Most people probably have preconceived notions about the kind of music a band will play if they use instruments like the accordion, mandolin, and banjo. But it’s a safe bet that those people have never heard Flogging Molly perform. Best described as a Celtic punk band, Flogging Molly combines influences of Irish music with punk rock music to form a unique sound that virtually no other band would even think to replicate. Like a true punk band, they play hard and fast with a purpose. But Flogging Molly also plays with melody, incorporating a sound that is authentically Irish and something that you have to experience in person.

The Man Behind the Magic

The Irish influence of Flogging Molly comes from founder and lead singer Dave King, who was born in Ireland and was also part of the British heavy metal band Fastway. After his days in Fastway, King had the idea of incorporating traditional Irish instruments with hard rock. While his record label was originally skeptical, King eventually met some musicians in Los Angeles who were willing to get on board with the idea of mixing punk with Celtic influences. In the beginning, the group would play every Monday night at a bar named Molly Malone’s Irish Pub in Los Angeles. Those shows eventually led to a live album that helped give birth to Flogging Molly, a band with a unique sound that’s named for the venue that gave it a chance.

Staying Power

After releasing their first live album in 1997, Flogging Molly began to expand its audience and prove that its unique blend of Irish instruments and punk music had staying power. The band has had two albums that reached the top-10 of the US charts, as well as two albums that have reached the top spot in the US independent charts. They’ve continued to find new ways to blend two drastically different types of music together, allowing them to find new fans all the time.

Come Sail Away

In recent years, Flogging Molly has become known for hosting a yearly cruise for fans. The band performs on the cruise along with other punk bands, including Rancid, NOFX, Less Than Jake, and The Offspring, among many others. The cruises have given fans an opportunity to spend a few days traveling to a tropical location while also enjoying some great music, becoming the ultimate way to experience Flogging Molly in person.