Released: September 9, 2022
Label: Rise
Producer: Steve Albini
Mike Alonso – drums, percussion, spoons
Dennis Casey – electric guitar, acoustic guitar, banjo, backing vocals
Matt Hensley – accordion, backing vocals
Dave King – vocals, acoustic guitar, bodhrán, backing vocals
Nathen Maxwell – bass guitar, backing vocals
Bridget Regan – fiddle, tin whistle, bagpipes, vocals
Spencer Swain – banjo, mandolin, backing vocals
TRACK LIST
1. These Times Have Got Me Drinking” / “Tripping Up the Stairs”
2. “A Song of Liberty”
3. “Life Begins and Ends (But Never Fails)”
4. “No Last Goodbyes”
5. “The Croppy Boy ’98”
6. “This Road of Mine”
7. “(Try) Keep the Man Down”
8. “Now Is the Time”
9. “Lead the Way”
10. “These Are the Days”
11. “The Parting Wave”
In the saga of Flogging Molly’s musical journey, where the spirited echoes of Irish music entwine with the rebellious spirit of punk rock, their seventh studio album emerges as a testament to their unwavering brilliance. As a sincere Flogging Molly enthusiast since the days of “Swagger,” I embark on the joyous task of reviewing their latest album “Anthem” and dare I say, they’ve hit an all-time high.
With a discography boasting seven studio albums, more live and nearly 40 Discog entries, one might assume they’ve reached a plateau, but oh, how wrong that assumption would be.
From the opening notes, it’s clear that Flogging Molly is in prime form. The rhythmic heartbeat of this musical powerhouse is supported by a band of brothers (and sisters), featuring the talents of Dennis Casey’s electric and acoustic guitar, the melodic embrace of Matt Hensley’s accordion, the captivating vocals of Dave King and Bridget who also delivers on flute and Violin, Spencer Swain brilliantly on banjo and mandolin, also supported by the dynamic duo of Mike Alonzo on Drums (and spoons) and Nathen Maxwell on Bass as they lay a cornerstone for an exhilarating album all together to form an ensemble that commands attention.
The songwriting on this album is nothing short of profound, with tracks like “Life Begins and Ends, But Never Fails” resonating with meaningful lyricism. Matt Hensley’s accordion dances through the melodies like a soothing sea breeze refreshing and strong, compelling you to open your sails and join the musical voyage.
I feel Dennis Casey’s guitar work has evolved and matured, while retaining the youthful excitement that captivated me 23 years ago. On the track “This Road of Mine,” Casey’s guitar solo harkens back to the golden era of classic rock, subtly brilliant and asking for your undivided attention. The lyrical strength shines through with lines like “I Was Very Rarely Sometimes Always Wrong, and “Now I’m tripping up the stairs through a sea of faceless bottles,” this is the crossroads where poetry meets punk in harmonious fusion.
Dave King’s vocals take center stage, delivering sincerity on “The Parting Wave” and emotive power on “These Are the Days.” The album unfolds as a cinematic experience, weaving a tapestry of both sorrow and joy. With a drum and bass backbone as tight as a steel cable and guitar work that gets respect, and gorgeous violin, flute and accordion every note is a testament to their mastery.
In a world where musical landscapes are ever-changing, Flogging Molly stands tall, pushing the boundaries of Irish music and punk rock. This album is not just a collection of songs; it’s a rewarding journey for the devoted fans and an invitation for the uninitiated to buckle up and join the ride. Whether you opt for iTunes, Vinyl, or Spotify, this is a musical voyage that deserves a place in your collection, reaffirming Flogging Molly’s role as architects of sonic brilliance.
PRDJ