Dropkick Murphy's and Tiger Army

THE CIVIC THEATRE
NEW ORLEANS
By: Canonblue Lalley

 

What better way to kick off the St. Paddy's Day season than with the patron saints of Irish Punk, The Dropkick Murphy's? Hordes of fans poured into The Civic Theatre eagerly anticipating a night of loud Irish Punk, plenty of brews, and of course, the comradery that comes from any DM show. 


Darkbuster kicked off the night, with Tiger Army following right behind.  

Tiger Army, returning to New Orleans with a fresh single off of their new album came out in full effect. Tattooed, hair slicks and dapper styled, these fellas came right out the gate with their psychobilly rifts and intricate melodies. It was refreshing to hear some of their older favorites, such as Firefall as well as getting a taste of what's to come with their new single, "Prisoner of the Night" available on their upcoming album. As if the music wasn't enough, the stage show they put on was incredible. From slides and tricks, to Geoff Kresge actually standing on top of his upright and playing while supporting it with his feet in the air, Tiger Army was definitely there to bring the noise.  It was great to have Geoff back with them for their tour, as his energy really pushed the band over the top.

As the lights began to dim, the curtain lowered and the crowd began to chant for Dropkick. A screen reel displayed the last 20 amazing years they had given us and assured us that the best was yet to come. Blasting out on stage with the ever powerful "Johnny, I Barely Knew Ya"  the crowd serenaded them as Al Barr stood fearlessly on the barrier gate helping the swells of the Civic to finish out the song. Bagpipes, classic flutes, and an impromptu mini acoustic set mid show made everything feel together and fluid through songs such as "The Gang's All Here," "Sunshine Highway" and my personal favorite "Rose Tattoo." When the lights dropped, screaming and stomping for more shook the floor of the Civic. 

After a small break, the Murphy's returned to the stage to their famous, "Shipping Up to Boston" and towards the end of the song, fans were sent over the barricade to join Ken, Al and the rest for a rowdy rendition of "Kiss Me, I'm Shitfaced" and Sam Cooke's "Havin a Party."
It was chaos and beer and good Irish Punk music. If there's one thing that can be said about Dropkick Murphy's, it's that the first 20 years have shown them how to have a hell of a time.