The Teardrop Explodes were an
English post-punk/
neo-psychedelic band formed in
Liverpool in 1978. Best known for their Top Ten UK single "Reward" (which is still a staple of 1980s alternative pop compilations), the group originated as a key band in the emerging Liverpool post-punk scene of the late 1970s, the group also launched the career of group frontman
Julian Cope as well as that of keyboard player and co-manager
David Balfe (later a record producer, A&R man and founder of
Food Records). Other members included early
Smiths producer
Troy Tate.