Despite never having reached international success, Bagatelle were one of the biggest pop rock acts in their native Ireland, influencing bands like U2 throughout their erratic career. Formed in the coastal town of Bray in the early 70s, the group was composed of Liam Reilly (keyboards), Ken Doyle (bass), John O’Brien (guitar), and Wally McConville (drums). They had their breakthrough hit single in 1978 with “Summer In Dublin,” which was included in their eponymous 1980 debut. A self-titled sophomore effort followed in 1981, spawning the hits “Second Violin” and “Love Is the Reason.” Follow-up albums Are We Keeping You Up? (1982) and Cry Away The Night (1987) failed to meet the expectations set by their earlier offerings and the band called it quits shortly after. A reunion ensued in 1992, as well as the compilation The Best of Bagatelle and Liam Reilly, released via PolyGram. Following another extended hiatus, the band resumed their touring schedule in 2010 and delivered a collection of classic rock tracks entitled Under The Covers that same year.
