Not often does one have the opportunity to find a genre that can genuinely be called unique. Having said that, enter "The Mighty Regis": a Celtic Punk band that does a feisty seesaw of sounds between a cozy Irish pub and a downtown New York punk club. Take a listen to their song "Take Me Home" to hear them leap between gentle intimate vocals and an Irish jug of punk. It's impressive how singer Francis McNorman is able to switch between emotions so quickly, (though the song would be an easier swallow if the group didn't jump from gentle to severe quite as rapidly. It is an artistic choice, but one that might need more of a build to make it radio-friendly).
On a softer side of Celtic Punk, we find their song "Murphy's Broken Heart". This song had us quite a bit intrigued. Here we find a drinking-song that has some actual potential. Normally, when someone "talks" to the listener/audience in a song, there are groans from the listener. In this one, however, it was very entertaining: even a bit like an Irish Cash. For what it is, this song is well written and the energy of the group is very real. The brief chorus presents interesting rhythm choices from drummer George Glooney, which gives the song an intriguing off kilter heartbeat. "Murphy's Broken Heart" may not be your immediate favorite, but it really grows on you. As the lyrics say "Give Murphy a Chance". The final word: "The Mighty Regis" gives an crafty burst of individuality that is well worth a listen.
On a softer side of Celtic Punk, we find their song "Murphy's Broken Heart". This song had us quite a bit intrigued. Here we find a drinking-song that has some actual potential. Normally, when someone "talks" to the listener/audience in a song, there are groans from the listener. In this one, however, it was very entertaining: even a bit like an Irish Cash. For what it is, this song is well written and the energy of the group is very real. The brief chorus presents interesting rhythm choices from drummer George Glooney, which gives the song an intriguing off kilter heartbeat. "Murphy's Broken Heart" may not be your immediate favorite, but it really grows on you. As the lyrics say "Give Murphy a Chance". The final word: "The Mighty Regis" gives an crafty burst of individuality that is well worth a listen.
February 2008
