Neck – Come Out Fighting

London-based Irish punk outfit Neck has kicked around the UK for nearly a decade.  Oddly though, despite a sighting in the UK singles charts, and the stateside popularity of bands like Flogging Molly and The Dropkick Murphys, it has taken four releases for the group to finally receive a North American release with Come Out Fighting.

The band fits right alongside those following a legacy left by The Pogues, bearing their fiddles and tin whistle with a punk’s resolve.

Neck’s biggest asset is their anti-racist call for acceptance and solidarity amongst generations of Irish emigrants.  For instance, their classic take on an Irish drinking song, “Everybody’s Welcome to the Hooley!,” made it’s first appearance on a 2006 single of the same name, and has been included here to introduce a new audience to the Neck’s philosophy.  The band raises their mug to any and all that enters, inviting them with open arms and a frothy pint to pull up a chair.  Likewise, “Come Out Fighting” leans heavily on Neck’s punk roots for a big sing along number about pulling yourself up when the boot of hardship stomps you down.  This is when Neck on their game, doubly paying homage to their Celtic heritage and underground allegiance.  Other prime examples arise in working class tales of blood sweat and tears when “Acalpines Fusiliers,” “The Star Of County Down,” and “Hello Jakey!” all teem with life.

Of course the band also has their share of traditional Irish crawlers.  “The Homes Of Donegal” is a sorrowful piece about memory and longing, and “I’ll Still Be Blue Over You” serves the part of an Irish break-up song.  While both were likely essential for pacing, the latter in particular feels a tad grandiose for the band’s grass roots front.  Still, these moments come and go with little damage.

Overall, Come Out Fighting should get the crowds moving and brighten up pub life for all in earshot.  In the context of other Irish punk groups, Neck doesn’t define themselves against their influences as much as they stand shoulder to shoulder alongside them.  While the obvious benefit becomes that Come Out Fighting is easy to get into, it’s more challenging to recommend Neck over band’s you’re likely already well versed in.  But even so, Neck’s authentic Irish tunes offer plenty of reason to rise a pint to friends and good company.