Irish post-punk titans Fontaines D.C. are back! Following the resounding success of their 2022 album “Skinty Fia” (which reached #1 in both the UK and Ireland), the band has unveiled details of their highly anticipated fourth studio album, “Romance”.
“Romance,” to be released August 23 via their new XL Recordings label, marks a new chapter for Fontaines D.C., with production by the legendary James Ford (known for his work with Arctic Monkeys, Depeche Mode and more).
To coincide with the album announcement, Fontaines D.C. has released the lead single, “Starburster.” Inspired by a personal experience – a panic attack that frontman Grian Chatten suffered near the St. Louis station – the song was released by the band. Pancras – the song showcases the band’s most expansive sound to date. The single is accompanied by a captivating music video directed by Aube Perrie, which takes viewers on a breathtaking journey of feverish reverie.
Speaking about the album’s title, bassist Conor Deegan hints at a thematic evolution: “We’ve always had this sense of idealism and romance in our music. But with ‘Romance’, we’re moving away from the straightforward Irish lens we used on our debut, ‘Dogrel’.” Deegan continues, explaining how each album explores this concept in a new light: “The second album (‘A Hero’s Death’) explored detachment, and ‘Skinty Fia’ delved into Irish identity in the diaspora. Now, with ‘Romance’, we’re looking outward, looking for new things to romanticize.”
Adding to Deegan’s sentiment, vocalist Grian Chatten reflects on a sense of liberation: “We’ve been able to express things on this record that we’ve wanted to say for a long time. There’s a sense of lightness, a sense that the story isn’t over yet.”
The excitement does not stop with the release of the album. Fontaines D.C. will take “Romance” on a world tour this summer, with confirmed appearances at iconic festivals such as Glastonbury and Reading & Leeds. Fans can also expect concert dates in the UK and US to be announced soon.
For those anxious to get their hands on “Romance”, an advance purchase is now available, including a limited edition vinyl pressing.
