The Let Love Grow Festival is the brainchild of local musician Brani
The music scene on Portugal’s Silver Coast has never been so strong, with various bands and genres packing out venues with hundreds of fans. But Sunday, October 6 will see the first festival of its kind in the area – and the uniqueness of its organisers together with its unique location will ensure it’s a sell-out success.
The Let Love Grow Festival is the brainchild of Brani, a Croatia-born musician, who made Portugal his home following his appearance on Ídolos, the Portuguese Pop Idol TV contest. The event celebrates original music, stand-up comedy and artisanal arts and crafts and marks the end of a busy year for Brani who has launched two singles in the last six months to high acclaim.
Brani says the songs “Love Spell” and “Road Love” have parallels with his journey this year, which culminates in the festival. “The songs have been a celebration of the spirit of adventure and the beauty we find along the way, and reflects my passion for exploring new horizons, both in life and in music. We can’t wait to provide a showcase for other emerging artists to connect with the community and share their journeys in a similar way”.
One of Brani’s biggest supporters has been the venue of Sunday’s festival, The Prohibition Bar, which itself only launched in April, but has fast become the home of live music on the Silver Coast.
Like Brani, the bar, which is nestled beside a 16th century aqueduct, has an interesting background. In another first-of-its-kind for Portugal, the bar is owned by almost 100 international and local shareholders that volunteer-renovated and continue to operate the bar alongside full-time Portuguese staff.
Director Richard Allen says: “We know what it’s like to have a dream and to give it your all to make it happen. We’re honoured that Brani has chosen us to support him on his incredible journey this year and it’s vital that music venues like us continue to provide a platform for up-and-coming artists.”
The festival features musicians spanning various genres including Bossa Nova, Soul, Portuguese Indie-Pop, to Rock and Roll, but Brani adds: “It’s more than just a music festival: it’s a multisensory experience that brings together music, art and human connection. We want to create a space where the arts inspire and connect people and to showcase some of the incredible original music that is being made here”.
Let Love Grow Festival runs from midday on Sunday, October 6 at the Prohibition Bar in Óbidos. Advance ticket sales are available from www.brani.pt
By BECCY HAYWOOD
