FONTAINES D.C. – ‘A HERO’S DEATH’

‘A HERO’S DEATH’, the second album from Fontaines D.C. is out now on Partisan Records and it’s a heroic legacy, as Monefa Walker reports:

For many, maybe nearly everyone, the perception of time has changed rapidly in the last year. Everyone’s going through their own paces visibly, and behind the scenes. Yet again, in the face of adversary, a loss in income, security and earnings, many artists are using that as fuel to continue creating, to continue sharing their gifts with the world. That is very much the case, for the Irish band, Fontaines D.C.

They haven’t just jumped out from the music scene, but since the release of their debut album ‘Dogrel’, their visibility has expanded exponentially. From a world tour (which sadly – but understandably – has been postponed in some places, to receiving a Mercury Prize nomination, the legacy this band is creating has a solid and stoic foundation.

I think most of us can agree, that when a debut release from an artist has amazing success, there’s pressure (from within and without) to carry on maintaining that standard. There are many one hit wonders on the scene, and Fontaines D.C. are anything but. Their second album ‘A Hero’s Death’ has taken a new direction, evolving the poetry, the messages, while weaving in aspects of their solid signature sound. 

This album is explosive.

‘A HERO’S DEATH’ is currently in a chart battle with Taylor Swift’s latest LP, again, solidifying their mark. I think it’s hilarious, that some of Taylor’s fans (not fair to assume some of her listeners don’t listen to other genres), will be getting irked, seeing this dynamic punk band making Ms Swift sweat by the hour, realising she has serious competition. That’s not to say I don’t appreciate the work Taylor has put into her work as an artist, but the messages conveyed in the songs from Fontaines is more honest, more potent, more direct. 

Considering the unstable, unusual and transformative time period that we’re all currently living and experiencing, I think many are seeking music that will be candid about the human experience, our perception of the world and psyche; wholesome, but with lots of hope, potential and possibilities. 

Whether you’re sitting indoors listening to the rain and reading a book, or seeking some nature and sunshine, this is definitely an album that encapsulates all the elements and factors that have led us to where we currently are. 

Side note: this is displayed in their recently published manifesto. So profound, you can read it left to right, vertically down, or vertically up, revealing a new layer of comprehension each time.

‘Dogrel’ was the album of initiation. ‘A HERO’S DEATH’ is the album of introspection; what you’d expect to perhaps hear on the pilgrimage of one’s soul. The band’s heritage and their pride for it certainly shine through. Their ancestors have heard the call. Don’t be surprised if you feel your own ancestors around you, when you listen too. It’s time we rise. Together. As one. 

I promise you, buying a ticket for their upcoming tour will be worth every penny. And remember, life ain’t always empty.

‘A HERO’S DEATH’: I Don’t Belong, Love Is The Main Thing, Televised Mind, A Lucid Dream, You Said, Oh Such A Spring, A Hero’s Death, Living In America, I Was Not Born, Sunny, No – Buy/Stream: https://www.fontainesdc.com/ahd/

Words: Monefa Walker