Cathal Coughlan

Cathal Coughlan is an Irish singer songwriter, formerly of Microdisney, and Fatima Mansions. His lyrics focus on politics, the seamy side of relationships and the interplay between the two, utilizi

Cathal Coughlan is an Irish singer songwriter, formerly of Microdisney, and Fatima Mansions. His lyrics focus on politics, the seamy side of relationships and the interplay between the two, utilizing surreal imagery and literary and historical references. This is perhaps why he has yet to have greater commercial success. He also sets his songs in varied musical styles, encompassing everything from neo-classical to techno.

His voice has prompted comparisons with Scott Walker (whom he considers a major influence). As a solo musician, he has completed three albums, the most recent of which is The Sky's Awful Blue. The first album, Grand Necropolitan, is no longer available, but can be downloaded from his website www.cathalcoughlan.com He is based in London. In September 2005, his new song cycle, "Flannery's Mounted Head", premiered in Cork. Information on the new piece can be found at www.note.ie. The dedicated project site is www.foburg.com