Kneecap collab with Orbital’s Paul Hartnoll for great new single “Sayōnara”

Kneecap are back with a killer new single, “Sayōnara,” that was co-written and produced by Orbital‘s Paul Hartnoll. The Irish rap trio, who lest ye forget make music in addition to headlines for their political views, have long been fans of ’90s rave and electronica, and this works like gangbusters. The song has been a staple of Kneecap’s summer live shows and it’s now officially out.

The video for “Sayōnara” was directed by Finn Keenan and stars Derry Girls‘ Jamie Lee O’Donnell as an office drone by day and a raver at night. It’s as good as the song. “I had the best time filming the ‘Sayōnara’ music video,” O’Donnell says. “Not only is it a massive banger of a track but the intense yet euphoric video is sure to be remembered. The creativity and vision of director, Finn, created a fantastic environment for us all to create something really special. I was delighted to have been asked to be involved in this project especially as I am already a huge fan of Kneecap’s music and an admirer of their work overall.”

Adds Keegan, “The intensity and ominous tone of ‘Sayõnara’ reminded me of both the best nights out and the brutal days that followed. That’s what sparked the idea. But I wanted to turn a typical dance video on its head and focus on the aftermath and how the chemicals in your body change as the week progresses. I wanted to capture the visceral intensity of paranoia and intrusive thoughts. Somehow, that “never again” anxiety of Monday slowly shifts by Friday into a “Weekend is here. Monday will never happen again! ” optimism.”

Watch the video below.

“Sayōnara” will be released as a 12″ double-a-side single with “The Recap” on the flip. It’s out October 10 via Heavenly.

Kneecap’s US dates of their North American tour have sadly been canceled but Canadian shows are still on.

Orbital also co-wrote a song on the new Saint Etienne album that’s out this week.