The Murder Capital: Cork-led band back with killer second album 

James McGovern of the Murder Capital on how abandoning the late nights and frequent hangovers was a great move when it came to creating their new record 

James McGovern (on right with black jacket) and the other members of the Murder Capital.  Picture: James Kelly

The bright lights can lead to a dark place. This was the experience of James McGovern, Cork-born singer of indie group the Murder Capital. Catapulted into the UK top 20 with their debut album, I Have Fears, in August 2019, McGovern and their bandmates fell prey to the temptations – too many late nights, not enough early mornings – that often engulf young bands with the world at their feet. Three years later, there is steel in his voice as he says he is determined not to repeat those mistakes.

“What we really want is to keep making records,” says McGovern. “To be able to tour as much as possible. All these things demand you take it seriously. You don’t take it for granted and go out and get f***ed and hungover to bits and have loads of shows and not play that well.”