LiveOne
Led by Clare Grogan's infectious personality and quirky singing voice, Altered Images' refreshingly upbeat, new wave guitar melodies were off-kilter and left field enough to charm the 1980s indie fans, yet joyously catchy enough to storm the pop world. Formed by Glasgow schoolfriends Grogan (vocals), Johnny McElhone (bass), Tony McDaid (guitar), Gerard McNulty (guitar) and Michael Anderson (drums), they got their break supporting Siouxsie and the Banshees and were soon being championed by BBC Radio 1 DJ John Peel. Grogan came to further attention for her role in the cult comedy film Gregory's Girl, but it was the band's single Happy Birthday that made them household names, reaching Number 2 in the UK charts for three consecutive weeks and becoming their signature tune. I Can Be Happy, See Those Eyes and Don't Talk To Me About Love gave them more hits and second album Pinky Blue (1982) reached Number 12, but their sound became increasingly polished and produced and their third album (1983), recorded with David Bowie producer Tony Visconti, was regarded a flop. The band split shortly after, but Grogan went on to have a successful acting career with roles in EastEnders, Red Dwarf and Skins and McElhone became a touring member of Texas. The band eventually reformed in 2012 for reunion shows and Grogan continues to perform with a new all-female group.
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