Kneecap is used to controversy. On new album 'Fenian,' they're leaning further in
The Irish hip-hop trio Kneecap discusses their new album 'Fenian,' which delves into political and personal themes while reclaiming a historically charged term. The album addresses issues such as Irish identity, colonialism, and solidarity with Palestine, reflecting the group's commitment to cultural and linguistic expression. Despite facing bans, legal challenges, and controversy, the band continues to use their music as a platform for activism and artistic evolution.
- ▪Kneecap's new album 'Fenian' explores themes of Irish identity, colonialism, and solidarity with Palestine, featuring Palestinian rapper Fawzi on the track 'Palestine.'
- ▪The term 'Fenian,' once a derogatory slur against Irish republicans, is being reclaimed by the band to reflect pride in Irish heritage and resistance to British rule.
- ▪Band member Mo Chara faced a terrorism charge in London for allegedly displaying a Hezbollah flag during a performance, but the case was dismissed.
- ▪Kneecap raps primarily in Irish, blending it with English, and aims to represent the modern use of the Irish language among youth in Belfast.
- ▪Countries including Canada and Hungary have banned Kneecap from entering or performing due to the group's political stances, particularly their pro-Palestinian activism.
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Music Kneecap is used to controversy. On new album 'Fenian,' they're leaning further in May 1, 202611:30 AM ET By Juana Summers , Kathryn Fink Moglai Bap (left), DJ Provai (middle) and Mo Chara (right), members of Irish band Kneecap, pose for a photo at the National Hotel in Havana, on March 20, 2026. Yamil Lage/AFP via Getty Images/AFP hide caption toggle caption Yamil Lage/AFP via Getty Images/AFP The Irish hip-hop trio Kneecap got their start rapping about drugs and their ire toward the British government. They're still doing that. But according to member Mo Chara, their new album, Fenian, is a bid to be taken more seriously as musicians, to "not just be seen as a parody act." Given the album's subject matter, it's easy to imagine Kneecap has made progress on that front.
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