The kudos aimed at The Pogues at the end of 2005 was richly deserved and timely. This orthodox greatest hits collection is warmly complemented by a second disc featuring a fabulous live performance at the Brixton Academy in 2001.

It is difficult to think of a more memorable Christmas song in the modern era than Fairytale of New York. It is an achingly gorgeous, bitter-sweet masterpiece (vocals shared with the late Kirsty McColl) that more than any other song on this collection epitomises Shane McGowan’s deceptive genius at crafting
heart-felt melodies and lyrics.

He is scruffy, peg-toothed, and drug-and-alcohol-ravaged. But that voice – a horribly damaged, gravelled entity – perfectly reflects both the lightness and darkness of the Irish spirit. With a highly talented band and producers, like U2′s Steve Lilywhite and Elvis Costello, it’s no wonder they are lauded as one of the great proponents of Irish folk.

All those familiar folky songs are here, like drunken sing-along classic Dirty Old Town, alongside the Spanish-tinged Fiesta and that ode to Northern Soul, London Girl.

The Brixton concert contains many of the tracks listed on the first disc, and is a testament to their live prowess, honed by years of workman-like international touring.
Forget the horrific (though admittedly gorgeous) Corrs; these guys are the real Irish McCoy.

DB

Rating: 4.5/5

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