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.
Official Website
Ruler Ruler
Blood or Whiskey Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
come on down we're the blood or whiskey boys
do you think we're part of it?
this stale irish bullshit
oh didn't know what to say
but you said it anyway
oh didn't know what to do
ruler ruler tonight
break it down it's still a fake applause
32 still my top drawer
feeling inept feeling of tragedy
turning the screws on ones history
The lyrics to Blood or Whiskey's song Ruler Ruler are a commentary on the complicated relationship between Irish identity and the country's history. The band calls out what they see as the stagnant nature of Irish culture, referring to it as "stale Irish bullshit." The lyrics suggest that while there is a sense of pride in being Irish, there is also a frustration that this pride does not translate into meaningful change or progress. The line "turning the screws on ones history" refers to the way in which both the Irish people and their government are complicit in the perpetuation of the country's often painful and violent past.
The chorus, "Ruler ruler tonight," seems to be a call to action or a rallying cry. In this context, the "ruler" could be a reference to a political leader or to a measurement of time. Either way, the song suggests that it is time for a change, and that the Blood or Whiskey boys are ready to lead that change.
Overall, Ruler Ruler is a powerful and emotionally charged song that speaks to the complex history and culture of Ireland. It is a call to action for the country and its people to break free from the past and create a brighter future for all.
Line by Line Meaning
Break it down come on hear the noise
Let's analyze and deconstruct the situation by listening to the commotion.
come on down we're the blood or whiskey boys
Join us and be a part of our group, known as Blood or Whiskey.
do you think we're part of it?
Do you believe we belong to this stagnant Irish culture?
this stale irish bullshit
This outdated and boring Irish tradition that needs to be changed.
oh didn't know what to say
I was speechless and didn't know how to respond.
but you said it anyway
Nevertheless, you still spoke up.
oh didn't know what to do
I was unsure about what action to take.
fuck you
A rude and defiant response to someone who opposes or challenges us.
ruler ruler tonight
Tonight we are in control and calling the shots.
break it down it's still a fake applause
Even if we break it down, the admiration we receive is fabricated.
32 still my top drawer
Even though I am getting older, I am still holding onto the things I treasure.
feeling inept feeling of tragedy
Feeling inadequate and as though things are destined to end badly.
turning the screws on ones history
Examining and dissecting one's past, and possibly experiencing regret over certain actions or decisions.
Contributed by Camilla W. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
Liam Mcdevitt
The most underrated band to ever come out of Ireland!! Never miss them,roll on Xmas gig grand social
Canal Billviana
Esse som é demais! Punk Rock Irlandês, fodido..
BRASIL NA ÁREA RAPAZEADA
Musica Irlandesa ja é do caralho, a cultura em si mais ainda.
Minha vontade de conhecer esse país só aumenta.
Liz o doherty
Love it
Danielle Wood
I. Fucking. Love. This. Song.
God fucking bless Blood or Whiskey..
Love from California
barry R
amazing!
loren Johns
this shit is fukn awesome
Danielle Wood
<3
ThatGuyStephen
This song kicks arse, it is trad irish music kicked in the bollocks by punk rock, love it!
Una O'doherty
Amazing xxx
Marcel S
also ich würde das schon in die kategorie folkpunk einordnen