Reviews (page 2 of 9)
didn't enjoy.
Not my taste but still good. Reminds me of my cousin Ryan
Do not like this one
I’m just not a pogues fan. I suppose if I was in a pub somewhere and they were playing I’d be tapping my toes. But that’s about it.
it's not quite as good as Grace of God (I re-listened to check) but I don't know exactly why, maybe just cos not so high octane? still a fun listen
I'm not just imagining that the three or four songs before the last were much quieter then the rest of the album, right? I wonder if there was a different master. We've already heard an album from this band, and I probably enjoyed it about as much as the last one, if not slightly less for repetition bias.
I don't think I can quite give this one 5 stars (as I did previously for The Pogues' 1988 album), although it's similar (and similarly very good), a mix of traditional Irish music and lyrical subjects, plus Shane MacGowan's trademark punk snarl. Tin whistle? check; uilleann pipes? check; fiddle? check; accordion? check! Actually, as I'm listening through the original 12 songs a 2nd time, I'm liking it even more, so it's an easy 4 stars, and a little tempting to give 5 stars to another Pogues album. But I think I'll stick with a solid (leaning to high) 4 stars. Really good stuff. Produced by an old favorite of mine, too: Elvis Costello (real name Declan MacManus). And, to boot, featuring a song about Jesse James, to whom we're distantly related -- via Granddad -- through the paternal grandfather (Richard Cole) of the mother of Jesse James.
I went up from three to low four because I think it would be worth listening again to pick up more of the lyrical detail. The production is solid enough to justify it anyway. It seems like there's a lot of culturally important history and myth worked in The music is messy, and I think justifiably so. It's fun, pathetic, and ugly. I thought I wasn't going to get past some of McGowan's uglier verses, but I did
I don't know what kind of music this is - shanty music? It's just something that I don't like. It's novel for a song a two, but then it becomes annoying for me to listen to. I definitely counted down the minutes on this album.
*Rum Sodomy & The Lash* is the album where The Pogues truly arrived. Released in 1985 and produced by Elvis Costello, it's not just a great folk-punk record; it's a landmark album that proved the band was a force to be reckoned with, blending the raw energy of punk with the soul of Irish tradition . It's a record that feels like a chaotic, brilliant, and deeply moving pub session that you'll never want to leave. ### 📜 Lyrics and Themes: The Poetry of the Gutters and the Gallows The album's lyrical heart is Shane MacGowan's songwriting, which took a massive leap forward from the debut . His lyrics are steeped in the mythology, history, and hard-luck stories of the Irish diaspora, delivered with a poet's soul and a drunkard's sneer. - **The Gritty Realism:** MacGowan's talent was for finding the poetry in the gutter. "The Old Main Drag" is a devastating, semi-autobiographical tale of a teenage rent boy in London, capturing a life of desperation with dark humor and unflinching honesty . It's a world away from romanticized Irish ballads. - **Mythology and Mirth:** The opening track, "The Sick Bed of Cúchulainn," is a masterclass, combining references to Irish myth and politics with a chorus about getting syphilis in Cologne and pissing yourself in Frankfurt . It's a breathless, hilarious, and anarchic celebration of life lived to the absolute limit. - **The Ballad Master:** MacGowan also proves his mastery of the ballad. "A Pair of Brown Eyes" is a stunning, melancholic meditation on memory and loss, while his definitive, roaring take on "Dirty Old Town" transformed a folk standard into an anthem of urban longing . ### 🎵 Music and Production: Capturing "Dilapidated Glory" The production by Elvis Costello is the secret weapon that elevates this album. His approach was simple but revolutionary: capture the band's raw, chaotic live energy and don't mess it up . As Costello famously put it, "I saw my task was to capture them in their dilapidated glory before some more professional producer fucked them up" . - **A Live Sound:** The result is an album that sounds like it was recorded in a packed, sweaty pub. The accordion, banjo, tin whistle, and uilleann pipes crash together with a punk rock ferocity, creating a wall of sound that is both traditional and completely new . - **The Performances:** The band is tighter and more powerful than on their debut . The instrumental "The Wild Cats of Kilkenny" is a glorious, frantic whirlwind . The album also features standout vocal performances, particularly from bassist Cait O'Riordan on the traditional "I'm a Man You Don't Meet Every Day," a performance so good it reportedly charmed producer Costello himself . ### 🏆 Influence and Legacy: A Timeless Masterpiece The album's influence is immense. It single-handedly made Irish traditional music cool again for a new generation and laid the blueprint for Celtic punk, inspiring countless bands that followed . Its critical standing is legendary. The album reached #13 on the UK charts and has been included in *Rolling Stone*'s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time and *1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die* . ### ⚖️ The Pros and Cons Here is a quick summary of the album's strengths and weaknesses. **✅ Pros** - **Masterful Songwriting:** Showcases Shane MacGowan's emergence as a truly great storyteller . - **Legendary Production:** Elvis Costello perfectly captures the band's raw, live energy and sonic chaos . - **Definitive Covers:** Features versions of "Dirty Old Town" and "And the Band Played Waltzing Matilda" that are considered definitive . - **Cultural Impact:** A landmark album that legitimized folk-punk as a genre and influenced generations of musicians . **❌ Cons** - **Not the Best Album:** While a classic, some critics and fans consider the follow-up, *If I Should Fall from Grace with God*, to be their magnum opus . - **"The Old Main Drag":** The lyrical content, including period-specific slang like "shemales," can feel dated and jarring to modern listeners, even if the song's empathetic core is intact .
4/5
It was less harsh than the last one but still feels like an album that’s a bit of a drag
Fucking classic. Makes me want to drink whiskey by pints.
Gains a half star just for the bonus tracks on the expanded edition. "An album that drinks and swears and fights and isn't afraid to cry in public." 4.5/5
Some good, some bad. I am sure The Pogues are not to everyone’s taste but I had an Irish partner for years and found their music reflected much of the cultural soul of the Irish. So I feel quite lenient towards the worst of the tracks on this album, even the drunken wailing.
Some real bangers on here, very enjoyable
I have no clue what celtic rock is so thats interesting. I dont like it. Its sounds dumb, I hate the accordion and banjos so much and I dont like their singer. Its really annoying after a while. God damn it, it was produced by Elvis fucking Costello of all people.
The sick bed of cuchulainn - 4 The old main drag - 3 The wild cats of kilkenny - 3 I'm a man you don't meet every day - 4 A pair of brown eyes - 4 Sally maclennane - 4 Dirty old town - 4 Jesse james - 3 Navigator - 3 Billy's bones - 3 The gentleman soldier - 3 And the band played waltzing matilda - 3
One of my all time favorites. Shane and Company are so good on this.
Maybe it’s just the day I’m having, but I like this Pogues album much more than If I Should Fall From Grace. A little less punk, maybe. Which isn’t what I thought I’d enjoy out of the pogues. Their takes on Irish traditionals were great. Their originals stand up to them and showcase their own level of storytelling that make them instant classics. I don’t know how much of the sound is from producer Elvis Costello, but wherever credit is due should be given. The production captures a solid “live” sound without sacrificing clarity. Sally MacLennane Dirty Old Town
Nice celtic folk rock/punk. Seems more melancholy/less frenetic than If I Should Fall From Grace. Nice instrumental Wild Cats of Kilkenny A Pistol for Paddy Garcia is celtic folk meets Morricone, and I'm here for it! Best tracks - Wild Cats of Kilkenny, Paddy Garcia, Sally MacLennane 4 stars
Artig å hoppe mellom så ulike plater. Denne plata er som ein pubkveld, med latter, melankoli, allsang og alt som høyrer til.
Ei plate som består nesten utelukkande av klassikarar i mitt hovud. Bandet peakar her. Macgowan er oppe på eit skyhøgt nivå - som låtskrivar (hadde han nøgd seg med å kun skriva Rainy night in Soho hadde han likevel hatt ein stor plass i hjarta mitt. Den songen har eg til gode å ikkje bli rørt av), som formidlar (And the band played waltzing Matilda - hjelpedåmeg), som vesen. Det ville vore ei veldig god plate berre med songane hans, det er ei ellevilt bra plate med trad- og coverlåtane (som ein sjølsagt oppfattar som Pogues-låtar etter å ha høyrt dei med Pogues) i tillegg. Hadde den klart seg utan køddelåta The Gentleman’s soldier og med ein instrumental mindre? Jada. Gjer det noko at dei er der? Neida. 9/10
Ett band man har ramla innom med jevne mellomrom uten at jeg noen gang har rotet meg til å kjøpe noe. Synes det er kult at det er masse liv i musikken og vokalen har en nerve som et lett å bli betatt av. Kommer ikke unna at det er litt sånn vorspiel musikk som er nærme å bikke over mot litt for mye gjøgling til tider, men det går fint altså for vi får også den fine imI'm a Man You Don't Meet Every Day og ikke minst A Pair of Brown Eyes som mer enn nok veier opp.
Det er få plater jeg har hørt mer på enn Rum Sodomy & The Lash. Det er noen sterke enkeltlåter på oppfølgeren også, men som album er dette favoritten. Det gir perfekt mening at en gjeng forfyllede irer bosatt i London og med bakgrunn i punk skulle lage en av de fineste hyllestene til fylliker og outcasts. Skål!
The Pogues - Rum, Sodomy & the Lash Det er rart med det, men denne plata funkar mykje betre på meg no enn førre gong eg høyrte den (sikkert 10 år sidan). Den gong syns eg den rufsete stemma til Shane MacGowan blei litt mykje etter nokre spor. Den siste songen er eigentleg den einaste eg tok vare på, som eg av og til har tatt fram og høyrt på sidan den gong. Når eg høyrer plata no syns eg den er ei godt balansert samling av sjømannsviser, irske tradisjonslåtar og Shane sine fyllehistoriar (med eit særleg sterkt midtparti) Til tider rett så rørande, faktisk. 8/10
celtic punk is not really my thing
Hell yeah!
Not really my style but really well constructed and cool.
alright album not what i would typically listen to though a fun time nonetheless
I thought I was gonna get another metal album based on the cover, but then I hit play and all of a sudden I heard Irish Folk Punk. And holy shit, is this good.
Not my usual cup of tea, but a fun pallet cleanser
Pass me a Guinness and turn this up!
Comfortable
I had a lot of fun listening to this! Loved hearing something I probably wouldn't seek out on my own, and it's also very good.
On one hand, we wouldn't have had Dropkick Murphys without The Pogues, one the other hand, they're the fuckin Pogues and I can't really blame them for the shitty copycats. RIP Shane, a true poet of the gutter.
#welovetheIRA
Another foot stomping, pub drinking Irish jolly row of songs, this one was just as fun as the last. And the cherry on top was the last song about a wounded soldier of Gallipoli, just phenomenal.
The wicked and rollicking music I've come to expect from the Pogues is on full display on this album, which features many historical references and cultural grievances. I would return to this album for a more focused listen, and with a beer in hand.
Excellent album. When I'm in the mood for it I think it's one of the best albums ever. Definitely the best Pogues album - Shane McGowan was on fire here.
Pretty good. Had heard of them but never really listened to them. Got a little repetitive.
Fun stuff
penso sia musica per una stretta nicchia... di cui io sicuramente non faccio parte
What a start to a drink fuelled Irish tavern album track 1 was! I would love to be in an Irish bar listening to this album live, I reckon it would be an absolute blast… until I spewed up in the church anyway! I’m pretty sure Greenday will have took inspiration from this album as I hear so much of this in their music. I couldn’t help but listen to the album again and again, it was contagious and the mix of pace really making me feel like I had been on an emotional rollercoaster. ‘And the band played waltzing Mathilda’ really pulling at the heart strings differently. ‘Wild cats of Kilkenny’ just made me want to get up and jig. As much as I tried to find fault with the album as I really didn’t want to score it perfectly my 4 listens just brought nothing but delight. I am gutted my favourite track is off the expanded edition in ‘London girl’ But I will rate it as the full extended edition and still score it a 10/10. Best track- ‘the sick bed’ although possibly better lighter tone tracks this started the album in such a way that left me wanting it over and over again. ‘The gentlemen soldier unlucky to miss out too- I especially can’t stop smiling at the thought of Miss Piggy on the vocal 😂 I also think this is exactly where Greenday get their massive inspiration! Worst track- ‘the parting glass’ for been at the end and bringing such joy to a close 😢
The Pogues - Run, Sodomy and the Lash Shane MaGowan, a true enigma. A poet laureate who could string melodic filigree from thin, alcohol ridden, air. One of a kind. And a band that really could play beyond brutal punkish enthusiasm. Together they create a collection of vivid vignettes of a life on a long gone, romanticised and visceral Emerald Isle. Too many AAA tracks to mention. Does it flag at all? Perhaps Jesse James doesn't quite sit comfortably alongside the rest of the tracks but then along comes their interpretation of And The Band Played Waltzing Mathilda and your heart is ripped out of you with each passing verse. Best Track - Pair of Brown Eyes Worst - None, but JJ if there has to be one. For writing Brown Eyes, A Rainy Night in Soho and Fairytale of New York alone Shane should be canonized and worshipped eternal. 10/10
This was one of my worst listens so far (now over 100 albums in), it's a meme at this point in the 1001 sub Reddit and he makes an appearance with this with a producer credit
Music for alcoholic suburban Dads that have 25% Irish heritage. Dad goes down to the local Irish pub every night. No nagging wife or kids. Just pure bliss. Orders a pint of Guinness, puts some Pogues on the jukebox and for those few hours of bliss he's transported to the motherland. "Ahh the good ol days". He thinks to himself while never having been to Ireland nor having any current relatives that live there.
why do punk rockers like this?
important, but not for me
This is.... a lot
Really enjoy the Pogues and this is a solid record. It feels a bit uneven though, which makes it just shy of a full five.
Great record this! One of my most listened to too from last year after seeing them tour it. Probably edges Should I Fall From Grace, just, even if SIFFG has better individual songs, there’s just something great about the songs on Rum Sodomy and the Lash collectively
This was really fun, the pogues are great. This felt less like they were trying to mix things up then the other album we've had, which makes sense being only their second album. This meant it didn't surprise me as much but gave me everything I hoped for. Think I'd have to be in the right mood to put them on but definitely would, and would love to seem them live now. 4.5.
Didn't land as profound, but landed as extremely fun. Dirty Old Town the standout. Felt compact and clean, less sprawling than If I Should Fall From Grace With God.
That was great. Probably didn't enjoy it quite as much as if I should fall from grace with God. Still some brilliant tracks though. Favourites: A pair of brown eyes Sally MacLennane Dirty old town And the band played waltzing Matilda 4.5, probably not quite enough for 5
Lord of the rings if it was a band
2,5
I’d have gone 3.5 if I could’ve. A shot of Jameson would pair well with this one.
Wish I was more into this.
Not in the mood for this, and pretty weird that this album was album of the day on the day of my arm breaking accident. Because I had the Rum, and then the lash.
Todo bien con esta banda pero que carajo es esto. No es lo mío la música celta, sepan entender. Una cosa es el folk y otra cosa es esto. Full skibidi toilet.
I don't know enough about the genre to know if this is truly authentic or trailblazing, but I had a great time with it.
From the album wiki: Sounds' Jane Simon called Rum Sodomy & the Lash "the finest slice of story-telling your heart could wish for". I'd say that aptly describes this drunken whirlwind of a record. Makes me want to head down to the local pub and split the G with friends and family while we commiserate over all the misfortunes of life & the mistakes we've made.
Irish music. Rinse and repeat. Fun I guess
2.5
Not bad, if you’re into Celtic Folk. I’m not.
I liked it different but refreshing
Pirate shait
Love the rhum. The other two, not so much.
Me gusto, siento que es tipo musica de peli yankee. 6/10
See Manns Lieder
#45 - The Pogues - Rum Sodomy & The Lash ⭐️ Spirited malarkey. Not interested.
Not a big fan. And the band played Waltzing Matilda is a harrowing folk song. Hits home as an Aussie.
Reminded me a lot of great big sea without the cultural relevance to my upbringing. Would still definitely be a fun listen for a backyard bbq party, some washer toss, a few pops…
Quite good album
One of Tom Waits’ favorite albums. That should be enough.
We're it March, I might rank this higher.
Ahhhh, the Pogues. This is a band that has a soft spot in my heart for reasons, honestly, that sort of elude me. They're kind of punk, kind of loud, but boy isn't there plenty of Irish whistle, too. And the lyrics! So many lyrics, some of which I might even understand. If only I listened to lyrics. But ask me if I love the Pogues, and the answer is "Yes, of course." So, I dunno. The Pogues seem like a band I would be busily assigning 3s to (or 2s on a grumpy day), but this album ranks a high 4 after yet another listen.
I appreciate the Pogues probably more than I like listening to them. It's a cool mashup of trad music and punk and some tracks definitely grab me. I heard this record in high school and had no idea what to make of it. I'm not sure I totally do now.
Aha! I'll start to catch up on my rating backlog with a freebie -- i.e. one I know well and love. Some of my favorite things: the way the first track and Sally McLennane combine the trad instruments and beer hall stomping with ass-kicking rock; the cool and evocative instrumentals (Paddy and Cats); the historically mournful closer; and the fact that thanks to this I can more or less pronounce "Cuchulainn."
3/5 - Irish music begs to be listened to with other people, whether it's a live performance or not. I'm more of a greatest hits fan of Irish music, in general, so my ceiling here is about a 3.
Rum Sodomy & The Lash is a rare find of a themed album so immersive that it may be compared with an extended version of an award winning OST for a film. The album keeps the integrity of its concept and offers fine music, both fast and slow, both vivid and mourful, and even finishes up with an anti-war ballad "And The Band Played Waltzing Matilda". The vocalist's voice is of great importance here: it is both beautiful and well-adapted to the ideas befind the record. As a result, it serves one of the primary elements of "Rum", which in turn features a skillful use of numerious intrements, including the strings, flutes, harmonica, and so on. This album might very well make you dance, while also containing melancholic compositions, changing between the moods smoothly and masterfully. It has a great use of time, offering both good short tracks and extended ones like the mentioned last ballad. "A Pistol for Paddy Garcia" would be my overall favourite, being a masterful instrumental showcasing the band's genius on this album. "Rum" makes a tough job of a themed album that works look easy; while in fact there is certaintly tons of effort dedicated. More than fourty years following the release (based on the fact of the anniversary re-release), the album sounds very fresh, entertaining and overall greatly composed and performed. Made me think of Scottish music, as well as a couple of other styles or bands. That's a confident A.
Yeahay yolololo trililili tralala trolololo rhum beer etc...
Shitty bar band at best
It was alright
Celtic Punk. Is the title track *extremely* racist, or is it ironic? Prostitution and abuse. Mkay. And now experimental Wild Cats of Kilkenny. What do I do with this? Every lyric sounds like the amalgamation of every pub crawl I've ever witnessed. The music is so infectious and tight. The whole thing drips with winking irony. I think I love it.
All the songs kind of sound the same… But what a great sound. And what a great voice.
It would be a fun universe if every band's music contract included a stipulation that they needed to make, at one point in their career, an album that interprets what thirteen songs about "Rum, Sodomy, and the Lash" means to them.
I just can't stand them then...... I like some Celtic folk and rock but not this.
bono has really let himself go... first - i wish this site/experiment was a bit better at pulling the original album than it is. there are a lot of people complaining about this album being 18 tracks long (it's not). but i understand it is based on what is currently streaming. second - this is fine. the production is on the rawer side, which i think works for what it is - a rowdy time in an irish pub at three in the morning. the songs are solid, i like the reinterpreted traditionals and the covers. but ultimately, i am rarely in the mood for irish music.
Música de pirata. É, só isso, não há o que dizer. Não posso usar isso como demérito da banda, afinal, o intuito foi justamente criar música de pirata. O problema é que não gosto de música de pirata, e no final do dia, a lista é sobre nossa opinião subjetiva e não sobre a realidade objetiva dos discos apresentados. Esse disco precisa estar na lista? Acho legal uma representação desse gênero, então digo que sim. Mas nunca mais vou o ouvir ou tão pouco pensar sobre ele. 2/5
Been a while since I listened to any Irish music, it’s always gets your head bobbing and your toes tapping. Was expecting something a little different from the Punk tag, this was pretty straight folky traditional stuff.
freaking irish folks music! why did they call this rock haha i would have been more excited if i knew there was going to be an accordion going in.
I've got no need with the Pogues. They're good and this is a good album, but why do I need to listen to it? It just sort of feels like a lot of other stuff I've already heard and isn't really adding anything.
Who would have thought that a rowdy collection of shambolic Irish folk songs sung by someone that looked like a salutary warning against the perils of alcohol and not brushing your teeth, would be a hit in the middle of the fashion conscious 80s? This album features a mix of original numbers written by Shane McGowan, traditional songs and a couple of covers to round out the set. Musically, the band is as tight as you could wish for with fiddles, French horns, plaintive uilleann pipes, banjos, tin whistles, accordions and drums combining with considerable energy. Producer Elvis Costello captures the feel of a live performance in a Kilburn pub without ever feeling over-produced. Frontman Shane McGowan’s voice is something of an acquired taste, but the emotions are heartfelt bringing considerable resonance to songs of life at the bottom of the scrap heap, but there are moments of joy and romance here too, even if they are generally fuelled with a generous slug of whiskey. The highlight for me was the final song which was a cover of “And the Band Played Waltzing Matilda” by Eric Bogle which is a heartbreaking tale of a wounded Australian veteran returning from the First World War and finding out that there are worse things than dying.
It's what I expected, fine. Not blown away, can be fun 3/5
Great album, this second The Pogues record is so fresh in their sounds and so enjoyable that it really transmits so well the good energy and folk-based songs that characterise this band. This album has that folk, Irish influence that I love in the band, also those Celtic roots that make it feel like a sailor's tale, a kind of pirate-like story. And I love how this feeling surrounds all the record through all those great songs. Sure, at the end the songs are not that strong, and become certainly a bit less interesting, but, yet, this album has many different sounds and a very cohesive aspect that is to highlight, and an energy that drives you through the record in such a surprising and pleasant way.
Don't hate it, but don't really like it either.
This was great. The album had that traditional Irish punk rock sound, but also branched out a bit into just some legit songwriting and singing.
Really enjoyed this one - Irish folk with post-punk sensibilities. Many great songs here - A Pair of Brown Eyes, Sally MacLennane and Dirty Old Town in particular is a great run of songs. But A Rainy Night in Soho is probably my favourite on the album, even if it's the least "folky".
Bro.... What is this opening? I think I'm starting to drink the ale-flavored Koolaid on this one. i'm one for a good album of storytelling, and there is most definitely a narrative here. I would enjoy this much more if I was shitfaced and sipping on a Guiness in the back of an Irish Pub, but alas. You know what, fuck it, I loved listening to this. DnD side quest idea generated thanks to it. Very contemporary for its time in the mid 80's.
Genuinely fun and ridiculously energetic, perhaps I missed my called and should have become a pirate? A little repetitive towards the end, but well worth it.
fun album, worth a listen
Sort of fun, I guess. This kind of music seems so inherently goofy to me that it seems unfair to dock it points for having pennywhistles and accordians and shit. I'd say it succeeds at being what it is.
I first heard this record on St. Patrick’s Day 1986. The exact day I became a Pogues fan. Forty years later, I still am. This album and If I Should Fall from Grace with God remain two of my all-time favorites.
Irish punk music. Great if you're in the mood for it.
godt folk-punk album som fungerer skide godt. Det er Elvis Costello som har produceret det hele, men det var ikke meningen han skulle gøre det radiovenligt. Det lyder bare som godt venskab fest, krig og alt muligt andet. Føler albummet har det hele både stille og rolige sange, instrumentale, god intro, massere af gang i den
fun album. 4/5
Kinda cool sound here, the celtic stuff is pretty unique but I can't say every song here is all that good
This album made me anxious with all the harsh, craggy yelling. I managed to make it through the whole thing, but it wasn't a pleasant listen.
An hour of sea shanties, no thanks. It bad enough listening to them once a year at Christmas, can't bear more than that.
White people really be listening to anything, huh?
Favorite track(s): The Sick Bed of Cuchulainn, I'm a Man You Don't Meet Every Day, A Pair of Brown Eyes, Sally MacLennane, Billy's Bones
Type of music a modern scallywag would listen to.
I would describe this as (and I'm not kidding, I swear) rousing pirate music. I don't know where this fits on the list, but it was certainly fun and creative.
I’m not sure why there are 2 Pogues albums here. They’re functionally equivalent, but not bad. Stereotypically Irish when listened through 2026 ears.
2.9 3x decent irish
Nah. I'm good, thanks. The Pogues are just not my bag.
Love these guys ML #369
Love it
My last journey with the Celtic punkers netted a 3, but the gimmick has worn out its welcome for me. I aggressively wanted to get out of this obnoxious Irish bar. I can’t quite justify a 1 bc I appreciate the anthropology involved in the old folk ditties.
Maybe I’m just in a better mood, but I liked this more than the other Pogues album. It has a relentless rhythm to it that can be situationally annoying (to me) or exciting. Their music is also pretty writerly and steeped in tradition, which I enjoy. The band is also tight without being buttoned-up; there’s a freewheeling energy to their performances that never sounds outright sloppy. Would sound best live in a pub. I was at my cozy office job, so I couldn’t cheer or dance, but I still got something out of it. I think enjoy The Pogues most in small doses.
There are only a handful of albums that made me think "I've never heard anything like this before". The first was The Ramones in 1976, the second was this one in 1985.
Überhaupt nicht mein Ding.
The Pogues hold the distinction of being the worst musical group that I ever saw on SNL when they were on the show in 1990. So I expected that this album would be similarly horrible. Surprisingly (for me) the music was good and I found the lyrics to be clever. There are a lot of sea shanty type tracks here, and lots of songs about pubs and drinking.
Could do with an oxford comma in this title. Hello, this is my daughter, Rum Sodomy, and her little dog, The Lash. Or maybe superheroes. Anyway, whatever genre this is ("Celtic punk"?), I wish there was more of it. Very nostalgic. Lotta war talk. Slur count = 0-2 (unclear due to cultural differences). Highlight: not just one, but TWO funny little voices in 'The Gentleman Soldier'.
This is #day691 of my #1001albumsyoumusthearbeforeyoudie challenge, and… this is some great stuff to have as a background in an Irish pub over a pint or two. This is a 3 out of 5. Looking forward to #day692.
Excellent Celtic folk/rock. Shane MacGowan just puts a smile on my face with his Irish troubadour vibe- the diction/pronunciations give him such a "stereotypical" aesthetic but it feels very genuine. Production is not anything special, but the songs are all so fun that it works. IM A FREE BORN MAN OF THE USA
Gowan lads
They are so good
In much the same way that the Violent Femmes were way ahead of their time with their debut, this one feels similar and what I'm getting is that folk punk doesn't evolve at all. And honestly it doesn't need to. Prefer when its more punky than folky in this case though (just coming from listening more to stuff like Dropkick Murphys and Flogging Molly). But still a great album. Honestly a tad surprised, wasn't expecting to like it quite as much as I do.
Nothing wrong with it, but very very samey. I found If I Should Fall From Grace With God much more interesting. I dunno. Maybe I'm just not in the right mood for it, but it didn't really hit. Nothing wrong with it, but nothing special.
Festive punk pirate vibes
2nd Pogues album from the generator. While the general vibe is quite similar and I appreciate it, I liked the other album way more. This one lacked something special and memorable 2/5
my galician ass is kind of fed up with all this celtic bagpipe music and dancing in circles vibe but lets acknowledge the spirit of restoring tradition through the cultural influences of its time the combination of punk intensity and traditional forms creates a profoundly human music, although its cultural imagery may be less immediate for those who do not connect with that universe, or less powerful having been constantly exposed to this particular tradition without having felt a deep cultural connection, as is my case
Loved the pogues again
I've never listened to a Pogues album all the way through. This was pretty cool, I liked some of the more experimental tracks. All in all, I dont always want to listen to this music, but when I do, this is pretty high up on the list.
It might but the Burnham influence but fuck it, I loved this.
like this album more for its storytelling than anything. i'm a man you don't meet every day was the highlight here, liked the rest but it wasn't as unique to me...
It's crazy how this band's music could genuinely move you to tears when it wanted to. McGowan was such a fantastic lyricist. 'A Pair of Brown Eyes' is genius. There are a couple weaker songs but oh well. Nice production from Mr. Elvis Costello as well-o.
Love it!
Fun, though not amazing.
Ok
I like this to be fair. Really fun music that I would absolutely dance to any time. Would probably not listen to this full album again but can appreciate it in small doses
Appreciate a few catchy tunes, but I'm just not going to play this album again
Felt like I was drunk listening to this.
*jigs*
Great 👍
Good, but not quite as good as the previous offering of theirs (If I Should Fall From The Grace Of God) we had
There is only really so far you can go with a Pogues album and that is straight to an Irish pub 🇮🇪 Not earth shattering but a fun listen.
There’s like a Pogues circular thought process in my mind. Don’t listen to them, assuming like Shane they are a bit tortured and shambolic. Listen to them and be pleasantly surprised at the variety, decent song working and musicianship. Decide it’s quite fun really. Don’t listen to it again as while it’s fun it really doesn’t grab you in that way. Forget this point of view. And repeat.
Irish folk punk sounds like a gimmick. But maybe that's how non-US people feel about Wu-Tang or Willie Nelson? It's definitely supposed to be a joke...songs that aren't trying to be funny don't use the line "kicked in the balls". There is no way that the writer of the Spongebob Squarepants theme did not have Wild Cats of Kilkenny in mind when they were writing it. The volume on Jesse James drops...is that Spotify or does that happen on the album too? Why do bands want to end every album with their longest effort?
Too long, too boring to listen to outside ireland
Classic of the genre. I don't think there is an album that better encapsulates drunkenly singing late in the night with friends after much drinking has occurred. Some classic irish tunes in there, like Dirty Old Town, but I don't really think of it as an Irish Folk album, more like a homage, that is well executed and entirely its own thing. I put this on every now and then. 4 stars.
Irish trad and rock are always going to be a winning combo for me, and I’m fond of the Pogues. This record is stronger than the sum of its parts for me—a lot of the individual tracks didn’t hit for me, but the cumulative effect was delightful. Standout tracks: Sally MacLennane, A Pistol for Paddy Garcia, Dirty Old Town, The Gentleman Solider Rating: 3.5
I love this jaunty, punk Irish style
Gorgeous writing (especially the ballads, Shane, though I know you were a rager), traditional Irish instruments playing with punk venom, and punk venom played traditionally Irish. They made better albums, but this one is extremely good.
“Dirty Old Town” is a classic. I found most of the rest enjoyable and predictable.
Second Pogues album in three days. I much preferred the first one though this one has its moments. I’m glad I’ve got no more Pogues in my future!
Great album. Totally different flavor from "If I Should Fall From The Grace Of God", but it has some beautiful poetic lyrics up and down the tracklist.
Now there’s an album that makes ya wanna raise a pint! Mebbe follow it with a shot of whiskey and another pint. Especially liked the female vocals, bagpipes, and subject of I’m a Man You Don’t Meet Everyday. Made a great twofer with Wild Cats of Kilkenny. But it’s Navigator, Billy’s Bones, and And The Band Played Waltzing Matilda that get Rum Sodomy & The Lash on the 1001 Must Hear List. (3.3*s) Some good imagery: … knocked me arse over tit …
Can't go too wrong with some ol' Irish drunk punk. Not quite as good as their following album, a bit more traditional. I liked "Dirty Old Town" and "Billy's Bones" most. Some good instrumental tracks as well. Album title is classic Churchill. I hear a lot of Flogging Molly from The Pogues (or vice versa) and that's a good thing. 2.7 stars for these boyos.
Not a bad little Irish punk album but also nothing special. It's got a lot of the tropes that are familiar from the genre. I didn't mind the first album but I like Rum Sodomy a little more than the prior Pogues entry. It's got a handful of decent songs from a couple different approaches. Always interesting when a band features multiple singers across an album and I liked most of what I was served on this one. Despite never hearing of them until this list I can see how The Pogues could have a good fanbase if this genre is in your wheelhouse. They are fun and upbeat and work in the right environment. Pogues feel like an offshoot younger brother band to Flogging Molly, Dropkick Murphies, etc. Throw them into the handful of other Irish bands that make the rounds during St. Pat's or other related times. Never would have figured Elvis Costello would have had a hand in this in any way but pretty cool to find out I guess. 2.64 stars
Makes me want a nice cold beer. Favorite track: Dirty Old Town 3.5/5
just cant
I enjoyed it somewhat it has some good bangers,
Fuck's sake read the Wiki. There's only twelve songs on this album not 18. Anyway, until I read the reviews I forgot about the particular kind of Pogues fan who just uses them for a knees up - it's all FUN, apparently. Not a criticism.You do you. I'm not saying there isn't fun to be had but you must be skipping The Old Main Drag and drunk under the table by the time the band plays Waltzing Matilda.
021223 18:00 4
i don’t know how i felt about this. it was cool
Wow!
a good ol irish hooting time. i have been forced to listen to dirty old town in many a karaoke session by british men. definitely not my favorite song from the album; i enjoyed A Pair of Brown Eyes and I'm a Man You Dont Meet Every Day.
LOVE this album. The storytelling, and the lyrics, and the depressive stories are absolutely wonderful.
Medievalish-croisade type music boring 1.5/5
Wednesday, 10 June, 2026 I enjoyed this too to bottom. “The Wild Cats of Kilkenny” gives it at least a 4/5.
the irish are spiritually appalachian in my opinion. creating irish folk punk feels like an oxymoron considering how those genres just go hand in hand (if your actually doing it right). enjoyed his voice much more than i thought i would.
Appreciate the foundation these guys set for Celtic Punk. I don't listen to this type of music as much as I used to, but they're still the top of that genre. 4.5/5
One of my favourites! Best Pogues album One of the best original folk punk records ever. Brilliant. Tom Waits was right with this one.
Täh
Loveeeeeeee this album , I am Irish so it probably does help . Shane is just too good
Overall: 3.18 (rounded to 3) Consistency: 3.23 Originality: 3 Enjoyment: 3.5 Virtuosity: 3 1. The Sick Bed of Cuchulainn - 3 2. The Old Main Drag - 3 3. Wild Cats of Kilkenny - 4 4. I'm a Man You Don't Meet Every Day - 3 5. A Pair of Brown Eyes - 3 6. Sally MacLennane - 3 7. A Pistol for Paddy Garcia - 4 8. Dirty Old Town - 3 9. Jesse James - 3 10. Navigator - 3 11. Billy's Bones - 3 12. The Gentleman Soldier - 3 13. And the Band Played Waltzing Matilda - 4
que
A low 3 it was better than I thought it was going to be
BANG. Absolutely wonderfullll and majesticccc. Makes me want to learn the bagpipe while sailing towards skellig Michael and reenacting that monastic lifestyle. Top tier that! Drink: cool glass of milk. Rating 9.5/10
What the fuck is this?
Irish folk/punk vibe
very irish
Hell yea. Very into this one.
Nice easy listening
The Pogues are sweet - makes me wanna go to the pub.
נהניתי ממוזיקת הפיראטים
Enjoyed it, few good tracks in there
+4
I'm a sucker for Irish folk punk.
a fun diversion. weirdly travels from irish into like, pirate and cowboy aesthetics, not even attaching those themes to rock or country or whatever that's just the genre. campy and has like the opposite of pop appeal but it's not unpleasant. favorite song is A Pair of Brown Eyes
Rating: 6/10 I think it's decent. Pretty well made and original entry in the list but I didn't love it, I can see how those who are into it really love it though. The type of shit playing on the speaker at my family function. I didn't enjoy like songs like Wild Cats of Kilkenny and The Gentleman Soldier. Highlight has to be a Pair of Brown Eyes. The Band Plays the Waltzing Maltida was also a solid closer. Next time I visit Ireland I'll use them as a soundtrack
Pretty boring and at many times repetitive and aimless. A cool sound and I like the lil celtic fantasy thing that's going on but this could have been like a single song and not 42 minute compilation of whistles and accordions that didn't know how to get to where they're going 4.3/10
Would give it zero if possible
I really wanted to like it. I couldn't get into most songs and the flow wasnt there.
About as good as the other Pogues record on here. The second half is better than the first.
Great Irish vibes
Just not my bag. 2.5
It’s a cool album! This is right up my alley. Not every track is a winner so it won’t get five stars but I enjoyed my time with it and it passed quickly.
Ya know I think I didn’t expect to enjoy The Pogues so much! I figured it’d get same-y to me, and the singer’s non-voice would start to grate, especially getting two of their albums so close to each other, but maybe I liked this one even more than the first? I just really love the sound and the songwriting, what can I say! We love to discover new music we really connect with!!!
Some outstanding tracks, some great trad music, it's a little uneven in the tone and pacing of the album, but Shane MacGowen's lyrics are great works of poetry.
i dunno man 2/10 Will I add this album to my library: no
Estoy en mala racha, no me toca nada que me guste hace algunos días.
shane macgowan is/was such a double edged sword, as his lyrics and aesthetic made The Pogue the Irish folk band to cross over in any great way but his voice is easily the worst part and he slows down the instruments to match, which given how good it is when they get to cut loose is a real shame.
Fun pub music. I’m good for about two or three of these at time before it’s time for something else. Good energy.
About as close to the sort of music I love as I’m going to get on this list. Not bad at all. Certainly some nice trad moments.
o amigo falou e disse eu escuto essas porras e lembro de estar bebado com gente que não superou o ano de 2012 achei uma porra
tem umas letras até bacanas e os instrumentos são bem tocados. não eh necessariamente péssimo, mas eu não piro mto nessa sonoridade não... acho meio chata. ((((disclaimer: é o tipo de música que eu remeto bastante ao douglas e ao (falecido) toninho. quando eles ficavam bebados, eles colocavam essas merda de irish folk punk, mto paia)))
I like Folk music ... even if it is Irish
I try to be respectful on here because every one of these albums is someone's favorite — but I just really really do not like this. Irish folk music and punk do not go together. It's cheesy. It's kitsch. It's like a band you'd see at a pub in Leicester Square, or at a pirate-themed restaurant in Disneyland. Why is there a spaghetti western instrumental track? Was this sound considered fresh in the 80s? Also makes you think — there's lots of great cocaine music (Fleetwood Mac for one) and acid/mushroom music. Even weed music. I'm not sure if music so closely related with alcohol can really be any good. sidebar I'm pretty sure the intro to one of these songs is directly cribbed, like note for note, from Woody Guthrie's "Ain't Got No Home"
Super duper Irish. Amazing songwriting, playful and heartbreaking. If I'm at a pub dancing in a circle with beer splashing out of my glass, it's a 5.
Was fine. Slower than I would’ve guessed.
Not their best tbh
Going in, I was very curious what folk-punk would sound like I don’t think I’d listen to it again, but it was different. Maybe I would try it again if I ever find myself on a pirate ship. Or drunk. Or drunk on a pirate ship!
You will never make me hate The Pogues so long as I live. One of the greatest bands ever
1985! I had no idea this was that old. It feels fresh and I love the feel of the songs. Wild Cats of Kilkenny sounds like the perfect Halloween song, wild and crazy like a storm wind blowing through your hair. Great punk\folk\rock\Celtic mix. Navigator is another outstanding song. Just a joy to listen to, every track just goes too fast, in true punk style.
Full and complete sound making the best of every song !
Before listening to this, I saw it described as punk rock and folk and thought, “Those are two very different things, how is that going to work?” Then the album started, and it immediately made sense. There’s nothing inherently bad about this album, and I can absolutely appreciate the energy and style. That said, the only time I can realistically see myself putting this on again is around St. Patrick’s Day.
Yeah, we all like the Pogues.
Nunca me llamó la atención la temática pirata, y en la música tampoco, no voy a negar que es un álbum original y con música muy bien hecha para lograr ése sonido salado y con olor a ginebra, pero no me generó nada.
It has enough going on to satisfy their punk fans, their Irish trad fans and the casual listener. This is a fantastic record that I've enjoyed every time I've spun it.
classic
Wonderful album full of energy and emotion and really benefits from Elvis Costello’s ‘Hands off’ production.
I quite enjoyed this, their Irish sounding style.
Some great songs!
7/10 - Pogues have more in their ammunition than just that Christmas song
Man, why did I only know that one christmas song? These guys are awesome! I'm gonna fall deep down this rabbit hole.
It is exactly what you might expect from Irish music, it's not bad but you need to be in the mood for it. The somber tunes are quite nice.
Wat ik bij het andere album van ze typte gaat hier ook op. Ik ben een saaie lul en deze muziek is niet geschikt voor saaie lullen. Stel, puur theoritisch, dat ik ooit verkleed als hobbit op een fantasyfair rond loop met een belly full of mead en dit staat er live dan zou ik er op dat moment wel even plezier aan kunnen beleven. Verder zijn er geen momenten dat ik dit zelf ooit aan zou zetten. Als klap op de vuurpijl lees ik dat het is geproduceerd door Elvis Costello. Die man lijkt me, ondanks dat ik z'n eigen werk niet hoef te luisteren, ook deze week weer te achtervolgen. Het is ongelofelijk. Ik gaf het andere album een twee en dat voelde toen al wat streng, maar ook nu kan ik niet anders. In theorie vind ik het vet, in de praktijk kan ik niet wachten tot ik wat anders kan gaan draaien. Twee sterren dus.
Fun Irish tunes
This felt like it would be fun on St. Patrick's day, but meh on any other day of the year.
passt nur in Bars in Schottland/Irland😂 3/10
The best record by the Pogues and for me one of the best albums of Irish music at all. This is perfect.
my colleauges looked weird after i started drinking and singing to this album but that did not stop me!
Great album, lots of enjoyable songs. As in my other review of The Pogues, I'm a sucker for Irish music with a punk attitude, so this is right up my alley. Shane's lyrics and vocal style are perfect for songs about the beauty in the gutters.
Interesting LP from a band with a tragic story.
Pretty good, and I like the general ramshackleness of it.
quite energetic in general and mostly good lyric writing, but the overall sound is somewhat monotonous and the vocals are a style i'm very much not fond of.
Just buy it……
couldn't finish it, just wasn't my kind of music I guess
didn't think I'd be diving back into the Celtic well again so soon after that Waterboys album I looked at just two days ago, but here we are! the sound of the Pogues is a lot more raucous than that of the Waterboys, mainly owing to the worn, weathered voice of Shane MacGowan. to my ear, Rum, Sodomy & the Lash draws most strongly from the musical tradition of Irish drinking songs, with MacGowan utilizing this format to tell harrowing stories of romance, working people, and his own complicated identity as an Irish emigrant in Britain. the traditional Celtic instrumentation is gorgeous, especially the tin whistle and uilleann pipes. their earlier albums deal more in punk, but I really think the Pogues were destined to reach this sound. the bittersweetness of it is just magnificent. decent 8/10.
Good
Lol .. saw another review saying this was good for middle aged suburban dads who want to build some Irish heritage even though their ancestors have been in the US for 150 years. I feel attacked. That said - I really like this album, well constructed lyrics and love the punk/Irish music fusion of it.
some odd different punk genre? 2
I'm sad to say I must be on my way, to listen to the new album the list spat out today (out today). I'd like to think I'll be relistening when I can, to Rum Sodomy & The Lash -- and to Sally MacLennane!
yarrrrr!!! jestem już niepraktykującą alkoholiczką i nie pijam już guinessów do odcinki, więc nie mogę tego docenić w pełni no, może jest w tym coś więcej ale ciężko przebrnąć słuchając tego w pracy zamiast w tawernie mogli też więcej dać do pośpiewania tej dziewczynie PS Polskie szanty są lepsze
This was fun!
I wish it leaned more towards the high-energy tracks as I really enjoyed those. The slower stuff isn't bad...but doesn't hold up as well. I appreciate that The Pogues walked so that Flogging Molly and The Dropkick Murphys could run. 3.5
Didn’t enjoy this album of The Pogues as much as the other one I got on this list. To be honest, I feel like this will be how I feel for each album going forward. It was a cool thing to hear once, but will consistently get less interesting for me. Just not my style of music.
didn’t finish bc it’s not my type of music
This is exactly how I envision Irish music.
My second Pogues album on this list, and this one was a good bit better than the first. For someone who has never traveled, it fits my imagination of fun and whiskey-soaked times at an Irish pub. The weightier matters of war (A Pair of Brown Eyes, The Gentleman Soldier, And the Band Played Waltzing Matilda) and vigilante justice (Jesse James) are subsumed by rollicking shanties sung by inebriated singers (the music is always tight, though) at high tempos that had me tapping and swaying along.
Yeah, sth like polish szanty, i mean sailor songs, it wanst bad but could be better.
4/10
I like the Pogues, but this album was a little boring.
Runs together
A really unique Irish folk sound with some hard-hitting subject matter. I'm sure this sounds better after the seventh guinesss
Somehow good? Despite Elvis being such a loser. FOUR
It was a good album, but dont think it shouldve made the list
wake up, its saint patricks day again
This is so not up my alley that I just can't finish it. I'm sure it is good but it ain't for me.
honestly, good!!!! not my thing, but the irish deserve this!!
aye lad
There's definitely a place for Irish folk, it's not something I listen to often, and I would even say it's a type of music that I'd rather listen to live than on an album but considering I'd never heard this before (aside from the more famous songs), I really enjoyed it. Favourites included Dirty Old Town, Shelly MacLennane, and Jesse James.
Sounds like an Irish version of the Spongebob Squarepants theme
I'm under the weather and really wasn't in the mood for it at the start but I got more into it over the course of the album.
Great album. Variety yet consistency. Such Pogues.
hell no
Ok, I get some weird cross between Irish folk and punk. The album cover and name pretty much tell you exactly how this sounds. Lyrically, it's pretty strong with stories of the life of (I presume) those of Irish heritage in the United Kingdom and Ireland itself. Sonically, however, it's not a hit with my American ears. The instrumental sounds take some getting used to, and the vocals aren't great(though they work within this context). While this is an interesting example of cultural music, I don't think this is something I can listen to often. It's good at doing what it's trying to do, but what it's trying to do isn't something I have any particular desire to listen to.
Pretty fun overall. A bit more Irish than Punk than I expected, but it was enjoyable
I've loved their version of Dirty Old Town for years but to my utter shame never really listened to this album properly. It sounds like stumbling into a pub I Dublin, the air heavy with smoke and stumbling across a bar band telling hard luck stories that make you start to cry.
Hey, second Pogues album. Didn't know they had another list album in 'em. I mentioned the band in my review of Trafalgar from six days ago, so it's humourous that they're presenting themselves now. One of my favourite reviews that I've written for this site was for "If I Should Fall From Grace With God", where I prattle off a bunch of lyrics from The Mollusk in a vain attempt to construct a coherent line of criticism. Looking back at it now, the semblance between both albums is only superficial and I don't care for The Mollusk all that much in the first place, but it's fooney. I enjoyed writing it. Anyways, I don't actually remember much about their previous outing aside from it being nautical and one of the songs having the faggot word in it. I expect more of the same from this album, albeit without such pejoratives. Here goes. Yeah. This sure was another Pogues album, huh? I wasn't too crazy about this one. I can appreciate the rousing quality that this music has, but its appeal is ultimately limited. Celtic punk is one of those genres which exists in its own bubble. I can see this album striking a chord with a good number of Brits in addition to their built-in Gaelic audience, but outside of that the appeal and influence of this music is greatly limited. To my Straylien sensibilities this music is kind of just gimmicky to me. Same vocal delivery. Same instrumentals. Largely similar subject matters. The aforementioned vocal melodies are what really inhibit this music - there isn't much which can be done with the signature Gaelic performances. Overall, this was an unengaging listen. Book time. "...a work of raw and raucous beauty." "...their second album bled passion, poetry, and energy." Elvis Costello produced this album and married the bassist of the band. Man, we aren't getting away from that fucker, huh? The "...writing had flourished since their debut". It "...sounded wonderfully out of synch with the mid-1980s scene." Wikipedia says this album was very warmly received by critics and has received enduring acclaim. It also performed well on the UK and New Zealand charts, though the sales figures make it a bit of a niche album regardless. I've played defence for world/cultural music before, but it's difficult not to feel that the Pogues are punching above their weight by having two of their albums on the list. That being said, they're the most prominent artist in the genre they belong to and I suppose having an album with Irish roots isn't entirely English nepotistic bullshit. I'm okay with my Irish friends having another list album. Say what I will about this music, it's certainly unique and the music belongs to a specific group of people, both of which are traits I find to be endearing. I cosign this inclusion.
Irish folk songs to a “punk” music. Meh.
Liked it more than I thought I would
Play the Pogues drinking game by drinking whenever The Pogues are playing.
Best songs: ?
Folksy and gritty in just the right ways. The Band Played Waltzing Matilda is a personal fave.
I like the gritty vocals and storytelling songs. 45 minutes straight isn’t my favorite though.
Album 162. Rum Sodomy & The Lash — The Pogues (1985) Wtf, how did I end up in an Irish Pub with folk music. Not bad, but not for everyone. 2/5 No liked songs
Alt Celtic. Pretty good album by the Pogues which covers quite a lot of ground and is nicely produced by EC. Gets a bit repetitive at times but worth a listen.
Jimmy McNulty approved 4 Stars
G’wan - even if only half-Irish!
I was so ready to hate this and I really enjoyed myself. Lots of songs I’d never heard that I immediately added to my liked songs playlist. This is what it’s all about, discovering stuff you never would have touched and getting a pleasant surprise! And I’d absolutely categorise this as a must listen as it’s really varied but still seminal to the genre and has had long lasting influential impact.
Fun album, not sure what I was expecting, not this.
I’m sorry but no. There is something about the Pogues that sets my teeth on edge. (See also Dropkick Murphy’s) Maybe it was Stockholm Sydrome in effect, but I found myself enjoying the album the deeper I went. An hour was still too much. 2/5 Dour and depressing, I needed more Guiness and whiskey before diving in.
This list is ridiculous
preferred 'If I Should Fall from Grace with God' album but this one was all right too. It does get repetitive. Top tracks: "The Wild Cats of Kilkenny," "Dirty Old Town"
it's the Pogues. It's fun and makes you want to drink about 12 creamy pints and dance until 2am. great fun.
—The Sick Bed of Chuchainn…I feel like I’m on the lower decks of the Titanic. Before things went sideways —The Old Main Drag…trans representation! I don’t know enough about these guys to know whether or not they’re referenced with love —Wild Cats of Kilkenny…like the bass intro. I’m dancing with a young Kate Winslet! We will never die! —I’m a Man You Don’t Meet Everyday…we slow things down. It’s okay —A Pair of Brown Eyes…Must. Not. Make. Butthole. Joke. dammit. I do appreciate an accordion —Sally MacLennane…straight forward and fun Celtic punk. bit of a sea shanty —A Pistol for Paddy Garcia…an instrumental inspired by westerns? Sure —Dirty Old Town…I’m a sucker for a banjo ballad —Jesse James…new singer? Prefer the other —Navigator…somewhat of a dirge. I’m enjoying this album but it’s getting long in the tooth —Billy’s Bones…fun but I feel like I’ve already listened to this three times —The Gentleman Soldier…the banjo is back! the drum accents are a nice touch —The Band Played Waltzing Matilda…okay, we’ve hit the iceberg
This is the sweet spot for The Pogues, doesn't overstay and has great quality throughout
Sounds perfect for a pirate adventure. 8/10
Well-made by talented musicians, but I guess it‘s just not my style. Would kinda slap at a renaissance faire though.
Los Pogues, como Shane (un alcohólico irlandés emigrado a UK), son esenciales únicos y geniales. Una banda estupenda, con gran solvencia técnica y un líder realmente carismático e inspirado. Prefiero If I should fall... pero este fue el que los puso en el mapa. Es necesario recordar el estupendo Poguetry in Motion , el Ep entre ambos discos. O ese temazo que fue The Irish Rover con os Dubliners (el vídeo actuando juntos es toda una celebración). Produce Costello, la portada está basada en el Rapto de Medusa, el título en Churchill... y las letras son dignas de un gran escritor. Destacan Sally MacLennane, A Pair of Brown Eyes y la versión de Dirty Old Town que se convirtió en el estándar de referencia. También And the Band Played Waltzing Matilda. Imprescindibles.
The Pogues – Rum Sodomy & the Lash (1985) On Day 102, I appreciated the vibe this album set—it felt like being in an Irish pub or on a pirate ship. I admire that it was grounded in its roots and focused on cultural storytelling. It clearly seeks to be taken seriously and succeeds in showcasing that culture, similar to how I feel about certain traditional Chinese music. However, while the production is honest, it doesn't guarantee a revisit for me. The "gravelly" vocals and folk-punk energy are interesting as a one-time experience, but they didn't provide the soul or high-energy hooks I need for a 4 or 5. A respectable 3/5 for a solid cultural showcase.
Absolute drivel. Not for me. Just as awful as their other album in this list.
I think the Pogues are good. too much North American Irish cartoon cultural baggage going around to truly appreciate it. music: regarded. (⌐☘_☘)
I appreciate the Pogues, and McGowan, and I think this is a really great album. It only falls short of 5 for me because deep down I can never really Connect with the traditional music of The Isles or whatever. Makes me feel like an interloper or something.