Behind: Bleech 9:3
Written by Taylor Walker
There is something incredibly exciting happening in the Irish music scene at the moment, and Bleech 9:3 are a band I genuinely believe deserve to be part of that conversation. With their raw alternative-rock sound, unapologetic lyrics and an energy that feels almost impossible to replicate, the four-piece are quickly establishing themselves as one of the most exciting emerging names in Irish music. There is something wonderfully refreshing about a band who aren't afraid to be loud, messy, emotional and completely unfiltered. If their debut EP is anything to go by, Bleech 9:3 are only getting started.
Their self-titled debut EP, released in May 2026, is a brilliant introduction to what the band are capable of. Combining grunge, alternative rock and heavier indie influences, it feels nostalgic without ever sounding outdated. There are obvious nods to the likes of Nirvana, Radiohead and Deftones, but Bleech 9:3 have a distinctive identity of their own. What makes the EP particularly interesting is the emotional weight behind the music. These aren't simply songs written to sound good with a distorted guitar and a heavy drumbeat. There is genuine vulnerability running throughout the record, with themes of addiction, recovery, relationships and loss giving the music an intensity that feels incredibly personal.
My personal favourite has to be 'Ceiling'. There is something about this track that I find completely addictive. From its opening guitar work to its explosive energy, it captures everything I love about the band. It has that instantly recognisable alternative-rock sound that makes you want to turn the volume up as loud as possible, but there is also something incredibly memorable about its melody. I think it is one of those songs that could easily become a defining track for the band as their audience continues to grow. It deserves so much more attention, and I will happily continue campaigning for everyone to give it a listen.
Another track worth mentioning is 'Underrated', which feels particularly fitting given the way I think about the band themselves. There is something wonderfully self-aware about its place within their catalogue, and its exploration of complicated relationships adds another layer to the EP. 'Jacky' and 'Cannonball' also demonstrate the band's ability to move between aggressive, guitar-heavy arrangements and moments of genuine emotional vulnerability. It is this balance that makes them so interesting.
What I find especially compelling about Bleech 9:3 is their story. Frontman Baz Quinlan and guitarist Sam Duffy first met through a recovery programme, with Baz becoming Sam's sponsor. Their shared experiences eventually developed into a songwriting partnership, alongside James Quinlan and Luke O'Neill. There is something incredibly powerful about two people finding a creative outlet through such a meaningful connection. You can hear that honesty in their music, and it gives their songs a level of authenticity that cannot simply be manufactured.
And thankfully, the EP already feels like just the beginning. The band have confirmed that their debut full-length album will be titled Bleed. Following the EP, the new record is an incredibly exciting prospect, particularly given their desire to explore their experiences growing up in Dublin in greater depth. Their singles 'Figure 8' and 'Tourniquet' have already offered a glimpse of what's coming, and working with producer Dan Carey only adds to the anticipation.
Their live reputation is another reason I think they are a band everyone should be paying attention to. Bleech 9:3 have been building an impressive touring history, sharing stages with established acts and appearing at major festivals. Their upcoming tour includes Irish dates in Dublin at the 3Olympia on 25 April 2027 and Belfast's Limelight on 26 April, alongside an extensive international run. It is genuinely exciting to see an Irish band making this kind of progress.
Ultimately, I think Bleech 9:3 represent exactly what makes discovering new music so exciting. They have the sound, the personality, the songwriting and, most importantly, something genuine to say. Their debut EP has already given us plenty to get excited about, but I have a feeling Bleed is going to take things to an entirely different level.
For now, I will be continuing to have 'Ceiling' on repeat and encouraging absolutely anyone who will listen to give this band a chance. Irish music has another incredibly exciting name to watch, and I genuinely cannot wait to see where Bleech 9:3 go next. Remember the name.