Home > Cleveland Music > CD Review > Flogging Molly, 'Float'

Backstory: Irish-inspired punk rock seems like a rather narrow musical niche, right? But never underestimate the appeal of tin whistles, accordions and mandolins, especially when they’re revved up to Clash-like intensity.

Why you should care: Yes, the band has a truly powerful live show—even injecting the band's B-level material with enough energy and passion to make up for the occasional formulaic songwriting. Fortunately, "Float," the band's fourth record, offers up both a nice array of sounds and a newfound consistency. That means a gentle acoustic number like the album's title track sounds perfectly comfortable following the rollickin' "Paddy's Lament." Plus, the album's slight political edge offers up a welcome respite to the group’s usual Guinness-soaked worldview.

Verdict: Even with the legacy of the Pogues and the enduring appeal of the Dropkick Murphys, there's still room for a band that celebrates every day like it's St. Patrick's.

X-Factor: After nearly a decade of living in exile and extended visa issues, FM frontman (and L.A. transplant) Dave King was finally able to return to his Irish homeland two years ago. "Float" is the first Molly recorded there.

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