KNEECAP AT THE FOUNDRY: A NIGHT OF UMATCHED ENERGY AND POLITICAL ACTIVISM
Thursday night, the Irish trio Kneecap unleashed a torrent of raw energy at The Foundry in Sheffield, delivering a performance that will undoubtedly linger in the minds of all who attended. The gig was a pulsating experience creating a community amongst the crowd who all were bouncing from front to back, start to finish. It was great to see such a diverse audience, spanning all ages, unified in their electrifying enthusiasm. The event also featured one of the busiest merch stalls I’ve ever encountered, where I finally managed to snag the album on vinyl. Writing this review is quite challenging for me, partly because it’s not my genre and partly because I have so much to say about these three. It’s also out slightly late due to graduating on Friday, so I’ve had plenty of time to add to my notes. I’ll do my best to stay on track, but I can’t promise I won’t go off on a few tangents!.
At first glance, you might not expect Kneecap to exhibit such profound political intelligence. Their casual dress and demeanour belie a deep and articulate understanding of political issues, which they weave into their music with remarkable skill. They are like wolves in sheep’s clothing; they dress casually and look and act like your everyday lads, but their sharp political acumen and profound intelligence shine through their music in unexpected ways.
Kneecap are known and celebrated for their distinctive fusion of Irish and English lyrics, and they showcased this remarkable talent at The Foundry. I was swept away by how identical they sounded to their album, which I’ll admit I’ve been listening to almost daily. The album features in their critically-acclaimed film named after the group. The film premiered at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival, where it won the NEXT Audience Award, making it the first Irish-language film to achieve this. It also won several awards at the Galway Film Fleadh, including Best Irish Film, the Audience Award, and the Irish Language Feature Film Award. Additionally, Kneecap has been nominated for multiple British Independent Film Awards and European Film Awards.
As the set kicked off, the first thing I noticed was the effortless transitions between languages. I couldn’t understand a word of the Irish, but it didn’t matter; it created a dynamic and compelling atmosphere, highlighting their versatility and broad appeal. Beyond their compelling political stance, Kneecap’s performance was irresistibly danceable. The band’s set was a masterful fusion of powerful beats and sharp commentary, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking. They notably urged the youth to ‘be on the right side of history’ concerning the Palestinian conflict. This powerful message infused the performance with a profound sense of purpose. All three members of the band (Mo Chara, Móglaí Bap, and DJ Próvaí) danced and interacted with the crowd throughout the set, further adding to this feeling of unity.
While Kneecap are not typically a genre I gravitate towards, their unapologetic stance on Ireland’s political landscape and their vocal support for social justice issues like Palestine struck a chord with me from the moment I heard them. I think this is what appeals to fans of all ages. Their ability to weave political activism into their music, which makes you just want to lose yourself and dance, makes them stand out, drawing you into their unique narrative while also having a great time. This aspect of their identity went way beyond my usual musical tastes, creating a strong bond based on shared values, which was further cemented by this exhilarating performance.
The energy and excitement from the whole crowd were palpable, with people jumping around and getting on shoulders, all brought to a boil by blistering rap and pounding beats. The dance floor erupted into full rave mode as the room rocked to tracks like the hilariously titled “Rhino Ket,”. Kneecap’s rising success has ignited significant interest in the Irish language and garnered a following that transcends the religious divide in Northern Ireland. Over the last few weeks, thanks to Kneecap, I’ve delved into the history and struggles of the Irish people, highlighting the profound importance of this band.
As the gig drew to a climactic close with “C.E.A.R.T.A (RIGHTS),” “Parful,” and “Get Your Brits Out,” I found myself stunned, euphoric, and almost speechless. The underlying message of “Parful,” that rave culture unites Protestants and Catholics, highlighted the band’s knack for blending entertainment with meaningful commentary. There was so much to digest about Kneecap, so much to reflect on, and I struggled to know where to begin. Words can’t fully capture the experience; I’m trying, but you really have to witness it yourself.
Throughout the night, Kneecap continually demonstrated why they are a vital and unique presence in the current music scene. Their skilful amalgamation of compelling political messages with irresistible rhythms and captivating stagecraft sets a new standard for live performances. This also highlights the crucial role musicians play in raising awareness about important issues. Musicians have a unique ability to reach and influence a wide audience through their art, but many lack the bravery or passion to do so. By incorporating social and political messages into their music, they can shed light on issues that might otherwise be overlooked. This form of musical activism has a long history, and I’m glad to see it remerging with artists like Kneecap using their platforms to advocate for change, challenge societal norms, and give a voice to the marginalised.
Music festivals and concerts also provide spaces where messages of unity, tolerance, and social justice can be spread effectively. Musicians often engage in direct activism by organising benefit concerts, participating in awareness campaigns, and using their social media presence to mobilise support for various causes. This blend of artistry and activism helps to educate the public, foster empathy, and drive social change. Mo Chara explained to the crowd that despite touring and hangovers, Móglaí Bap is currently running 10 kilometres every day during their tour to raise money for food parcels in Gaza, with fans joining in along the way. You can find links to donate HERE.
In essence, Kneecap’s performance is a testament to how musicians can use their craft to not only entertain but also to inform and inspire their audience, making a significant impact on society. They also delivered a powerful performance ensuring that everyone in the audience was having a great time. Their infectious energy and genuine enjoyment on stage created an atmosphere where it was impossible to not to get swept up in the fun. They expertly balanced their serious political messages with moments of pure entertainment, making sure that while we were all dancing and singing along, we were also engaged and inspired. This dual approach made the show unforgettable, leaving me both exhilarated and thoughtful. The energy in The Foundry was a testament to the band’s extraordinary talent and the indelible impact they leave on their audience.
If their performance last Thursday is any indication, Kneecap’s soaring popularity is poised to carve out a lasting legacy not only across Ireland but across the whole of the United Kingdom and beyond.
RACHEL BROWN
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