The Popes, originally carved out from the creative expanse of Shane MacGowan's formidable shadow post his tenure with the seminal band The Pogues, have since etched their own indelible mark on the musical landscape with their rambunctious blend of rock, punk, and traditional Celtic flourishes. Emerging during the mid-90s, they were initially seen as an extension of MacGowan's boisterous musical reveries but rapidly evolved to showcase a distinct identity, bolstered by spirited performances and compelling songwriting. Over the years, through albums like "Holloway Boulevard" and spirited singles such as "Outlaw Heaven," The Popes have continued to finesse their sound—a potent concoction of folk sincerity and punk rock energy, underscored by narratives that traverse from the raucous to the poetically sublime.

Their music catalog, highlighted by releases like "Release The Beast" and "Het Bingo Lied," reveals a band unafraid to experiment while honoring their roots, bridging the gap between traditional Irish music and the raw, unfiltered essence of punk. "Outlaw Heaven," both the single and the album, encapsulate the band's matured vision, blending storytelling with melodies that bait the listener into a rollicking, foot-stomping frenzy. Even as band members have shifted, The Popes have remained anchored by their initial mission—to create music that is at once profoundly heartfelt and wildly entertaining. Through the grit and the melody, The Popes offer a sonic journey into the heart of contemporary Celtic punk, affirming their status as enduring figures within this spirited genre.