The Dropkick Murphys were formed in 1996 in Boston, MA. DKM (as the are often referred to) started out as a typical basement "punk rock" band, practicing underneath a friend's barber shop. They set out with the goal to blend a few very different genres of music (Punk Rock, Irish Folk, Classic Rock, and Hardcore) and hopefully have some fun. This new Irish Punk sound hit it big with many fans, and has inspired many similar bands (ie: Flogging Molly) to follow a similar sound.
These hopeful, energetic lads were quickly signed by Cyclone Records, where they released Fire and Brimtstone, their first official recording, in February, 1997. While only 1000 7" vinyls were pressed, Fire and Brimstone quickly gathered a small, loyal, cult following to the Bostonians even though it only contained four tracks, most of which would be re-recorded much cleaner for future albums. Four months later, Boys on the Docks was released, containing the classic Murphys anthem Boys on the Docks. This cd was good enough to grab the attention of Epitaph Records (the largest, most successful punk label ever), who released their first full-length cd Do or Die.
When the Murphys signed to Epitaph, many of their former fans accused them of selling out. And fans lost, however, were quickly replaced seven-fold. The Dropkick Murphys have been one of Epitaphs most popular bands ever since, releasing two more successful full-lengths, multiple EPs, a singles collection, and recently a live cd.
Complete Discography:
EPs/
Singles:
1997 - Fire and Brimstone
1997 - Tattoos and Scally Caps
1997 - Boys on the Docks
1998 - Curse of a Fallen Soul
2000 - Live on a 5
Split CDs:
1997 - DKM/
Anti-Heros
1997 - DKM/
Bruisers
1998 - DKM/
Ducky Boys
1999 - DKM/
Agnostic Front
2000 - DKM/
The Business
2002 - DKM/
Face to Face
Full-Length CDs:
1998 - Do or Die
1998 - Singles Collection
1999 - The Gang's All Here
2001 - Sing Loud, Sing Proud
2002 - Live on
St. Patty's Day