Netherlands – Tivoli Vredenburg ○
02/18 — Paris, France – L’Olympia ○
○ — with Peter Doherty
Real Farmer’s sophomore album Two Wrongs Don’t Make A Right is set to be released in spring 2026.
Stream Real Farmer’s brand new single, ‘ Run By Animals,’ on Spotify, Apple Music, and more