TRAVO’s Broken Guitar, Blurred Realities, and the Weight of a KEXP Debut
In the quiet, early hours of a French morning, the hunt for Gonçalo’s lost guitar comes to an end. Upon its recovery, the instrument bears a battle-worn appearance, hinting at a journey of its own. Yet, this is the very guitar that Gonçalo chooses to wield during TRAVO’s live performance for KEXP, mirroring the band’s own seasoned resolve.
Hailing from Braga, Portugal, TRAVO has tirelessly honed their craft over the years. Despite Braga not being recognized as a psychedelic music hub, the band released two albums, “Ano Luz” in 2019 and “Sinking Creation” in 2022, which hinted at a burgeoning talent waiting to be unleashed. The true breakthrough came with “Astromorph God” in 2023, released by Spinda Records and gig.ROCKS!, catching the attention of the international music scene.
Following this surge in recognition came a wave of opportunities and structure. Invitations from prestigious events like FOCUS Wales, Sonic Whip, and Trans Musicales catapulted TRAVO into a whirlwind of bookings and planning. The band embarked on a European tour, captivating audiences in countries such as France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and back to Portugal. The pinnacle of this journey was an invitation to record a live session for KEXP, a rare and coveted opportunity for any artist.
During their set at Trans Musicales, TRAVO delivered a dynamic performance that left a resounding impact. DJ Morgan from KEXP praised the band’s electrifying presence, describing their music as a fiery blend of scorching riffs and relentless energy. The session featured four songs, including three tracks from “Astromorph God” – “Faceless Ghoul”, “Arrow of Motion”, and “Turn to the Sun” – along with a new unreleased song titled “Sleeper”.
Each song in TRAVO’s set conveyed a distinct mood and narrative, from the hypnotic repetition of “Faceless Ghoul” to the melodic intensity of “Arrow of Motion”. “Turn to the Sun” delved into themes of fear and confrontation, while “Sleeper” captured a sense of haunting intrigue and explosive energy. The band’s performance exuded a raw, unfiltered authenticity that resonated with listeners and encapsulated their signature sound.
Despite the challenges of performing with a damaged guitar, TRAVO’s KEXP session was a testament to their resilience and creative spirit. The band’s unwavering dedication to their craft shone through, showcasing a blend of raw energy and polished musicianship that defined their unique style. As they hit the road once again in 2025, TRAVO continues to captivate audiences with their distinctive sound and magnetic stage presence, solidifying their status as a rising force in the rock music scene.