Shane MacGowan and The Popes

The Profile

Shane MacGowan and The Popes is the Irish band formed by Pogues frontman Shane MacGowan after leaving The Pogues. They fused Celtic folk with punk energy, releasing The Snake (1994) and The Crock of Gold (1997), plus rowdy live sets.

Reviews emphasize post-Pogues origins, MacGowan's raw voice and themes of drinking, faith, and exile. Nick Cave is cited as calling Shane the best at writing opening lines. Live celebrations around St. Patrick's Day and immigrant folklore are central.

Three enthusiastic DeBaser write-ups celebrate Shane MacGowan and The Popes’ Celtic punk/folk storm. The Snake is framed as a fierce post-Pogues statement; The Crock of Gold as self-myth and stout-soaked balladry; and Across the Broad Atlantic as a rowdy St. Patrick’s Day suitcase of tradition and bangers. Themes of drinking, exile, faith, and fight run throughout. Expect rasp, reels, and irresistible choruses.