Irish sensations Fontaines D.C. have helped to raise €70,000 for charity after they headlined a ‘Rock Against Homelessness’ event in their home city.
The Dublin band’s career is on a rapid uphill trajectory thanks to their critically acclaimed debut album Dogrel and exhilarating live shows which have seen them gain fans across the world.
They are heavily inspired by their surroundings in the capital and, while they didn’t set up a band to make political statements, they were happy to help those in need when they can.
So when the chance came to perform a in Dublin’s Olympia Theatre for the charity Focus Ireland, they were delighted to do so.
Guitarist Carlos O’Connell said: “It’s not the reason we got into music; I’m not going to pretend it is.
“We never really tried to be political, but obviously we are affected by politics personally like everyone is. Some of that is going to seep into the music.
“It’s never been our aim to be a political band, to try and change the world.”
However, with the issues of homelessness on the increase, the band were pleased to be able to use their platform to raise both money for the cause and awareness of the issue.
O’Connell continued: “It’s quite an obvious problem and it’s highlighted by a lot of different issues. We’ve been away so long and we’re coming and going and we see how cities work.
“It really highlights when you see cities that work, where you don’t see anyone homeless on the street, or it’s very rare.
“I don’t get angry that much but I get upset by it and just feel like you can’t do anything about it.”
Fontaines D.C. were joined on the bill by fellow Irish artists such as The Murder Capital, Kneecap, Just Mustard, The Altered Hours, Melts, Stefan Murphy and Mary Wallopers.
Event organiser Barry Egan told the Irish Independent: “I’m so proud of the event. We’re in our fifth year now and it has gone brilliantly.
“We’ve raised almost €70,000 tonight, we plan to keep it going for as long as there is a homeless crisis.
“It seems to be getting worse rather than getting better.”
Pat Dennigan, chief executive of Focus Ireland said: “We’re delighted with the support we get from an event like this. This is the fifth year, we’re delighted with the way it’s gone.
“We’re delighted with the support of the Independent news group in all of this. I’d just like to say thank you to all the artists for giving their time.”
To find out more or to make a donation, visit the Focus Ireland website.