Folk/punk with Guinness-fueled passion

Within a Mile of Home should have come pre-packed with a sixer of Guinness, because this anthemic mix of traditional Irish folk and blistering punk rock will have you raising many a pint. Flogging Molly's third record doesn't bring much new to the table, but tighter songwriting and better production make this their best effort yet.\nFlogging Molly writes incredibly melancholy songs, but the high-speed pace and masterful use of traditional instruments like the mandolin gives these songs immense appeal. \nThe album kicks off with a one-two punch of punk perfection. The clever "Screaming at the Wailing Wall" takes a stab at the Bush administration, but uses the 17th century holy war in Ireland as a metaphor. \nThere are few bands that could get away with calling themselves "drunken pirates" with a straight face, but on "Seven Deadly Sins" they prove it and churn out a punk classic. The middle of the record features a more melodic take and hearkens back to more traditional Irish folk. Removing some of the punk constraints gives songwriter Dave King more freedom, as he addresses Irish slavery, his roots and the record's prevailing theme of being far from home. \nThe rest of the band is the tightest they've ever been, with the mandolin and fiddle getting a real chance to shine. While Flogging Molly excels at rollicking drinking songs, the best moments on this album come from down-tempo songs like "Don't Let Me Die Still Wondering," a heartfelt tribute to Johnny Cash. However, if you're into Flogging Molly for the drinking songs, there is still much to love here. \nThe only problem with Flogging Molly records in general is the fact that getting a great live band in the studio removes some of their power. This album is just another grand excuse to hit the road, and you'd be well-advised to catch them this fall.\nYou don't have to have a drop of Irish blood in you to enjoy this record, but having a high blood alcohol content couldn't hurt. Flogging Molly excels in drenching punk and folk with Guinness-fueled passion by delivering one of the best punk albums of the year.