Episode 81: A Return Conversation with James Fearnley of the Pogues, Walker Roaders

“What’s missing…is Shane.” Buckle up for a special episode of For Songs Singles! In this episode, James Fearnley, original accordion player for the legendary Irish/English punk band the Pogues, returns to talk about the band’s recent run of reunion shows celebrating the 40th anniversaries of their first two records, Red Roses for Me and Rum Sodomy and the Lash. Together with founding Pogues members Spider Stacy and Jem Finer, the trio is leading an ensemble production across the globe reimagining the fire and spirit of those heady early days. James talks about how this effort came together and what it’s like giving these old songs new life. We wrap up with an in-depth discussion about his new band the Walker Roaders’ blistering latest single Singing School, released in late 2025. So go grab a pint and listen in!