LONDON (AP) — The Irish hip-hop group Kneecap had a tumultuous seven-week recording period for their second album, “Fenian,” coinciding with a legal battle faced by member Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, also known as Mo Chara. In 2024, Mo Chara was charged with a terror-related offense for displaying a flag from the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah at a concert in London. This group is listed as a terrorist organization in Britain. Ultimately, the charge was thrown out, and the band harnessed their courtroom experiences and the support they received from fans during the proceedings as inspiration for several tracks on “Fenian.”
The album’s title serves as an act of defiance, reclaiming a term that has historically been used pejoratively against Irish people. During their court appearances, fans gathered outside in solidarity, singing and chanting “Free Mo Chara,” a refrain that appears in the band’s new song “Carnival.”
In a recent interview with The Associated Press, Mo Chara, along with fellow members Móglaí Bap and DJ Próvaí, reflected on their recording experience for “Fenian,” the significance of their live performances, and their aspirations for touring the U.S.
Regarding their songwriting process, Mo Chara noted that the recording and writing of the album occurred simultaneously, driven by their producer, Dan Carey. This organic development marked a shift from their first album, allowing for an interesting dynamic as lyrics and production evolved together. Móglaí Bap commented on the chaotic backdrop of their studio time, which included court appearances and a concert at Wembley Arena. He acknowledged that despite the challenges, the legal proceedings ultimately proved to be a source of inspiration rather than a hindrance.
When discussing their live performances, DJ Próvaí emphasized the energy brought by their audience, which he believed had been cultivated by the band’s reputation for delivering dynamic shows. This energy contributes to an elevated atmosphere even before the performance begins, setting the stage for an exciting concert experience. Mo Chara added that the hard work had already been done prior to the show, allowing them to feed off the audience’s enthusiasm, while Móglaí Bap explained how their use of the Irish language necessitated an engaging stage presence to connect with a diverse audience, most of whom do not understand the lyrics.
On the subject of touring in the United States, Mo Chara clarified some misinformation regarding their visa status. He stated that they had never been denied a visa; instead, they were in the process of changing promoters, which required a new application for a working visa. Due to the legal situation, they decided not to apply for the visa at that time. With the court case now resolved, Mo Chara expressed optimism about their prospects for obtaining the necessary visas, emphasizing that they have no criminal history and are eager to return to performing in America.
As Kneecap continues to build on their experiences, both in the studio and beyond, the band remains focused on connecting with their audience and asserting their identity through their music. Their journey through legal challenges and creative collaboration has fueled their artistic output and dedication to their craft, positioning them for future opportunities.
