Words: Keira Knox
They’re arguably one of the best bands around at the moment and at the height of anticipation for the release of their fourth studio album ‘Romance’, Fontaines D.C. have dropped another tantalising single entitled ‘Here’s The Thing’.
‘Here’s The Thing’ is a 90s grunge infused hit that I simply can’t get enough of! From the teasers already released for ‘Romance’ I think we’ve got a contender for album of the year: Fontaines embodying so many musical styles and experimentation while keeping that post punk message clear. Even though every song released thus far has ranged widely, they all manage to blend together flawlessly. Few bands have the guts to experiment as much as Fontaines has; every track feels like a reinvention.
This song showcases the band’s incredible innovation in both music and images. It’s a beautiful partnership between music and cinematography. Grian Chatten’s vocals on this track in particular are phenomenal, he doesn’t get credited for his vocal range, transforming from fast pace to soft and melancholy.
Through the prism of obsession, ‘Here’s The Thing’ depicts an urgent type of romance. This track is rife with a feeling of fear and anxiety. The song’s foundation is made up of expressive electronic elements combined with mutant guitar tones that have a mechanical edge. This song is urgent, going to severe emotional lengths to find autonomy.
The band has also released a cinematic music video for the tune, which was helmed by the highly regarded director Luna Carmoon. The video centres on Jennifer, an eccentric Irish dancer who is made mocked of by those around her. A group of companions that resemble the ‘Lost Girls’ and are made up of goats, snakes, birds, and cats—otherworldly creatures—provide her with comfort and support. They are mysterious and a little terrifying; they are a hybrid of a ghost and a teen, and they use their abilities to call forth mayhem to protect Jennifer. Jennifer transforms into the self she had been longing for but was unable to achieve on her own.
The video revolves around the idea of transformation, or discovering who you are and having the freedom to be who you are. The video’s lead character maintains her devotion despite her alteration. She continues to find more about herself while maintaining her romance.
If this is what Fontaines have to offer before the album’s official release, then the music industry needs to be prepared for the whirlwind that will hit them on the 23rd of August!
Listen to the track here:
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