The Lonely Hearts
MembersJohn Rooney, vocals (1979–1992)
Tom Watson, guitar and vocals (1979–1992)
Philip Edwards, drums (1979–1992)
Anthony Bautovich, guitar (1979–1992)
Michael Rooney, bass and vocals (1979–1984)
Guilio Mariani, guitar and vocals (1979–1982)
Steve Brabeck, drums (1979)
Greg Ohlback, drums (1981–1982)
Dave Guest, guitar (1983–1984)
Dale Steedman, bass (1989–1992)
RecordingsLast Kiss B/W Don't Feel Safe, Single, 1981
Ambition B/W Tonight, Single, 1983
Down Around The Corner, Single, 1983
The Spell B/W Last Chance, Single, 1990
Red Giant, Mini Album
Labelhalf an arc records, Waterfront, Regular Records, Pagan Records
Gigs in the Database396 (1978 to 1997)
About the Lonely Hearts
Sydney based power pop band 1979-1994
The Lonely Hearts were one of Sydney’s popular power pop bands of the eighties. Originating in Sydney’s outer west in 1979 the band’s popularity was legendary. Their suburban army of fans sometimes hiring entire school buses just to get to gigs including Melbourne!
Originally a covers band playing ballsy renditions of songs like ‘Sorry’, ‘I Need to Know’, ‘Turn Up Your Radio’, ‘Shake Some Action’, ‘New Rose’ and of course their trademark ‘Spicks & Specks’ they soon developed a large repertoire of great catchy originals further increasing their credibility and popularity.
from the Lonely Hearts website
Image above – L to R – John Rooney, Philip Edwards, David Guest, Tom Watson & Michael Rooney
History
Originating from a satellite suburb of western Sydney called Green Valley, the band originally formed so that they could get into gigs for free. At the time most of the band was still at school so they could only play gigs on the weekend. With minimum solos and maximum energy the Lonely Hearts always had the crowd on their feet dancing. They were one of the best value live bands of the time often supporting major acts like Cold Chisel, the Angels, the Oils and Mentals to name a few. It wasn’t too long before they could hold their own as a headline act.
The original lineup consisted of the Rooney brothers John and Michael, Tom Watson, Steve Brabeck & Anthony Bautovich and at their first inner city gig they upstaged Midnight Oil at the Sydney Cove Tavern. This was the multiple encore type show that was soon to become the norm for the Lonely Hearts. They went on to take the inner city by storm attracting attention with their pink PA and army of followers who would often arrive just before they played and leave soon after.
They played as many gigs as they could without missing too much school and even put down some demos at Festival. Regular Records among others began to take interest along with numerous publishing offers but the band resisted urges to sign any deals and in late 1979 drummer Steve Brabeck resigned and Phil Edwards (ex Elm Tree, Jupiter) took his place.
The guys were always taking the mickey out of everyone, never took anything seriously and no effort was spent having a great time. Rehearsals could be almost unbearable as they told one rock writer that the band members consisted of Johnny & Mickey Heart, Tom & Bob Phantom and Phil Eruption and even rang one potential manager to drive out from the city in his Bentley to pick them up to take them to the Skippy milkbar in Liverpool for hot chocolate!
After breaking up in August 1981 three of the founding members John & Michael Rooney and Tom Watson, reformed with drummer Greg Ohlback (or as they called him Jimmy Olsen) (ex Reporters) & Guilio Mariani (ex QVs) in November 1981. Over 60 gigs, a tour of Melbourne and some demos at Clive Shakespeare’s studio and four months later in February 1982 Greg & Guilio had left. This wasn’t all bad as Phil Edwards had returned from England and was available to play drums. By March they were in EMI 301 studios which resulted in the double A side single Don’t Feel Safe/Last Kiss which as Jules Normington of Phantom records puts it is “one of the greatest 45s ever released in Australia”. The single rapidly sold the 1,000 copies which were pressed and in September 1982 Down Around the Corner which was also recorded at EMI 301 was released on the 2UW Homegrown album.
David Guest then joins the band on keys and guitar in early 1983. By March they were back in the studio this time at Alberts and in June the band released another self funded single Ambition backed with Tonight on the Waterfront label. Later in June 1983 Down Around the Corner was then released on a Waterfront Records promotional EP and given away at a gig at the Trade Union Club on the 25th of June 1983.
After several years of intense gigging, some demos at Atlantic studios and further self funded sessions at Alberts the band broke up again in February 1984.
In 1989 the band reformed with Dale Steedman replacing an unavailable Michael Rooney on bass and Anthony Bautovich rejoining on 2nd guitar. In 1990 they released The Spell backed with Last Chance on Regular Records and in 1992 the Lonely Hearts finally called it quits leaving behind numerous demo tapes and other recordings which to date have not been released.
Apart from a couple of appearances on the “Boys are Back in Town” tour in 1997 and some solo projects (Coronet Blue) and producing and recording other artists at their facilities at Suite Spot Studios, there have been some interest in releasing around 20 tracks of previously recorded material to mark the band’s 30th anniversary in 2009.
from the Lonely Hearts website
Members
- John Rooney – Vocals Jan 1979 – Feb 1984, 1989 – 1992
- Michael Rooney – Bass, Vocals Jan 1979 – Feb 1984
- Tom Watson – Guitar, Vocals Jan 1979 – Jun 1980, Nov 1981 – Feb 1984, 1989 – 1992
- Steve Brabeck – Drums Jan 1979 – Oct 1979
- Phil Edwards – Drums Nov 1979 – Feb 1980, Mar 1982 – Feb 1984, 1991 – 1992
- Guilio Mariani – Guitar, Vocals Nov 1981 – Feb 1982
- Greg Ohlback – Drums Nov 1981 – Feb 1982
- Dave Guest – Keys, Guitar 1983 – 1984
- Dale Steedman – Bass 1989 – 1992
- Anthony Bautovich – Guitar Jan 1979 – Aug 1981, 1991 – 1992
Recordings
- Last Kiss/Don’t Feel Safe – Single 1982
- Ambition/Tonight – Single 1983
- Down Around The Corner – 2UW Homegrown Album1983
- Down Around The Corner – Waterfront EP 1983
- The Spell/Last Chance – Single 1990
Other Resources
Known Gigs
1978
December 1978
- with Midnight OilRiverwood Hotel, Riverwood, NSW
1979
February 1979
- Wiley Park Hotel, Wiley Park, NSW
- with Rose TattooMarconi Club, Bossley Park, NSW
March 1979
- Riverstone Schofields Memorial Club, Riverstone, NSW
- Wiley Park Hotel, Wiley Park, NSW
- White Horse Hotel, Hurstville, NSW
- Regent Hotel, Kingsford, NSW
- Bayview Hotel, Woy Woy, NSW
- Regent Hotel, Kingsford, NSW
- with Midnight OilSydney Cove Tavern, Circular Quay, NSW
April 1979
- Metropole Tavern, Circular Quay, NSW
May 1979
- Civic Hotel, Sydney, NSW
- with Cold ChiselMarconi Club, Bossley Park, NSW
- with Cold ChiselRoyal Antler Hotel, Narrabeen, NSW
June 1979
- with Morpheus, Richard ClaptonStagedoor Tavern, Sydney, NSW
- with Rose TattooAstra Hotel, Bondi, NSW
- with Hello Sailor, Icehouse (formerly Flowers)Stagedoor Tavern, Sydney, NSW
July 1979
- with Gillian Eastoe & King DogStagedoor Tavern, Sydney, NSW
- Fairfield Hotel, Fairfield, NSW
- Civic Hotel, Sydney, NSW
- with Rod Stark and The RaversMetropole Tavern, Circular Quay, NSW
- Fairfield Hotel, Fairfield, NSW
August 1979
- with The AngelsRoyal Antler Hotel, Narrabeen, NSW
- with Midnight Oil, The Radiators, Jimmy And The Boys, INXSStagedoor Tavern, Sydney, NSW
- with The AngelsCaringbah Inn, Caringbah, NSW
- Local Inn, West Ryde, NSW
- with Cold Chisel, The HitmenStagedoor Tavern, Sydney, NSW
September 1979
- with The ClonesMetropole Tavern, Circular Quay, NSW
- with Mi-Sex, The HitmenPaddington Town Hall, Paddington, NSW
- with The AngelsWollongong Leagues Club, Wollongong, NSW
- with The AngelsSundowner Hotel, Punchbowl, NSW
- with The AngelsComb and Cutter Hotel, Blacktown, NSW
- with The AngelsMillers Hotel, Fairfield, NSW
- with The Angels, Mental As AnythingStagedoor Tavern, Sydney, NSW
- Eastwood Hotel, Eastwood, NSW
- with The AngelsNewcastle Workers Club, Newcastle, NSW
- Port Kembla Leagues Club, Port Kembla, NSW
October 1979
- Bexley North Hotel, Bexley North, NSW
- Civic Hotel, Sydney, NSW
- Bexley North Hotel, Bexley North, NSW
- Railway Hotel, Liverpool, NSW
- Metropole Tavern, Circular Quay, NSW
- with The Radiators, Matt FinishStagedoor Tavern, Sydney, NSW
- with The Clones, Ol '55Sundowner Hotel, Punchbowl, NSW
- Astra Hotel, Bondi, NSW
November 1979
- with Hello SailorSelina's - Coogee Bay Hotel, Coogee, NSW
- Metropole Tavern, Circular Quay, NSW
- Bayview Tavern, Gladesville, NSW
This may have been the Bayview at Woy Woy.
- with Lime SpidersRailway Hotel, Liverpool, NSW
- Family Inn, Rydalmere, NSW
- with Little Ashley and The IncurablesLocal Inn, West Ryde, NSW
- Stagedoor Tavern, Sydney, NSW
- Ambassador, Newcastle, NSW
December 1979
- with Jimmy And The BoysFamily Inn, Rydalmere, NSW
- with Cold Chisel, Matt FinishStagedoor Tavern, Sydney, NSW
- with XL Capris, The ReelsStagedoor Tavern, Sydney, NSW
- Local Inn, West Ryde, NSW
Late show.
1980
January 1980
- with The Clones, Jimmy And The BoysStagedoor Tavern, Sydney, NSW
- with SwaneeFamily Inn, Rydalmere, NSW
- Fairfield Hotel, Fairfield, NSW
February 1980
- with The ClonesStagedoor Tavern, Sydney, NSW
- with Mental As AnythingBexley North Hotel, Bexley North, NSW
- with Cold Chisel, The HoneydrippersBondi Lifesaver, Bondi Junction, NSW
March 1980
- with ClassBexley North Hotel, Bexley North, NSW
- with The Score, Negatives, The ScientistsFairfield Hotel, Fairfield, NSW
- Stagedoor Tavern, Sydney, NSW
Late show.
- Bondi Lifesaver, Bondi Junction, NSW
- Collegians Club, Wollongong, NSW
- with Matt Finish, The ScoreManly Vale Hotel, Manly Vale, NSW
- with The ScientistsComb and Cutter Hotel, Blacktown, NSW
- Ambassador, Newcastle, NSW
- Stagedoor Tavern, Sydney, NSW
- Caringbah Inn, Caringbah, NSW
- Wollongong Leagues Club, Wollongong, NSW
April 1980
- War and Peace, Parramatta, NSW
- Royal Antler Hotel, Narrabeen, NSW
Early show.
- Sylvania Hotel, Sylvania, NSW
Late show.
- with INXSBondi Lifesaver, Bondi Junction, NSW
- Family Inn, Rydalmere, NSW
- with Jo Jo Zep and the FalconsSylvania Hotel, Sylvania, NSW
- Manly Vale Hotel, Manly Vale, NSW
Early show
- Stardust Hotel aka Sweethearts, Cabramatta, NSW
- with INXSManly Vale Hotel, Manly Vale, NSW
- Family Inn, Rydalmere, NSW
- Jolly Frog Hotel, Windsor, NSW
- with The SportsBondi Lifesaver, Bondi Junction, NSW
- Saint Ignatius' College, Riverview, Lane Cove, NSW
- Wollongong Leagues Club, Wollongong, NSW
May 1980
- with Rose Tattoo, Ward 13Selina's - Coogee Bay Hotel, Coogee, NSW
- Comb and Cutter Hotel, Blacktown, NSW
- with Jim Keays Band, Jim Keays BandBexley North Hotel, Bexley North, NSW
- with The RadiatorsBrighton Hotel, Sydney, NSW
- with The Clones, Ward 13Sundowner Hotel, Punchbowl, NSW
- with OutlineFamily Inn, Rydalmere, NSW
- with HandsoffWollongong Leagues Club, Wollongong, NSW
- with The RadiatorsCaringbah Inn, Caringbah, NSW
- with The RadiatorsFairfield Hotel, Fairfield, NSW
- with HandsoffBondi Lifesaver, Bondi Junction, NSW
- Mawson Hotel, Newcastle, NSW
- St George Leagues Club, Kogarah, NSW
- with Crisis, INXSFamily Inn, Rydalmere, NSW
- Caringbah Inn, Caringbah, NSW
- Civic Theatre, Newcastle, NSW
Supporting Gary Numan
- Mt Pleasant Sports Club, Wollongong, NSW
- Bexley North Hotel, Bexley North, NSW
- with Kevin Borich Express, The BrixBondi Lifesaver, Bondi Junction, NSW
June 1980
- with Jimmy And The BoysManly Vale Hotel, Manly Vale, NSW
- Sylvania Hotel, Sylvania, NSW
- Comb and Cutter Hotel, Blacktown, NSW
- Bondi Lifesaver, Bondi Junction, NSW
- with INXSManly Vale Hotel, Manly Vale, NSW
- Hunters Humpy, Sydney, NSW
- Dapto Leagues Club, Dapto, NSW
July 1980
- Parramatta Leagues Club, Parramatta, NSW
Early Show
- Manly Vale Hotel, Manly Vale, NSW
Early Show
- with Ward 13Hunters Humpy, Sydney, NSW
- with Toy Love, The Motivators, The Models, The Hitmen, The Turnaround, Matt FinishChequers, Sydney, NSW
- Bayview Tavern, Gladesville, NSW
- MIttagong RSL Club, Mittagong, NSW
- Bexley North Hotel, Bexley North, NSW
August 1980
- Stardust Hotel aka Sweethearts, Cabramatta, NSW
- Bondi Lifesaver, Bondi Junction, NSW
Late Show
- Manly Vale Hotel, Manly Vale, NSW
Early Show
- Rock Village, KIngs Cross, NSW
- Family Inn, Rydalmere, NSW
- Selina's - Coogee Bay Hotel, Coogee, NSW
Early Show
- Brighton Hotel, Sydney, NSW
- Lidcombe Dancers Club, Lidcombe, NSW
- Bexley North Hotel, Bexley North, NSW
- Penrith Leagues Club, Penrith, NSW
- Armadale Hotel, Armadale, VIC
- Prospect Hill Hotel, Kew, VIC
- Bombay Rock, Brunswick, VIC
- Martini's, Carlton, VIC
- Kingston Hotel, Richmond, VIC
Night Show
- Pier Hotel, Frankston, VIC
Afternoon Show
September 1980
- Civic Hotel, Sydney, NSW
- Manly Vale Hotel, Manly Vale, NSW
- with Matt FinishChequers, Sydney, NSW
- Civic Hotel, Sydney, NSW
- Strata Motor Inn, Cremorne, NSW
Early Show
- Royal Antler Hotel, Narrabeen, NSW
- Civic Hotel, Sydney, NSW
- Sylvania Hotel, Sylvania, NSW
- with HandsoffHighway Hotel, Wentworthville, NSW
- Civic Hotel, Sydney, NSW
- Fairfield Hotel, Fairfield, NSW
- Bexley North Hotel, Bexley North, NSW
October 1980
- Civic Hotel, Sydney, NSW
- Civic Hotel, Sydney, NSW
- Rock Village, KIngs Cross, NSW
Late Show
- Royal Antler Hotel, Narrabeen, NSW
Early Show
- Bayview Tavern, Gladesville, NSW
- Civic Hotel, Sydney, NSW
- Caringbah Inn, Caringbah, NSW
- Enfield Boulevard Hotel, Enfield, NSW
- Civic Hotel, Sydney, NSW
- with Jimmy And The BoysFamily Inn, Rydalmere, NSW
- Civic Hotel, Sydney, NSW
- with DallimoreComb and Cutter Hotel, Blacktown, NSW
November 1980
- Rock Village, KIngs Cross, NSW
Late Show
- Civic Hotel, Sydney, NSW
- Civic Hotel, Sydney, NSW
- Civic Hotel, Sydney, NSW
- Civic Hotel, Sydney, NSW
December 1980
- Comb and Cutter Hotel, Blacktown, NSW
- Royal Antler Hotel, Narrabeen, NSW
- Randwick Town Hall, Randwick, NSW
- Bexley North Hotel, Bexley North, NSW
- Ice Arena, Blacktown, NSW
Afternoon Show
- Vicar Of Wakefield Hotel, Dural, NSW
- with Australian CrawlBexley North Hotel, Bexley North, NSW
- Sefton Hotel, Sefton, NSW
- Caringbah Inn, Caringbah, NSW
- Sylvania Hotel, Sylvania, NSW
Late Show
1981
January 1981
- Parramatta Leagues Club, Parramatta, NSW
- Riverwood Hotel, Riverwood, NSW
- Astra Hotel, Bondi, NSW
- Bexley North Hotel, Bexley North, NSW
- with The ReportersSefton Hotel, Sefton, NSW
- Maroubra Seals Club, Maroubra, NSW
- Reservoir Hotel, Melbourne, VIC
- Macy's - Her Majesty's Hotel, South Yarra, VIC
- Prospect Hill Hotel, Kew, VIC
- Armadale Hotel, Armadale, VIC
- Waurn Ponds Hotel, Geelong, VIC
- Bayswater Hotel, Bayswater, VIC
- with The Radiators, The ChurchBombay Rock, Brunswick, VIC
February 1981
- Bexley North Hotel, Bexley North, NSW
- Family Inn, Rydalmere, NSW
- Comb and Cutter Hotel, Blacktown, NSW
- Governor's Pleasure, The Rocks, Sydney, NSW
- Sylvania Hotel, Sylvania, NSW
- Manly Vale Hotel, Manly Vale, NSW
- with Hello SailorFamily Inn, Rydalmere, NSW
- with Mental As AnythingComb and Cutter Hotel, Blacktown, NSW
- with Damaged GoodsStagedoor Tavern, Sydney, NSW
May 1981
- with The Affections, Jo Jo Zep and the FalconsComb and Cutter Hotel, Blacktown, NSW
- with The Affections, Jo Jo Zep and the FalconsSylvania Hotel, Sylvania, NSW
- with The Affections, Jo Jo Zep and the FalconsSgt Pepper's Rock Café, Kings Cross, NSW
- with Cold ChiselComb and Cutter Hotel, Blacktown, NSW
- Manly Vale Hotel, Manly Vale, NSW
- with Cold ChiselSundowner Hotel, Punchbowl, NSW
- Enfield Boulevard Hotel, Enfield, NSW
- Jolly Frog Hotel, Windsor, NSW
- Selina's - Coogee Bay Hotel, Coogee, NSW
- Vicar Of Wakefield Hotel, Dural, NSW
June 1981
- Kareela Golf Club, Kareela, NSW
- Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, NSW
- Bayview Tavern, Gladesville, NSW
- Kardomah Cafe, Kings Cross, NSW
- Castle Hill RSL Club, Castle Hill, NSW
- Harbord Diggers Club, Harbord, NSW
- Sundowner Hotel, Punchbowl, NSW
- Family Inn, Rydalmere, NSW
- with HeavenComb and Cutter Hotel, Blacktown, NSW
- with The ElksSydney Cove Tavern, Circular Quay, NSW
- Avalon Beach RSL, Avalon, NSW
- Doyalson RSL, Doyalson, NSW
- Wollongong Leagues Club, Wollongong, NSW
- with HeavenGovernor's Pleasure, The Rocks, Sydney, NSW
- with SunnyboysBexley North Hotel, Bexley North, NSW
- Thredbo Alpine Hotel, Thredbo, NSW
Keller Bar
July 1981
- Thredbo Alpine Hotel, Thredbo, NSW
Keller Bar
- Kardomah Cafe, Kings Cross, NSW
- with HeavenSylvania Hotel, Sylvania, NSW
- with HeavenSefton Hotel, Sefton, NSW
- with HeavenAstra Hotel, Bondi, NSW
- Commodore Hotel, Sandringham, VIC
November 1981
- Doyalson RSL, Doyalson, NSW
- with Negatives, Peculiar ClerkComb and Cutter Hotel, Blacktown, NSW
- with Lime SpidersSefton Hotel, Sefton, NSW
- War and Peace, Parramatta, NSW
- Sylvania Hotel, Sylvania, NSW
- with The RadiatorsSelina's - Coogee Bay Hotel, Coogee, NSW
- Ingleburn RSL Club, Ingleburn, NSW
- Bayview Tavern, Gladesville, NSW
- Parramatta Leagues Club, Parramatta, NSW
- Marconi Club, Bossley Park, NSW
- Stardust Hotel aka Sweethearts, Cabramatta, NSW
- Caringbah Inn, Caringbah, NSW
- Avalon Beach RSL, Avalon, NSW
December 1981
- Commodore Hotel, Sandringham, VIC
Free.
- Chasers Nightclub, South Yarra , VIC
- Bombay Rock, Brunswick, VIC
- Club Chevron, Melbourne, VIC
- Prospect Hill Hotel, Kew, VIC
- with HeavenAstra Hotel, Bondi, NSW
- with QV'sEnfield Boulevard Hotel, Enfield, NSW
- with Lime Spiders, NegativesFairfield Hotel, Fairfield, NSW
- with Dee Minor and The Dischords, Lie Detectors, The KnobsSydney Cove Tavern, Circular Quay, NSW
- Wollongong Leagues Club, Wollongong, NSW
Supporting Eric Burdon
- with Silent MoviesComb and Cutter Hotel, Blacktown, NSW
- with Silent MoviesSylvania Hotel, Sylvania, NSW
- with QV'sSundowner Hotel, Punchbowl, NSW
- with Fast Cars, The RadiatorsManly Vale Hotel, Manly Vale, NSW
- with Dee Minor and The DischordsFamily Inn, Rydalmere, NSW
- with NegativesBelmont 16ft Skiff Club, Belmont, NSW
- with NegativesSefton Hotel, Sefton, NSW
1982
January 1982
- with RecognitionsBexley North Hotel, Bexley North, NSW
- with PrezenceVicar Of Wakefield Hotel, Dural, NSW
- with NZpopDoyalson RSL, Doyalson, NSW
- Comb and Cutter Hotel, Blacktown, NSW
- with QV'sAstra Hotel, Bondi, NSW
- with The HoneymoonBayview Tavern, Gladesville, NSW
- with QV's, The RadiatorsFamily Inn, Rydalmere, NSW
- with NegativesFlorida Hotel, Terrigal, NSW
- with Peak HourHume Hotel, Yagoona, NSW
- with The TurnaroundMona Vale Hotel, Mona Vale, NSW
- Grange Discotheque, Sydney, NSW
- with Rimshot, QV'sCronulla Workers Club, Cronulla, NSW
- with NZpopBondi Regis, Bondi, NSW
- with AsioHarbord Diggers Club, Harbord, NSW
- with Peculiar Clerk, HeavenWar and Peace, Parramatta, NSW
- with Heaven, VixenSelina's - Coogee Bay Hotel, Coogee, NSW
- San Miguel Hotel, Cammeray, NSW
- Brighton Hotel, Sydney, NSW
February 1982
- with QV'sEnfield Boulevard Hotel, Enfield, NSW
- Grey Gums Hotel, Penrith, NSW
- with Flaming Hands, Naughty RhythmsSylvania Hotel, Sylvania, NSW
- with Portable BeachAvalon Beach RSL, Avalon, NSW
- Corrimal Leagues Club, Corrimal, NSW
- with Flaming Hands, Spy Vs SpyComb and Cutter Hotel, Blacktown, NSW
- with SnakeSundowner Hotel, Punchbowl, NSW
- with Peak HourIllinois Hotel, Five Dock, NSW
- with Peak HourRyde Youth Club, Ryde, NSW
- with Heaven, QV'sCaringbah Inn, Caringbah, NSW
- with QV'sBluegum Hotel, Waitara, NSW
- with Creme De La CremeMosman Hotel, Mosman, NSW
- with Naked MaskFlorida Hotel, Terrigal, NSW
- with The NamesParramatta Leagues Club, Parramatta, NSW
March 1982
- with The DugitesSydney University, Sydney, NSW
- Mosman Hotel, Mosman, NSW
- with The AngelsCastle Hill RSL Club, Castle Hill, NSW
- with Flaming Hands, Surf MoviesManly Vale Hotel, Manly Vale, NSW
- with The TurnaroundSefton Hotel, Sefton, NSW
- with The Celibate RiflesMosman Hotel, Mosman, NSW
- with ProphecyKareela Golf Club, Kareela, NSW
- with The MotivatorsAstra Hotel, Bondi, NSW
- with The NamesDoyalson RSL, Doyalson, NSW
- with The Celibate RiflesMosman Hotel, Mosman, NSW
- Stardust Hotel aka Sweethearts, Cabramatta, NSW
- Enfield Boulevard Hotel, Enfield, NSW
- with INXSSt George Budapest Soccer Club, Mortdale, NSW
- with The Celibate RiflesMosman Hotel, Mosman, NSW
- Jolly Frog Hotel, Windsor, NSW
- Springwood RSL Club, Springwood, NSW
- with The TurnaroundFamily Inn, Rydalmere, NSW
- with AdvertsCanterbury Leagues Club, Belmore, NSW
- Dapto Leagues Club, Dapto, NSW
April 1982
- with Short CircuitFairfield Hotel, Fairfield, NSW
- with The Motivators, The HitmenSelina's - Coogee Bay Hotel, Coogee, NSW
- Harbord Diggers Club, Harbord, NSW
- with The TurnaroundWar and Peace, Parramatta, NSW
- with The TurnaroundKingsgrove Community Centre, Kingsgrove, NSW
May 1982
- Selina's - Coogee Bay Hotel, Coogee, NSW
- with Kevin Borich ExpressOrana Hotel, Blacksmiths, NSW
- with Perfect StrangersStardust Hotel aka Sweethearts, Cabramatta, NSW
- Charles Hotel, Fairy Meadow, NSW
- with The TurnaroundBanksia Hotel, Banksia, NSW
- with Sweet Poison, Jimmy And The BoysWar and Peace, Parramatta, NSW
- with Silent MoviesJolly Frog Hotel, Windsor, NSW
- with The Celibate RiflesSundowner Hotel, Punchbowl, NSW
- with Moving PicturesMaroubra Seals Club, Maroubra, NSW
July 1982
- with Serious Young Insects, Ward 13War and Peace, Parramatta, NSW
- with Local ProductCaringbah Inn, Caringbah, NSW
- The Manzil Room, Kings Cross, NSW
- with The NumbersBayview Tavern, Gladesville, NSW
- with The OrphansStardust Hotel aka Sweethearts, Cabramatta, NSW
- with The TurnaroundParramatta Leagues Club, Parramatta, NSW
- with The Little HeroesEnfield Boulevard Hotel, Enfield, NSW
- with Flaming HandsAvalon Beach RSL, Avalon, NSW
- with Flaming Hands, Strange DesireComb and Cutter Hotel, Blacktown, NSW
- with The TurnaroundCaringbah Inn, Caringbah, NSW
- with AlibiSefton Hotel, Sefton, NSW
- with Sweet PoisonVicar Of Wakefield Hotel, Dural, NSW
August 1982
- Liverpool Golf Club, Lansvale, NSW
- with Cocky LauraSelina's - Coogee Bay Hotel, Coogee, NSW
- with Dee Minor and The DischordsMona Vale Hotel, Mona Vale, NSW
- with Serious Young InsectsWar and Peace, Parramatta, NSW
- with Union TAmbassador Nightclub, Canberra, ACT
- with ProphecyMiranda Hotel - Carmens, Miranda, NSW
- with Flaming HandsEnfield Boulevard Hotel, Enfield, NSW
- with The HoneymoonAstra Hotel, Bondi, NSW
- with Uncanny X Men, PrezenceCaringbah Inn, Caringbah, NSW
- with BossSundowner Hotel, Punchbowl, NSW
November 1982
- with The LawnmowersBayview Tavern, Gladesville, NSW
- with Cocky LauraSefton Hotel, Sefton, NSW
- Bondi Tram - Bondi Hotel, Bondi Beach, NSW
- with The HitmenEnfield Boulevard Hotel, Enfield, NSW
December 1982
- Royal Antler Hotel, Narrabeen, NSW
- with Kevin Borich, Kevin Borich ExpressFamily Inn, Rydalmere, NSW
- with AttitudeSefton Hotel, Sefton, NSW
1983
January 1983
- with Dee Minor and The DischordsSefton Hotel, Sefton, NSW
- with Two Bob Watch, Dee Minor and The DischordsWar and Peace, Parramatta, NSW
- with Mr XRoyal Antler Hotel, Narrabeen, NSW
- with Attitude, InsideSelina's - Coogee Bay Hotel, Coogee, NSW
February 1983
- Campbelltown Golf Club, Glen Alpine, NSW
- Campbelltown Golf Club, Glen Alpine, NSW
- with TBASefton Hotel, Sefton, NSW
- with Just Die Young, Rupert B, The HitmenSydney Cove Tavern, Circular Quay, NSW
- with Groove YardEnfield Boulevard Hotel, Enfield, NSW
April 1983
- Scandals Nightclub, Campbelltown, NSW
May 1983
- with Strange DesireGovernor's Pleasure, The Rocks, Sydney, NSW
June 1983
- with JFK & The Cuban CrisisTrade Union Club, Surry Hills, NSW
July 1983
- with Sweet RevengeStardust Hotel aka Sweethearts, Cabramatta, NSW
- Scandals Nightclub, Campbelltown, NSW
- with Radio OnMona Vale Hotel, Mona Vale, NSW
- with Selected Irregulars, The AllnitersManly Vale Hotel, Manly Vale, NSW
- with Forever FifteenDee Why Hotel, Dee Why, NSW
August 1983
- Stallions, Hurstville, NSW
- with Hoi Polloi, Deckchairs OverboardSylvania Hotel, Sylvania, NSW
- with Dee Minor and The DischordsRoyal Antler Hotel, Narrabeen, NSW
- Governor's Pleasure, The Rocks, Sydney, NSW
September 1983
- with Uppa HandStardust Hotel aka Sweethearts, Cabramatta, NSW
1984
February 1984
- Stardust Hotel aka Sweethearts, Cabramatta, NSW
1997
July 1997
- Revesby Workers Club, Revesby, NSW
- Selina's - Coogee Bay Hotel, Coogee, NSW
Added 3 January 2009 Spotted something wrong? Tell me
To all those involved with The Lonely Hearts thanks for the memories and the best time of my life. Arguably one of the best pub bands Australia has ever produced.
Hi, the Lonely Hearts were a fantastic live band who were mates of mine. Mick Rooney lived only a few kilometres from me & still plays in bands. I actually mixed his band only a few years ago.
Askins,didn’t know u had any mates.Worked with u at Rural Bank,Martin Place many years ago when u were drummin with PC.U conned me into a roadie gig at Blacktown RSL.Those bloody steps out the front.I new why u wanted as many people as u could to help!.I went to school with the Rooney boys at Fairfield Pats.Small world.
Message to Phil Edwards…
Hi crusher…just wanted to say hello from the past (the bass player formerly known as ‘Lisa’). – Love to know how you are and also love to know where and how the hell Jen Ferarri is…
(I got married, changed my name to use my middle name, had 2 kids, did life and other stuff, blah blah woof woof.) xx
Hi Michael
Came across this by accident. A pleasant surprise after all these years. Triggers a flood of memories.
Hope this finds you and everyone else well and still playing. Perhaps the LH’s will reform should there ever be a class of 74 PBCF reunion.
All the very best to all members
Mike Toohey
Hi Guys,We played a lot of gigs with you as SILENCER,PERFECT STRANGERS,INTERNET AFFAIR,40 FLOORS UP.I’m MARK RYAN,lead vocalist and lead guitarist.I wrote the songs and didn’t think every song should have a guitar solo!I hope you are all going well.I’m on my fourth indie album on my own label.Bound to go broke and sink under the charts.My music is at markryansongs.com if you would like to check it out.All the best guys,keep it up.Regards,Mark Ryan. markryansongs.com
Just a heads up that there are only a handful of Lonelyhearts singles left so get across to http://www.buttercuprecords.com and grab one while you still can.
The album will be released later this month (Jan 2017) and they will sell out quickly so it might be wise to reserve a copy now
Steve Lucas 29/2/80-13/7/81 drummer apparently didn’t exist……
It was no surprise that the latest single from 80s power pop legends the Lonelyhearts quickly sold out.
The good news is that the long awaited release of their self-titled LP is now available through Buttercup Records in Melbourne.
The album is a collectors piece containing 14 previously unreleased tracks. The vinyl is available in 3 different colours and it also comes packed with a heap of goodies including an original 1984 7″ single, a playable postcard, 17 digital downloads and much, much more.
This album is a must for all Lonelyhearts fans as well as lovers of great power pop.
Do not dawdle but go directly to http://www.buttercuprecords.com and secure your copy before they are all gone!
A great review of the LP from Penny Black in the UK
http://www.pennyblackmusic.co.uk/MagSitePages/Article/8674/Lonely-Hearts-The-Lonely-Hearts
Plus we have just heard that the LP has sold out and Buttercup Records are doing a 2nd pressing
http://www.buttercuprecords.com
Hi Michael,
I am a family member of Steve Brabeck who was part of your original band back in 1979. I just thought you and other band members should know that Steve passed away last Sunday evening on the Gold Coast from cancer. If you would like any further info, please contact me via email and we can go from there.
Cheers Dave
Thanks for that.
It was with much sadness that I heard the news the day following Steve’s passing.
I played in bands with Steve from ’75 through to ’79 and he was always one heck of a great bloke.
For those that didn’t know, Steve started CrimSafe soon after leaving the Lonely Hearts and he went on to be quite successful in that endeavour. He was also quite prominent in V8 racing as a co-owner of DJR Team Penske. It was just after a recent meet that he took the time out of his busy schedule to take one of my son’s and his girlfriend through the pits and spend the afternoon with them watching the race. After that Steve popped in for a visit and we chatted long into the night and I am more grateful for that now more than ever.
Steve will be sorely missed and after a 24 year battle with cancer may he rest in peace.
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[…] and the Dischords, Swanee, Moving Pictures, Richard Clapton, Dynamic Hepnotics, Russell Morris, Lonely Hearts, Old 55, boy the list just goes on. Even had the honour of having the Divinyls support us in April […]
Hello Michael,
Was chatting to a neighbour today who had been listening to INXS’ back catalogue. It got me thinking about The Lonely Hearts and that you had supported them once. Then, I found online that TLHs had been the headline act!
Anyway, I was happy to find this page and remember the band’s many amazing gigs.
I also remembered my brother Stephen Dowse said that he coined the band’s name – The Lonely Hearts? Under Glovebox Records, or something similar?
I think he was also the lead singer at TLHs inaugural gig at Louie’s Loft. I remember him belting out ‘I’m Stranded’’ by The Saints. I may have misremembered, it’s been a while.
I’ll let Dave Guest know about this too.
All the best, Eileen