Fontaines D.C. Launch Deluxe Reissue of ‘Romance’ Featuring Dreamy New Music

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights
2. Introduction
3. The Evolution of "Romance"
4. The Deluxe Edition and Its New Tracks
5. Band Recognition and Achievements
6. The Implications of the Deluxe Edition
7. FAQ

Key Highlights

• Fontaines D.C. has released a deluxe edition of their acclaimed album "Romance," featuring new tracks, including "Before You I Just Forget."
• The original album peaked at Number Two in the UK and received high accolades, including being the second-best album of 2024 according to NME.
• The deluxe edition incorporates a previously unreleased live version of "Starburster" and the standalone single "It's Amazing To Be Young."
• The band continues to make waves on the festival circuit and has garnered international recognition, winning the International Group Of The Year award at the BRITs 2025.

Introduction

When the Dublin-based band Fontaines D.C. released their fourth studio album, Romance, last summer, it didn’t just resonate within the confines of their native Ireland. The album rocketed to Number Two on the UK charts and was celebrated by critics, landing a spot as the second-best album of 2024 in NME's year-end rankings. Fast forward to April 16, 2025, and the band has just released the deluxe edition of Romance, featuring new tracks like "Before You I Just Forget." What led to this reimagining of an already successful album, and what can fans expect from this new musical offering?

This article will explore the evolution of Romance into its deluxe form, the creativity behind its new songs, the band’s place within the music industry, and what lies ahead in their journey.

The Evolution of "Romance"

Historical Context

Fontaines D.C. emerged on the music scene in 2017 and have been pivotal in reshaping the indie rock genre with their unique blend of post-punk and lyrical prowess that encapsulates the spirit of contemporary Ireland. Their first two albums, Dogrel and A Hero’s Death, laid the groundwork for their reputation for poignant lyrics and energetic soundscapes. Following this, Romance continued to explore themes of love, loss, and identity with more intricate sound layers and deeper emotional resonance.

The Reception of Romance

Romance was not only a commercial success, but it also resonated with fans and critics alike. As mentioned, it peaked at Number Two in the UK charts and became one of the best-selling vinyl albums of 2025. Critics lauded it for balancing musical intricacy and raw emotion, with NME emphasizing its moments of both gravity and beauty—a hallmark of Fontaines D.C. music. The single "It’s Amazing To Be Young," which debuted earlier this year, captured a youthful optimism that shone through their usually darker, gritty narratives.

Exporting the energy of lively gigs into recorded music is a distinguishing mark of Fonts D.C.'s artistry, and Romance showcased just that.

The Deluxe Edition and Its New Tracks

Newly Introduced Songs

The deluxe edition of Romance includes three additional tracks that add depth to the existing album. The standout track, "Before You I Just Forget," is described as an intricate piece instilled with dynamic sound details that seemingly shift with each listen. Conor Culrey, the band’s producer and multi-instrumentalist, shared insights on how the song evolved:

"It started with a vision of this really blown out sound, something that heaved and shifted with new details becoming apparent every time you would listen."

Incorporating string arrangements, "Before You I Just Forget" has been praised for its complex layers which create a tapestry of sound that contrasts with the raw energy of their earlier work.

The Standalone Single

Also included in the deluxe version is "It’s Amazing To Be Young," which was released earlier to much acclaim. This song’s positive messaging and uplifting composition strike a chord with listeners, making it a perfect inclusion to the deluxe edition.

Live Version of "Starburster"

Another highlight is the previously unreleased live version of "Starburster," which draws inspiration from David Lynch’s iconic "In Heaven (Lady In The Radiator Song)." This rendition provides an intimate experience that captures the essence of Fontaines D.C. live performances, adding an organic feel to the polished studio versions.

Band Recognition and Achievements

Awards and International Recognition

Fontaines D.C.s' talent and hard work have not gone unnoticed. They recently received the International Group Of The Year award at the BRITs 2025, solidifying their status in both the domestic and international music arenas. Their nomination for Best Rock Album at the Grammys for Romance further highlights their growing influence, even as they faced stiff competition from giants like The Rolling Stones.

Guitarist Carlos O’Connell humorously commented on the band's Grammy experience:

"It’s a bit mad, but at the same time it is The Rolling Stones [...] I think we need to turn 40 to get the Grammy."

This playful acknowledgment of their current recognition juxtaposed with the legacy of iconic rock bands showcases both humility and ambition as they navigate their music career.

Upcoming Events and Festivals

Looking forward, Fontaines D.C. are gearing up for a busy summer filled with extensive tour plans. Their scheduled outdoor headline concerts across the UK, alongside appearances at major festivals such as TRNSMT in Glasgow, demonstrate their commitment to delivering raw, energetic live music to fans.

The Implications of the Deluxe Edition

Artistic Growth and Evolution

The release of Romance (Deluxe Edition) not only shows Fontaines D.C's dedication to enriching their musical catalog but serves as a testament to their artistic growth. By introducing new tracks and modalities such as string arrangements and live renditions, they are exploring different musical territories while retaining their core essence. This trend of deluxe editions is prevalent among various artists today, signifying a willingness to revisit and enhance past works.

Fan Engagement and Anticipation

In the current landscape, where music consumption is heavily digital, releasing a deluxe edition can help sustain and deepen fan engagement. With the positive reception of their latest tracks and sold-out shows, there’s a growing anticipation for what Fontaines D.C. will do next.

Market Trends

Within the broader context of the music industry, deluxe editions often serve as a strategic approach to generating renewed interest in an album and maximizing sales. By cultivating deeper connections with their audience, Fontaines D.C. position themselves to remain relevant in a rapidly changing industry.

FAQ

What is the release date of the Romance (Deluxe Edition)?

The deluxe edition was released on April 16, 2025.

What new songs are included in the deluxe edition?

The deluxe edition features three new tracks: "Before You I Just Forget," "It’s Amazing To Be Young," and a live version of "Starburster."

How has the album Romance been received critically?

Romance peaked at Number Two in the UK, received high praise from critics, including being named NME's second-best album of 2024.

What awards has Fontaines D.C. received recently?

They won the International Group Of The Year award at the BRITs 2025 and were nominated for Best Rock Album at the Grammys.

What are Fontaines D.C.’s tour plans for this year?

Fontaines D.C. will be performing at various outdoor headline concerts as well as major music festivals across the UK and Europe.

In conclusion, Fontaines D.C.'s Romance (Deluxe Edition) is more than an addition to their discography; it's a reflection of their growth as artists and a bridge to future endeavors as they continue to engage and inspire their fanbase.