Soaring Down Under: An Interview with TIM BRENNAN of DROPKICK MURPHYS

Interview by Angela Croudace
As the iconic Dropkick Murphys gear up for their long-awaited tour
in Australia, HEAVY had the pleasure of sitting down with Tim
Brennan, the band's talented multi-instrumentalist. We discussed
the upcoming shows, the band's musical journey, and the unique
influences that shaped their sound.
We kicked off the conversation about Dropkick Murphy's long-awaited
return to Australia. When asked if Tim was excited about the long
journey, he responded, "Yes, super excited about the long flight,"
he joked, despite the reality of being six and a half feet tall in
cramped airplane seats. "It's going to be top-notch, but I'll tell
you, all joking aside, the flight is the worst." However, the
anticipation of touching down in Australia quickly outweighed any
discomfort. "At least once we get off that plane, we're in such an
amazing place."
This time round, the tour features Alkaline Trio as the support
act, a decision that Tim enthusiastically explained. "The last time
we did anything with Alkaline Trio was in Australia… getting to see
them and hang with those guys was a pleasure," signalling the
eagerness of both bands to reignite on stage.
As we dove into Tim's musical background, he shared his early
experiences with traditional Irish music. Although his parents
weren't particularly musical, his mother's love for the genre and
his grandparents' influence laid the foundation. "Traditional Irish
music was on a lot. For whatever reason, I took to it; I always
liked it as a kid." This early exposure blossomed into a passion,
especially after an inspiring encounter with his English teacher,
who introduced him to The Pogues. "It sounds like hyperbole, but it
totally changed my life."
Tim's journey into the Dropkick Murphys began when he connected
with Mark O'Rell during their teenage years. After a few years
apart, Mark invited him to join the band on the Warped Tour in
2003. "I was 20 years old… I had a great time. That led me to
joining the band full-time."
As the conversation turned to their Australian tour set list, Tim
was excited to reveal what fans can expect. "We've put out three
records since the last time we were in Australia… we've got stuff
from the very first things we ever did up until our latest album."
The blend of new and classic songs promises an unforgettable
experience for fans.
Tim started his musical journey as a drummer, playing in various
bands and selling merch for Warped Tour before having the
opportunity to play with Dropkick Murphys, which saw him expand his
instrumental repertoire, learning the tin pipe and banjo, amongst
other instruments.
Lately, Tim's been listening to The Pogues, especially as the
season evokes nostalgic memories, "Always in November, December,
I'm always heavily listening to The Pogues." He also shared his
appreciation for the new Nick Cave record, which has led to him
revisiting Nick Cave's entire discography, an excellent choice if I
do say so myself.
Tim had a heartfelt message for their Australian fans as we wrapped
up the interview: "We're so looking forward to coming down and
seeing everybody. Come out to the shows, and we're going to have a
great time."
With an unforgettable journey ahead, the Dropkick Murphys are set
to deliver a show that celebrates their anthemic tunes while
reconnecting with their loyal Australian audience.


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