On May 10, 2025, Fontaines D.C. (Dublin City) delivered an electrifying performance at The Anthem in Washington, D.C. (District of Columbia) as part of their Romance tour. The sold-out show showcased the band’s evolution, blending their signature post-punk energy with dark wave sounds reminiscent of some of my favorite ’80s bands such as The Cure, Joy Division, and The Smiths.
As the lights at The Anthem slowly dimmed to complete darkness, guitarist Conor Curley took the stage with his back to the audience opening their set with a dramatic take on “Romance,” the title track off their new album of the same name. Grian Chatten, the lead singer, began to sing in soft haunting vocals, the lights flickered, and loud bass drops rang through the venue eerily setting the tone for the evening.
It was the perfect introduction to the night, and the song choice (which could be considered an “anthem” for the new album) felt appropriate for the venue and maybe even a nod to the state of our world right now. The lyrics to “Romance,” which is about the “complexity of love and the yearning for an idealized escape from a harsh reality,” definitely struck a chord, or two, with members of the audience, including myself.
Into the darkness again
In with the pigs in the pen
God knows I love you
Screws in my head
I will be beside you
‘Til you’re deadAnd deep in the night I confide
That maybe my goodness has died
I pray for your kindness
Heart on a spitAnd maybe romance is a place, yeah
Maybe romance is a place, yeah
Maybe romance is a place
For me and you
And you
And
All in all, it was a visceral live performance, and the band went to on play 18 more songs, integrating tracks from their latest album with fan favorites from previous releases. Songs like “Jackie Down the Line” and “Televised Mind” showcased their post-punk roots, while newer tracks like “Starburster” and “In the Modern World” introduced more experimental elements, including grungier textures and electronic influences. Chatten’s vocals resonated deeply with the audience, and the band’s raw energy and authenticity kept the fans engaged.
They closed out the show with four encore songs, “In the Modern World, “Desire,” “I Love You,” and of course, “Starburster,” which kept fans singing along until the very end. Their performance was a testament to their growth as artists, the fusion of new material with the old, along with their dedication to providing an immersive live experience. For fans of the band and newcomers as well, the show was a memorable showcase of their evolving musical journey. Personally, I have truly enjoyed the journey, and I really love the new album. I can’t wait to see where they go next.
