Glen Hansard - Bottle of Smoke
Review: A Spirited Tribute to Shane MacGowan
There are some songs that simply refuse to grow old, and The Pogues Bottle of Smoke
is certainly one of them. Now, Glen Hansard has put his own stamp on the Shane MacGowan classic, delivering a lively and heartfelt performance that forms part of the forthcoming tribute album 20th Century Paddy - The Songs of Shane MacGowan
.
Recorded in October 2024, Hansard's version arrives with the blessing and support of his family and estate. It's a release that carries extra significance following his passing, celebrating not just two remarkable Irish musicians but a friendship built on a shared love of music, storytelling and the occasional bit of madness.
A Pogues Classic That Still Packs a Punch
Originally appearing on The Pogues' 1988 album If I Should Fall from Grace with God
, Bottle of Smoke
is Shane MacGowan at his most gloriously chaotic. It's fast, foul-mouthed and packed with the sort of humour that made The Pogues so entertaining, telling the story of a gambler whose luck finally comes good.
After landing a massive win on the horses, our unlikely hero doesn't waste much time sharing the spoils. There's money for the wife, a few quid for the kids and, hopefully, enough left over for a proper Saturday night. It's classic MacGowan storytelling, turning an ordinary working-class fantasy into a wild celebration.
Glen Hansard Brings His Own Fire to Bottle of Smoke
Taking on a song so closely associated with Shane MacGowan is no easy task, particularly one with this much personality. But Glen Hansard was never the sort of performer to shy away from a challenge, and his take on Bottle of Smoke
feels like a fitting way to celebrate the man behind the original.
Rather than trying to reinvent the song, Hansard embraces its unruly character and brings his own unmistakable passion to the performance. There's a sense of fun at the heart of it, but also an appreciation for MacGowan's writing and the wonderfully unpredictable world he created through his songs.
More Than Just Another Shane MacGowan Cover
What makes this release especially poignant is the friendship between Hansard and MacGowan. Both were hugely respected figures in Irish music, and their connection went well beyond professional admiration. That history gives 'Bottle of Smoke' an added significance, particularly now that neither musician is here to see the tribute album reach listeners.
Victoria Mary Clarke, Shane MacGowan's widow, has spoken warmly about Hansard's involvement, describing him as an incredible friend to both herself and Shane. She also revealed that Shane had hoped Glen would produce an album for him, making his contribution to 20th Century Paddy all the more special.
Clarke praised Hansard's version for capturing the soul, spirit and passion that defined his work. Her words offer a reminder that this project isn't simply about revisiting familiar songs. It's also about the friendships, memories and musical connections that made Shane MacGowan such an important figure to those who knew him.
A Tribute Album With a Worthwhile Cause
Beyond the music, 20th Century Paddy – The Songs of Shane MacGowan
also has an important charitable purpose. Half of the album's proceeds will be donated to Dublin Simon Community, helping support its ongoing work with people experiencing homelessness and those at risk of losing their homes.
It's a fitting connection to two artists who cared deeply about social issues throughout their lives. Both MacGowan and Hansard used their voices for more than simply entertaining audiences, so knowing that this album will also help a worthwhile cause makes the project feel that bit more meaningful.
Final Verdict
Glen Hansard's Bottle of Smoke
is a fitting celebration of Shane MacGowan's songwriting, keeping the song's wild spirit alive while adding a personal touch that makes this version stand on its own. It's a reminder of just how much fun The Pogues could be, even when telling the most ridiculous stories.
There's sadness surrounding the release, of course, but Bottle of Smoke
was never a song for sitting quietly and feeling sorry for yourself. It's about good fortune, a few drinks and making the most of the moment. As a tribute to two much-loved Irish musicians, that's probably exactly how it should be.
READ MORE | The Best Irish Music Right Now
