The Swamp Rats were formed in Belfast in 1983 by Peter Graham (guitar and vocals), Paul Campbell (bass), and Tommy Johnston (drums). They were influenced by American bands such as The Cramps and Johnny Thunders & The Heartbreakers. The band lasted only a few years, playing a handful of gigs before Paul and Tommy moved to London. They performed around Belfast at venues such as the Manhattan Bar and the Labour Club, with a set consisting mostly of original compositions, including “I Met a Monster Coming from My Baby’s House One Night.” Covers included “Career Opportunities” by The Clash and “Do You Love Me” by The Contours, performed in the style of Johnny Thunders.

After the band split, all the members remained connected to the music scene. Tommy Johnston has since worked with members of Hawkwind and has been involved in various bands in the United States, where he now lives, including the space rock outfit Farflung. Peter Graham worked as a roadie for The Bonnevilles for many years, while Paul Campbell has been involved in the alternative festival scene. The only known recording of The Swamp Rats is a live performance captured at a gig in the Labour Club, Belfast.

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