The Wrecks – "Speed" Single Review
Written by: Keyali Mikaela
The Wrecks are back with their latest single, “Speed,” and it’s clear they’ve taken their signature pop-punk sound to new, thrilling heights. A track that immediately grabs you with its infectious beat and unapologetic honesty, “Speed” delivers a raw portrayal of anxiety, frustration, and the constant struggle to move forward.
From the opening lines—“My heart is palpitating irregularly, sometimes I wonder if my meds are taking me”—the song feels like a punch to the gut. Lead singer Nick Anderson doesn’t shy away from diving deep into his emotional landscape, expressing vulnerability with a starkness that feels both personal and universal. The verses explode into a frenetic beat, mirroring the turmoil in the lyrics, while the chorus propels the track forward with an anthemic quality. “If I could run away, I would / Make new friends, all new plans,” Anderson sings, and in those words, you can hear the longing for escape, the desire for a fresh start.
Musically, “Speed” is a perfect blend of chaos and control. The track opens with a gently strummed clean guitar, quickly dissolving into the upbeat, driving rhythm of pop-punk. The fast-paced tempo mirrors the inner turmoil the lyrics describe, and the track’s pulse never lets up. The way the song balances urgency with melody is a testament to The Wrecks' ability to create hooks that are both catchy and poignant. The repetitive chorus—“If I could run away, I would”—feels like an irresistible, cathartic release, underscoring the track's central theme of yearning for change.
Lyrically, the song is a reflection on how mental health can affect every aspect of life. Anderson doesn’t shy away from detailing his depression, but there’s a sense of determination to push through, even if it means using speed as a metaphor for trying to outrun the weight of it all. There’s an ironic humor in the verse about doing laundry every day for weeks while still feeling stuck—*“I’m still depressed, but you can bet your ass my clothes are clean.” It’s a glimpse of Anderson's wit, even in darker times.
With “Speed,” The Wrecks continue to craft songs that are both anthemic and deeply relatable. Their ability to mix introspection with high-energy, infectious pop-punk creates a unique blend that stands out in today’s rock scene. This track is a perfect preview of what’s to come from their upcoming album INSIDE—a journey that promises to be as explosive as it is emotionally charged.
Whether you're running on adrenaline or stuck in a rut, “Speed” is the kind of song that makes you want to shout out your frustrations and imagine what could happen if you just ran away. It’s chaotic, it’s cathartic, and it’s undeniably The Wrecks at their best.
