Singles Collection, Volume 2 cover

Singles Collection, Volume 2

Dropkick Murphys · 2005

55 min · 23 tracks · Celtic punk

A frenetic blend of Celtic melodies and punk energy that captures the spirit of rebellion and camaraderie.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    21 Guitar Salute Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
  • →
    Fortunate Son — This cover of Creedence Clearwater Revival's classic amplifies the original's anti-establishment message through an energetic punk lens, making it a rallying cry for working-class struggles.
  • →
    Alcohol — With its catchy chorus and irreverent lyrics, this anthem celebrates both the joys and pitfalls of drinking culture, encapsulating the band's signature blend of humor and grit.
  • →
    It's a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock 'n' Roll) — This rendition pays homage to AC/DC’s classic while infusing it with a Celtic flair, showcasing how the band adapts rock staples into their unique sound.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

45 /100
Lowland
Higher than 5% of albums we've rated

The album showcases energetic compositions that blend punk and Celtic influences but lacks strong cohesion due to its compilation nature.

What we noticed

  • Several tracks incorporate traditional Irish instruments like the tin whistle and accordion, blending them seamlessly with electric guitars.
  • The sequencing alternates between fast-paced songs and slightly slower tracks, maintaining momentum while allowing brief moments of respite.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
4/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • high-energy sing-along moments
  • short bursts of adrenaline
  • rebellious spirit and camaraderie
  • for party ignition
  • dynamic track variety throughout

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer slow, introspective tunes
  • seek cohesive long-form pieces

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Deep Cut — A compilation of singles and B-sides that showcases their established sound.
Themes
working-class rebellion· Celtic drinking culture· anti-establishment anthems
Career context
By 2005, Dropkick Murphys had established themselves as a key player in the Celtic punk scene with their energetic sound. This compilation followed their breakout success with 'Sing Loud, Sing Proud!' (2001) and showcased both new tracks and fan favorites, solidifying their reputation ahead of the acclaimed 'The Warrior's Code' in 2005.
Stylistic neighbors
Flogging Molly· The Pogues· Street Dogs

Tracklist

  • 1 21 Guitar Salute Start here 2:40
  • 2 Fortunate Son 2:38
  • 3 On the Attack 1:26
  • 4 You're a Rebel 2:42
  • 5 Watch Your Back 1:54
  • 6 Vengeance 2:38
  • 7 It's a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock 'n' Roll) 4:43
  • 8 Warlords 2:23
  • 9 Alcohol 1:54
  • 10 Pipebomb on Lansdowne (dance remix) 2:00
  • 11 Nobody's Hero 3:42
  • 12 Mob Mentality 2:18
  • 13 Informer 1:56
  • 14 The Nutrocker (Nutty) 1:17
  • 15 Rock 'n' Roll 3:27
  • 16 Hey Little Rich Boy 1:29
  • 17 Never Again 2:52
  • 18 Halloween 1:34
  • 19 Soundtrack to a Killing Spree 1:36
  • 20 Wild Rover 3:24
  • 21 Working 2:38
  • 22 Victory 1:43
  • 23 We Got the Power 2:46

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata