If you’ve spent the past week dodging Fairytale of New York on repeat, this one’s for you. Fontaines D.C.’s Grian Chatten brought the Christmas spirit of a little closer to home last night (December 17).
Chatten joined The Pogues at Dublin’s 3Arena for a one-off, whiskey-soaked rendition of Streams of Whiskey.
The gig marked 40 years of Red Roses For Me, The Pogues’ debut album. Given the passing of Shane MacGowan last year, the night saw a group of rotating vocalists from Spider Stacy, Jem Finer, and James Fearnley. Some of Ireland’s finest mischief-makers also pitched in on vocals including Nadine Shah, Lankum’s Daragh Lynch, and John Francis Flynn. Not to be outdone, Fontaines drummer Tom Coll also jumped in as part of The Pogues’ live band—because apparently, just showing up isn’t enough for those great lads.
Chatten’s big moment came toward the end of the set when he belted out Streams of Whiskey. Written by the late Shane MacGowan, the track hit differently in a year that’s seen Ireland mourning its “North Star.” Chatten delivered it with the kind of gritty charm MacGowan himself would’ve approved of—somewhere in the zone of a pub singalong mixed with a punk sermon.
This isn’t the first time Fontaines D.C. have tipped their hats to The Pogues. Back in 2020, they covered I’m A Man You Don’t Meet Every Day. Now, stepping onto the stage with them in their hometown, it feels like the ultimate nod to MacGowan.
For The Pogues, this was just the warm-up. The band is gearing up for their first full tour in 13 years, celebrating 40 years of Rum Sodomy & The Lash. They’ll hit the UK next May with shows in London, Leeds, Glasgow, and more.
Speaking about Fontaines D.C., Spider Stacy summed it up best: “They’re carrying their own torch.” And judging by Chatten’s whiskey-soaked swagger onstage, he’s not just carrying it—he’s lighting the way for a new generation.
So, whether you’re sick of hearing Fairytale of New York or are belting it out in every karaoke bar this month, one thing’s clear: The Pogues’ influence isn’t going anywhere, and with Fontaines D.C. in the mix, Irish music’s future looks as rowdy as ever.
Watch the performance below
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