Modern metalcore band HUMANKIND have released their new single ‘Runaway’ ahead of their second studio album, “Perfect World”, due out on December 4, 2026, via ROAR – A Division Of Reigning Phoenix Music. Exploring the emotional detachment brought on by depression and the gradual loss of connection to oneself, the track occupies a significant place in the album’s narrative.

HUMANKIND describe ‘Runaway’ not simply as a song about the desire to escape pain, but as a reflection of avoidance becoming a survival mechanism. The track centres on someone gradually withdrawing from life and becoming convinced that they no longer belong anywhere. Images of frozen landscapes, fading light and endless snow reinforce the idea that depression does not always manifest as sadness, but can also take the form of complete emotional numbness.

According to the band, ‘Runaway’ appears towards the end of the album and represents one final moment in which the temptation to surrender resurfaces before the story reaches its conclusion. In this sense, the track is an important part of “Perfect World”'s narrative, which gradually expands from personal struggles to wider societal issues.

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With “Perfect World”, HUMANKIND take the theme of confronting personal darkness, which was central to their previous album “An End, Once and for All”, and approach it from a broader perspective. The new record addresses depression, anxiety, trauma, loneliness, social isolation, digital exhaustion, environmental collapse and the growing disconnect between people. Despite tackling these difficult subjects, the band emphasise that the album is ultimately about solidarity and the determination to persevere in the face of adversity, rather than hopelessness.

The album's narrative initially focuses on the conflicts within an individual's mind before gradually expanding into a broader examination of technology, human relationships and humanity's connection with the planet. The closing title track, ‘Perfect World’, brings these themes together, reflecting on everything humanity has, everything it has lost and everything that may still be worth saving.

Musically, HUMANKIND remain rooted in modern metalcore, combining cinematic atmospheres, hard-hitting breakdowns, melodic choruses and emotionally driven songwriting. As with their previous album, recording, production, mixing and mastering duties were handled by Christoph Wieczorek, known for his work with ANnisokay and Sawdust Recordings.

‘Runaway’ follows the previously released singles ‘Desire To Die’, ‘Humans’, ‘The Darkness I Own’ and ‘Drain Me’. HUMANKIND also previously reinterpreted Billie Eilish's ‘lovely’, featuring guest vocals from Nastassja of Enemy Inside.

Pre-orders for “Perfect World” are now available. The album will be released on December 4, 2026.