Biography Wikipedia
Wikipedia:
Cactus World News were an Irish rock band formed in Dublin in 1984. Founded by Frank Kearns and Eoin McEvoy the original members were: Kearns, McEvoy, Wayne Sheehy, and Fergal MacAindris. The new line up consists of Kearns, Wayne Sheehy, Fergal MacAindris, Eoin Scott and Eoin Watkins. Their early influences were The Clash, The Ramones, Talking Heads, U2, The Waterboys, and R.E.M.
Career
Their first recording, and best known song, was "The Bridge", which was produced by U2's Bono, and released on their Mother Records label. They performed at the Self Aid concert in Dublin on 17 May 1986. The band released their debut album, Urban Beaches in 1986 and gained minor hits with its three singles: "Years Later", "Worlds Apart" and a re-recording of "The Bridge". All three singles reached the UK Singles Chart. After their second album, No Shelter, was shelved in 1989, the band were released from their recording contract and underwent several personnel changes. MacAindris and Sheehy both quit in 1989. McEvoy and Kearns continued for a few more years, with various other band members coming and going, including Chris McGoldrick (bass), John Doyle (bass) and JJ Collier (drums).
After leaving Cactus World News, Sheehy went on to record and tour with Ronnie Wood, Bo Diddly, Robert Palmer, Michelle Shocked, Eric Burdon and The Animals, Carl Carlton, Hinterland, Dave-Id Busarus and Hothouse Flowers (appearing on both Born and Live). Sheehy currently plays with the Canadian songwriter Jeff Martin. Kearns (using the name Francis Xavier) released a solo album, Walking The Waves (2005), which featured both Sheehy and McEvoy.
It was announced in June 2011 that Cactus World News are to reform after 20 years (with the exception of Eoin McEvoy who has other commitments) in order to support Simple Minds in Kerry, Ireland on 30 July 2011. Long term plans have yet to be announced.
