Unless you have willingly denied the live music scene for the last ten years or so, you will be aware of, and will have most likely seen, Flogging Molly. And rightfully so, they know how to rock a party.
This is their fifth studio album, following on from 2008’s ‘Float’, although it can be argued that their essence is best captured on one of their many live albums. You don't have to have heard this album to know what it will sound like, Flogging Molly have a definite sound; the sound of an Irish bar fight and the rebelling working classes. This is by no means a bad thing, at all.

The title track 'Speed Of Darkness' sounds more like a traditional upbeat Irish anthem, with each member of their extensive line-up confidently displaying their skills, be it vocals, bass, guitar, drums or traditional Irish instrumentation. 'Revolution' has a more punk rock vibe to it, and is very much a disillusioned working man's anthem. There is also a similar theme running through the standout track 'Don't Shut 'Em Down'. It does get a little awkward hearing these successful musicians from sunny LA complaining about the plight of the working class man but they write these kind of songs very well, and in a live setting the crowd can get into a real frenzy.

The album has a great variety of songs, and there is no denying that Flogging Molly are brilliant at what they do. But these songs will just really come to life in a live setting. So, buy the album, learn the words, then sing the crap out of them next time they tour. Deal? Good.