Bloglander

Everyone raise a pint! Not one, but two of the biggest Irish-American punk bands are infiltrating the Knitting Factory this fall. Boston sons the Dropkick Murphys come Oct. 3, while Los Angeles-based Flogging Molly roll though Dec. 13. Even if you’re not completely familiar with either band, rest assured your subconscious is, as both of these groups are basic soundtracks to St. Patrick’s Day madness at any Irish bar where you may have downed an Irish Car Bomb.

Both groups seamlessly pair punk rowdiness with traditional Irish instruments like fiddle, tin whistle, accordion and a bodhrán (an Irish drum). But don’t get the bands confused.

Anyone who is a fan of The Departed (and Leonardo DiCaprio) will recall the first time the Dropkick Murphys’ “I’m Shipping Up to Boston” hit the screen. While the band was already hugely popular in New England, that song, and its inclusion on the film soundtrack, led to a true breakout hit for the band that has been together since 1996.

Flogging Molly formed around the same time, in 1997, just on the opposite coast. Its lead singer, Dublin-born Dave King, brings his Irish accent to the songs that cover many issues, including politics. Meaning, their songs aren’t all about partying.

Both shows promise to be boot-stomping, hoot and hollering experiences. It’s just wild both acts are appearing in Spokane within two months of each other. For more ticket information, check out sp.knittingfactory.com.