emmy Curl

The second performance at Abril Febril was by emmy Curl, who presented her latest album, “Pastoral” – a record that pays tribute to the cultural heritage of Portuguese folklore, a celebration of courage and love in challenging times.

Born and raised in the highlands of Vila Real, emmy Curl brings to life the ancient melodies of Transmontane and Celtic folklore that have long been forgotten. The artist is dedicated to honouring and preserving Portuguese cultural heritage, weaving her modern sensibility and interpretive style into the complex rhythmic and harmonic layers of these traditions. Curl won the 2025 José Afonso Award for her latest release, Pastoral (2024). More than an album, this record is a tribute to the cultural heritage of Portuguese folklore. Celebrating courage and love in difficult times, the album invites listeners and music lovers to lose themselves in and be enveloped by its pastoral atmosphere, which echoes like the voices of the mountains that surround her.

Photography: Carolina Ribeiro