Garbage at Iveagh Gardens review: An exhilarating display of grunge pop – but is it their last gig?

Garbage delivered a high-energy performance at Iveagh Gardens in Dublin on Saturday night, marking the end of their European tour and raising questions among fans whether this could be their final live show. The concert, described as an exhilarating display of grunge pop, featured the band's signature blend of powerful vocals, driving rhythms, and emotionally charged lyrics. Singer Shirley Manson hinted during the set that the group might be calling it quits, citing challenges within the evolving music industry. Manson opened the show with the track There’s No Future In Optimism, setting a tone of both intensity and reflection. During the performance, she addressed the audience, stating that the current tour might represent the end of Garbage's journey. "This particular evening feels both heavy and glorious at the same time, the duality of which is not lost on anyone on the stage tonight," she remarked. Manson acknowledged the uncertainties surrounding the band's future, particularly noting the difficulties faced by mid-level acts in the music industry. Despite these concerns, she emphasized that the group is not necessarily sad about the potential end. Fans attending the concert were treated to a mix of hits and newer tracks from the band's recent album, Let All That We Imagine Be the Light. The performance highlighted Garbage's 30-year career, showcasing their evolution from a relatively unknown act to international stars. The band's formation in the mid-1990s was marked by unexpected collaborations, bringing together producers and musicians from the alternative rock scene with Manson, whose presence added a unique flair to the group. Throughout the concert, Manson's commanding stage presence was evident, supported by the band's tight musical arrangements. Her vocal delivery combined strength with vulnerability, reflecting the emotional depth of the band's repertoire. The setlist included fan favorites such as Stupid Girl and Right Between the Eyes, each performed with energy and precision. Manson shared personal anecdotes during the show, including stories about past performances in Dublin and interactions with other notable figures in the music industry. These moments added a layer of intimacy to the otherwise high-octane performance. However, the concert also included deeper reflections, with Manson discussing the themes of Right Between the Eyes, originally inspired by the experiences of Courtney Love in the 1990s. As the night progressed, the atmosphere remained electric, with the audience responding enthusiastically to each song. The band's ability to blend aggressive rock elements with melodic hooks continued to captivate listeners, reinforcing their status as pioneers of the grunge-pop genre. With the possibility of this being their last performance, Garbage left a lasting impression on their audience, delivering a memorable and emotionally resonant show that celebrated their extensive career.