Shock Treatment: A Punk Legacy Reborn

Shock Treatment, a post-punk band hailing from Belfast, was formed in 1978 by vocalist Barry McIlheney, guitarist Davy McLarnon, and bassistDavid Basil McCausland. The band's line-up evolved over time, with early members Tim Kerr (guitar) and Chris Loughridge (drums) dropping out, and guitaristNiall McKay dropping in and out, before stabilizing as a four-piece with the addition of drummer Paul Kelly, formerly of The Lids.

Drawing inspiration from bands like The Ramones and Eddie and the Hotrods Shock Treatment were soon touring throughout Ireland and of course played several shows at Belfast's iconic punk venue, The Harp Bar. They soon caught the attention of local impresario and Good Vibrations label owner, Terri Hooley. Hooley recorded two tracks with the band, "Belfast Telegraph" and "I Like It Like That," intended for a 7" single release. Unfortunately, financial constraints prevented the single from being released. However, "Belfast Telegraph" eventually appeared on the 1980 EP Room To Move on Energy records in association with Good Vibrations.

Shock Treatment quickly became a live favourite, hosting shows at the Bailey Bar and playing throughout Belfasts burgeoning punk scene. They organized their own Maximum Beat and Evenings and Weekends tours with Lovers of Today, performing widely across Ireland. Their growing popularity led to performances at larger venues, including support slots at The Ulster Hall with acts like The Skids, U2, and Psychedelic Furs.

Their second release, "Big Check Shirts" b/w "Mystery Man," came out on the D.A.B. Records label, established by their management. This single received airplay on national radio in both Ireland and the UK.

Dissolution and Rebirth in 1982, vocalist Barry McIlheney left the band to pursue a successful career in music journalism, writing for and editing publications like Melody Maker and Smash Hits. He later founded Empire magazine and moved further into publishing.

Guitarist Davy McLarnon went on to form Five Boys (198386) before joining Peace Frog in the 90s where he would perform at festivals such as Feile at Finsbury Park London, the legendary Trip to Tipp, he would tour with the Hothouse Flowers and open for David Bowie.

In 2011, McLarnon and his long-time collaborator John Rossi re-recorded back catalogue songs from Shock Treatment and Five Boys, leading to the release of a debut album in 2014 under the name Shock Treatment 21. This new line up included Rossi, Gordie Walker and Keith McVeigh from Peace Frog. Revitalizing the original fan base, Shock Treatment 21 became a popular live act, sharing stages with bands like 999, The Lurkers, John Otway, and Alabama 3 amongst others.

Dropping the '21' from their name, Shock Treatment released their second album, Exclusive Photos on Spit records in early 2024. The album featured the return of Barry McIlheney on lead vocals for three songs, reigniting the energy and legacy of their punk roots.

Shock Treatment continue to tour and have built up a sizable following with sold out shows at The Atlantic Sessions and of course our very own American Bar.