Irish hip-hop trio Kneecap have joined forces with Fontaines D.C. frontman Grian Chatten for their latest single, ‘Better Way To Live’, the band’s debut on Heavenly Recordings.

As a bombastic beat and bassline thunder underneath, Fontaines D.C. vocalist Chatten opens the track with a refrain in his typically caustic delivery before rappers Mo Chara and Móglaí Bap each take turns to deliver verses in a mix of Irish and English.

Known for their socially conscious and politically charged lyrics, Kneecap state that their latest release is all about “finding that little spark of joy in the monotony”, whether that’s bumping into friends at a cashpoint or quietly leaving after a couple of quiet pints down the local.

With the Irish tongue rarely heard in mainstream media, let alone in rap music, the Belfast trio (completed by producer DJ Próvaí) have been noted for the use of their native language in their songs, which while often coarse in its meaning is refreshing to hear due to its underrepresentation in popular culture.

The track also sees Kneecap teaming up with guest producer Toddla T and Fontaines D.C. drummer Tom Coll, adding a real sense of flair to the already punchy nature of the track.

With yet another string of North American dates on the horizon, this latest chapter in the ever-expanding Kneecap story shows they’re an act with a huge amount to say and a desire to spread their good word as far and wide as possible.