BANGOR, CO. DOWN

1980 - 1985

OVERVIEW Dogmatic Element was an alternative group from Bangor, Co. Down. The group was formed in 1980 by Brendan Monaghan [Vocals & Guitar], Alison Gordon [ Guitar & Vocals], Graham Stannage [Bass Guitar] and Davy Lynas [Drums]. Davy had previously drummed for Music For The Deaf. The band released its debut 7" in 1982 on Cattle Company Records. The release was a double A-side featuring 'Strange Passion' and 'Just Friends'. While Brendan was the principal songwriter in the group, Alison co-wrote 'Just Friends'. Later that year, in September, the band reached the final of the Northern Ireland Battle Of The Bands competition. Ultimately, they did not win. In the aftermath of the competition, Alison left the group to pursue her academic studies. The band may have played as a 3-piece for a time and Brendan O'Mahony played in one of the later line ups. They released their second, and final single, 'False Enotions' in 1994. The band split in 1985. It's known that the band issued a number of cassette EPs, however, the details of these are unknown. The band's music cropped up on a couple of compilations. In 1998, 'Just Friends' appeared on the 'Bloodstains Across Northern Ireland ::: Vol 2' compilation. In 2012, a compilation of Irish post-punk, DIY and electronica music covering the period 1980 - 1983 was released on Cache Cache Records. The compilation, 'Strange Passion' derived its name from Dogmatic Element's debut single. Since the end of the band, Brendan went on to front Alt Country outfit, Cattle Company before embarking on a solo career. 1980 - Band formed 1982 - Dogmatic Element reach the final of the Northern Ireland Battle Of The Bands [September] - Alison leaves the group 1984 - Release of 'False Emotions' single 1985 - Band split