This turned out to be a much better experience than I originally anticipated.  I started out just expecting to show up, shoot a couple of songs for each of the bands, then leave.  The lesson I was reminded of that night is a little kindness and politeness goes a long way.  Shortly after arriving, I met the house photographer, Jason.  He was super friendly and immediately started showing me around the venue and invited me to come back and shoot any time.

While I originally went to see the Dropkick Murphys, I was pleasantly surprised by one of the opening acts, Skinny Lister.  They are a five piece folk band from England.

The singer for Skinny Lister

They have such great energy and stage presence.  At one point during the show, their standing bass player went crowd surfing WHILE PLAYING THE STANDUP BASS!!!

No, seriously, check it out:

Crowd surfing bass player from Skinny Lister.

They featured this photo on both their Facebook and official website.  This photo was taken from a hidden nook above the stage, which I would not have known about without Jason’s help.  Thanks, again, Jason!

Finally it was time for the headlining act.  The house was packed and chanting, “Dropkick Murphys! Dropkick Murphys!”

The crowd waiting for Dropkick Murphys

I should have paid more attention to the stagehands setting up the stage.  They brought out a lot more lights, and I was caught off guard.

Dropkick Murphys at Maverick’s.

After some quick adjustments to the camera, I was back on point.

Dropkick Murphys at Maverick’s

The rest of the photos can be seen at my website, John Shippee Photography.