Fontaines DC - Too Real

The foundation of Dublin punks Fontaines DC is based around their love of poetry. Inspired by Yeats, Joyce and their vibrant, ever-changing hometown, two worlds blend together gorgeously in their ramshackle guitar pop. “We like to use our music to be vulnerable in a certain way,” guitarist Conor Curley told us in a recent interview. “Before this band, poetry was the outlet for that, but I think there’s a certain vulnerability to this which is, in my opinion, the most beautiful aspect of it.” This influence is pushed to the fore more than ever before on new song ‘Too Real’.

“None can pull the passion loose from youth’s ungrateful hands / As it stands, I’m about to make a lot of money / Gold harps in the pan,” vocalist Grian Chatten booms over a thunderous wash of guitars, barely able to contain his own energy. A vocalist able to conjure vivid images of a bleak but bustling Dublin, he sings of “the bruised and beat-up open sky” with such urgency that you’re immediately transported there, and immersed into their world.

The track then folds out into a chorus-of-sorts, reflecting on the chaos just caused and eyeballing its audience over menacing rumbles of bass: “Is it too real for ya?” Hiding nothing and demanding openness and honesty, the realness the band preach is one that’s forging a cast-iron connection. Get on board.