Side One Dummy

Recorded on September 12, 2009, Flogging Molly’s Live at the Greek Theatre captures all of the spirit and energy of an evening with the Los Angeles folk punk band. Part of a three disc CD/DVD combo, Live at the Greek Theatre also harnesses the runaway train experience of Flogging Molly’s ninety minute set to provide an intimate glimpse of the musicians within the group. Front man and Dublin native Dave King serenades the L.A. faithful while dancing through an uproarious “Every Dog Has it’s Day.” Fiddler Bridget Regan stands off to the side of King, yet her presence is felt inside the sound mix on “Swagger” and “You Won’t Make a Fool Out of Me.”

The rhythm section of drummer George Schwindt and bassist Nathen Maxwell pound aggressively on the proto punk workouts, “Requiem For a Dying Song” and “Drunken Lullabies.” Matthew Hensley’s accordion fills paint the outer edges of Flogging Molly’s sonic explorations on “The Son Never Shines (On Closed Doors)” and “Float.” Banjo and mandolin expert Robert Schmidt accompanies King onstage during “Man With No Country” and “Us of Lesser Gods.” And, lead guitarist Dennis Casey fleshes out the ensemble’s raucous celtic anthems with searing licks on “(No More) Paddy’s Lament” and “Salty Dog.”

Packed full of extras, including some of their classic videos “What’s Left of the Flag” and “Punch Drunk Grinning Soul,” the DVD is a culmination of two years of hard touring that Flogging Molly embarked upon to support the 2008 release, Float. It is a celebratory love affair with the viewer that rewards time after time. Produced by Johnny Bouchard and Ginny Song and edited and directed by Kevin J. Custer, Flogging Molly’s Live at the Greek Theatre is the next best thing to being at the fabled Los Angeles, California shed with the city’s favorite Irish punk upstarts.