Boston’s own Dropkick Murphys brought their signature Celtic punk energy to The Mohegan Sun Arena last night as part of the St. Patrick’s Day Weekend Celebration 2025, delivering a raucous, foot-stomping set that had the packed crowd chanting, dancing, and raising their pints in unison, and let’s not forget about the mosh pits!! With a setlist that spanned their 29 year long career, the band proved once again why they remain one of the most electrifying live acts in the punk scene.
The band wasted no time kicking things into high gear, opening with “Captain Kelly’s Kitchen” then right into fan-favorite “The Boys Are Back,” instantly setting the tone for an evening of singalongs and fist-pumping anthems. From there, they barreled through classics like “Rose Tattoo,” “The State of Massachusetts,” and “Johnny, I Hardly Knew Ya,” with hardly a moment to catch their breath. Each song hit with the force of a barroom brawl, fueled by pounding drums, searing guitars, and the unmistakable wail of bagpipes and accordion.
Ken Casey, the charismatic frontman, spent much of the night engaging the audience, encouraging singalongs, and making sure the energy never wavered. The camaraderie between band and crowd was insane, with fans shouting lyrics at the top of their lungs and bouncing in time with every beat. The band’s signature blend of Irish folk instrumentation and punk rock aggression was on full display, with accordions, and bagpipes seamlessly intertwining with thunderous basslines and gritty vocals.
As the guys walked off stage and the stage went dark, everyone in the arena knew what was next. No Dropkick Murphys show would be complete without their iconic anthem “I’m Shipping Up to Boston,” and the band did not disappoint. As soon as the first notes rang out, the venue exploded into a frenzy, with bodies surging forward, fists pumping, and voices uniting in a deafening chorus. It was the perfect ending to an already unforgettable night.
This was my first time ever seeing The Dropkick Murphys, and one thing is for sure, it will not be the last time that I do!!!
Pictures and review by I’m Music Magazine Photographer/Writer Matthew Allen Photography
