That Petrol Emotion

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(1984 – 1994, 2008 – present)

That Petrol Emotion originally formed in 1984 from the ashes of the Derry Hitmakers, Bam Bam and the Calling and The Undertones. It was formed by guitarist John O’Neill and second guitarist Raymond Gorman who DJ’d together at the Derry ‘Left Bank’ club. Drummer and friend Ciaran McLaughlin joined next after having relocated from Derry to London, followed by John’s brother and Undertones lead guitarist Damian O’Neill who played bass from 1985 until 1988 upon John’s departure. He then took up guitar duties from 1988-1994 and 2008-present. Charismatic American singer Steve Mack, who was on a year out working in a pizzeria in London at the time, finished off the line up. Two more bassists played in the band after John O’Neill left: John Marchini (1988-1991) then Brendan Kelly (1991-1994 and 2008-present). That Petrol Emotion’s influences encompassed artists as diverse as The Beatles, Afrika Bambaataa, Television, Sly & The Family Stone, Captain Beefheart and Can.

The group released their debut single “Keen” in 1985 which immediately severed all musical links with the Undertones with its darker more edgy sound. Indeed That Petrol Emotion themselves were also far more political and outspoken than the Undertones. This statement of intent in the guise of Keen was followed by their debut album “Manic Pop Thrill”, released in 1986 on Demon Records and charting at number 1 in the UK Indie Chart. It was received with rave reviews from the critics, especially by Undertones champion John Peel. Around this time That Petrol Emotion were also quickly making their name as a devastating live act of tight musicianship and intense playing.
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  • EvryLittleBreez

    I saw them at the old Olympic Ballroom in Dublin in '88; so loud and insane I swear the paint was peeling off the ceiling! Still one of my greatest gig-going nights after all these years.

    November 2011

  • SilentPoet82

    New season of the Irish Rock League has started. Your votes will decide the next champion!

    July 2011

  • eyesaresmiles

    This lot take me back. Them and the Wedding Present were the first bands I got into outside the charts. The beginning of a fantastic voyage. Big decision would be such a huge hit now. The first three albums still sound terrific. Great live band too.

    May 2010

  • TimGrady76

    These guys are fantastic! I've never really listened to them until now. I've always loved their name, my favourite name for a band, it's great. Can't believe it has taken so long to hear them. They deserve loads more recognition and plays....

    April 2010

  • Matazone

    I saw their last London gig in 1994 when I was 17 and still have the T-shirt! A lifetime later, I'm still a fan and looking forward to seeing them play again. Come play in Oxford, guys! Last of the last of the true believers :)

    February 2010

  • SilentPoet82

    New season for the Irish Rock League has just started! Your favourite artists need your votes to win, so join now!

    January 2010

  • Lesscities

    whoooooooooow!

    November 2009

  • zimmerframemosh

    Playing Dublin 6th December. Its been years since I've seen them playing live. Going to see them this time for sure.

    October 2009
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