The second Portuguese edition of Coala Festival — born over a decade ago in Brazil — aims to be a vibrant celebration of Lusophone music. On Saturday 31st, the spotlight falls on acclaimed Brazilian singer Liniker, alongside performances from Cape Verdean star Djodje, experimental Portuguese artist Ana Lua Caiano, and the ever-soulful António Zambujo, joined by the traditional Cantadores do Rancho da Aldeia Nova de S. Bento. Sunday brings a striking mix: Ney Matogrosso’s Bloco na Rua promises drama and flair, while Xande offers a fresh spin on Caetano Veloso’s beloved repertoire. Also taking to the stage are Lena d’Água, Criolo, Bruno Berle, Timbalada, and Afrocidade — a rich, rhythmic line-up that blends classic grooves with bold, new energy.
Our pick: Bruno Berle
He might not (yet) be as much of a household name as some of the other acts heading to Cascais, but Bruno Berle stands out as one of the most singular and compelling singer-songwriters to emerge from Brazil in recent years. He made his Lisbon debut less than a year ago, playing to a packed crowd at a sold-out venue shortly after releasing No Reino dos Afetos 2 — a life-affirming moqueca of Brazilian rhythms, indie textures and electronic sounds from across the Global South. By November, he was back — this time on a bigger stage and with a band put together especially for the occasion. The line-up brought together Berle and his longtime collaborator Batata Boy with a cast of Portuguese musicians: Diogo Rodrigues (Ganso), Femme Falafel, Rapaz Ego and Salvador Seabra (Capitão Fausto).
Hipódromo Manuel Possolo (Cascais). May 31st–June 1st (Sat–Sun). €55–€200.