After a seven-year absence, Cellar Darling have finally returned to Portugal for their first-ever headline shows in the country. The Swiss band gave their fans two shows: in Lisbon on 29 March and in Porto on the 30th. We had the privilege of attending the performance at República da Música in Lisbon.
The evening began with the performance by Portuguese band INSVLA, who made their debut on stage. Despite being newcomers, the group showed impressive solidity, with a confident and emotive performance. The audience welcomed INSVLA enthusiastically, and the young band’s fans turned out in force to support them. Undoubtedly a promising start for this new addition to the national music scene.
When Cellar Darling began their performance, the venue was full, proving that neither the long break nor the lack of new work were obstacles to the loyalty of the Portuguese public. The captivating fusion of folk and progressive metal, combined with Anna Murphy’s mesmerising voice, transported us to a magical atmosphere. The use of the hurdy-gurdy – a trademark of the band’s unique sound – further contributed to the immersive experience.
The setlist covered the albums This Is the Sound and The Spell, as well as the band’s most recent single, Dance (released in 2021). However, the biggest surprise of the night was the live premiere of Drone, an unreleased song that hasn’t even been officially released. Anna Murphy confessed to the audience that the song was still “open to suggestions for improvement from fans”, which made the moment even more special and intimate.
The warm reception from the crowd deeply moved the band, making it clear that Cellar Darling’s return was eagerly awaited. At the end of the concert, we had the chance to chat briefly with the friendly Anna Murphy, who revealed that the band is working on new material – although there’s still no release date for a new album.
If there’s one thing this show proved, it’s that Cellar Darling don’t need new songs to charm and attract their fans. The enthusiasm of the audience left a clear feeling in the air: the band’s return was an absolute success, and a new date in Portugal is already eagerly awaited.
We also wish INSVLA a bright future as they take their first steps on a promising journey!
Setlist
Pain
Death
Black Moon
Hullaballoo
The Hermit
The Spell
Insomnia
Freeze
Dance
Drone (new unreleased song)
Avalanche
Encore:
Redemption
Review by Susana Gonçalves