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Hailing from Portland, OR, Rum Rebellion is a peppery mix of Irish tunes, sea chanties, and oi!/punk rock, served up to you with a distinctive pirate twist. We are heavier than the Pogues, more aggressive than Flogging Molly, and more traditional than The Dropkick Murphys. The union of a maritime feel with street punk energy makes Rum Rebellion a unique and exciting band to see, hear, and experience.

Rum Rebellion began as an acoustic group early in 2005. The addition of bass and drums soon after led to stage shows in local clubs starting in January ‘06. Cruisin’ For A Boozin’, the band’s first full-length album (released in November ‘06) brought good reviews from both the area underground and mainstream press, opening the door for Rum Rebellion to play frequently in various cities throughout the region. A small tour over New Years ’08 further catapulted Rum Rebellion into the forefront of the regional music scene and helped build momentum for touring on a national level. As of March ‘08, Rum Rebellion has shows booked in dozens of cities in over 20 states, plus new tracks to be released on several comps, radio airplay, and more. Every player in this band has been playing their instrument for several years. Many of us play multiple instruments, play in Irish traditional session groups, and even teach music professionally.

The Rum Rebellion of 1808 was the only successful (if only temporarily so) armed take over of government in Australia's recorded history. The rebellion was precipitated by the Governor of New South Wales, William Bligh, who attempted to normalise trading conditions by prohibiting the use of spirits (Rum) as payment for commodities. Bligh was aiming to reduce the power of the rum merchants and the New South Wales Corps, which had a role in the trade. These groups resented his interference and the quarrel built to a military rebellion on January 26, 1808. The group of mutineers included John Macarthur as one of the leading personalities. Bligh was arrested by George Johnston of the New South Wales Corps, who took control of the colony. Bligh was held for over a year and when he agreed to leave for England, he immediately attempted to return. Stupid bastard.