If you thought Conor Curley, guitarist for Fontaines D.C., saw guitars merely as tools, think again. In a recent chat about their new album, Romance, the Irish musician revealed he’s the type who takes hundreds of photos of his guitars, sharing a select few on Instagram. “Some people photograph their dogs; I photograph my guitar,” he casually notes.
Since their debut album, Dogrel, in 2019, which received widespread acclaim and was certified x6 platinum in the USA, Fontaines D.C. have continually surprised fans and critics alike. Their follow-up, A Hero’s Death, earned a Grammy nomination and was kept from the UK number 1 spot only by Taylor Swift’s record label’s maneuvers. Their 2022 album, Skinty Fia, an ode to Ireland, topped charts in both the UK and Ireland, showcasing the band’s growing creative prowess.
So, how do you top that? By delving into the influences from your teenage years—think Korn, Deftones, and Outkast—and crafting an album like Romance, which defies genre conventions.
The album, celebrating the band’s unity, was created during a period when members were geographically scattered. After touring with Arctic Monkeys in 2023, the band members went their separate ways: vocalist Grian Chatten to Los Angeles, guitarist Carlos O’Connell to Spain, and bassist Conor Deegan to Paris.
Reuniting in London, the band was eager to produce something new that reflected their individual musical tastes—from hip-hop and electroclash to metal and pop. A month in London provided ample time for writing, followed by pre-production in North London and recording in a studio-chateau near Paris.
The results are striking. Tracks like “Starburster” channel Korn’s intense delivery, showing the band’s shift towards experimental sounds. Romance explores the dualities of love and tragedy, inspired by Danish cinema, particularly the film series The Pusher, likened to Trainspotting.
Curley notes that Romance is the band’s first foray into fiction. “We were influenced by modern bands and aimed to create a futuristic place called Romance, moving beyond our late 80s and early 90s influences,” he explains.
The album is a vast, gothic experience that transcends its 11 tracks. One standout, “Sundowner,” presents a psychedelic, multi-harmony vibe, crafted in Curley’s compact London studio. Despite its origins in a “shoebox” studio, Curley integrated diverse elements, including unusual drum machines and industrial guitars, before refining the track with the band.
In the midst of last year, while Chatten released his solo debut, Chaos For The Fly, Curley continued working in his studio, collaborating with friends and bandmates. This solo work influenced Romance, which was produced by James Ford, known for his work with Arctic Monkeys and Foals. This album marks Fontaines D.C.’s first collaboration with a new producer, shifting from Dan Carey’s familiar style.
Curley and O’Connell have refined their guitar dynamics over four albums, now relying on each other’s strengths without needing as much direction. Their easy rapport is evident on Romance, with some tracks emerging from improvised jams during rehearsals and soundchecks.
From a shortlist of 25 demos, the band selected 13 tracks, ensuring a mix of harder and softer material. “We wanted to avoid repetition and showcase our creativity,” Curley says.
The sound of Skinty Fia was driven by a Fylde 12-string, but Romance is powered by Fender Jazzmasters, chosen for their ability to deliver distorted sounds. Curley’s focus on minimal reverb and innovative pedal use, including the Keeley Loomer and Boss Chorus, adds unique textures to the album.
Fontaines D.C. are set for a major US tour, followed by dates in Europe, the UK, and Ireland. Among the tracks Curley is eager to perform live is “Death Kink,” which he describes as a highlight of the set, reminiscent of the Pixies and featuring addictive timing tricks.
Romance continues Fontaines D.C.’s tradition of unexpected stylistic shifts, and fans can look forward to experiencing its full impact live.
