Keep Away from Me

Agoraphobia is an abnormal fear of public places or crowds. People suffering from the disorder usually stay in their homes. Dez Fafara wrote this song in early 2019 about his agoraphobia, which he's had since childhood. The Devildriver frontman explained to Noisecreep that he's "never been comfortable around people I don't know or large groups."

The term "agoraphobia" is from Greek agora meaning a public square or marketplace. The agora also served in ancient Greece as a social gathering for debates and gossip. Other songs about the disorder include "Agoraphobia" by Incubus and "In My Room" by The Beach Boys.

Devildriver released "Keep Away From Me" as the lead single from Dealing With Demons I, the first half of a concept album where Fafara bares his soul about his life. By the time of the song's release, it had taken on a new meaning with people self-isolating at home worldwide because of COVID-19. Said the singer: "I've been social distancing since I was born. I've learned to try and embrace my agoraphobia all my life. This is what the lyrics are about as we are all sheltered in place. They seem very clear. Now is not the time bands should shy away from the obvious by trying to push the narrative through their art as if everything is alright with the world."