FIGUEIRA DA FOZ, Portugal – A chance encounter at the breakfast buffet of the Malibu Foz Hotel, two days before the start of the Gliding Barnacles festival, led to the discovery of Bradley Mervyn King, the frontman of New Zealand band The Butlers, and his remarkable journey to Portugal. The meeting, described by one attendee as a “mysterious” turn of events, unfolded amidst preparations for the annual surf, art, music, and gastronomy event held in Figueira da Foz.
The attendee, who recounted the story, reconnected with Ambrose McNeill at the hotel, a known gathering place for those participating in Gliding Barnacles. It was through McNeill that he met King, immediately struck by his imposing stature and distinctive style – over six feet tall, wearing fast guy shades, a hat emblazoned with “HOWL” (a reference to Allen Ginsberg’s poem), and jean shorts. “Soft-spoken but with a distinct voice and accent and a way of moving, thinking, and being that had me thinking, ‘Fuck yes, this guy’s got to be good,’” the attendee recalled.
What initially piqued interest quickly evolved into astonishment. King revealed he had cycled from London to Portugal, a feat he initially downplayed. “Yeah, I rode my bike here,” King reportedly said, prompting a follow-up question that confirmed the journey began in London. He explained the unusual mode of transport stemmed from a desire to experience England without the high cost of living in London.
Following the festival, the attendee began exploring The Butlers’ music, quickly becoming captivated by their sound. Described as a blend of indie rock and “jazzy poetry,” the band’s tracks, including “Vodka’s What You’re Drinking,” “No Good Nina,” and “Leopard of Sweet Dreams,” offer a unique sonic experience. The attendee noted that the band’s music was even playing in a bar in Auckland, New Zealand, during a layover, indicating their popularity within the country.
Gliding Barnacles, founded in 2014, aims to establish Figueira da Foz as a premier destination for surfing, particularly classic longboarding, and to showcase surfing as an art form. The festival, a non-profit event, draws approximately 5,000 visitors annually, encompassing surfers, artists, musicians, chefs, photographers, and videographers. The event takes place at Praia do Cabedelo, accessible by cycling, taxi, Uber, or boat. While surfing is a central element, expression sessions do not allow participants to surf. Access to the artistic residences and nighttime concerts requires a pass, while the beach market, street food corner, and daytime concerts are free to attend.
The Malibu Foz Hotel, situated near a medieval tower, served as a central hub for festival attendees, particularly for the renowned breakfast buffet. The festival’s organizers can be contacted via email at geral@glidingbarnacles.pt for those interested in participating in future editions.
