Irish rock band Bleech 9:3 discuss addiction, sobriety, and debut EP
8 reported
According to a Guardian interview published June 17, 2026, Irish rock band Bleech 9:3 has drawn attention with their debut EP and a series of festival dates, while members Barry Quinlan and Sam Duffy serve as each other’s sponsor in Alcoholics Anonymous. The band formed from two previous pairs: Barry and his bassist brother James, and guitarist Sam and drummer Luke O’Neill. Barry, now 28, began drinking in his teens, entered rehab at 20, and after multiple relapses, had a spiritual experience on February 22, 2019, that he says removed his obsession to use alcohol. Sam also struggled with sobriety and sought help from Barry, who had already sponsored others in AA. The band’s songs draw on personal experiences, including the death of a fellow addict who relapsed. The group recently supported Nick Cave and is scheduled for 40 festival dates, album writing, and recording in October.
What’s reported
Barry Quinlan and Sam Duffy are each other’s sponsor for Alcoholics Anonymous.
Barry began drinking in his teens and was in rehab by age 20.
He relapsed after his first rehab and again after a 15-week stint.
On February 22, 2019, Barry had a spiritual experience he says removed his obsession to use alcohol.
Sam Duffy had multiple failed attempts at sobriety before seeking help from Barry.
The band’s most popular song, Ceiling, was inspired by an addict who relapsed and died.
Bleech 9:3 recently supported Nick Cave and has 40 festival dates scheduled.
The band plans to write an album, record in October, and then tour.
Key figures
Barry Quinlan – frontman of Bleech 9:3
Sam Duffy – guitarist of Bleech 9:3
James Quinlan – bassist, Barry’s younger brother
Luke O’Neill – drummer of Bleech 9:3
Sources: The Guardian
