Flogging Molly and Social Distortion Rock the Stir Cove

September 17, 2019 Robert Chadwick Concert Reviews Comments Off

Flogging Molly at Stir Cove by David Taylor-2 — Flogging Molly performs at the Stir Cove in Council Bluffs, Iowa on Wednesday, September 11, 2019. Photo by David Taylor.

WORDS BY DAVID TAYLOR AND PHOTOS BY ROBERT A CHADWICK | Go Venue Magazine

On Wednesday, September 11, Stir Cove was the place to be as Flogging Molly and Social Distortion brought their brand of rock n’ roll. Everyone of all ages were there to the enjoy the eclectic sounds of the night.

First band up was Le Butcherettes from Mexico. Fronted by Teri Gender Bender, this band was enigmatic, in a good way. They were primal, electric, bombastic, and sexy. Gender Bender’s energy was through the roof. I’ll definitely try to catch these guys in a club setting because it would no doubt be one hell of a time. Check out their latest album, bi/MENTAL, produced by the Talking Heads’ Jerry Harrison.

Next band up was the Devil Makes Three from Santa Cruz, CA. Rooted in bluegrass and country, with a little bit of punk; the Devil Makes Three grabbed the audience’s attention with their catchy tunes and harmony singing. I was quite impressed with Cooper McBean’s banjo playing. I think Steve Martin would be impressed. Their latest album is called, Chains Are Broken. They’re not your usual country band, which is why I enjoyed them.

Social Distortion was the first of the co-headline. This tour was coinciding with Social Distortion’s 40th anniversary. Led by Mike Ness, this punk quartet packed such a punch that people were starting a couple mosh pits. Mike Ness’s gravely voice is such an iconic sound to the group. They even brought out some members of Flogging Molly to play “Sometimes I Do”. Social Distortion is one of those iconic bands that very rarely come to this part of the country, so I was glad I finally caught their show.

Flogging Molly closed the show. This Celtic punk band brought their Irish pride with them, with instruments such as the fiddle, accordion, banjo, and mandolin being played. They all looked like they were having a jolly good time onstage. Dave King, lead singer, pranced around on stage quite a bit. I could see why these they’ve been coming back to Omaha every year since 2016. Their fans are passionate about their music and they give it back in return. This wasn’t my usual hard rock/heavy metal show, but this was a fun one to cover.