“It’s time to love ourselves well” is the title of a song by Rocío Saiz and it could well represent one of the conclusions drawn by the audience on Friday, during the first day of free concerts featuring parades at the Lanzarote festival.
A Warm Welcome
The heat and haze set a challenging tone for the initial concert route of this popular Lanzarote festival. The Madrid-based artist, Rocío Saiz, thanked the audience multiple times for their presence at Islote de Fermina, emphasising the importance of accessible culture for everyone.
A Celebration of Diversity
The marine group Los Buches made their debut at Arrecife en Vivo, crossing the bridge that connects the islet to the Parque Islas Canarias in a parade showcasing LGBTQ+ flags and the festival’s commitment to equality and diversity. It’s worth noting that the previous day, the event ‘For a Diverse and Dissident Culture’ filled the Mirador hall at the Islet.
Surprising Performances
Tenerife artist Jela was waiting at Parque Islas Canarias to thrill the audience with rap bars while singing work by Mercedes Sosa. After singing powerful lines from the hip-hop repertoire of the Chicharrero artist—“I alone hold the key to my temple”—the audience joined in, following the beats of the drums and güiras from the batucada Villa Pipol.
A Galician Debut
Next up was Triángulo de Amor Bizarro at Marina Lanzarote. This was the Galician band’s first performance on the island. The trio promised a repertoire that would “blow the audience away,” and they delivered. One hour of frenetic live punk rock, rapid tempo changes, and socially charged tracks like the iconic “Robo tu tiempo.”
A Total Art Experience
At the cruise terminal, Zahara showcased her latest work, Lento Ternura, in a total art exhibition. Accompanied on stage by Martí Perarnau, Manuel Cabezalí, and Xavi Molero, Zahara utilised her voice and movement, accompanied by imagery on screen, choreography, and props like life jackets and polystyrene elements to explore one of her most conceptual and daring albums. The artist reiterated her love for Lanzarote and her fascination with its volcanoes, expressing a desire to “learn much more.”
Electro-Folk Fusion
Next, La Gore, an artist from Utrera, electrified the Muelle with an explosive blend of electro-folk. Flamenco, breakbeat, and synthesizers exemplified the festival’s commitment to fusion.
A Dance-Filled Finale
Finally, the duo of Laiv and Ant Cosmos closed the night with a set that had everyone dancing, bringing an end to this first day of free concerts. The next event will take place on Friday, 26th September, featuring the Canarians Ella La Rabia (18:00, Islote de Fermina), Le Mur (19:30, Parque Islas Canarias), Les Green (21:00, Marina Lanzarote), Fun Lovin’ Criminals, Iseo & Dodosound, and DJ Beat Creator (from 22:30, Muelle de Cruceros). Rockalean will connect the stages with a notably rock-themed parade. Entry will be free, except at the Muelle, where only those over 18 will be admitted.
