Based between Vila Nova de Famalicão and Braga, Alison Bentley consists of Jota Pia (vocals), Nuñes (vocals), Quintela (guitar), Mário (guitar), Zé (aka Falecido Barbosa, bass), and Poupa (drums). Together, they practice an interesting and energetic old-school ’77 punk rock.
They play with the intensity of an animal and the sheer fun of children. On stage, they are exactly as they are off stage: relaxed and highly entertaining.
They immerse themselves in their sound, creating a mix of fury, rebellion, freedom, and irreverence. The result is a small, festive revolution wherever they go, be it in a small village café or the country’s best concert venue.
Alison Bentley has toured the country, participating in contests and concerts. They are loved by some and hated by others, but they have left their mark everywhere, and no one remains indifferent to them.
They are now presenting their third album of original songs, “The Disappointment of the Year” released as a Split edition with Lisbon’s Dalai Lume, following “Combo Nation Moove” (2004) and “Not Of Your Business” (2002).
The album reveals a strong, fleeting sound—a fast and explosive garage rock. It is distilled energy with enough punk attitude to send Green Day looking for a new color, the underground groove of The Hives, and a touch of ska thrown into the mix.
The press has written about them: “Ride On” could be a power play for the new rock… (Blitz 13-12-2005).
Another critique stated: “They don’t dream of making money; instead, they prefer to make plenty of good music, even if stuck in the misunderstood underground scene. They aim to grow musically with this philosophy rooted in a firm commitment to DIY (Do It Yourself)” (Público 23-01-2004).
Further praise noted: “A starting point in fierce and festive British punk and hardcore, with vague nods to the immediate developments in Grey Industrial Manchester” (Blitz); and “And because punk-rock is fast and incisive, Alison Bentley never loses sight of it. Never! They are brief minutes (as the rule dictates) of full irreverence and energy” (A Trompa 02-06-2004).
Finally, Rock Sound and Ponto Morto summed up their spirit: “This is punk-rock, but it’s not just any punk rock. It has attitude. They display their irreverent spirit with every chord, every dissonance. It matches their youth and transmits a feeling of authenticity” (Rock Sound). “They tour the country playing concerts and get very positive reviews in the major national press! And why? Combo Nation Move is one of the reasons, four fast, furious, and energetic tracks” (Ponto Morto).
