Flogging Molly

The Filmore:

May 6, 2010:

We recently attended a Flogging Molly concert, myself as a first timer to both the Fillmore, and to a Flogging Molly concert. James however, is a Flogging Molly veteran, so naturally he accompanied me, along with two other friends.

There was a forgettable opening band still playing when we arrived around 7:30pm. So we took some time to enjoy the the beautiful auditorium and chandeliers, and overpriced iced tea. Of course, all concert beverages are overpriced, so I do recommend satisfying your thirst before you arrive. However, our 7:30 arrival appeared to be just the right time to show up. The Fillmore is standing room only, all GA. When we arrived the crowd was loose, and there were still available spots to stand in the balconies, but we made our way toward the front of the floor and were able to maintain our decent location throughout the entire concert, without getting over crowded. (However, too much closer to the stage, and you will find yourself among the mosh pit). There was room to jump and dance and not have beer splashing all over you. If you do not like moving to the music the floor is not the place for you, so arrive earlier to secure a safer location.

The bathrooms are located behind the stage, and were well equipped (at least the Lady's Room). Goodie-bags full of condoms, STD testing locations, and other exciting tid bits were available for free. Though our $35 dollar tickets probably helped to pay for some of the treats. We purchased tickets the day of, at the Fillmore box office window a few hours prior to the show. Ordering online is convenient, which is why they charge you an extra $12 per ticket. So save a few bucks, and buy your tickets in person.

The highlight coming from the veteran's point of view was the refreshingly sober band. While most of the audience embraced the term "Irish drinking music," the band was much less drunk than previous performances. Therefore, they were much more audible, funny, and ABLE to play their instruments.

Flogging Molly took the stage around 9:00pm, played a decent set, came back for an energetic encore, and finished up by 11pm. A surprisingly short concert, but also appropriate for the noted "16 and up" admission ticket.

With very few noticeable technical errors, the sound quality was surprisingly bearable. The instruments were balanced well, and the singer's words could be understood. The best result of this careful sound design was the fact that my ears weren't ringing the following morning.

The lighting design was fair. Appropriate for a concert environment, though as designers, James and I both questioned whether it was made up at a dress rehearsal that morning, or if the Band had requested certain looks for each song. There were only 8 intelligent fixtures in use, one of which blew a lamp half way through F.M's set. Negligible to most, so do not consider this "technical review" to be pertinent to your own experience.

The overall atmosphere of the show was jovial, and Irish. I would highly recommend seeing this band in concert in the future. Two band members are Colorado residents (or used to live here) which could fit this concert in the category of "support your local economy!"

Though, if Irish music is not your thing, I still recommend seeing a show live at the Fillmore if you are from the Denver Metro area at all. It is a beautiful space, and well worth visiting. Though a little unsightly during the day, like Vegas, it comes alive at night.

While you are in Denver, made a night of it, and visit a few other awesome Denver locations nearby. Have dinner and drinks at the Cheeky Monk, or the Irish Snug if you are interested in Belgian beer, or Pub fare. If you are eating on a budget head over to 13th and check out Benny Blanco's for affordable pizza on the go, or the many fast food chains located on Colfax.

Either way, go explore what a wonderful city we have to enjoy here in Colorado!