Just Mustard

Just Mustard Live at Gorilla Manchester

Prepare for an immersive sonic journey as Ireland’s critically acclaimed post-punk force, Just Mustard, descends upon Gorilla Manchester for a highly anticipated headline performance on Saturday, 25th April 2026. This isn’t just another gig; it’s an invitation to experience the raw, electrifying power of a band operating at the zenith of their creative prowess. Just Mustard are renowned for crafting soundscapes that are both intensely atmospheric and viscerally impactful, making their live shows a truly unforgettable spectacle. Expect a night where crushing riffs collide with ethereal vocals, and where the palpable energy of the band translates into a seismic experience for everyone in attendance. Gorilla Manchester, a venue celebrated for its intimate atmosphere and excellent acoustics, provides the perfect backdrop for Just Mustard’s potent blend of sonic textures and commanding stage presence. Get ready to be swept away by the sheer force of their sound.

About Just Mustard

Hailing from Dundalk, Ireland, Just Mustard have rapidly carved out a formidable reputation as one of the most exciting and distinctive voices in contemporary alternative music. Since their formation, the five-piece outfit – comprising vocalist Katie Ball, guitarists David Noonan and Conor McGuinness, bassist Cian Gallen, and drummer Shane Fitzsimons – has consistently pushed boundaries, delivering a sound that is as captivating as it is challenging. Their debut album, Wednesday, released in 2018, garnered widespread critical acclaim for its blend of brooding intensity and unconventional song structures. This was followed by their sophomore masterpiece, Still, in 2022, which saw the band further refine their signature style, earning them a coveted spot on the Mercury Prize shortlist and cementing their status as a serious contender on the global music scene.

Just Mustard’s sonic palette is a rich tapestry woven from elements of post-punk, industrial, shoegaze, and electronica. They are masters of atmosphere, conjuring vast sonic spaces with layers of distorted guitar, propulsive basslines, and intricate, often unsettling, drum patterns. Katie Ball’s vocals are a central element, shifting from hushed, almost whispered intimacy to powerful, commanding declarations, often within the same track. Her delivery is imbued with a potent emotional resonance that draws listeners into the heart of their often dark and introspective lyrical narratives.

Notable tracks that showcase their unique artistry include the searing intensity of “Frank,” with its driving rhythm and raw vocal delivery, and the hypnotic, almost trance-like quality of “Seether,” which builds to a cathartic crescendo. “Powder” from their latest album is another prime example of their sonic ingenuity, featuring a relentless bassline and intricate guitar work that creates an undeniable sense of urgency. They’ve also released singles such as “Richard III,” a powerful and percussive track that further demonstrates their evolving sound. Their music is not easily categorized, preferring to forge their own path through the sonic landscape, and it is this dedication to artistic individuality that has earned them a devoted following and the admiration of critics worldwide. Their live performances are a testament to this, offering an unmissable opportunity to witness their sonic world brought to life with electrifying power.

Venue Information

Gorilla Manchester is a renowned live music venue and club space situated in the heart of the city. Housed within a former textile mill, the venue boasts a characterful industrial aesthetic that perfectly complements the raw energy of live performances. With its well-equipped stage, excellent sound system, and a capacity that fosters an intimate connection between artists and audience, Gorilla has established itself as a cornerstone of Manchester’s vibrant music scene. It’s a place where cutting-edge acts and established favourites alike deliver unforgettable nights. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare yourself for a performance that is as much a visceral experience as it is a musical one. Just Mustard are known for their intensely focused and captivating live shows. Expect a setlist that expertly navigates the sonic terrain of their two critically acclaimed albums, Wednesday and Still, along with potentially some exciting new material or deeper cuts from their discography. Tracks like the thunderous “Frank,” the atmospheric build-up of “Powder,” and the driving intensity of “Seether” are staples that invariably ignite the crowd. You can anticipate a dynamic performance where the band’s palpable chemistry is on full display.

The music will wash over you in waves – from moments of delicate, almost fragile beauty to eruptions of overwhelming sonic force. The interplay between the guitars will create intricate, often dissonant, textures that draw you in, while the relentless rhythm section will anchor the sound with an unshakeable groove. Katie Ball’s commanding stage presence is central to the experience; her vocal delivery, whether delivered as a haunting whisper or a powerful roar, commands attention and imbues each song with profound emotional weight.

Their performance style is characterised by a deliberate intensity, eschewing overt showmanship for a more inward-looking, powerful connection with their music. The lighting and stage production, while not necessarily elaborate, will be expertly crafted to enhance the mood and atmosphere of their sound, often bathing the stage in shadows and dramatic hues that amplify the brooding nature of their compositions. The duration of the set can typically be expected to be around 75-90 minutes, providing ample time for them to showcase the breadth and depth of their remarkable sound. This is not a night for passive observation; it’s a night for immersion, for allowing the sheer power and artistry of Just Mustard to envelop you.

FAQs

Q1: What are Just Mustard’s influences? While Just Mustard’s sound is distinctly their own, they often draw inspiration from a diverse range of artists and genres. You can hear echoes of classic post-punk bands like Joy Division and Siouxsie and the Banshees in their atmospheric tension and driving rhythms. Elements of industrial music, such as the repetitive and textured soundscapes found in the work of Nine Inch Nails or early Ministry, are also present. Shoegaze bands like My Bloody Valentine, with their layered guitars and ethereal vocals, can be felt in their more expansive sonic moments. Furthermore, their embrace of electronic textures and their experimental approach to song structure suggest an openness to artists who push sonic boundaries across various electronic and alternative subgenres.

Q2: Is Just Mustard’s music suitable for first-time listeners? Absolutely. While Just Mustard’s music can be intense and atmospheric, it is also incredibly compelling and rewarding for new listeners. Their ability to craft captivating melodies within their powerful sonic frameworks makes their tracks accessible, even to those unfamiliar with their sound. Attending a live show is a fantastic way to be introduced to their music, as the visceral impact of their performance can be incredibly engaging and might just convert you into a dedicated fan on the spot. Starting with tracks like “Powder,” “Seether,” or “Frank” would be a great entry point to experience their signature sound.

Q3: What can I expect in terms of crowd interaction during a Just Mustard gig? Just Mustard are known for their intense and focused stage presence, which often translates to a more introspective and absorbing performance for the audience. While they may not engage in extensive banter between songs, their palpable energy and the sheer power of their music tend to create a highly engaged and appreciative crowd. The atmosphere is typically one of shared immersion in the sonic landscape they create, fostering a deep connection between the band and their audience through the music itself. Expect a crowd that is there to witness and absorb the performance.

Q4: Are Just Mustard known for any particular stage presence or visual elements? Just Mustard’s stage presence is characterized by a focused intensity rather than overt theatricality. They tend to create a powerful atmosphere through their performance and the subtle use of lighting, which often complements the brooding and atmospheric nature of their music. The focus is firmly on the sonic delivery and the collective energy of the band. While their live shows are not typically marked by elaborate visual spectacles, the mood and atmosphere they cultivate through their sound and a carefully considered visual presentation are central to the immersive experience of their performance.

Q5: Will Just Mustard be playing songs from their debut album, Wednesday, as well as Still? It is highly likely that Just Mustard will feature a strong selection of tracks from both their critically acclaimed sophomore album, Still, and their impactful debut, Wednesday. Bands of their stature typically aim to represent their discography comprehensively during headline tours, showcasing the evolution of their sound. You can certainly anticipate hearing fan favourites and standout tracks from both records, offering a fantastic journey through their musical progression. This ensures a setlist that appeals to long-time fans while also introducing newer listeners to the breadth of their work.