The Dropkick Murphys are one of the few bands that have managed to do Celtic rock justice over the years. “The Meanest of Times” is no exception. It captures the determined work ethic and joviality of Boston workers and Irishmen everywhere, from “Loyal to No One” to “Johnny I Hardly Knew Ya”.
Banjos, bagpipes, and pan flutes mixed amp-fueled guitar riffs create a floor-stomping, get-up-and-start-jumping Celtic rock experience. “The state of Massachusetts” is a raucous, yet elegant rant. “Fairmount Hill” brings in an acoustic guitar which transports you to soggy Dublin bar.
Without exception, “The Meanest of Times” is a steel-toed, scream-filled punk rock n’ roll album. If you listen closely though, you can hear the heartfelt messages underneath. In every lyric and scream is a struggle. You get the sense that they mean what they preach.
Past the punk and the spunk is an album filled with passion. If you are one who seeks to expand their musical taste, give “The Meanest of Times” a try. It is not to be missed.
Fun fact: a few songs from the album were used in Guitar Hero II and Guitar Hero III. The song “Johnny, I Hardly Knew Ya” was featured in the Edd’s World episode “Moving Targets”.
