Lumen and the Lites

*TW- self harm/substance abuse/violence*

CARRICKMARA GAZETTE, May 14th, 1999

LOCAL BAND SELECTED FOR UK TALENT SHOW By Aoife Winters

News that Carrickmara may soon become a household name, or at least known further afield than Galway, has reached the Gazette.

Local band Lumen and the Lites–consisting of teenagers Lumen Loftus (vocals), PJ O'Callaghan (drums), JP Collins (guitar) and Mikey Doyle (bass)--has been selected to compete in upcoming UK television show Star Factor!, after producers were impressed by their audition.

"I can't believe it," Lumen told me. "Mikey suggested sending a tape for the craic. We never expected they’d be interested, but they loved it."

Anyone who has heard Lumen and the boys perform, myself included having attended Carrickmara School with them when they were forming, won’t be surprised.

Lumen’s voice rivals that of chart topper Britney Spears. Cousins Patrick Joseph and John Paul (better known as PJ and JP) have been honing their musical prowess since 8 and 9 respectively and Mikey Doyle, along with his skill on bass, is an exceptional writer.

"We've been pals forever and always shared this dream," said PJ. "It doesn’t matter how far we go, we're just glad to be part of it."

The competition will see the band travel to London to perform before a studio audience, not to mention the millions expected to tune in, with the winners receiving the chance to work with big names in the industry.

It’s an extraordinary opportunity and I look forward to reporting on their progress.

CARRICKMARA GAZETTE, August 9th, 1999

LUMEN AND THE LITES THROUGH TO FINAL By Aoife Winters

An estimated 15 million tuned in Saturday night for the semi-final of Star Factor!, the talent show that has taken Ireland and the UK by storm.

Whether the show would have been a hit on Irish soil without the presence of sensations Lumen, PJ, JP and Mikey is unknown, but one thing is certain: over the past twelve weeks, these young performers have become household names beyond their native Carrickmara.

Having reached the semi-finals, the quartet were prepared to bow out Saturday with just three places available in the final. The fact they’d gone so far was an amazing accomplishment and nobody would have been disappointed.

But as Lumen herself has quipped: “The light’s on and we’re keepin’ her lit!”

This proved to be the case again as their performance of 'Coming Home'--one of Mikey Doyle's original compositions–left judges, viewers and Carrickmara residents, this reporter included, in tears. Even without Irish input (what a shame we can’t get involved!), the public vote secured the band a place in the final.

I was watching at O’Callaghans, the pub run by band member PJ’s father, which has become the unofficial home of Star Factor! viewing parties. Celebrations continued long into the night and I’ll be back next week for the final.

We can’t get ahead of ourselves, but we can cross our fingers and, in Lumen’s words: ‘keep her lit!’

CARRICKMARA GAZETTE, August 16th, 1999

CARRICKMARA CELEBRATES BIG WIN By Aoife Winters

For the small town of Carrickmara, Saturday was a night for the history books.

Local band Lumen and the Lites won what we now know–following its renewal last week–was the inaugural edition of Star Factor!

Four teenagers from our small corner of Galway defeated the odds, beating UK boyband Mirage and Scottish crooner Macklin to claim the crown, watched by an estimated 18 million viewers.

"It doesn't feel real," an emotional Lumen told show host, Anton Blane. "We’re just four friends who love music. We never dreamed of anything like this."

Those words will be familiar to anyone who’s followed their journey. From the start, Lumen, PJ, JP and Mikey have insisted that friendship would be the key to any success. Perhaps that’s what resonated with the public.

Lumen's voice took centre stage during a barnstorming performance of 'The Light Inside'--another Mikey Doyle original–while the boys' energy and sound delivered a performance that carried them to victory.

The prize includes a single release, a recording opportunity with one of the biggest producers in the UK and an appearance at Wembley Arena in November for Star Factor Live!, a one-off show featuring the highest ranking acts from the show.

For now, we await the return of our champions and celebrations to come.

This is one light that’s staying on!

WESTERN HERALD, April 18th, 2000

LUMEN AND THE LITES RETURN WITH DEBUT SINGLE By Aoife Winters

Following a whirlwind few months in the wake of their Star Factor! win–and a stunning appearance at Wembley–things have slowed down for Carrickmara rockers Lumen and the Lites.

Chat show and festival invites have cooled, but Carrickmara still welcomes visitors hoping to catch a glimpse of the young stars and O’Callaghans remains a popular spot, with PJ himself sometimes dropping in–often with cousin JP in tow–to entertain the punters.

When they aren’t in London with singer Lumen and writer Mikey, laying down tracks for their upcoming album.

The lull in proceedings came to an end this weekend with the twice-delayed release of their debut single, Overtow.

The band spent the weekend attending signings and while crowds may not have matched those of last summer, there was still plenty of excitement. The new song is an evolution of their sound and further evidence of the strength of Lumen’s voice.

"We've grown since the show," Lumen told reporters. "Dan (Hurst) has helped us identify our strengths and the album we’re putting together sounds amazing."

Acclaimed producer Dan Hurst, whose ‘Sister Chaos’ label led the rush to sign the band last autumn, is overseeing production of their album. In the meantime, auditions have opened for the second series of the show, with more Irish acts vying to repeat Lumen and Co’s success. Which won’t be easy.

WESTERN HERALD, August 29th, 2000

LUMEN AND THE LITES DEBUT ALBUM SHELVED By Aoife Winters

Sad news to report for fans of last year’s Star Factor! winners Lumen and the Lites.

Their much-anticipated album has officially been shelved following months of delays. The exact reasons are unclear–neither the band nor label has issued a clarifying statement–but speculation is rife that producer Dan Hurst, who signed the band at the height of their fame, has decided to take his ‘Sister Chaos’ label in a more R&B-focused direction.

It’s a disappointing turn of events for four musicians who, less than a year ago, were captivating audiences at Wembley Arena following their success on the UK talent show. Since then, a second season of the hit programme has wrapped, producing another winner in the form of Lyn DuChardinelle.

DuChardinelle fits the bill for an R&B-themed record label but whether or not her success has anything to do with Hurst’s change of tack remains to be seen.

It’s not all doom and gloom though! Industry sources tell me interest in the band remains high, with US producers reportedly in discussions with the group.

I’ll be keeping an eye on developments.

WESTERN HERALD, March 19th, 2001

LUMEN LOFTUS SIGNS WITH SOLOMON RECORDS By Aoife Winters

For fans of Galway pop band Lumen and the Lites it’s been a rough few months, with both their album release and deal with Sister Chaos Records collapsing.

Behind the scenes discussions have been ongoing, and it’s just been announced that Lumen Loftus has signed with US producer Keev Solomon.

Good news for Lumen, not for anyone else, as the deal sees her bandmates sidelined. Solomon–who manages some of the biggest female acts in the business–has ambitious plans for the Carrickmara singer, describing her as a “relatable alternative” to pop sensations like Christina Aguilera.

Lumen says band members PJ O’Callaghan, JP Collins and Mikey Doyle encouraged her to pursue the opportunity and the agreement to split was amicable. When I reached out for comment, PJ, ever the diplomat, said he was delighted and wished Loftus well. JP was less enthusiastic and had a few choice words for the ambitious starlet. Mikey declined to comment, which perhaps speaks volumes. As writer of the songs that kickstarted Lumen’s fame, it’s easy to understand he might feel betrayed.

For a band built on friendship and shared dreams, it’s hard not to wonder if a better deal could have been found. But this is a promising young bunch and as Lumen embarks on her new chapter, I’m sure these Lites will burn brightly again.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, November 8th, 2014

LUMEN LOFTUS WINS GRAMMY By Aoife Campbell

Following the abysmal performance of her third album Vindicated in 2011, I assumed Lumen Loftus’ light had at last gone out, so her return to the airwaves this year–managed by wunderkind electropop producer Gunter Spiegel–was a surprise.

The Galway-born 35-year-old has spent a decade reinventing herself. This latest resurgence is hitting the right notes amongst younger listeners (my own daughter included, proving there’s no accounting for taste!) and last night’s Grammy win confirmed it.

Platinum-selling track Empty is, in my opinion, over-produced and derivative of early 80’s electronica, but the mainstream disagrees so Loftus gets to ride the crest of another wave. Her Hollywood sound, look and persona are a far cry from those of the girl who won hearts on a television talent show a lifetime ago. Her bandmates were sidelined so she could pursue fame, a tale reminiscent of how she bounced between managers over the years. And let’s not get into the DUI and stint in rehab that preceded the release–and bomb–of Vindicated (was she?).

Still, congratulations on a noteworthy achievement. For the bandmates she began her career with in Lumen and the Lites, no such accolades will be forthcoming. PJ O’Callaghan quit music following the band’s split and now manages his father’s pub. JP Collins, a once exceptional guitarist, struggled with addiction following the demise of the band, and fell into a life of petty crime.

Mikey Doyle, the wordsmith behind the songs that led to Star Factor! victory, attempted to establish a solo career before finding success writing for others. These days, he works as a teacher in Carrickmara, far from the vagaries of the industry.

I’m sure all three will applaud Lumen’s win.

LONDON INDEPENDENT, November 8th, 2019

SONGWRITER MIKEY DOYLE DIES, AGED 38 By Aoife Campbell

It is with a heavy heart I report the passing of singer-songwriter Mikey Doyle at the age of 38. As well as independently releasing a brace of critically-acclaimed EP’s, Mikey penned lyrics for Dave Dawkins, Rosie Hayes and Calamity Flame, and was bassist in short-lived band Lumen and the Lites.

More than that, he was a friend I kept in touch with over the years. He is survived by his wife Sarah and their children.

Gardaí are not treating the tragic death as suspicious.

Mikey was an artist, a poet, a wonderful husband and father, and he will be missed. His funeral took place Sunday at St. Brendan's, where family, friends and former classmates, myself included, gathered to say goodbye. Absent was former bandmate and fellow Carrickmara native Lumen Loftus, who could not take time out from pushing her latest album to come home.

Former bandmates PJ and JP were in attendance. JP–who has been in and out of prison of late for various drug-related offences–is a shadow of his former self as a result of his addiction issues and refused to comment. Unlike PJ–now owner of O’Callaghans pub since his father’s death.

"Mikey was the best,” he said. “A genius. None of us would have experienced any level of fame if not for him.”

And you can’t argue with that.

MUSIC NOW! ONLINE, November 8th, 2024

LUMEN LOFTUS FLEES TO IRELAND? By Aoife Campbell

Interesting encounter this weekend as I was leaving Paris, having covered the French leg of Beverley Tan’s European tour.

Making my way through Charles de Gaulle, I bumped into one-time superstar Lumen Loftus, accompanied by an assistant. She was trying to keep a low profile, but even in shades, with her hair in a bun, I recognised her–I went to school with her after all. I tried to nab some comments about her recent troubles but only managed to secure a frosty smile before she rushed through security.

Most interestingly, she was checking in for Dublin, which may be her first trip home since her parents passed. She didn’t make it to the funeral of former bandmate Mikey Doyle a few years back. Perhaps she’s planning to visit his grave at last?

More likely, she wants to put mileage between herself and her latest scandals. Dropped by her label post-Covid after three flops, she’s coming out of an acrimonious divorce and trying to escape the tax dispute that forced the sale of her Los Angeles home. Once a bankable name, the Grammy winner now finds herself on the wrong side of the IRS after questionable ‘accounting’.

It’s a remarkable fall from grace. Or is it karma?

Whether or not our hometown Carrickmara is her ultimate destination remains to be seen. With surviving bandmates PJ O’Callaghan and JP Collins still around, it could be an interesting homecoming.

MUSIC NOW! ONLINE, December 9th, 2024

LUMEN LOFTUS PERFORMS HOMETOWN SHOW By Aoife Campbell

Shortly after publishing my Friday round-up I received word that Grammy winner Lumen Loftus had announced an acoustic performance at O’Callaghan’s in Carrickmara, Galway. Loftus hasn’t been relevant in years–outside of legal dramas–but I’ve been covering her since the beginning so I booked a flight home.

Carrickmara is far from the town I grew up in. So much has changed, the people, the economy–the M6 Western Link completely cut off the community–and the atmosphere. It made me sad and angry.

What didn’t make me sad or angry was entering O’Callaghans to find landlord and ex-Lites drummer PJ joining Lumen on stage. I’d thought it would, based on her history with her bandmates, but PJ had welcomed her warmly. Cynical me might have said he did so to secure a performance and drum up business for his struggling tavern. With journalists and nostalgic music fans in attendance, it did just that, but this is PJ O’Callaghan, selfless to a fault.

I learned Lumen has moved into the cottage she kept following the deaths of her parents and is settling back into the community. Looks like she’s been burnt one too many times by the high life. I’ve used the word karma before. I won’t use it again.

As for the performance, like us all, Lumen, 44, has aged. Her voice has weakened, her star has waned, but her presence remains commanding. She still lights up a room like she used to.

Unlike other former Lites member, JP Collins, who appeared halfway through the set, drunk and glowering. The atmosphere changed immediately. It’s unsurprising, with his reputation and alleged connection to the local drugs trade. I decided not to engage him in conversation. Lumen did after her performance and was rebuked.

I tried to secure an interview, and though she fobbed me off claiming exhaustion–the performance did seem to take it out of her–she committed to speaking with me soon.

MUSIC NOW! ONLINE, January 14th, 2025

LUMEN LOFTUS HOSPITALISED FOLLOWING ATTACK By Aoife Campbell

I was due to interview Grammy winner Lumen Loftus at her Carrickmara home this weekend, but shocking events overtook us.

Lumen remains in hospital after being assaulted by former bandmate JP Collins at her home Friday. She was discovered by PJ O'Callaghan when she failed to turn up for a performance at his pub. It’s understood she suffered internal injuries and broken ribs. Gardaí have confirmed a warrant has been issued for Collins' arrest.

According to PJ, Lumen was conscious when he arrived. Collins blamed her for killing his career when she abandoned the band. During the altercation, he also claimed the death of former bandmate Mikey Doyle stemmed from drugs he supplied when Mikey was low, something he also blamed on Lumen. If true, it’s a tragic revelation. Collins has long been linked to the local drugs trade. To think he may have given a troubled friend the narcotics that cut short his life is truly devastating.

In a further revelation, Lumen’s assistant has confirmed the star returned to Carrickmara not to escape financial woes as suspected, but due to a diagnosis of Stage III Hodgkin lymphoma. With an uncertain future, Lumen decided it was time to make peace with her past.

Tragic developments for all involved. Who would have thought such dark shadows lay in wait for Lumen and the Lites when they won a talent contest 25 years ago?

GALWAY STANDARD, May 18th, 2025

LIGHT RETURNS TO CARRICKMARA By Aoife Campbell

Shortly after Christmas I was due to meet one-time superstar Lumen Loftus for a long overdue interview. That plan was derailed by violence. This weekend, the meeting finally happened.

Lumen pulled through an assault at the hands of former friend JP Collins, who was apprehended shortly after and is currently serving a seven year sentence for GBH and drug possession offences. Currently receiving treatment for Stage 3 Hodgkin Lymphoma, she remains weak but optimistic. Her road ahead is dark, but her spirit is strong.

And Carrickmara is her home again.

Every Thursday she performs with drummer PJ at O'Callaghan's, breathing life into a business that was close to shutting its doors once and for all. Watching the pair perform last week, I was overcome by a feeling of relief.

Carrickmara feels lighter than when I last visited. Maybe that’s got something to do with the removal from the town of JP. His admission that he supplied the drugs that claimed Mikey Doyle's life has brought closure to those who felt they might have failed him. Sometimes just having something to blame can offer peace.

Twenty-six years ago I wrote about four teenagers chasing a dream. They found fame, lost each other and followed paths no one could have predicted.

As for my interview with Lumen...that will stay off the record.

If this story has taught me anything, it's that everyone should write their own ending.