China Doll

China Doll From; Dublin Active; 1983 – 1987
Style; New Romantic
Vocals; David McLoughlin
Guitar; David Browne
Bass; Pat Twanley
Drums; Steven Browne
Keyboards; Anto Twanley replaced by David Harrigton in ’84

From the southside of Dublin this 5 piece band play funk based music. In June ’83 China Doll had a residency at the Earl Gratton with The Touch. They also played a New Years Eve concert at Dublin’s TV Club featuring Pete Holidai Band & Aslan. In August & September 1984 they had a residency at Dublin’s Ivy Rooms. China Doll are known to have played date in the North as well including the Beefeater at Portadown. The band are included in the “Ones too watch” section for ’86 in the Evening Herald.

Charity Tape For Africa

“Youth Aid” a Charity tape was put together by Ms Kathleen Cullen and her pupils from Newpark Comprehensive School in Blackrock. China Doll and A House were two of the bands that recorded tracks for the tape. The idea was to raise funds for the children in Africa. The hope was to try & raise £5,000. The school would latter hold a concert by the bands featured on the tape.

Demo Recordings

China Doll recorded at least three demo tapes, a 3 track recorded at Litton Lane “The Only Game To Play”, “Loneliness”, “Hey Girl”. Single track demo “Dancing Silhouettes”. The sound is very professional and very impressive especially “Dancing Silhouettes. “A New Day” is a very well played and produced song. The only thing is it sounds exactly like a Howard Jones tune. Reviews by Tony O’Brien of Evening Herald

Self Aid

As part of the Self project a free concert is performed at the bandstand in St Stephen’s Green. Bands taking part are Century Steel Band, Paranoid Visions, Amber Gris, Empty Shell, Guernica & China Doll. Lord John White & Dump The Dummy.