Shane MacGowan’s distinct voice and poetic storytelling have granted The Pogues a hallowed place in the pantheon of Celtic punk. Their music, which whirls from raucous to heartrending, has captured the spirit of Irish folk with a punk edge. So, putting aside bias and with thorough critique in mind, here are the six best songs by The Pogues, chosen by our discerning critic.

1.”Fairytale of New York” –This track needs no introduction. Often hailed as the greatest Christmas song of all time, “Fairytale of New York” isn’t just a holiday staple; it’s a narrative masterpiece. MacGowan and Kirsty MacColl exchange verses filled with dashed dreams and raw emotion over a beautifully melancholic melody that crescendos into an uplifting, bittersweet chorus.

2.”If I Should Fall from Grace with God” –The title track from their 1988 album is as energetic as it is soul-stirring. It exemplifies the band’s ability to combine traditional Irish instrumentation with punk tempo and defiance. Striking in its musicality and poignant lyrics, the song delves into themes of mortality and legacy.

3.”A Pair of Brown Eyes” –This song is storytelling at its finest, featuring evocative lyrics that paint vivid imagery and emotion. It showcases MacGowan’s skill as a lyricist, conjuring a tale of love and loss with references to classic literature against a backdrop of traditional Irish sound.

4.”Dirty Old Town” –Written by Ewan MacColl but undoubtedly owned by The Pogues, this gritty anthem encapsulates the raw essence of urban life — its regrets and hopes set against an industrial landscape. Shane MacGowan’s rendition is both tender and rough, perfectly encapsulating the song’s spirit.

5.”Thousands are Sailing” –Although not penned by MacGowan himself (this honor goes to Philip Chevron), this lament for emigration tugs at the heartstrings with its tale of Irish people leaving their homeland for America. The mixture of triumph and tragedy in seeking a better life abroad resonates deeply through energetic instrumentals and potent lyrics.

6.”The Broad Majestic Shannon” –This oft-overlooked treasure combines gorgeous melodies with lush arrangements, illustrating The Pogues’ ability to craft songs that are both deeply personal and universally appealing. It’s an ode to Ireland’s landscape, memory, and history — all hallmarks of MacGowan’s best work.

In picking these six songs from Shane MacGowan and The Pogues’ impressive discography, it isn’t just about catchy tunes or technical prowess; it’s about storytelling that resonates across time, boundaries, and hearts — which is exactly what these songs do so effectively.