Boston’s very own Dropkick Murphys stormed into The Rooftop at Pier 17 in NYC on September 24th, delivering a set that was nothing short of electrifying. With the city skyline as their backdrop, the band brought their signature Celtic punk flair, blending raucous energy with heartfelt storytelling, reminding everyone why they’ve been a cornerstone of the punk scene for over two decades. Check out their latest single!
A Brief Background: Dropkick Murphys formed in 1996, initially as a humble bar band. Over the years, they've grown into a juggernaut of the punk rock scene, renowned for blending traditional Irish folk elements with gritty punk rock. From their breakout hit "I'm Shipping Up to Boston," which catapulted them into mainstream recognition, to their deep-rooted connection with blue-collar themes, the Murphys have remained true to their working-class ethos, crafting anthems that celebrate resilience, camaraderie, and rebellion.
The Show: Opening with "Barroom Hero," one of their earliest anthems, the band immediately set the tone for a night of high-octane energy and nostalgia. The song is a nod to their punk roots, and it was clear from the outset that they intended to take the audience on a journey through their extensive catalog.
"Boys on the Docks" followed, drawing a collective cheer from the crowd, which seemed to grow louder with every passing song. The Murphys have always had a knack for storytelling, and "The State of Massachusetts," with its melancholy banjo intro, showcased the band’s ability to blend introspection with raw energy. The addition of "The Boys Are Back" reaffirmed that Dropkick Murphys are, indeed, always ready to shake things up.
Photos: Jared Miller
A standout moment was "The Spicy McHaggis Jig," which was accompanied by some good-natured ribbing and a story about their legendary bagpipe player. The humor and warmth felt palpable, with the crowd laughing and chanting along, proving that the Murphys are as much about fun as they are about ferocity.
The setlist continued to weave between raucous punk anthems and more folk-driven tracks. "The Fields of Athenry," a Pete St. John cover, offered a poignant, soul-stirring moment of reflection, transforming the rooftop into a sea of swaying arms. This somber energy was quickly shattered by the aggressive "Johnny, I Hardly Knew Ya," which saw the crowd jumping in unison, a testament to the band's ability to shift the mood at a moment's notice.
The Encore: The encore was nothing short of an adrenaline-fueled celebration. "Rose Tattoo," with its stirring chorus, was sung back to the band by the entire crowd, transforming the venue into a makeshift Irish pub. "Worker's Song" followed, a poignant reminder of the band's working-class roots and their unyielding connection to everyday struggles. They closed with the iconic "I'm Shipping Up to Boston," a track that has become synonymous with the Murphys, leaving everyone buzzing with energy and begging for more.
The Verdict: Dropkick Murphys are one of those rare bands that manage to create a sense of community at their shows. They expertly blend humor, passion, and intensity, ensuring that no one leaves without feeling like they’ve been part of something bigger. The night felt like a celebration of resilience, camaraderie, and a love for music that transcends genres and generations.
In a world where music can often feel disposable, the Dropkick Murphys continue to stand out as purveyors of authenticity and raw emotion. Their Pier 17 performance was a raucous, heartfelt journey through punk rock and Celtic traditions, proving once again why they remain a force to be reckoned with in the music world.
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