The Killigans – Honor

Nebraskan Celtic punkers The Killigans have never received a ton of press.  Having only formed in 2004 they’ve survived the past several years with a DIY spirit and heavy touring.  Truthfully, despite considering myself well versed in the realm of Celtic punk, until a few months ago I had never even run across the sextet – and based on the lack of press out there, I don’t think I’m alone.  But after having the pleasure of losing myself in their third full length, Honor, I have a feeling this is about to change.

While I don’t have the benefit of comparing Honor to The Killigans’ past discography, I can say that their latest work shines atop the rustic subgenre’s finest offerings.  And considering that I’m barely off riding the high that came with stumbling upon blossoming hometown Celtic punk heroes The Dreadnoughts, my enthusiasm comes as a pleasant personal surprise.

Channeling a rustic combination of Celtic drive and street punk attitude, Honor has the frenzied energy of Celtic acts like The Pogues and Filthy Thieving Bastards, with the anthemic draw of big Boston bands like The Briggs.  “Martyrs Of The Lower Class” opens Honor with a punkish mandolin that before long launches into a sing along chorus chalk full of backing “woahs” and working class pride.  The band maintains momentum throughout “Nostravia,” all the while introducing a seaside disposition with an accompanying accordion.  A few tracks later the band reverts to simple punk rock with the smart, Bad Religion-esque narrative “Whiskey And Gin,” and even finds themselves playing a country jam in “Cold Outside.”  It goes without saying that as the album progresses The Killigans keep their audience guessing.  And that it all fits together so effortlessly is a telling truth.

In short, The Killigans manipulate their traditionally narrow Celtic subgenre in engaging and fulfilling ways. And despite baring a formal “Celtic” tag, Honor is the perfect pick-up-and-play album for any fan of melodic punk rock.  Both fresh and familiar, there’s no question that Honor should kickstart The Killigans young career and turn a few heads in the process.  Even with notable releases by Flatfoot 56, The Dreadnoughts, The Real McKenzies and Flogging Molly packed into the first half of 2010, Honor more than holds its own and competes with the best of them.