Double Happys

The short-lived Dunedin, New Zealand-based noise-pop band the Doublehappys initially comprised singer/guitarist Shayne Carter and bassist Wayne Elsey, both former members of the Bored Games, and an old drum machine affectionately dubbed Herbie F*ckface. Invited to join the Flying Nun label's 1984 Looney Tour, the duo quickly enlisted drummer John Collie and hit the road; a gig at Auckland's Windsor Castle was recorded and finally released in 1990 under the title How Much Time Left, Please? The Double B-Side EP was the Doublehappys' first true release, appearing in late 1984; another EP, Cut It Out, was released the following year. However, while returning to Auckland for a show, Elsey was killed in a freak train accident; the group immediately called it quits, although Carter and Collie later reunited in the excellent Straitjacket Fits. A Doublehappys compilation entitled Nerves was released on Flying Nun in 1992.