2008 Woodie Awards
Raise a pint to 'Float'
By: Mike Fuksman
Issue date: 3/12/08 Section: Lifeline
With St. Patrick's Day nearly upon us, the timing couldn't be more perfect for a new release by pub-punkers Flogging Molly.
"Float" is easily the band's punchiest, most aggressive record to date, with only a couple slow-burners to spare.
Recorded in lead singer Dave King's native Ireland, it has all the stomp and swagger of their previous releases, and then some.
Of course, the record wouldn't be complete without a couple weepy Irish ballads. The title track, as well as album closer "The Story So Far," keep things on the slow side, but even these build up to a shout-along roar as they end.
But the real stars of the show are the uptempo anthems "(No More) Paddy's Anthem" and "On The Back Of A Broken Dream."
Bridget Regan's violin is so catchy on these that you might catch yourself humming along with them instead of King's passionate vocals.
Speaking of which, King takes a note from The Clash (not his first, naturally) on the political biter "Requiem For A Dying Song."
When King yelps "see the blood run down/your bushwhacked town," it's not hard to imagine who he's singing about.
But of course, it isn't just the lyrical ideas that Flogging Molly have borrowed from Joe Strummer and company.
Quick history lesson, kids: The Pogues started the Celtic-punk thing way back in the '80s; give 'em a listen!
And admittedly, "Float" is more or less straight out of the Flogging Molly play book. You won't find anything new here, but what is it that they say about things that aren't broken in the first place?
The thing that sets "Float" apart is that the band sound more self-assured and tight than ever. Flogging Molly have always been fast and hard, but "Float" hits even harder than their previous records, if you can imagine that.
For a band nearly a decade old, to actually get MORE aggressive with age says something about their dedication, especially when they're stacked up against punk bands half their age.
Songs like "Man With No Country" and "(No More) Paddy's Lament" smoke anything you'll hear on the radio in terms of raw power and energy.
No, Flogging Molly hasn't gotten old. Rather, they've matured, much like a fine barrel-aged stout. Drink up.
Five out of five clovers.
lifeline@cm-life.com
"Float" is easily the band's punchiest, most aggressive record to date, with only a couple slow-burners to spare.
Recorded in lead singer Dave King's native Ireland, it has all the stomp and swagger of their previous releases, and then some.
Of course, the record wouldn't be complete without a couple weepy Irish ballads. The title track, as well as album closer "The Story So Far," keep things on the slow side, but even these build up to a shout-along roar as they end.
But the real stars of the show are the uptempo anthems "(No More) Paddy's Anthem" and "On The Back Of A Broken Dream."
Bridget Regan's violin is so catchy on these that you might catch yourself humming along with them instead of King's passionate vocals.
Speaking of which, King takes a note from The Clash (not his first, naturally) on the political biter "Requiem For A Dying Song."
When King yelps "see the blood run down/your bushwhacked town," it's not hard to imagine who he's singing about.
But of course, it isn't just the lyrical ideas that Flogging Molly have borrowed from Joe Strummer and company.
Quick history lesson, kids: The Pogues started the Celtic-punk thing way back in the '80s; give 'em a listen!
And admittedly, "Float" is more or less straight out of the Flogging Molly play book. You won't find anything new here, but what is it that they say about things that aren't broken in the first place?
The thing that sets "Float" apart is that the band sound more self-assured and tight than ever. Flogging Molly have always been fast and hard, but "Float" hits even harder than their previous records, if you can imagine that.
For a band nearly a decade old, to actually get MORE aggressive with age says something about their dedication, especially when they're stacked up against punk bands half their age.
Songs like "Man With No Country" and "(No More) Paddy's Lament" smoke anything you'll hear on the radio in terms of raw power and energy.
No, Flogging Molly hasn't gotten old. Rather, they've matured, much like a fine barrel-aged stout. Drink up.
Five out of five clovers.
lifeline@cm-life.com
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