Reimagine Like A Version With Haunting Rock Mashup
Fontaines D.C. have delivered one of the most unforgettable Like A Version performances in recent memory. Merging Bring Me The Horizon’s “Can You Feel My Heart” with Nirvana’s “Heart-Shaped Box”. In a raw, poetic, and atmospheric reinterpretation. Rather than simply covering two beloved tracks, the Irish post-punk five-piece transformed them into a slow-burning emotional piece that feels entirely their own. The mashup doesn’t just bridge two eras of alternative rock — it dissolves the space between them completely. The performance channels deep introspection while revisiting the iconic soundscapes of both classics, seamlessly melding modern alt-rock fervour with timeless grunge aesthetics. This boundary-defying execution stands as both a tribute to the originals and an audacious exploration of new sonic territory, inviting fans to experience familiar tunes in an entirely unexpected, haunting light.
A New Pulse for “Can You Feel My Heart”
The band opened with a reimagined version of BMTH’s “Can You Feel My Heart”, stripping away the song’s original electronic-rock intensity in favour of shimmering synths, subdued drums, and a vocal performance from Grian Chatten that felt both detached and deeply vulnerable. It’s a far cry from the 2013 original — and intentionally so. Fontaines D.C. have spent the last few years evolving from high-energy punk revivalists into mood-driven, atmospheric storytellers.
Their Like A Version choice mirrors the sonic textures of their 2024 album Romance, which saw them embrace ambient soundscapes and icy minimalism. Guitarist Conor Curley explained the band’s direction:
“Grian initially suggested Can You Feel My Heart, and we felt its electronic tones mirrored what we explored on Romance. It’s a moody, beautiful song, so it made sense for us to put our own spin on it.” Their stripped-back arrangement gave the song space to breathe, with Chatten’s voice floating over the restrained instrumentation and highlighting the raw emotion embedded in the lyrics.
Into the Heart of Nirvana
Midway through the set, the band seamlessly transitioned into Nirvana’s 1993 classic “Heart-Shaped Box”. The switch was subtle yet powerful, deepening the overall mood as if tapping into the same emotional undercurrent that bridged the two tracks. “It’s probably one of the first songs I learned on guitar,” Curley noted, adding a personal touch to the performance. Their rendition of Nirvana was neither nostalgic nor imitative; it was a deeply reverent reinterpretation that built tension through a slow, deliberate pace. Chatten’s delivery – distinct from Cobain’s iconic style – imbued the lyrics with a haunting, almost spoken-word cadence, leaving audiences with a palpable sense of unease and introspection. As the performance neared its end, the gradual fade-out underscored the cinematic quality of the piece.
Fans React: “Absolute Chills”
Triple J’s Like A Version has hosted a plethora of memorable performances, yet few have garnered the immediate acclaim of this mashup. Social media buzzed as viewers shared their astonishment: “I never knew I needed this mashup until now. Absolute chills,” one fan declared. Another commented, “This is one of the best Like A Versions ever — completely haunting and beautiful.” Praise poured in as fans lauded the band’s originality and emotional depth. Rather than relying solely on technical prowess, Fontaines D.C. managed to infuse each note with genuine feeling, creating a performance that resonated on both an artistic and personal level. This bold reinvention not only earned accolades but also cemented the band’s reputation as true innovators in the realm of alternative music.
Where to Hear and Catch Them Next
This electrifying performance has added significant momentum to an already defining year for Fontaines D.C. Their latest album, Romance, continues to captivate critics and fans alike as their most ambitious, expansive record to date. Viewers can catch the full Like A Version mashup on Triple J’s official YouTube channel, while Romance streams on all major platforms. For more on the band and to keep up with their evolving sound, visit the official Fontaines D.C. website and check their upcoming tour schedule. Fontaines D.C. are not only reshaping live performances but are also redefining modern alternative rock.
Final Words On Fontaines D.C.’s Reinvention
Fontaines D.C. have once again proven that true artistry lies in the fearless reimagining of the familiar. With this Like A Version performance, they’ve taken two iconic songs and transformed them into an immersive experience that transcends genre and time. The band’s evolution is evident as they blend evocative melodies with a stripped-back, atmospheric sound that allows the underlying emotion to shine through. Their decision to reinterpret rather than replicate underscores a commitment to innovation, challenging listeners to rediscover beloved tracks in a new light. This performance is a testament to Fontaines D.C.’s dedication to pushing boundaries and redefining what covers can achieve. For fans old and new, it is a stirring reminder that music is ever-evolving, capable of surprising us and evoking unexpected emotions with every note.
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