The Pogues, the legendary Celtic rock band, have announced an exciting 2025 U.K. tour to commemorate the 40th anniversary of their iconic second album, Rum Sodomy & the Lash. This marks their first tour since their 2014 split and also the first since the passing of their beloved frontman, Shane MacGowan, in 2023.
A Tribute to Rum Sodomy & the Lash
The tour, scheduled for May 2025, will honor the legacy of Rum Sodomy & the Lash, an album often heralded as a masterpiece in the Celtic rock genre. Released in August 1985 and produced by Elvis Costello, the album includes classics like “A Pair of Brown Eyes” and “Dirty Old Town.” While it didn’t achieve major commercial success upon its release, it cemented The Pogues’ reputation as pioneers of blending traditional Irish music with punk rock energy.
The band’s website promises a nostalgic celebration, featuring founding members Spider Stacy, James Fearnley, and Jem Finer, along with "special guests" yet to be announced.
Tour Dates and Locations
The seven-show tour will span across major U.K. cities:
- Leeds
- Birmingham
- London
- Glasgow
- Manchester
- Newcastle
Specific venues and ticketing details are expected to be revealed soon.
The Pogues' First Tour in Over a Decade
The Pogues were last active as a touring band in 2014, but they officially split later that year. The death of Shane MacGowan, the charismatic and often chaotic voice of the band, in 2023 seemed to signal the end of any chance of future performances. However, this reunion brings a renewed focus on the band’s musical legacy rather than its tumultuous history.
The absence of longtime drummer Andrew Ranken due to health issues was also noted in the band’s statement, marking another bittersweet aspect of this reunion.
A Legacy of Music and Influence
The Pogues were initially active from 1982 to 1996, delivering unforgettable albums such as their 1988 breakthrough If I Should Fall from Grace with God, which included their most famous track, “Fairytale of New York.” After reuniting in 2001, the band performed sporadically but did not release new music.
This anniversary tour will follow a December 2024 tribute to their debut album, Red Roses for Me, in Dublin. That event will feature collaborations with members of bands like Fontaines DC, The Pretenders, and The Mary Wallopers, showcasing The Pogues' enduring influence on modern music.
Looking Forward
Fans of The Pogues can look forward to a heartfelt celebration of the band’s enduring legacy. With original members and special guests set to bring Rum Sodomy & the Lash back to life on stage, the tour promises to be a powerful tribute to a band whose music has inspired generations.
Tickets are expected to sell quickly, as this tour will undoubtedly be a historic event for longtime fans and newcomers alike. Stay tuned for more updates!
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