Song title: Wild Cats of Kilkenny
Artist: The Pogues
Year: 1985
Why I like this song:
R.I.P. Andrew Rankin
When it comes to the Pogues, people always talk about how Shane McGowan's songwriting abilities. But less is said that they were, as a whole, great musicians and could crank out a cracking instrumental.
And this is one such example, anchored by, of course, Andrew's beats.
Original video located here. Accessed 5th February 2026
Song title: I Need Somebody
Artist: Bardot
Year: 2001
Why I like this song:
Huh? Bardot are reforming for a one-night-only reunion show? Didn't see that coming but such is the power of nostalgia for twenty years prior.
For uninitiated, in 2000 the Popstars franchise had their first screening in Australia. And to emerge from it was Bardot: Five (then four) young ladies with the voices and the stage presence to become superstars.
At the time I wasn't into Bardot's music but I DO remember the backlash these gals received. The songs weren't anything special and this was clearly a marketing ploy. And, like any reality TV series, once the show was over, Bardot were effectively finished.
Which in turn raises the question: How will Bardot be remembered?
In the years since it has been revealed (see video above) that the original promise of superstardom rings hollow with the 'winners' being royally screwed over: Monstrous debts with little to no way to pay them off. Being kept in the dark in relation to important issues. Very little in the way of royalty money. The fact that these facts have since come to light - and the subsequent forming the union in the afore-mentioned video - may explain why this franchise hasn't been revisited here in Australia.
So will the members of Bardot be remembered as suckers or victims?
But if there are some people are excited by this recent reunion announcement then the audience is still there.
As for the above song, it was from their second album. I don't know if this was a bid for some credibility but damn, it sure has some fire behind it to set the dance floors alight.
Song title: Kosciusko
Artist: Midnight Oil
Year: 1984
Why I like this song:
R.I.P. Rob Hirst
Without a doubt one of my favourite drummers. I personally don't like using the word 'powerhouse' but in this case I'll make an exception.
Truly a legend.