Flogging Molly @ Main Street Armory, Rochester, New York 5-25-12

For the third time in as many years, Flogging Molly graced the stage of the Main Street Armory in Rochester NY on Friday night. Lead singer Dave King has annually screamed out “Rochester” for many years, welcoming what has evolved into a hometown show of sorts, thanks to the presence of Rochester native and current resident Dennis Casey on guitar.

Since they are not touring in support of a new album, the band appeared in front of a backdrop with their traditional logo instead of an album cover. This year’s show had less of a visual impact than the previous year when Flogging Molly tested out songs from their “Speed of Darkness” album before it was released.

As usual, the crowd danced feverishly to fan favorites including “Likes of You Again,” ” Requiem for a Dying Song” and “Rebels of the Sacred Heart.” Dave King worked his magic, telling anecdotes and in addition to dedicating songs to his parents, King dedicated “Whistles in the Wind” to two fans that had purchased tickets but would miss the show because they were being deployed to Afghanistan.

In the last few years, Flogging Molly has cemented their reputation as one of the best live acts around, and unfortunately, the venue just didn’t seem to suit the talent level of the band. Unlike their previous two shows, the balcony was closed and it created major issues with the sound, since there weren’t bodies to take away some of the deep echo.

In addition, for some reason, the venue did not carry Guinness Stout, a staple at Irish shows; whether fans drink the brew or not, the mere presence of Guinness Stout in the venue makes the shows seem more authentic.

Flogging Molly is a band whose message is current and very anti-establishment. They have recorded a wealth of material to choose from but without a new album to tour behind, their current tour almost seems too much like a “greatest hits” outing. To fans seeing Flogging Molly for the first time the show will still pack a lot of excitement, but for those that have been following the band for years, it will be nice when the band changes up the show and adds some fresh elements.

Set List:

The Wrong Company
The Likes of You Again
Speed of Darkness
Revolution
Life in a Tenement Square
Whistles the Wind
Saints & Sinners
Drunken Lullabies
Requiem for a Dying Song
The Power’s Out
The Son Never Shines (On Closed Doors)
A Prayer for Me in Silence
The Times They Are A-Changin’ (Bob Dylan cover)
Black Friday Rule
Oliver Boy (All of Our Boys)
Rebels of the Sacred Heart
Devil’s Dance Floor
If I Ever Leave This World Alive
What’s Left of the Flag
Seven Deadly Sins