Behind-the-Scenes Look at Portishead’s Rare Reunion for Together For Palestine

Get an exclusive glimpse of Portishead’s heartfelt reunion performance supporting Palestine at the Together For Palestine event.

A Long-Awaited Return for a Powerful Cause

Few moments in music feel as electrifying as when an iconic band comes together again for a cause that matters. Portishead, the trip-hop legends whose haunting soundscapes defined the 90s, recently shared an intimate behind-the-scenes peek of their special reunion performance recorded for the Together For Palestine concert. Even though they couldn’t attend the event in person, the band’s powerful gesture resonates deeply with fans and advocates alike.

Portishead on stage during their 2015 live show.

The Story Behind the Performance

On September 17th, the iconic OVO Arena Wembley played host to Together For Palestine, an event spearheaded by Brian Eno, bringing together an eclectic lineup of artists including Damon Albarn, Hot Chip, Jamie xx, Sampha, Bastille, Paloma Faith, and many more. Portishead’s addition to the lineup was a thrilling surprise, especially since the band confirmed they wouldn’t perform live at the venue.

Instead, they crafted a one-off recorded performance of their 1994 classic “Roads,” accompanied by a string quartet, which was projected on the big screens during the concert. This unique setup allowed the band to lend their strength to such an urgent cause despite logistical challenges.

Geoff Barrow, Portishead’s instrumentalist and producer, shared on Instagram:

“Yesterday we went to the Brilliant @cubemicroplex and filmed a live song for the up and coming ‘Together for Palestine’ concert. We can’t be there in the day but we desperately wanted to be involved to put our voice to help end the Ongoing Genocide that is taking place right now.”

Fans were treated to photos of Barrow, Beth Gibbons, and Adrian Utley on stage, joined by the lush string quartet, capturing the intimate and emotional atmosphere of the session.

A Glimpse of Portishead’s Reunion

The rare reunion of Portishead, even if for a single song, is a momentous event in itself. Fans of the band, who have waited years for any sign of new activity, felt a wave of nostalgia mixed with admiration for the band’s commitment to social issues.

The photos shared reveal the trio’s focused intensity and the haunting beauty of their collaboration with the string players—an arrangement that transformed the familiar trip-hop vibe of “Roads” into something even more transcendent and poignant.

Standing in Solidarity Through Music

Portishead didn’t just perform; they issued a powerful statement alongside their participation:

“We are incredibly honoured to stand in solidarity with Palestine and be part of this crucial event. The genocide must stop.”

Their words, simple yet profound, echoed the purpose of the concert, which also featured artists like Cat Burns, Greentea Peng, James Blake, King Krule, Mabel, Obongjayar, Celeste, and Rina Sawayama, alongside Palestinian musicians such as Adnan Joubran and Elyanna. Even actors Benedict Cumberbatch, Guy Pearce, and Jameela Jamil lent their presence, highlighting the event’s cross-disciplinary importance.

The Musical Legacy of Portishead

For longtime fans, this performance is a bittersweet reminder of Portishead’s influential yet sporadic live appearances. Their last live show was in Bristol in 2022—a one-off concert for War Child UK, marking their first performance in seven years. That setlist was a beautiful dive into their signature tracks like “Mysterons,” “Wandering Star,” “Roads,” “Magic Doors,” and “The Rip.” Their last studio album, Third (2008), remains a timeless piece of trip-hop mastery.

Since then, Beth Gibbons has been exploring her solo career, releasing her debut solo album Lives Outgrown in 2024 to critical acclaim. The album’s atmospheric weight and emotional depth showcase her vocal prowess, earning it four stars from critics. Gibbons’ North American solo tour and appearances at major festivals like Glastonbury this summer have kept her in the spotlight, even as Portishead’s group activities remain rare.

Meanwhile, Geoff Barrow departed from his other band Beak> in 2023 after nearly 16 years, signaling a new chapter in his musical journey. Despite these changes, the spirit of Portishead remains alive and relevant, especially when they reunite for moments as meaningful as Together For Palestine.

A Concert of Unity and Awareness

The Together For Palestine event was more than just a concert — it was a gathering of voices united for justice. The presence of artists across genres and disciplines, including broadcasters Amelia Dimoldenberg and Louis Theroux, alongside Holocaust survivor Stephen Kapos, reinforced the event’s weight and solidarity.

Tickets for this emotive event sold fast, but echoes of the powerful performances and messages shared will surely linger in the hearts of those who watched.

Wrapping Up the Resonance of Portishead’s Reunion

It’s rare to see Portishead come together like this, especially for a cause that transcends music and touches on global human rights. Their choice to support Palestine with their haunting sound and heartfelt words adds a profound layer to their legacy.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to their music, this rare reunion is a reminder of how art and activism can intersect beautifully, sparking awareness and compassion.

FAQ

• How did Portishead participate in Together For Palestine without being there live?
  Portishead recorded a special performance of their song “Roads” with a string quartet, which was shown on big screens at the event.
• Who are the members of Portishead featured in this performance?
  The group comprises Geoff Barrow, Beth Gibbons, and Adrian Utley.
• When was Portishead’s last live performance before this event?
  Their last live show was a 2022 one-off performance in Bristol for War Child UK.
• What is the significance of the song “Roads”?
  “Roads” is one of Portishead’s most iconic tracks from their debut album, embodying their signature melancholic trip-hop sound.
• Are there other notable artists involved in the Together For Palestine event?
  Yes, the event featured a diverse lineup including Brian Eno, Damon Albarn, James Blake, Rina Sawayama, and Palestinian artists, alongside actors and broadcasters.

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