In 2003 lead singer Barney Murray left the band. Vocal duties were taken over by guitarist Dugs Mulhooly. Untill 2005 they underwent alot of line up changes, leaving Dugs and Chris (drums) as the only original members. In 2005 they released their third album Cashed Out On Culture, which had more of a punk-edge than their former two.
In 2006, whistle player Alan Confrey died from a heart attack tragically after the band returned home to Dublin after a UK tour with Stiff Little Fingers.
Early 2007 saw the departure of bassplayer and second vocalist Beano.
In december of the same year they supported The Pogues on one of their christmas shows.
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A Holy Trinity
Blood or Whiskey Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
one fine day
to see what you could find
a callous light that shone so bright
we don't know what to do
so in the morning of your life threat
from the moment to the minute
to the holy trinity
we don't know what to do
the cause of it's a patient thing
it affects us one and all
the force of it can change the seas
what d'ya got?
face off face off
The lyrics to "A Holy Trinity" by Blood or Whiskey seem to be exploring themes of uncertainty and confusion. The opening lines indicate that the singer has woken up one day and is searching for something, but is met with a "callous light" that is blinding and harsh. The repetition of "we don't know what to do" throughout the song emphasizes this sense of helplessness and lack of direction.
The phrase "from the moment to the minute to the holy trinity" seems to suggest that this confusion and uncertainty permeates every aspect of the singer's life. The "holy trinity" could be a reference to the Christian concept of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, although it's unclear how this fits into the rest of the song's themes.
The final lines of the song, "what d'ya got? face off face off" could be interpreted in a few different ways. It could be a challenge to the listener to confront their own uncertainty and take action, or it could be a reference to a confrontation or conflict that the singer is facing.
Overall, the song's lyrics are somewhat abstract and open-ended, leaving room for interpretation and reflection. The repetition of certain phrases and images creates a sense of unease and confusion that is reflected in the song's music.
Line by Line Meaning
so you woke up
You finally gained awareness after being ignorant or apathetic
one fine day
This awakening occurred suddenly, unexpectedly, and pleasantly
to see what you could find
You were curious and open-minded about exploring new possibilities
a callous light that shone so bright
You discovered a harsh and unfeeling reality that was dazzling and overwhelming
we don't know what to do
You felt lost, confused, and powerless in the face of this revelation
so in the morning of your life threat
You faced a crisis or danger early in your existence
you've lost out on every bet
You have failed to succeed in everything you have attempted so far
from the moment to the minute
You have struggled constantly and consistently
to the holy trinity
This is a metaphor for the three challenges or problems that have plagued you
the cause of it's a patient thing
The root of your troubles is a slow and gradual process or condition
it affects us one and all
Everyone is impacted by this issue, not just you
the force of it can change the seas
This problem can have a significant impact and ripple effect
what d'ya got?
This is a challenge or taunt to prove your worth or abilities
face off face off
This is a call to confront and overcome your obstacles head on
Contributed by Caleb I. Suggest a correction in the comments below.