Bleech 9:3 is the self-titled debut EP from the London-based Irish band of the same name, arriving on vinyl this week amid a growing wave of expectation. Led by vocalist Barry Quinlan, Bleech 9:3 are already being spoken of as one of the most exciting new rock bands to emerge in recent years, and on the evidence of this inaugural five-track release, it's difficult to disagree.
A troubled personal journey through addiction and recovery eventually led Quinlan to form the band alongside his brother James Quinlan, Sam Duffy and Luke O'Neill. A subsequent spiritual awakening, renewed sense of purpose and determination to embrace a different path in life are themes that resonate throughout these five vividly cathartic songs.
Bleech 9:3 is everything a debut rock EP should be: rough around the edges, urgent, uncompromising and frequently exhilarating. Drawing heavily on the spirit of 1990s alternative rock, particularly the grunge movement of the early part of the decade, the songs are gritty and unvarnished, rough diamonds crackling with potential. Moments of beauty and vulnerability flash through the darkness like streaks of lightning across a clouded sky.
Grunge's famed quiet-loud dynamic is deployed to stunning effect on the sublime Cannonball, while the more reflective Underrated highlights the band's ability to temper intensity with meaningful introspection. Opening track Jacky alone feels capable of launching Bleech 9:3 into the wider consciousness, driven by heavy, choppy rhythms, scratchy distorted guitars and Quinlan's magnetic, impassioned vocal performance.
Elsewhere, No Surprise delivers arguably the EP's most explosive moment. Shimmering guitars collide with thunderous instrumentation as Quinlan's emotive singing rises above the storm, creating a track of serious emotional affect. Closing number Ceiling brings proceedings to a powerful conclusion, its purposeful grind building towards an anthemic climax that finds the band leaving everything on the studio floor.
This is a hugely impressive debut from one of 2026's most promising new acts. If Bleech 9:3 is any indication of what's to come, a full-length album is can't come soon enough.
Recommended for fans of: Fontaines D.C., Wunderhorse, Alice in Chains, Pearl Jam, early Biffy Clyro and, dare we say it, Kerbdog and Whipping Boy.
Bleech 9:3 is out now on 12" Vinyl EP.
