Kneecap^IE

With a mix of linguistic inventiveness, social indignation and razor-sharp satire, Kneecap have taken a poetic aim at those in power. At the same time, the rap trio have created an expression that is both quintessentially Irish – blending Gaelic phrases with Belfast street slang – and globally oriented in their unyielding critique of power and imperialism.

That position is further explored on their new album Fenian, which has received strong reviews. Pitchfork highlights the record as a ferocious second chapter with “more sophisticated songcraft, a wider range of beats, and a more defined political direction”.

Kneecap’s music and identity are deeply rooted in the political and cultural heritage of Belfast’s nationalist and republican communities – particularly in the Catholic working-class neighbourhoods of West Belfast, where the members grew up. The group, consisting of rappers Mo Chara and Móglai Bap and producer DJ Próvaí, challenged the establishment from the very beginning. Their debut single “C.E.A.R.T.A.” was banned from Irish radio for its biting lyrics, but it also marked them out as standout voices at home.

In 2024, they made their Danish debut at Roskilde Festival, where one of the festival’s smaller stages was transformed into a massive celebration.

Since then, the trio’s impact has only grown, and with Fenian behind them, Kneecap return stronger than ever – both musically and in their expression. That momentum will undoubtedly be felt when they return to Roskilde Festival this summer, where things are guaranteed to be anything but quiet.