Music: “If I Should Fall From Grace With God”

The album featured two tracks which have seen their share of controversy, warranted or not. "Fairytale of New York", a powerful and enduring duet with Kirsty MacColl was released as a single in November 1987.  Considered MacGowan's masterpiece by some, the writer himself had no major objections to the "cleaner" covers released in recent years.

"Streets of Sorrow/Birmingham Six" was performed live on UK television (until the station cut to advertisements mid-performance) and was then banned from British airwaves.

Without controversy are "Thousands Are Sailing", a tale of Irish emigration in the 19th century told in the midst of the 1980s, which saw droves more leave the island - and the title track which sets a classic Pogues tone.

Despite the controversy, its powerful mix of mournful ballads and history conscious Celtic Rock make this Pogues album one for your playlist.