Redlizzard was born in Almada in 2008 and quickly established itself as one of the most consistent hard rock bands in Portugal. Their sound combines powerful riffs, catchy choruses and the attitude of classic rock, while keeping an eye on modern influences. From the very beginning, the group showed the ambition to take their music beyond borders, conquering audiences both in small venues and on large stages.
The band’s live debut took place on January 31, 2009, at Ponto de Encontro, in front of 150 people. Although modest, the concert marked the starting point for a busy schedule in Lisbon’s bars and clubs. Through band contests and festivals, Redlizzard began collecting prizes and honorable mentions, cementing a reputation for stage power.
In 2011, the band made the leap into the studio with the release of their first record, the EP In Your Face, self-released. The work served as a calling card and revealed the band’s musical identity. That same year, Redlizzard experienced one of the highlights of their career: opening for Bon Jovi at Lisbon’s Parque da Bela Vista, playing for more than 50,000 people.
Line-up changes also marked this early period. Shortly before the EP’s release, bassist David left the project, forcing adjustments. Even so, the band remained strong, proving a resilience that would become a trademark of their journey.
Their first full-length album, The Red Album, arrived in 2015. Produced by Joe Foster, linked to acts such as Primal Scream and Jesus and Mary Chain, and mixed by João Martins Sela, the record displayed a more mature and polished sound. For the band, it represented not only a creative statement but also the possibility of expanding horizons.
Shortly afterwards, another change would reshape Redlizzard’s future. Vocalist Gerson Santos joined in 2016, bringing a distinctive voice and renewed energy. With him, the band recorded The Black Album, released in 2019. The record featured the production of João Martins Sela and Nuno Espírito Santo and was mastered by American producer Beau Hill, renowned for his work with Alice Cooper and Winger.
The release of The Black Album marked a turning point, reinforcing the band’s ability to maintain their hard rock identity while experimenting with new approaches. The record brought greater media exposure and the chance to strengthen Redlizzard’s presence on major lineups.
The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 interrupted the band’s growing live activity. Away from the stage, Redlizzard revisited the past by re-recording the EP In Your Face. The 10th anniversary edition, released in November 2021, featured new vocals, re-recorded bass lines and updated mixing, proving the lasting importance of the record in the band’s identity.
In 2023, a new chapter began with the arrival of Hugo Baptista as lead vocalist. With experience in TV talent shows and gospel choirs, the singer brought not only vocal versatility but also fresh energy, marking the start of a new creative cycle.
Baptista’s arrival coincided with the release of new songs. In January 2024, the band presented the single “No One’s Life”, followed in May by “MadMachine”. Both tracks are part of The White Album, their forthcoming studio record that promises to take the band to the next artistic stage.
At the same time, Redlizzard strengthened their presence at major events. Opening for Danish rockers D-A-D at Casino Estoril was yet another demonstration that the band continues to carve out space on international lineups alongside established European rock acts.
Their discography, in addition to the debut EP and its anniversary reissue, includes the albums The Red Album (2015) and The Black Album (2019). Singles such as “Push It Babe”, “Reason to Live”, “The Answer”, “Let It Rock!”, “Shake It”, “Back Together”, “Losing Control”, and most recently “No One’s Life” and “MadMachine”, showcase the band’s evolution throughout the years.
With nearly two decades of activity, Redlizzard remains a testament to perseverance in the Portuguese music scene. Between lineup changes, external challenges and moments of glory on major stages, the band has proven that their story is far from over. The upcoming White Album may well be the record that confirms the artistic maturity of a project that has never stopped believing in the power of rock made in Portugal.
