The Van Halen of hardcore? In what way?
Yes, Lloyd Cole is pretty much a genius. Great songwriter. Saw him at the old club too, which was outstanding.
In that both are So Cal bands started by musically intelligent guitarists (both into everything from classical music to Black Sabbath), worked with their brothers, both a revolving door of singers, forming and reforming, former members sticking to the guitarists by getting together and performing, both have iconic band symbols.
I don't mean it as something bad ... I have up to early 80's records by both. You could also add both haven't released anything decent since '84.
They both obviously are completely different on ethos.