| Well I thought to myself, "Hmmm, reviewing The Tossers' new live album on St. Patrick’s Day would be some
kind of grand poetic justice." Their Celtic punk would be a perfect backdrop to the night filled with
beers and the eventual "jigs." Well it seems that in true Irish spirit I started to party and stayed
doing that until the next morning when I realized I missed my chance to review "Gloatin' And Showboatin'"
while on St. Patrick’s Day. But I'm sure that The Tossers are also pretty hammered right about now so I
feel better.
They recorded this in their hometown of Chicago at the well known venue, Metro. Now when I first heard
their last studio album "The Agony" I had always thought that these guys were downing constant bottles of
beer, but after hearing the antics of these drunk hooligans live, there must have been dozens of Guinness
kegs being passed around that night. There is plenty of hilarious on-the-spot commentaries included (eg
"bring on the young girls and free cocaine") awesome eh?. Quality wise, this live CD's production is top
quality, and The Tossers really can consistently play their wide array of instruments (even while drunk).
These guys sloshingly make their way through song after song about drinking or irish shenanigans that are
sure to entertain almost anyone. No don't get me wrong, if you don't like punk (specifically Celtic punk)
then there wouldn't be many reasons to get this live album (except maybe to hear all the funny shit that
is included). But I have to mention the splendid Irish-twang influenced instruments (violin, banjo, and
even a tin whistle) that make for a stand out sound.
Usually only diehard fans will buy their favorite bands live CDs and this album isn't that different.
Fans of The Tossers, Dropkick Murphys, and the myriads of other Celtic punk bands that are abound will
flock to this with beers in their hands. Others might not pay attention, but the really awesome cover art
might draw a few eyes into picking this record up. Gloatin' or not, there is some great Showboatin' on
this energetically inebriated live album. Funny and full of the Irish love for clovers and emerald lager.
~ Pernell
March 18 2008 |