Dónal Gunning Releases Debut Album ‘No Other Option’ + Announces NZ Tour
Dublin-born, Aotearoa-based independent singer-songwriter Dónal Gunning today releases his debut album No Other Option, followed by a nationwide tour with his band, The Bucks.
Preceded by four singles – Oven, Thoughts, Breathing & The Way I Feel – No Other Option marks a true milestone for the Irishman, his audience and sound has continued to grow throughout 2026.
Building on the rock foundations of his sophomore EP, Zero Bucks Given, the debut album explores a broader musical palette, incorporating disco beats, brass instrumentation and an expansive vocal range.
A standout track, Echoes & Sounds, experiments with unconventional dub rhythms, using space and unexpected dropouts with a rock-pop sensibility. The track reflects Wellington and New Zealand’s influence on Dónal’s evolving sound.
The record pushes creative boundaries while retaining Dónal’s trademark raw energy and honest songwriting. The North Island blends his singer-songwriter roots with experimental
Midwest emo breakdowns, while the closing track Stay takes a heavier turn, embracing metal-inspired guitar riffs on an emotionally charged power-ballad.
Recorded in Wellington and produced by Peter Jamieson, the album captures Gunning’s journey from Ireland to Aotearoa. “It was a big risk pursuing music overseas. There’ve been plenty of moments I’ve wondered why I took the jump, but music has always pulled me back in.”
No Other Option captures the adventures, challenges and rewards of packing up one’s life and pursuing a passion overseas.
Known for his high-energy live performances and intangible Irish charm, Dónal really knows how to work a crowd. Dónal & The Bucks, will hit the road across New Zealand this summer
to celebrate the release of No Other Option. Playing shows in Whanganui, Hamilton, Raglan, Napier, Taupo, Levin, Masterton, Nelson, Wellington with more dates to be announced.
