Black 47

We attended the Black 47 show this past Saturday evening, part of the band's "farewell" tour, and as expected they put a on a somewhat abridged, but very entertaining set of old and new songs. The band's catalog, which is very extensive from nearly 25 years of recording and touring, would be difficult to condense into even a 3-hr show, so in no way do I fault the band. The song selection was a nice round sampling which re-ignited numerous memories from the group that I attended the show with. The venue, unfortunately, was another story. I do not know who was running the board and general sound mix, but for the design of the venue, it was terrible. I have a hard time believing it was the fault of the band's own staff, I have to believe it was building staff. This was the ONLY downside to an very enjoyable show. While I would question my return to the venue for a live band, I'm sure the theater does a good job with live theatrical events (plays, etc). I would rate the concert 4-1/2 stars, the venue, 2 stars.

I've been enjoying Black 47 since the first year Larry formed the band.They just keep getting better and better! It was my first time going to BB Kings, looking forward to the next show!

Black 47 rocks the Bronx, and on St. Patrick s Day 2012 they rocked Manhattan, too. The perfect NY celebration was in the heart of Times Square at BB King s. With a comfortable venue, great food, friendly strangers of all ages dancing and sharing the fun, and some of the best music ever to come out of the city and there was nowhere else any sane person would have wanted to be. A dignified and moving performance by Lia Fail Pipe Band was more than a warm-up. The traditional songs (including a performance of Amazing Grace that brought tears to my eyes) were reminders of the reasons for celebrating, in our rowdy American way, a nation that endured centuries of oppression and never gave up the fight. Black 47 s music has never been easy to describe. There s the definite Celtic background that weaves Irish history, folk tunes and instrumentation through much of what they do. There are touches of reggae, jazz, klezmer, rock, and probably other things I m not knowledgeable enough to pick up on. It s always interesting to hear familiar tunes referenced, everything from The Salley Gardens to the Beach Boys. The lyrics can be humorous, heartbreaking, or politically passionate, but they are always intelligent. I respect the rage against injustice at the core of many of their songs. Then I hear something like Celtic Rocker and laugh my ass off. From the opening Green Suede Shoes to an encore medley of covers ( Like a Rolling Stone, I Fought the Law, etc.) the energy never flagged for over two hours. The most fantastically powerful moment came during James Connolly. As the Starry Plough was raised, Larry Kirwan and the audience pumped fists high, all shouting support for the rights of the working man. How many bands can perform a song about a hero martyred nearly 100 years ago and make you wish you could fight alongside him? Each band member was worth watching every minute. I found myself glancing from one person to another, not wanting to miss anything from their amazing performances. My hat is off to you gentlemen. I thoroughly loved every second watching you all rock out. Kirwan is one of the few performers who seems like a genuinely nice and interesting guy, somebody you d like to say hello to. He s a writer, composer, performer, political activist, library supporter, and historian with a lot to say. It s pretty impressive that he s generous enough to meet with fans, sign autographs, pose for photos, and remain pleasantly gracious immediately after such a high energy show. I think everyone s life has a soundtrack, and Black 47 has long had its place in mine. I never thought I d be lucky enough to see these guys live. My thanks go out to Black 47 for decades of wonderful, funny, thought-provoking music, and a stellar performance that will enrich my life every time I recall it.

First time for me to hear them and I loved it. Remakable energy in a great venue

They always deliver a great time! Great musicians with a great, unique sound. Wish they played in the area more!

They were super energetic, fun, clever and put on a damn good show!!! The lead singer even did a meet & greet after, nice touch!

Black 47 is always fantastic, but last night was even better than usual. Their musicianship is fabulous, and the venue was perfect for them. I would happily return to see them at Showcase Live if they come back in the future. My friends who came with me were totally new to the band, and are now serious fans. Non-music related -- our waitress was an absolute doll, very sweet and attentive. Other venue staff we dealt we through the course of the evening were courteous and pleasant, too. Win-win situation all 'round. Thank you!

First time taking in an event at Showcase Live Patriot's Place. There is no other venue like this place. For selfish reasons I am demanding that nobody else ever attend so I can get tickets! The opening band - Gobshite put the rock in Irish music similar to the Drop Kick Murphys. I was afraid my wife wasn't going to appreciate their style. She was blown away! The drinks were flowing and Black 47 took stage. The jammed like they did 16 years ago. Symbolic Irish Rock at it Best!