Fontaines DC’s debut full-length taps into the brand of
spoken-word punk revived by the likes of Shame and Cabbage just last year. And
whilst the Irish drawl and tales of the Troubles offer a slightly different
take, too often the guitar lines, bobbing drum beats and monotone vocal feel
like it’s trying too hard to replicate the aforementioned artists. The opening
half lacks character, the boys shying away from truly expressing
themselves, the deadpan vocal removing emotion from the lyrics. These songs too often are straining
to copy the templates laid out by Shame and the likes.
Despite this, a final flurry shows off their abilities and
sees their charm, talent and qualities shine through. ‘Liberty Belle’ takes a
trip across the pond drawing influences from the Ramones in what is the album’s
highlight whilst ‘Boys In The Better Land’ channels Patti Smith vibes, and feels more natural, Fontaines seem
more comfortable and the track reaps the rewards as a result. Furthermore,
‘Dublin City Sky’ is an ode to their Irish roots well and truly, taking
inspiration from classic Irish folk adopting the dry and nuanced storytelling
methods that’s made Irish music so famous. This triumphant trio of tracks add an element of originality that is
missing from the opening half and allows Fontaines to get close to the bar that
has been set by their predecessors, although they are still someway off.
sees their charm, talent and qualities shine through. ‘Liberty Belle’ takes a
trip across the pond drawing influences from the Ramones in what is the album’s
highlight whilst ‘Boys In The Better Land’ channels Patti Smith vibes, and feels more natural, Fontaines seem
more comfortable and the track reaps the rewards as a result. Furthermore,
‘Dublin City Sky’ is an ode to their Irish roots well and truly, taking
inspiration from classic Irish folk adopting the dry and nuanced storytelling
methods that’s made Irish music so famous. This triumphant trio of tracks add an element of originality that is
missing from the opening half and allows Fontaines to get close to the bar that
has been set by their predecessors, although they are still someway off.
Haiku Review
Following orders,
From those who went before them,
Exciting finish
🍒🍒🍒
