Fontaines D.C. Rock Brittany at Fort Saint-Père

Before confirming their fifth studio album on Sunday, Fontaines D.C. took to the helm of music festival La Route du Rock in France with an mesmerising and electric performance packed with passion and style.

The Irish band headed to the event in Saint-Malo, Brittany after playing four shows in Spain, with new singles 'Marianne' and 'Six Shot Morning' remaining on the setlist. Projecting a completely different, hypnotic, and ethereal sound, the new project, called Dopamine Chamber, is set to be packed with glistening tunes. 

Fontaines D.C.'s earlier, boisterous sound was honoured with loud, raucous renditions of 'Big' and 'Hurricane Laughter' from debut album Dogrel, which were received with thanks by the sold-out crowd, packed into the dusty Fort de Saint-Père like sardines in a can. 'Roy's Tune' also rang out through the walls of the fort, a picturesque venue for a rousing event.

Fontaines' chaotic early sound continued with 'Televised Mind' from A Hero's Death, and various hits from Skinty Fia, including the intense 'Nabokov', gritty 'Big Shot', and the blinding and bold 'Jackie Down The Line'. 

In a brilliant surprise, lead singer Grian Chatten invited Kurt Vile, fellow performer at the festival, onstage to play 'Roman Holiday' with the band. The American artist and expert guitarist laced the song with a decorative, captivating new layer of sound in a truly special moment. 

Empowerment and enjoyment levels were at an all-time high for fans during the set, especially during the songs of Romance, Fontaines D.C.'s most recent album. The anthem 'It's Amazing To Be Young' and a spellbinding rendition of 'Before You I Just Forget' glowed? in the night, as well as the defiant 'Bug' and upbeat and proud performances of 'In The Modern World' and 'Favourite'.

The Irish band rounded out their set with an encore of 'I Love You' and 'Starburster', enchanting the loyal crowd with arguably their most popular songs. 

Whilst the new era of Fontaines D.C. is only just beginning, the band proved once more that their timeless past is equally as exciting as the future. Charismatic times are ahead for one of Ireland's most confident musical prospects, who remain as charming and innovative as ever.