
On a Wednesday night, a diverse line of fans—adorned in black attire, band t-shirts, and The Cult merchandise—stretched outside the historic Coliseu dos Recreios in Lisbon, Portugal. They gathered for the European leg of ‘The 8424 Tour’, celebrating The Cult’s 40th anniversary.
The venue was already packed to capacity when the opener, Lys Morke, took the stage. Irene Talló’s solo project captivated the audience with a unique blend of electronic beats, electric guitars, and her hauntingly beautiful vocals. Her performance, a one-woman show with just a computer and her talent, set a mesmerizing tone for the evening.
By 10 p.m., anticipation buzzed through the crowd, with chants and cheers filling the air. Suddenly, the lights dimmed, and a roar of excitement erupted as The Cult took the stage. The English hard rock band emerged through a haze of smoke and backlighting, creating a mystic rock ambiance. Lead singer Ian Astbury, with his signature tambourine, immediately commanded the crowd’s attention. Astbury’s energy was palpable, and he even hurled his tambourine to the back of the stage after several songs, much to the delight of the audience.
Guitarist Billy Duffy stole the spotlight with his electrifying riffs, while bassist Charlie Jones and drummer John Tempesta provided a powerful rhythm that kept the audience entranced. Each band member’s contribution was vital to the cohesive, thunderous sound that filled the Coliseu dos Recreios.
A standout moment of the night was an intimate acoustic rendition of ‘Edie (Ciao Baby)’, with only Ian and Billy seated at the front of the stage. The crowd sang along in unison, creating a magical, collective experience. The rest of the band soon joined in for ‘Sweet Soul Sister’, a clear fan favorite that had everyone screaming, singing, and clapping along, with Ian’s tambourine adding to the infectious energy.
From the floor to the highest balcony, no one remained indifferent to The Cult’s magnetic performance. Despite the venue’s sweltering heat, the jam-packed crowd, with little room to move, was undeterred. Hands were in the air, bodies were grooving, and the energy was relentless.
With two sold-out shows in Portugal—first in Porto and now in Lisbon—The Cult proved they remain a formidable force in rock. Their setlist spanned their impressive 11-album discography, delivering both fan favorites and newer tracks. The journey through their musical legacy was a testament to their enduring appeal and the undying loyalty of their fans.
The Cult’s performance at Coliseu dos Recreios was not just a concert but a celebration of four decades of rock history. Their powerful sound, dynamic stage presence, and the unwavering passion of their fans made it a night to remember.
Written by: Carol Galvão
Photographed by: Carol Galvão
Edited by: Nèri Cliteur