Portland

Portland has grown into one of the most beloved indie bands in Belgium in recent years. The band was formed around frontman Jente Pironet at PXL Music and since then Portland has been conquering hearts with their melancholic songs, grand soundscapes, and intense live performances. With albums like Your Colours Will Stain (2019) and Departures (2023), the band made their definitive breakthrough. The appearances at festivals like Rock Werchter and Pukkelpop were the logical next step. But 2023 also became a particularly difficult year. Pironet was diagnosed with a brain tumor and fought an intense battle against cancer — a fight that is still part of his life. Yet 2024 brought light again. Portland won the MIA Awards for ‘Alternative’ and returned stronger than ever to sold-out venues. That whole rollercoaster resonates on the new album Champain (2025). The record shows the scars of the past years, but just as much the urge to keep moving forward. The result is an honest, intense, and hopeful album about falling and getting back up and about a band that keeps growing. And you can hear it: Portland sounds more powerful, richer, and more lived-in today than ever before. Enjoy during Pukema on Sunday!