Tuesday, October 13, 2020

Day 212, Quasi-Quarantine, Sounds Of Social Distancing: Fontaines D.C. Follow Up Smashing Debut In Style

I've discussed Fontaines D.C. previously, and especially how the Dublin group emerged as the soundtrack to my early days of the pandemic.

The post-punkers returned in short order, releasing "A Hero's Death" at the end of July. This second album was largely written while the band toured in support of the stellar "Dogrel."

"I Don't Belong" and the title track carry most of the weight here, but "I Was Not Born" is a personal favorite. "Televised Mind" and "A Lucid Dream" are other standouts.

The album itself feels less frantic and more introspective than "Dogrel," and lead singer Grian Chatten has described the single "A Hero's Death" as "a list of rules for the self." Written in the crucible of touring, maybe the album is a commentary on the pushback needed when newfound fame is thrust upon you, along with the attendant leeches who all want a piece of you.

No matter the inspiration, the Irish boys sound as tight and urgent as ever, pulling together a worthy follow-on to their stunning debut.


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