Artist

Microdisney

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The Irish outfit Microdisney derived its paradoxical power from the distinct visions of its two frontmen, vocalist Cathal Coughlan -- a dark, brooding lyricist given to angst-ridden, incendiary wordplay -- and guitarist Sean O'Hagan, a gifted composer of atmospheric, seductive pop fare. Formed in Cork in 1980, the group went through a series of line-up changes and approaches before settling on the core duo of Coughlan and O'Hagan. In 1982, Microdisney released its first singles, later collected on the compilation now entitled "Love Your Enemies"

Around the time the group released its full-length debut Everybody's Fantastic, Coughlan and O'Hagan relocated to London, where they recruited bassist Jon Fell and drummer Tom Fenner. With 1985's The Clock Came Down the Stairs, Microdisney won not only significant critical acclaim but also the patronage of influential DJ John Peel. In addition, they signed a contract with Virgin Records; their first single for the label, "Town to Town," nearly reached the U.K. Top 50, and was followed by the album "Crooked Mile", both featuring keyboardist James Compton.

When 1988's followup "39 Minutes" failed to elevate their commercial fortunes, Microdisney called it quits. While Coughlan brought his intensity to the Fatima Mansions, O'Hagan followed his pop muse to form the Beach Boys-inspired High Llamas; he also worked frequently with Stereolab and Will Oldham's ever-shifting Palace Music.

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