Flogging Molly – Within a Mile of Home (Side One Dummy)

When it comes to patriotism, no one tops the Irish. You always know when someone’s Irish—like Italians, they broadcast this fact with tattoos, bumper stickers, and clever t-shirts about beer. By the same token, Celtic punk is an Irish novelty—bands like Dropkick Murphys and Flogging Molly have made waves through the red-haired lot of America, playing sub-standard punk with the melodies of traditional Irish folk songs.

So, knowing of the reputation of these feisty redheads, I was struck with indifference upon news of their new album, Within a Mile of Home. Before playing the album, I practiced an exercise in open-mindedness. I did my hardest to convince myself that something unexpected could be coming my way.

It was when Within a Mile of Home started that I felt my own foot fly backwards and kick me in my ass. Of course this is exactly what I was expecting! How can I expect a band to challenge themselves to outgrow their niche and attempt to broaden their horizons past sweaty, beer-soaked mosh-a-longs?

Like Har Mar Superstar or Tenacious D, Flogging Molly appeals to a certain demographic—the band does nothing to attempt to endear themselves to a bigger audience. Which is their choice, I suppose. I’ll stick to My Big Fat Greek Wedding and democracy, myself.