Album, Single and EP Reviews


 

 

  The State of Massachusetts EP by Dropkick Murphys


The State of Massachusetts EP cover art

Artist: Dropkick Murphys
Title: The State of Massachusetts EP
Catalogue Number: Cooking Vinyl FRY336
Review Format: 45
Release Year: 2008



You just can't go wrong with the Dropkick Murphys if you are looking for some music to drink and jump up and down (as opposed to dance) to. They do a fine mix of celtic influences and punk energy that is right up the Bluesbunny's street.

So without further ado, let us place the State of Massachusetts EP on the turntable. It is on green vinyl (of course) and plays at 33rpm (we have great attention to detail) and it gives us exactly what we expect. "The State of Massachusetts" just reeks of politics and Guinness and it - to use an Americanism - kicks ass. "The Thick Skin of Defiance" is much more of a punk song coming across like an amphetamine crazed Clash. "Breakdown" is more of the same and we have to remark that they may actually come from Boston but on this inspirational ditty they sound like they have time travelled all the way back to late seventies' London. Definitely more British style punk than American style. Ending the EP is "Forever". A ballad is of course welcome and here we have a proper crying in your beer one. This songs struts magnificently showing a that kind of majesty that appeals to real men. Makes you wonder why you have to listen to Tina Turner songs when you visit the lap dancing club instead of proper heartfelt ballads like this.

It is no surprise that these songs are played loud and enjoyed with copious quantities of Guinness. This EP makes a fine addition to the Vinyl Vault as the Dropkick Murphys deliver the goods again. I'll drink to that!


www.dropkickmurphys.com
Reviewer:
Review Date: March 16 2008