Hal, an Irish band, were formed in 2003 and comprise brothers Dave Allen (vocals/guitar) and Paul Allen (vocals/bass), Stephen O'Brien (keyboards, occasional guitars and backing vocals) and Steve Hogan (drums). They were signed to Rough Trade Records following a bidding war involving several major labels, and debut single "Worry About the Wind" was released in 2004. Self titled first album "Hal" also produced the singles "What a Lovely Dance", "Play the Hits" (both of which have been featured on "Match of the Day", and during the 2006 football World Cup), and "Don't Come Running" (which was released with "I Sat Down" as a double A-side single). The band have also released a double 7" single with The Magic Numbers, contributing their song "Keep Love As Your Golden Rule".