KNEECAP release new track 'Smugglers & Scholars'

KNEECAP have released their new single, 'Smugglers & Scholars', the latest track to be shared off their forthcoming album, Fenian, due April 24.
'Smugglers & Scholars' is described as being "a track that's reminiscing on revolutionary times in Ireland, driven by a hopefulness, when the working class, academics and good people everywhere united and took action in search of a better future."

The Belfast trio previously released Liar's Tale with an accompanying music video directed by Thomas James, a UKMVA-winning director who has worked with the likes of Sam Fender and Nothing But Thieves.

Thomas James called the video "a whirlwind of Irish mythology, of satire, of anger".

"A vehicle for what the boys have been through, but likewise, for what everyone is witnessing," said James.

"It's not often you get to work with a band who have a genuine fire and a selfless interest in trying to help people, and that for all of us involved, was important."

Fenian will feature collaborations with Lankum's Radie Peat on 'Cocaine Hill', spoken word artist Kae Tempest on album closer 'Irish Goodbye', and West Bank-based rapper Fawzi on 'Palestine'. The 14-track album was produced by Fontaines D.C. and Black Midi collaborator Dan Carey.

KNEECAP are set to perform at AVA Belfast 2026, Crystal Palace Park, London; All Together Now; Boomtown; Leeds Festival; and Reading Festival and will also be heading on tour in support of the album.

• Listen to 'Smugglers & Scholars' below: