The Meanest of Times cover

The Meanest of Times

Dropkick Murphys · 2007

105 min · 28 tracks · Celtic punk

A raucous blend of punk energy and Irish folk melodies, igniting fervor with every anthemic chorus.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Famous for Nothing Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
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    The State of Massachusetts — This track serves as a rallying cry for those feeling marginalized, blending catchy hooks with poignant lyrics about identity and belonging.
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    God Willing — With its urgent tempo and reflective lyrics, this song captures the band's characteristic balance of hope and defiance amid adversity.
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    (F)lannigan’s Ball — This energetic interpretation of a classic Irish ballad showcases the band's ability to infuse traditional music with punk vigor, making it a fan favorite.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • long, energetic listening sessions
  • dynamic emotional journeys
  • spirited group sing-alongs
  • rousing, anthemic choruses

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — This album followed The Warrior's Code, solidifying their mainstream recognition.
Themes
Boston working-class pride· Irish immigrant experience· punk-infused resilience
Career context
The Meanest of Times marked Dropkick Murphys' sixth studio album, released in 2007 during a period of increasing mainstream recognition following the success of their 2005 album, The Warrior's Code. This album solidified their presence in the Celtic punk scene and showcased their ability to blend traditional influences with contemporary punk sensibilities.
Stylistic neighbors
Flogging Molly· The Pogues· Street Dogs

Tracklist

Disc 1

  • 1 Famous for Nothing Start here 2:47
  • 2 God Willing 3:17
  • 3 The State of Massachusetts 3:52
  • 4 Tomorrow’s Industry 2:19
  • 5 Echoes on “A”. Street 3:18
  • 6 Vice and Virtues 2:12
  • 7 Surrender 3:15
  • 8 (F)lannigan’s Ball 3:39
  • 9 I’ll Begin Again 2:38
  • 10 Fairmount Hill 3:58
  • 11 Loyal to No One 2:25
  • 12 Shattered 2:48
  • 13 Rude Awakenings 3:24
  • 14 Johnny, I Hardly Knew Ya 3:55
  • 15 Never Forget 2:51
  • 16 Jailbreak 3:54
  • 17 Thick Skin of Defiance 2:47
  • 18 Forever 2007 3:46
  • 19 Breakdown 2:28
  • 20 Flannigan’s Ball (original version) 3:39

Disc 2

  • 1 The State of Massuchusetts 4:40
  • 2 Making of State of Mass 2:36
  • 3 (F)lannigan’s Ball 3:59
  • 4 Wild Rover 9:44
  • 5 Forever 6:25
  • 6 Boys on the Dock 9:10
  • 7 Johnny I Hardly Knew Ya 4:10
  • 8 Credits 1:58

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata