Freddie Portelli, Lady Lizard and the 'Gig Għal Gżira'

Freddie Portelli’s Rare Vinyl Auctioned for Charity

photo: Anthony D'Amato Records

In a unique celebration of Maltese music and generosity, D’Amato Records has announced the auction of a rare test pressing of L-Aqwa Suċċessi, the new vinyl release by legendary artist Freddie Portelli. The auction is being held in aid of the children’s cancer support foundation, Puttinu Cares.

Test pressing #1, signed by Portelli himself, is now open for bids, with all proceeds going directly to the charity. Interested supporters are encouraged to submit their offers by email to info@puttinucares.org.

“This is more than just a record – it’s a piece of Maltese cultural history,” said a spokesperson from D’Amato Records. “Only five copies of this vinyl were produced, and every single one is signed by Freddie. We’re proud to be using this moment to support such an important cause.”

The vinyl compilation, L-Aqwa Suċċessi, brings together some of Portelli’s most beloved hits, including the anthemic “Viva Malta” and the enduring favorite “Mur Ħallini.” The release is being hailed as a must-have collector’s item for fans of the iconic Maltese singer-songwriter.

Freddie Portelli, whose music has shaped generations, expressed his support for the initiative. “I’m honored to be part of something that not only celebrates Maltese music but also helps children and families who truly need it,” he said.

The auction marks a meaningful intersection of music and charity, offering fans a rare opportunity to own a unique piece of local music history while contributing to a vital cause.

Lady Lizard Announce Limited Edition Cassette Drop on May 17

Malta’s underground sludge punk force Lady Lizard are set to unleash a limited edition cassette release that promises to bring raw, heavy distortion straight into the hands of the boldest fans. With only 50 copies being produced, the cassette will launch exclusively at Storeroom, one of Malta’s key alternative venues, on May 17.

“This tape is absolutely filthy,” the band said in a statement. “It’s our first-ever cassette release and we wanted to make it count — ugly, heavy, and full of fuzz.”

The cassette features two tracks: the crushing “Bloat Drone”, already a cult hit among their fanbase, and a previously unheard slab of sludge titled “Swallowed by the Swamp”, described by the band as “an unreleased sonic sludge storm.”

“There’s no digital release, no streaming — this is a one-time physical drop,” said a representative for Lady Lizard. “Once these 50 tapes are gone, they’re gone. First come, first crushed.”

Fans attending the launch event at Storeroom on May 17 will also get a chance to check out brand new merch, available for the first time on the night. Entry is expected to be packed with die-hard followers eager to get their hands on one of the limited cassettes — and feel the full force of Lady Lizard’s signature swampy sound.

“This is about keeping it raw and real,” the band added. “We’re inviting everyone to roll up, grab a copy, and feel the swamp rise.”

‘Gig Għal Gżira’ at Storeroom to Raise Funds for Manoel Island National Park Campaign

Music, activism, and community will collide this month at ‘Gig Għal Gżira – Manoel Island Post Għalina’, a one-night fundraising concert held at Storeroom in Ta’ Xbiex on Sunday, May 18, aimed at reigniting public attention on the future of Manoel Island.

Organised by the grassroots movement Manoel Island Post Għalina, the event will feature performances by three of Malta’s beloved alternative acts: Eyes to Argus, Karmaġenn (solo), and Marie Claire — all of whom are offering their talents voluntarily in support of the campaign.

“This isn’t just a gig — it’s a call to action,” said a campaign spokesperson. “The current concession on Manoel Island is under renegotiation, and we believe this is the right moment to push for a different vision: one that serves the public, not private developers.”

The Manoel Island Post Għalina campaign is calling for the transformation of the island into a national park, instead of the originally proposed private luxury development. The renegotiation of the concession between the Maltese government and MIDI plc has reopened the door for meaningful public input.

“All proceeds from this event will go directly back into the campaign,” organisers confirmed. “This includes materials, outreach, and legal efforts — all essential to making sure the people’s voice is heard.”

Tickets for the event are priced at €10 and can be purchased through Fienta. Entry is open to all, with the first notes kicking off around 9 PM.

Storeroom, a familiar space to fans of Malta’s alternative music scene, has long supported grassroots movements. “It’s an honour to once again host musicians and audiences united by a common cause,” said a venue representative. “This is what community spaces are for.”

For more information about the campaign and how to support, visit www.manoelislandcampaign.com.