The Problems were formed in Omagh between late 1979 and early 1980. Originally a four piece they were Damian ‘Dee’ Duddy – drums, Raymond ‘Scratch’ Donnelly – guitar/backing vocals, Michael Mulholland – bass/vocals and Nigel Turner – guitar. Michael, Damian and Raymond all lived within 2 minutes of each other. Michael recalls a typical early practice session “Most of our kit was old second hand stuff and if plugged into the marmac (it was made of tin or some kind of metal) the mike gave electric shocks. The valves in the marmac also regularly overheated and smoke and occasionally flames poured out the back vents. One suspects that this could have been the result of glueing a dodgy valve into place!”

After a short period Nigel left and the band continued as a three piece until they were eventually joined by Michael’s class mate John Mathers on guitar.

Like most groups in Omagh at the time The Problems played Ramones, Sex Pistols, Stiff Little Fingers and Undertones covers. They did however also have original compositions which made up half of their live set which included ‘Murder In The Night', 'Superstar' and 'Absolutely Free'. The Problems played gigs in the Omagh area for a couple of years and supported the Outcasts when they played Strathroy Community Centre.

Eventually though the band broke up with Raymond going to play drums with the Icons (Michael’s brother had also played with the original line up of The Icons). Michael and John joined forces with Brendan O'Neill, Paul Conlon and Paul Logue to form the Joy Division influenced combo Museum, playing all original material. Michael recalls one of the band’s highlights “Museum managed to come unplaced in a battle of the bands in the Royal Arms. Kulov vodka and Colt 45 playing a large part!”