Romance is the fourth studio album by Irish rock band Fontaines D.C., released on August 23, 2024, through XL Recordings. This album marks a departure from their earlier, Dublin-centric themes, embracing a more expansive and futuristic sound influenced by Japanese manga and Italian cinema. Produced by James Ford, "Romance" showcases the band's evolution with a blend of alternative rock, Britpop, gothic Americana, and '90s alt-rock elements.
The album received critical acclaim, with Pitchfork noting that it "marries energetic unpredictability with sophisticated craft, showcasing Fontaines D.C.'s evolved identity while retaining a dark, engaging allure."
The Guardian highlighted the band's significant musical evolution, stating that they have "ventured into new territories influenced by synth bass, stadium goth sounds akin to Depeche Mode, and a mix of breakbeats, dreampop, and slacker rock."
"Romance" also garnered two nominations at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards: Best Rock Album and Best Alternative Music Performance for the lead single "Starburster."
Tracklist:
Side A
A1. Romance
A2. Starburster
A3. Here's The Thing
A4. Desire
A5. In The Modern World
A6. Bug
Side B
B1. Motorcycle Boy
B2. Sundowner
B3. Horseness Is The Whatness
B4. Death Kink
B5. Favourite
XL Recordings
2024
Vinyl, LP
Radioactive Yellow
XL1436LPVMP
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