Dropkick Murphys – The Meanest of Times

By paul

I don’t need to rattle on forever and a day with this one because if you loved the band’s previous work, you’ll love this. TDM, to me, are a bit like marmite. Their celtic brand of punk rock will either have you loving or hating it and I doubt there are too many in between. More punk then Flogging Molly and more Celtic than Rancid, they sit somewhere in between, kind of a happy medium. And certainly less contrived than the Irishness of one of those bands and the enforced radio singles of the other (on later albums, at least).

This new record, I believe it’s their sixth, features the usual Irish elements and it’s as enjoyable as all of their others. It doesn’t vary from the script too much, but then it’s The Dropkick Murphys – they don’t need to. They write fun songs with a bite and a kick and there are plenty on here. They’re a beer-swilling, rugby players dream – put this on and enjoy the party.

Three more album reviews for you

Fortune Teller – ‘PREMONITIONS’

While She Sleeps - 'SELF HELL'

USA Nails – ‘FEEL WORSE’