The Real McKenzies – “Shine Not Burn”

I want to mention right off the bat that I’ve never really listened to The Real McKenzies before writing this review, although I’ve been a fan of other celtic punk style bands, mostly Flogging Molly and the Dropkick Murphys for years. That being said, I really enjoyed this record.

Shine Not Burn was recorded at an acoustic pub show at Wild at Heart in Kreuzberg, Germany, and feels like watching one of the many, many live bootleg videos that get posted to YouTube; Crowd feedback is left in the mix, and so was the stage banter from the band. Of course, it is as well recorded as any live CD I’ve ever heard.

This CD is well packed, with 21 songs, made up of a mix of traditional folk songs, as well as a variety of drinking songs, but all of them are fun to listen to, and keep the pub show feel of the album alive and kicking.

The Real McKenzies have always had a reputation as an incredible live band, and Shine Not Burn certainly supports that reputation. The CD is a great introduction to the group, and I’m looking forward to listening to more of their music. That being said, this is the type of CD that is best enjoyed as a whole, ideally with a good beer or some whiskey.  [ END ]

Track Listing:

01. Nessie
02. Drink the Way I Do
03. 10,000 Shots
04. Pickled
05. Auld Mrs. Hunt
06. Bastards
07. My Bonnie
08. Chip
09. Scots Wha’ Ha’e
10. Droppin’ Like Flies
11. Pour Decisions
12. The Skeleton and the Tailor
13. Best Day Until Tomorrow
14. Bitch Off the Money
15. Get Lost
16. Wild Mountain Thyme
17. Whisky Scotch Whisky
18. Sawney Beane Clan
19. Kings o’ Glasgow
20. Taylor Made II
21. Bugger Off

Run Time: 1:01:56
Release Date: 06.21.2010