Words: Kieran Webber | Header Image: Molly Keane

Fontaines D.C. are one of the most exciting bands to emerge in recent years, since the release of their single ‘Chequeless Reckless’ we’ve been hooked. After much teasing and single releases the band finally announced the release of their debut album ‘Dogrel’, available 12th April via Partisan Records.

The Irish lads are known for their social and politically driven post-punk that has captured a generations mindset, they are another line of bands speaking for the angry and disenfranchised. Their latest single ‘Roy’s Tune’ further cements them as one of the most important bands to emerge in recent times. The track takes a slower pace than their previous releases, yet still remains daringly infectious. The subtle strokes of the guitar and the crooning from lead singer Grian Chatten are totally captivating. It’s a softer side to the band yet still carries their dark yet hopeful sound.

Speaking about the single, guitarist Conor Curley says, “It’s sung to Ireland – from a mindset of frustration, depression, and a loss of innocence.

I used to work in the service industry, at a small burrito place in Dublin, and I’d walk home at night because I couldn’t afford public transportation. Grian and I didn’t have any money, so we were sharing a double-size bed in the same converted office block. One night on my way home I was walking by The George, which is the biggest gay nightclub in Dublin, and a guy was getting kicked out by the bouncers. He kept yelling at them, “I’m gonna kill you stone dead!,” and that turn of phrase stuck out to me.

A couple years back the EU awarded Ireland €14 billion in back taxes from Apple, but the government here refuses to do anything with the money out of fear Apple will move their headquarters. They care more about a giant corporation than the people of our country, and all we can do is sit there and take it.

We wanted this to be a moment of reflection on the album. We included this song with the purpose of showing our intent as a band and as Songwriters from the get go. That we intend to explore whatever emotions or ideas we see, and not just make ‘another post-punk album’.”

Listen to ‘Roy’s Song’ here: