Foo Fighters Release Surprise Free EP, ‘St. Cecilia,’ Dedicated to Victims of Paris Attacks

The Foo Fighters are giving fans something extra to be thankful for this Thanksgiving: a surprise free EP, titled St. Cecilia, which can be found on the band's website.

St. Cecilia's release answers the question of what the countdown clock on the Foos' site was leading up to — and even though the five-song collection is being given away, it also gives the band an opportunity to help raise funds and awareness for the victims of the recent terrorist attacks in Paris.

Explaining that the band feels the EP has "taken on an entirely different tone" since the violence in Paris, frontman Dave Grohl wrote, "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."

Grohl also penned a much longer letter delving into the recording of St. Cecilia, which took place at the Saint Cecilia Hotel in Austin and grew out of Grohl's impulsive decision to set up shop between tour stops and put together a "thank you" to fans for the support they've felt during the hectic period surrounding their recent Sonic Highways project.

"The perfect unity of life, and love, and music is something that only comes around so often and in certain circumstances," reads one passage of the note. "When you feel it coming on, you have to take hold of it. That place and those people made it possible for our band to take one, big final breath before the curtain closes. Thankfully, we have evidence of this in these songs that we’re giving to you today. Thank you, Saint Cecilia. You made us feel right at home."

Still, Grohl seems uncertain of the group's next move. "Maybe these songs are the breadcrumbs that will help us find our way back when it’s time. We could use a nice wander through the woods right about now," he mused. "I can’t help but wonder when we will see each other again. Who knows? But, with everything Foo Fighter related, it will only be when it feels right. And that’s a feeling that’s easy to feel."

Check out the St. Cecilia track listing below, then visit the Foo Fighters website to download the EP and donate to Paris relief efforts.

Foo Fighters, 'St. Cecilia' Track Listing
"Saint Cecilia"
"Sean"
"Savior Breath"
"Iron Rooster"
"The Neverending Sigh"

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