Celtic punk band Dropkick Murphys played an acoustic set to fans in the street outside Liverpool's O2 Academy after arriving late due to cancelled flights. The Irish-American group turned up around 11pm because of travel disruption from Dublin.
Travel Disruption and Delayed Show
Before the show, Dropkick Murphys posted on Facebook: 'We had multiple flights to Liverpool cancel today. We think we've found a solution and we're moving the show schedule back to give us time to get there.' The band updated timings: doors opened at 7pm, music from 8.30pm, and the show finishing at midnight.
Dozens of fans inside the venue questioned if the band would arrive. One said it was 'sweltering' inside and claimed no updates were given. Another alleged poor communication from the band and venue. The Liverpool ECHO understands the band arrived by 11.10pm and were on stage by 11.30pm, with the venue extending the curfew slightly past midnight.
Acoustic Street Performance
After the venue closed, the band played an acoustic set outside the Lord Nelson Street entrance to Liverpool Lime Street, with crowds gathering before being dispersed. Videos of the impromptu performance were shared by fans and the band.
Fan Frustration and Refund Requests
Disappointed fans have asked for refunds, as many had to leave for public transport before the band arrived. Richard Kinsella said: 'I know the band would have loved to have played a full gig last night and things happen beyond their control. However, Dropkick Murphys, an hour medley at gone 11pm doesn't constitute a concert. Especially when folks have travelled from far and wide, booking travel, accommodation and time. A refund is a reasonable request and a gesture of good will.'
Alex Nolan added: 'I'm more annoyed at the lack of communication. Why not give updates after both of the support acts have played. People may have been more understanding that way if we had better communication.' Amy Williams said: 'The lack of information on this gig and the fact there is still no official start time or cancellation is poor treatment to fans who have paid and now waited hours.'
Mark Conway wrote: 'I'm sorry, the lack of communication and then the shortness of the gig was bang out of order. Understand your guitar tech saying you'd been up all day - bad day travelling. Well I did 200 miles. Not good communication and a lot of money lost.' Siobhan Chadders said: 'These things happen but no information and patronising communication. Followed you for years. Had to leave for last train...gutted.' Liva Jukame added: 'This was so disappointing. This gig was supposed to be our son's first concert but we had to leave to make it to our last train home. There should be refunds issued.'
Upcoming Tour Dates
The ECHO has approached Dropkick Murphys and Academy Music Group for comment but received no response at publication. The band is on a world tour, due to play Edinburgh's Corn Exchange on Saturday and Crystal Palace Park on Sunday with The Offspring.
