Foo Fighters Release Surprise Free EP Saint Cecilia
Garfield always hated Mondays, but Foo Fighters have given everyone a reason to disregard that grumpy, orange cat with the announcement of a new, free EP titled Saint Cecilia. The release of the five-song collection has coincided with the countdown clock launched on the band’s website in late October. The idea was hatched by mainman Dave Grohl as a way to thank the fans for their support, and has now been dedicated to the victims of the terrorist attacks in Paris in hopes to lift some spirits with rock ‘n’ roll.
When Foo Fighters pulled into town for the Austin City Limits music festival, the band enjoyed a stay at the Saint Cecilia Hotel. The hotel was named after the patroness saint of music and inspired them to record some new songs at the studio across the street for the fans. The group was convinced to record at the hotel itself and Grohl embraced the opportunity, aligning similarities between this new music and the recording process for Sonic Highways. Grohl penned a lengthy letter on Nov. 8 regarding the EP, which can be read in full at the Foo Fighters website. In light of the recent terrorist attacks which occurred in Paris, the singer released the following statement concerning the Saint Cecilia EP:
“Let me begin with a preface to a letter I wrote a few weeks ago from my hotel room in Berlin while on our final tour for this album. I felt the need to write this foreword in light of the heartbreaking tragedies of Nov. 13th, as this project has now taken on an entirely different tone. As has everything, it seems…
The Saint Cecilia EP was put into motion back in October of this year as a celebration of life and music. The concept being that, as our world tour drew to a close this week, we wanted to share our love of both with you in return for everything you have given us.
Now, there is a new, hopeful intention that, even in the smallest way, perhaps these songs can bring a little light into this sometimes dark world. To remind us that music is life, and that hope and healing go hand in hand with song. That much can never be taken away.
To all who were affected by the atrocities in Paris, loved ones and friends, our hearts go out to you and your families. We will return and celebrate life and love with you once again someday with our music. As it should be done.”
Dave Grohl
The EP was recorded during some busy nights at the hotel, leading to unique moments during the writing and recording process. In the Nov. 8 letter, the frontman details the collaboration with the Preservation Hall Jazz Band and the spontaneous, whirlwind approach to writing the music. Ultimately, Saint Cecilia has one incredible story behind it that, in true Foo Fighters fashion, has paved its own path with a disregard for the conventional approach.
Due to the terrorist attacks in Paris, Foo Fighters canceled the remainder of their European tour, which consisted of four remaining dates.
Download the Saint Cecilia EP and read Dave Grohl’s entire letter at FooFighters.com.
Saint Cecilia EP Tracklisting
01. “Saint Cecilia”
02. “Sean”
03. “Savior Breath”
04. “Iron Rooster”
05. “The Neverending Sigh”