Admittedly, the first time I heard Float, I wasn't floored.  After a couple more listens, however, the album really started to grow on me.  Overall, Drunkin Lullabies is still my favorite out of the Flogging Molly catalog, but Float does illustrate a great amount of growth.  There's no doubt that Flogging Molly are the leaders when it comes to combining Irish traditions with modern day rock sensibilities.

Topically, each song feels more emotional and heartfelt.  "Between A Man and A Woman" is a serious relationship song, while "Requiem For a Dying Song" is a hook-filled, sing-a-long track.  "Patty's Lament" is fast paced, illustrating the vocal capabilities of Dave King, while "Us of Lesser Gods" and "On the Back of A Broken Dream" are driven by a raw and march like quality.  Perhaps the best work on the album is the title track.  It's by far the most mellow track on Float, but its somber nature really seems to hit home.

Flogging Molly have built their fanbase without much help from mainstream radio or video rotation, which should really tell us something about who they are.  The balance between up tempo punk and mellow Irish folk is seamless on Float and for that the band should be commended.  I give this record a 7 (out of 10).

Suggested Listening: "Float" and "Punch Drunk Grinning Soul"