Who Are Fontaines D.C.?

The punk-rockers of Ireland are quickly forming a musical movement, altering a familiar genre to fit their fancies. While Celtic-punk bands like Flogging Molly and Dropkick Murphys have offered an accessible sound to American listeners, there’s something raw and exhilarating growing within Ireland’s punk scene. 

The explosion of sound occurring overseas finally trickled down to the U.S., through groups like Fontaines D.C., without losing any of the gritty thrill. 

Forging the Fontaines D.C. Identity

According to Triple R, all five members of Fontaines D.C. met while studying at BIMM University in Dublin and quickly bonded over a love of poetry, specifically beat poets like Jack Kerouac. After writing two short poetry collections together, “Vroom” and “The Winding,” each member decided to leave their current bands to form Fontaines D.C. 

The five-piece band - consisting of Grian Chatten (vocals), Conor Curley (guitar), Tom Coll (drums), Conor "Deego" Deegan III (bass) and Carlos O'Connell (guitar) - originally chose the name “Fontaines” after the character Johnny Fontane from “The Godfather.” This title didn’t stick due to the discovery that another band from LA had the same name. Ever proud of their origins, they added “D.C.” as an abbreviation for Dublin City. 

Once they were united, the band quickly released their first single, “Liberty Belle.” According to Stereogum, the song’s inspiration once again traces back to their Irish identity; the track is a tribute to the Liberties - a small neighborhood in Dublin that many bandmates call home and what Chatten refers to as “the last bastion of a true, fading strain of Irish identity.”

International Sound

According to AllMusic, the industrious five organized their own tour after releasing their first few singles in 2017, sending Fontaines D.C. on a nonstop trip to stardom. In November of 2018, the group signed with Partisan Records and made quick work of releasing their debut album “Dogrel” by April of the following year.

“Dogrel” not only lived up to their already established identity, but also asserted Fontaines D.C. as true punks. Atwood Magazine reports that “Dogrel” got its title from working-class Irish poetry, Doggerel, and was recorded live on tape - letting the listener absorb the attitude and tension. The slick-as-sandpaper sound immediately caught the attention of publications and audiences, paving the way for international success.

Their second album, “A Hero’s Death,” earned the group their first Grammy nomination for Best Rock Album, a feat which they repeated in 2025 with their fourth album, “Romance.” Despite being nominated in the same category, the albums are distinct, showcasing the band’s range and evolution. Comparing “A Hero’s Death” to “Romance” reveals how they can shift from wry and introspective writing about Ireland to a more futuristic, exuberant tone that is boundless. 

Seeing a New Scene

Fontaines D.C. deserves their roses. Their music is sharp yet swaggering in a lackadaisical way, perfectly embodying their point of origin. It’s not easy to make great music, but it’s even harder to do it with intention and magnitude. Fontaines D.C. is able to step back and take a look at the larger picture, understanding the context to arrive at the main idea in a tiny detail. 

Like many punk predecessors, they also aren’t afraid to speak out against political/social injustices that matter to them. In 2024, Fontaines D.C. partnered with Massive Attack and Young Fathers to release “Ceasefire: In Benefit of Doctors Without Borders,” donating all of the sales to relief efforts in Gaza. They have since gone on to join the “No Music for Genocide” boycott, in which bands geo-block their music from being streamed in Israel. 

While their goal isn’t always to be political, the members of Fontaines D.C. always speak their mind. Their brash confidence is part of what makes the music so alluring; they invite audiences to dispel their anxieties and insecurities, favoring living boldly and enjoying the life you’ve got.

Spin Tip

If you’re looking to prepare for Fontaines D.C.’s upcoming album, “Dopamine Chamber,” out Oct. 16th, definitely be sure to check out their previous release “Romance.” Although this album steps away from their Dublin identities and usual punk sound, it’s innovative and rambunctious, capturing their restless, creative drive.

Give their new single, “Marianne,” a spin as well. Its haunting, creeping affection sets the mood for “Dopamine Chamber,” which seems centered around an increasingly synthetic society. Wherever they’re taking us, it’s best to let Fontaines D.C. lead the way.