Fresh off the heels of an appearance on Later… with Jools Holland, much of the crowd had an idea of what to expect, perhaps holding preconceived notions of who and what this band might be.

However, I doubt anyone was prepared for what was about to unfold. Without warning, Gurriers hit the stage with hurricane-like force. Within moments of the first chord, the crowd was commanded to dance, erupting into a mass of movement, with slamming and something close to crowd-surfing breaking out.

Band members hurled themselves into the audience, and the mezzanine—initially a seeming safe haven—quickly became the focal point of the room. The eager crowd absorbed and amplified the relentless energy, returning it threefold. I have never seen Mono’s roof metaphorically lifted off its foundations quite like this.

This is the sound of young Ireland. While it may be tempting, if not easy, to compare them to other Irish bands, Gurriers truly stand alone. Formed in the early days of the pandemic and refined in lockdown, this Dublin-based five-piece tackles global issues head-on.

Tracks like “Approachable” and “Top of the Bill” are perhaps the most accessible and recognisable, anchoring a set that remains hard-hitting and life-affirming throughout—raw, abrasive, yet musically rich.

Tonight was genuinely breathtaking. Take every opportunity to see this band live. In Glasgow tonight, Gurriers were undeniably gallus—cheeky, mischievous, and bold.

Words: CECH

Pictures: Chris Hogge