Gnarwhal is Mark Kilbride, Benji Straker, Jeremy Straker and Layne Rybchinski

Gnarwhal is a genre-bending four-piece rock band that weaves heavy alternative fuzz rock with progressive metal intricacies and doom-tinged grooves. Originating in the remote northern Canadian city of Yellowknife in 2021, the band swiftly coalesced and emerged as a leading catalyst in the resurgence of heavy music within their home territory.
Drawing inspiration from prominent acts such as Mastodon, The Sword, Elder, and King Buffalo, Gnarwhal navigates a musical spectrum that gracefully straddles the realms of classic and contemporary fuzz and heavy rock. They artfully intermingle these elements with nods to '90s grunge influences, paying homage to their collective punk and heavy metal tastes.
Their inaugural self-titled album, "Gnarwhal," saw the light of day in early 2023. This impressive debut
earned them a nomination for a 2023 Western Canadian Music Award, particularly in the Metal and Hard Music category. In 2022, they also claimed the Best New Single award at the inaugural 2022 Music NWT Awards, a testament to their rapid ascent in the music scene.
Gnarwhal has had the privilege of sharing stages with several notable acts and has left their mark on
domestic festivals, including Breakout West and Folk on the Rocks. Their recent accomplishment includes a successful mini-tour across Western Canada in October 2023, cementing their status as a burgeoning force within the contemporary rock landscape. With their innovative sound and distinctive blend of genres, Gnarwhal is poised to leave an impression on the heavy music scene.