Romance Review: Their Best Record Yet

Not since the days of Arctic Monkeys has an A-list indie band’s sound evolved as rapidly as that of Dublin-raised, London-based five-piece Fontaines DC. Their debut album, Dogrel, released in 2019, showcased raw, post-punk styles. Fast forward to their fourth album, and the band has embraced a richer, more expansive sonic palette.

The evolution in their sound also reflects a broadening of their inspirations. Initially fixated on their home city, Fontaines DC gradually shifted their narrative. Their 2022 album, Skinty Fia, explored tales of the Irish diaspora, while Romance transcends mere nationality altogether.

It’s a remarkably impressive record brimming with highlights. Grian Chatten’s always intriguing lyrics—”I don’t feel anything in the modern world / And I don’t feel bad”—are further enhanced by consistently imaginative arrangements. Both “Starburster” and “Here’s the Thing” exude an irresistible directness, appealing to the hips just as much as the brain.

One standout track is “Favourite,” which might be their prettiest song to date. It finds a beautiful balance between the sounds of Felt and The Cure, built on an exquisite guitar line.

The band also manages to captivate when they lower the intensity, as evidenced in the plaintive track, “Horseness Is the Whatness.” This collection represents their most outward-looking, complete, and rewarding effort to date.