The Smoking Popes are an American punk band from Chicago, formed in 1991. Known for blending the aggressive energy of punk with the melodic sensibilities of pop, their sound is characterized by distinctive crooning vocals from lead singer Josh Caterer and catchy guitar riffs. Their impact on the punk scene has been significant, with their 1994 album "Born to Quit" and single "Need You Around" gaining widespread acclaim. Despite brief disbandment in 1998, the band regrouped in 2005, continuing to create influential music within the punk genre.