Speed of Darkness

This is my favorite album of theirs next to their first two. They even took some chances and grew some. It’s got a bit more optimism than the previously dark “Float”. You can’t go wrong with this one. Hope their next release is as solid.

I've decided to write a review after a few listens over the past couple of years. This is not a horrible album, as their production, intrumental talent and technical work is always top-notch, but it lacks the punch and energy found in past albums, pre-Float. I get that they're going for a more mature sound, but if mature means unremarkable, bland songs that are big on message and small on just about everything else, then I'll continue to pass. As I continue to revisit Swagger, Drunken Lullabies and Within a Mile of Home, I wonder where the uptempo, melodic and energetic styles went. Where are the aggressive and gritty tunes like "Queen Anne's Revenge" and "Cruel Mistress"? How about the anthematic "Screaming at the Wailing Wall"? Or the instrumental, free-form fun of "Swagger", "Black Friday Rule" and "Tobacco Island"? All of these songs still had layers and still told stories, but they were also memorable. They are the kinds of songs that you just NEED to listen to sometimes, because the itch isn't scratched until you do. They're one of a kind. Save for "Paddy's Lament" and "A Prayer for Me in Silence", I just never need to listen to any of the songs on the last 2 albums.

While a few numbers harken back to Flogging Molly's glory days, such as "Oliver Boy," the album overall doesn't have the traditional voice of Flogging Molly. I felt like I was listening to an Irish Bruce Springsteen, with societal ballads, than the edgy rock I was expecting.

"speed o' darkness" is a great album. There is alot of depth in the music and honesty in the lyrics. Flogging Molly are true artists that want to give their fans a sincere effort. Some of the tracks are a departure from their trademark sound, and that's what makes this album a great listen. It is a heartfelt effort and tribute to the working class. Keep up the good work Floggers! Cheers.

one of most played bands on my ipod; with orginal irish rock like Drop Kick Murphys all about Boston, Mass.

Hearing theses songs live was better. But don't get me wrong, the album is still pretty awesome. See you guys next year!

This is possibly the worst album ever recorded. Flogging Molly's band members deserve a good flogging for putting crap like this out. My suggestion is they throw in the towel and give it up. Ive always considered them a cheap rip off of the Pogues, but still worthy of some merrit as the couple of first CD's were pretty decent. However this recording is bad. There is not a single redeeming song or note on the whole piece. Im ashamed to admit I almost considered myself a fan. Don't waste your hard earned cash.

If you love Flogging Molly for classics like Drunken Lullabies and Swagger, you will be very disappointed! This is like an album full of the weakest songs on Float! Drop the socially conscious crap and get back to your punk roots! Please!!

swagger and drunken lullabies were incredible...within a mile was good, float was disapointing, and THIS is a terd! a steady downfall for this band.

So Flogging Molly has decided to try and become a mainstream conformed band now??? Just listen to the difference between Speed of Darkness (singing with his Irish accent) and Don't Shut 'Em Down (singing without the accent). I understand all bands want to be successful and draw in more fans, but at the cost of turning their backs on what got them to their current success and the fans that enjoyed the kind of music that they use to create?????? Their album Float left me wanting to listen to their past albums, this one looks the same. Disappointing because I use to look forward to upcoming releases from Flogging Molly.