Maquina brings wild romance to Lisbon – Brighton and Hove News
Maquina delivered an electrifying performance at The Hope & Ruin in Brighton on the 21st of February, showcasing their unique blend of industrial techno and progressive psychedelic rock. Hailing from Lisbon, the trio consists of João on guitar, Tomás on bass, and Halison on drums and vocals. The band’s name translates to ‘Machine’ in English, and they certainly lived up to this moniker with their intense and captivating sound.
As the trio geared up for their set, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation. Halison’s sudden outburst behind the drums signaled the beginning of their performance, prompting guitarist João to launch into a frenzy of screeching guitar riffs. Tomás’s bass provided a solid foundation for their music, setting the stage for an immersive sonic experience. The first song of the evening, ‘:.’ from their album ‘Dirty Tracks For Clubbing,’ set the tone for the night, with its hypnotic rhythms and expansive soundscapes.
Against a backdrop of pulsating red lights, Maquina’s music enveloped the audience in a trance-like state. The band’s organic approach to their music was evident, with no backing tracks or pre-set sequences in sight. Even when faced with adversity, such as a broken guitar string, the band continued to play on seamlessly, showcasing their dedication and resilience. Halison’s primal vocal outbursts added an extra layer of intensity to their performance, while João’s dynamic stage presence kept the energy high throughout the set.
Introducing themselves to the Brighton audience, Halison mentioned that it was their first time playing in the city, treating the crowd to a selection of songs from their latest album ‘Prata.’ Tracks like ‘Desterro’ and ‘Body Control’ showcased the band’s versatility, ranging from frantic bursts of energy to slow-building moments of tension. The dark and menacing atmosphere of ‘Denial’ was accentuated by the blue lighting, adding a visual element to their sonic landscape.
As the night progressed, Maquina continued to captivate the audience with their infectious grooves and mesmerizing soundscapes. Each band member’s commitment to their craft was evident, from Halison’s thunderous drumming to João’s intricate guitar work and Tomás’s pulsating basslines. The energy in the room was palpable as the band launched into extended jams, inviting the audience to dance and lose themselves in the music.
Closing their set with ‘Concentrate,’ Maquina left the crowd wanting more, with Halison teasing an encore as the curfew approached. Despite the limitations of time, the band delivered a powerful performance that left a lasting impression on all in attendance. With their first UK tour coming to an end, there is no doubt that Maquina’s unique brand of music will continue to resonate with audiences around the world.