Dropkick Murphys took the stage in front of a sold-out crowd at The Admiral in Omaha, Nebraska, on Thursday, February 26, 2026. [Photo credit: Dean Birkheimer]

DEAN BIRKHEIMER | Go Venue Magazine

The Dropkick Murphys delivered an unforgettable performance on February 26, 2026 at The Admiral, turning the Omaha venue into a roaring celebration of punk rock, Celtic tradition, and working-class pride.

The evening kicked off with opening sets from Slugger, Haywire 617, and The Aggrolites, each bringing their own flavor and intensity.

Slugger set the tone with speedy riffs and raw vocals, immediately igniting the crowd. Lead vocalist Tommy utilized every inch of the stage as he paced from one end to the other, like a tiger in a cage. A self proclaimed anti-fascist band, they are a mix of “brickwall Oi!” with hardcore punk influences.

Haywire 617 opened with “Sweet Caroline” an audience favorite that turned into a sing-a-long. This was  followed with a fast, aggressive set that pushed the energy even higher. Speed, along with tons of audience engagement and crowd surfing, helped make Haywire 617 a fan favorite.

The Aggrolites offered a groove-heavy reggae sound that gave the audience a chance to move and sway while still keeping the momentum alive. Their tight rhythms and charismatic stage presence proved they were more than just an opening act, they were a vital part of the night’s entertainment.

When Dropkick Murphys took the stage, the atmosphere instantly transformed. Frontman Ken Casey commanded the room authoritatively and passionately. His voice cut through the venue with a urgent authenticity. The band wasted no time launching into fan favorites, with the crowd shouting every lyric back as if part of the performance itself. Casey’s connection with the audience was constant, bridging the gap between stage and floor and making the room feel personal.  Tim Brennan showcased his versatility, moving seamlessly between guitar, accordion, and tin whistle, adding layers to the band’s Celtic punk sound. Jeff DaRosa’s work on banjo and mandolin added texture, while James Lynch’s guitar work delivered the driving force behind the band’s most powerful moments. Kevin Rheault held everything together with a his bass presence, and Matt Kelly’s drumming was precise, providing the backbone for the band’s pace.  One of the most electrifying elements of the night came from Campbell Webster’s bagpipe and Uilleann pipe performances. The haunting sound cut through the distortion, elevating the songs into something almost electric. Each time the pipes rang out, the crowd erupted, fists and voices in the air. The setlist balanced aggression and emotion perfectly as it  shifted between high-speed assaults and heartfelt moments. The band’s authenticity shined through, not just as performers, but as storytellers.  When the final song ended, the crowd was exhausted, but completely satisfied. As he is known to have done, Ken Casey stayed behind to basically meet everyone who also stayed behind. He took the time to take photos and sign memorabilia.  Dropkick Murphys continue to thrive on passion and connection. Omaha was lucky to witness it.

Dropkick Murphys The Aggrolites Haywire 617 Slugger

All images © Dean Birkheimer

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