This track features a catchy chorus that is hilariously being compared to ‘The Flood’ by Take That by fans on TikTok, which is hard to disagree with when played side by side, an ironic coincidence as it’s doubtful that many slightly pretentious Fontaines D.C. fans would be pleased at the idea of Robbie Williams as Grian Chatten's musical influence. As comical as it sounds - this comparison does make a lot of sense. Fontaines D.C. were always a post-punk band before the release of ‘Romance’, and then there was a slight change in sound, a more indie-pop influence that cemented this new era, which has followed into this single and suggests that the slightly bubblier and more colourful sound is here to stay; it does suit them pretty well, looks and sound-wise.
What stuck out after first listen wasn’t the sound per se, but the lyricism; it’s no surprise that Chatten was raised with a great knowledge of poetry; this sense of wit and illustrative writing truly does shine through on Fontaines D.C.’s discography. However, this track reads a little more conversational rather than metaphorical, with the chorus repeating “This year / You should come and stay here / You can follow my lead / I can help you disappеar”. This commanding language works, though, as it’s memorable and doesn’t stray too far from their usual writing style, but also establishes a vital part of a new sound. This song truly does stand out as a lead single; it doesn’t give away too much about what we might hear on ‘Dopamine Chamber’ when it releases on October 16th, yet it also has that classic Fontaines feel to it that has already built an indescribable level of excitement for this fresh new chapter for the band.
Amy Porter
Image: ‘Dopamine Chamber’ Official Album Cover