By Alexis Alvarez, Sept. 10, 2024
The Irish post-punk band Fontaines D.C. takes on a striking new sound and style for their fourth album “Romance” released Aug. 23 and will be taking the stage at The Fox Theater in Pomona Sept. 28.
“Romance” is unlike anything the band has done before. They are now signed with XL Recordings, and this is their first album produced by James Ford, who is known for his work with Arctic Monkeys, Blur, Gorillaz and many more alternative artists.
Their fourth album is a complete 180 degrees from their previous album “Skinty Fia,” released April 2022, that expressed themes of longing and missing their home in Dublin, as well as social commentary.
Dabbling in a variety of genres such as rock, indiepop and more, Fontaines D.C breaks away from the conformity of being just a post-punk band. They created a whole new head-turning sound and style for themselves. A very fluid album “Romance” is full of surprises.
The 11-track album dives into themes of internal struggle and its unclarity in meaning lets the listeners have their own interpretations to connect with the music and make it their own.
Each song on “Romance” has a completely different feel from the other. “Favourite” is more upbeat and provides the feeling of nostalgia and acceptance, while “Death kink” has more rock influence, but the entirety of the album blends perfectly.
Fontaines D.C. took a unique and creative take on their new album’s creation, and we can see that from the artistic image of the album cover exhibiting neon, chromatic colors, creating an unnatural feeling. The entirety of the album’s music and visuals are quite dystopian, which can be seen in “In the Modern World” music video.
The Irish band takes their listeners on an emotional rollercoaster with their poetic lyrics and unique sound. Starting with the first track “Romance,” it exhibits this eerie feeling, and evokes mystery like the opening scene of a horror movie with the first lyrics “Into the darkness again.” It leaves the listener intrigued about what any of this has to do with romance, but Fontaines D.C. takes a different approach to their concept of romance, –it is a mystery.
“Romance” is scary and anxiety inducing, which are repeating emotions the album exhibits perfectly. It is an album that’s more than some songs compiled together, it’s a creative experience.
Fontaines D.C. showcase themselves unapologetically and loudly. The album is raw and original. Listeners are able to connect with what is being said on an intimate and intense level because of its authenticity.
“To be anesthetized and crave emotion. So beautiful to hurt so well,” lyrics from “Here’s The thing” by Fontaines D.C.
The album’s third track expresses a human vulnerability when people are both hurt and numb. This sensation of vulnerability each listener can interpret on the individual level and tie to personal experiences. The open interpretation the band alludes throughout the album alone widens their audience, creating a safe place where anyone can listen and connect to their lyrics.
If you are someone who already enjoys variations of rock and indie music, then “Romance” is definitely an album to indulge in. If this is your first time being introduced to Fontaines D.C. and the genre in its entirety, take a step out of your comfort zone and experience something new.
Their performance at the Fox Theater will be the ninth stop on their North American tour for their album “Romance” while “Been Stellar” will be the band opener.
Feature image courtesy via Instagram @fontainesband
