This past Thursday, I got to experience the Canadian debut of one of Ireland’s most promising up-and-coming post-punk acts, Gurriers. I discovered the five-piece group shortly after the release of their debut album, Come and See, in late 2024. As a long-time fan of other Dublin-based outfits like Fontaines D.C. and The Murder Capital, I was excited to have a new band to add to my rotation.

Their 11-track debut record has generated significant buzz, with the standout single “Top of the Bill” racking up over four million streams on Spotify. Their European success eventually made its way across the Atlantic, leading to the announcement of their debut North American headline tour: 16 days, 12 shows, across 12 different cities. With Toronto listed as the only Canadian stop on this leg, I knew I had to be there.

Credit: Olivia Dans @oliviadansphotography

The long-awaited day finally arrived, and I headed to the venue, The Garrison, shortly after doors opened. The room was already filling up with fans of all ages and backgrounds. I spotted a handful of Fontaines D.C. and Kneecap T-shirts, so I knew I was in good company. Not long after my arrival, the opening act, Toronto native Cam Kahin, took the stage. I’d seen Kahin a few times before while attending gigs in the city, and he always puts on an incredible show.

After warming up the crowd with a handful of tracks from his newest album, CHUG, Kahin wrapped up his set, and the anticipation in the room grew. I made my way to the front to snap some performance photos, and shortly after 9 p.m., Gurriers took the stage. Their opening track began with a loud beat from drummer Pierce O’Callaghan, followed by rattling guitar and bass lines from guitarists Ben O’Neill and Mark MacCormack, and bassist Charlie McCarthy. Finally, vocalist Dan Hoff burst in with a loud yell, launching into “Nausea,” the first track off their debut album.

Credit: Olivia Dans @oliviadansphotography

The crowd immediately responded, shouting back lyrics and starting a mosh pit early on. The electricity in the room carried through the entire 14-song set. The energy in the room never dampened, rather it grew, especially when McCarthy jumped into the crowd, bass and all, to jam alongside the audience. Standout tracks for me included their recent single “Erasure,” as well as their closing track, “Des Goblin.” As the set came to an end, a roar of cheers filled the room while Hoff thanked the audience for an incredible Canadian debut.

Afterward, I had the chance to catch up with the band and snap a few portraits. All five members were incredibly kind and excited to be in Toronto, despite having to head to Detroit the next morning. They mentioned the prospect of future North American dates and the various festivals they’re already billed on for the remainder of the year.

I said my goodbyes and headed home, immediately putting their album on for the commute. I can confidently say that Gurriers put on an incredible show, and this was one of the best debut gigs I’ve seen in a long time. Check out Gurriers now and keep an eye out for future tour dates!

Credit: Olivia Dans @oliviadansphotography