Album Review: Flogging Molly, Anthem

It’s a long way to the top if you wanna rock ‘n’ roll, as Bon Scott famously noted, and that’s something guitar-toting Irish rocker Dave King knows a thing or two about. First cutting his teeth treading the boards with ‘80s supergroup Fastway, the Dubliner then formed Celtic punk band Flogging Molly in ’97.

Over the course of six albums and thousands of shows, they have steadily risen to stardom. Now, seventh album Anthem showcases some of their best qualities. Re-teaming with legendary producer Steve Albini, the record focuses on their strengths as a phenomenal live band. While Anthem doesn’t stray from their tried and trusted style, King and co’s tales of death and darkness – wrapped around life-affirming hooks and up-tempo guitars – are as alluring as ever.

Highlights include the Easter Rising-referencing ‘Song Of Liberty’; the stomping, future set-staple ‘The Croppy Boy ‘98’; and ballad ‘These Are The Days’ – which really shows off King’s voice to great effect.

7/10