In Brendan Behan’s Footsteps.

“While MacGowan remained the undisputed Pogues leader and frontman, the more restrained Chevron was a rock-strong accomplice, comfortably taking on occasional lead vocals, turning his hand to banjo and mandolin as well as guitar when the occasion demanded, and pitching in with more overtly tuneful material like Thousands Are Sailing and Lorelei.”

Did the old songs taunt or cheer you? And did they still make you cry? The Pogues’ Phil Chevron, 1957-2013. “In 2007 he was diagnosed with esophageal cancer. His last appearance was at a testimonial concert in his honour in Dublin in the summer.”

Scions of Eire.

“Then we raised a glass to JFK, and a dozen more besides.” A very happy St. Patrick’s Day to you and yours. Be sure to wear green and have a Guinness or three, or Leo’s comin’ over.

It’s no place for the old.

Probably a little late in the season for this, but here’s a belated moment of goofy, sweet-natured christmas cheer (by way of the comments at Looka): Shane MacGowan of The Pogues may have recently turned 50, but, despite all the drinking, drugging, and carousing, he doesn’t look a day over three… [the original.]