Black Bombaim and Isaiah Mitchell turn Lovers & Lollypops into a psychedelic trip
words & photos: Ricardo Silva
Lovers & Lollypops in Porto welcomed Black Bombaim and Isaiah Mitchell on a Thursday afternoon, for a performance that brought together Portuguese psychedelic rock and the expansive guitar work of the Earthless guitarist. The venue was nearly sold out, an impressive turnout for a Thursday afternoon and a clear sign of the interest surrounding this collaboration.
The atmosphere quickly developed into one of collective immersion, with the musicians establishing a remarkable connection throughout the performance. The interaction between Black Bombaim’s driving rhythms and Mitchell’s exploratory guitar work created extended psychedelic passages that held the audience’s attention. The response was one of complete surrender, as a phenomenal performance unfolded into an almost ecstatic musical experience.
The partnership dates back to their encounter at the Milhões de Festa festival a decade ago. Reunited in 2025, the musicians recorded Live in Porto during a performance at Lovers & Lollypops on May 23rd, capturing the second concert of their collaboration. The album documents an approach built around improvisation, extended instrumental passages and the interplay between Black Bombaim’s heavy, groove-driven foundations and Mitchell’s exploratory guitar work.
Rather than relying on conventional song structures, the project gives the musicians room to develop ideas collectively, moving between stoner rock weight and expansive psychedelic passages. The result reflects the shared musical language of artists whose work consistently prioritises spontaneity and experimentation.
The Porto concert also marked the beginning of a short run of dates together. Black Bombaim and Isaiah Mitchell performed at NAAM in Barroselas, and Le Guess Who? 2026 in Utrecht. The festival celebrates its 20th anniversary this year and is known for its eclectic programme and focus on adventurous music from across the international scene.
With a near-capacity audience gathered on a Thursday afternoon, the Lovers & Lollypops show demonstrated the enduring appeal of this meeting of musicians. More than a showcase of psychedelic rock, it was a compelling demonstration of what can emerge when improvisation, musical chemistry and an attentive audience converge.
