Shane MacGowan and the Popes is an Irish band formed in the late 1990s, led by singer-songwriter Shane MacGowan, who is best known as the frontman of the influential Celtic punk band The Pogues. The group features a mix of traditional Irish music and rock elements, showcasing MacGowan's distinctive voice and lyrical style. The band released their debut album, The Snake, in 1994, which received positive reviews for its energetic sound and heartfelt lyrics. Although they did not achieve the same level of fame as The Pogues, Shane MacGowan and the Popes maintained a dedicated following and contributed to the Irish music scene.