The Needle / Portugal - Emerging

A snapshot of Portugal’s forward-thinking soundscape, "The Needle / Portugal - Emerging" weaves together raw underground energy, experimental edge, and a fusion of global influences. From the smooth grooves of Geréex Apl’s “Na Rotina” to the bold rhythms of “Truquei seu Coração” by ÉoDan and KAMACHO, this playlist highlights rising talent blending Afrobeat, electronic, and lusophone styles. Moments like DJ EXPERIENCE’s Afrobeat refix of a cartoon theme and DAY LIMNS’ atmospheric “MARÉ” add playful yet sonically rich turns, while hip-hop, baile funk, and indie pop threads show up throughout tracks by artists like MC Pablinho ITR, Pipa, and Romana.

It’s a mix that doesn’t stay still—flipping from the jazz-meets-electronica of Kamasi Washington and André 3000’s “Dream State” to the industrial punch of Boys Noize with Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross. International features like Talib Kweli & Madlib’s “Assata’s Code” sit next to homegrown Portuguese gems like “Ja Não Posto” and “Quer Masoquista Toma Só Tapa,” capturing both the global reach and local grit of a new generation. Perfect for digging into what's bubbling just under the surface.