Live Report: Ultras swept Whelan's up with their invigorating set

Despite forming just months ago, Dublin-based indie rock band Ultras seemed at home as they masterfully delivered an engaging and riveting show to Whelan's upstairs Saturday night.

Formed earlier this year, the group comprises vocalist Jay O'Donoghue, lead guitarist Luke Whearity, bassist Matthew Gaffney, along with Bernard McDonnell and Jack Kelly on both drums and guitar.

In July, the Dublin band performed their first headline show at Whelan's Upstairs.

After a lively introduction from Gavin Furlong of hip-hop duo Wax White, Ultras took to the stage one-by-one, taking their time to soak up the audience's cheers.

Ultras at Whelans Upstairs on November 8th, 2025. Copyright Abigail Ring/ hotpress.com

Exuding confidence on stage, they jumped into their September single 'Who Did It'.

The track sounded like a warning, with its dark tone and deep, fast-paced vocals. It discussed the pressures that come with growing up and the struggle between rebelling and conforming, over a rhythmic, bouncy bass line.

The lights cut as the first notes of last week's single 'The Dream' rang out. Finding his softer, dream-like side, O'Donoghue passionately sang of feeling lost under the weight of growing up. Under dull red light, the tunes sharp, urgent guitar riff added a more chaotic layer to the track.

Ultras at Whelans Upstairs on November 8th, 2025. Copyright Abigail Ring/ hotpress.com

McDonnell, also known by his solo name Bernard-M, rose from the drum set, switching places with with O'Donoghue as he sang his solo song dedicated to his girlfriend 'Young'. Emotion bubbled to the surfaced with each lyric, his voice gliding over choppy guitar notes.

Delving into tracks outside of their discography, Ultras expertly delivered covers of Fontaines D.C. and The Kooks.

Their 'Bug' cover offered a sped-up rendition of the original track while O'Donoghue's voice melted into the tune. Similarly, their take on 'She Moves In Her Own Way' did the track justice, keeping its jumpy, back and forth cheery tone, with a stronger rock influence.

Ultras at Whelans Upstairs on November 8th, 2025. Copyright Abigail Ring/ hotpress.com

As the night neared its end, Ultras brought Furlong back to the stage for an energetic performance of Wax White's 2020 single 'Keep It Waxy'. O'Donoghue and Furlong belted the lyrics and danced around stage, the intimate venue packed tight as fans jumped up and down to the high energy track.

Ultras closed off the evening with 'Some Flowers', taking on a Fontaines D.C. feel with its drawn-out lyrics and snappy drum pounds.

McDonnell grabbed the mic one last time as he lead the band in a tongue-in-cheek rendition of the Irish traditional tune 'Eileen Óg', as the audience screamed and clapped along.

It was a rowdy end to a night full of a diverse blend of guests, covers and genres.

Ultras at Whelans Upstairs on November 8th, 2025. Copyright Abigail Ring/ hotpress.com