Flogging Molly / Anti Flag / Skinny Lister
The Sylvee
Madison, Wisconsin
March 3rd, 2023
Photos and Review by Bryan McCabe
There are few things as fun as a good punk rock show. Fans of punk rock and folk music were in for an incredible experience at The Sylvee in Madison, WI as Flogging Molly, Anti-Flag, and Skinny Lister were in town to perform. I have been waiting for far too long to see Flogging Molly live, and there was no way that I was going to pass up this amazing show.
The first band to take the stage was Skinny Lister, a folk punk band from England. The band’s energetic performance was full of foot-stomping rhythms and catchy melodies. The crowd was thoroughly entertained by Skinny Lister’s lively set, which included fan favorites like “Trouble on Oxford Street” and “John Kanaka.” I’m pretty sure I can also say that was the first time that I have ever seen a double bass player lift their bass over their head like it was nothing. That was a truly impressive feat. The band’s energetic stage presence and catchy tunes were the perfect way to start the evening.
Next up was Anti-Flag and as soon as the band took the stage, the crowd erupted into cheers. I was cheering with as much enthusiasm as anyone in the crowd that night because Anti-Flag were one of the first punk bands that I connected with as a young teen a couple of decades ago. Throughout the years, Anti-Flag has never disappointed live, and this night was no exception. Lead singer Justin Sane delivered impassioned lyrics about social injustice, political corruption, and the struggles of everyday people. The band’s fast-paced guitar riffs and pounding drums kept the energy level high throughout their set, which included songs like “Die for the Government,” “This Is the End (For You My Friend),” and “The Press Corpse.” Speaking of drums, drummer Pat Thetic and his explosive energy were absent from the show, but that didn’t slow the band down one bit. Throughout the set, the band encouraged the crowd to join them in their fight against injustice and inequality. I have always loved the messages of peace and unity that they convey during their shows, and I hope that it still connects with young fans the way that it connected with me so many years ago. I’m also always amazed by the incredible heights that bassist Chris #2 reaches when jumping off of his amplifier throughout their set.
And finally, Flogging Molly. Lead singer Dave King had the crowd in the palm of his hand from the moment the band walked out onto the stage. His distinctive voice soared over the band’s energetic blend of traditional Irish instruments and punk rock riffs. The crowd sang along to every word of classics like “Drunken Lullabies,” “Swagger,” and “Salty Dog.” As the night wore on, the energy in the crowd only grew stronger. Fans danced and sang along to the band’s upbeat anthems. I had always heard stories of how amazing the mosh pits are at Flogging Molly shows. They someone combine typical moshing with people performing Irish jigs. It may seem like a strange combo, but somehow it actually works and is an incredible sight. The band’s energy never waned throughout the night, with each member delivering a masterful performance. It is incredible how tight and perfect their live performance is. Once again, there was one notable band member missing though. Dave’s wife, Bridget Regan and her beautiful violin were sorely missed. Dave explained that she had slipped and fallen on the first night of the tour. She broke her shoulder, but she was due to rejoin the tour any day. As the concert drew to a close, Flogging Molly left the stage to thunderous applause. It was clear that the band had left an indelible impression on their fans, and that their unique blend of traditional Irish music and punk rock had resonated with everyone in attendance.
