For a special St. Patrick’s Day edition of Manic Monday, it only seems fitting to pay tribute to perhaps the greatest punk band to emerge from Ireland over the years: The Pogues. Fronted by the late great Shane MacGowen, The Pogues made a name for themselves in the 80s with their authentic and distinctive folk-punk sound, which ran the gauntlet from heartfelt and endearing ballads (i.e. “Fairytale of New York” and “Dirty Old Town”) to fiery and jubilant Celtic-flavored punky jams like “Waxies Dargle”. A fitting choice for Manic Monday, “Waxies Dargle” is a snarling ripper that stands out as one of their most unhinged cuts, but the predominate vibes here are still cheerful and festive of course (a hallmark of the Pogues’ sound overall). You won’t need a pint of Guinness to enjoy this one (although it probably wouldn’t hurt). Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
