Another night, another concert, this time it was The Wombats in Zurich.  The Wombats have been making infectious indie rock for almost two decades. Building a loyal fanbase with catchy melodies, witty lyrics and songs that somehow manage to feel both nostalgic and fresh. 

After having them on my concert bucket list for years, I finally got to see the Liverpool band live for the very first time. The show had been cancelled and postponed what felt like eight times, although I think it was actually only twice. Either way, the wait was finally over.

Before The Wombats took over the stage, support act The Paris Match kicked off the evening. The band brought plenty of energy and quickly got the crowd moving. To be honest actual “warming” anyone up was hardly necessary with the approximately 93,842,938 degrees inside X-TRA. The venue was not completely sold out, but it was getting increasingly crowded and tight, and it was clear that a lot of people had been looking forward to this show.

Concert Photos: The Paris Match

The Wombats in Zurich brought the singalongs

At 8:30 pm, The Wombats finally took the stage to a very excited crowd. From the first song, the fans were fully invested, singing along and celebrating. You could also tell that this band has been around for a while just by looking at the audience, haha. Most people seemed to be around my age or older, with a few younger fans sprinkled throughout the room.

Even though I was not particularly familiar with their music, I enjoyed the show a lot. The energy was infectious, the crowd was clearly having the best time, and the whole set felt like a proper celebration. While I may now have a small overdose from hearing guys sing about lemons, I absolutely loved seeing actual people dressed as wombats running around the stage. It added exactly the kind of wonderfully weird touch you would hope for at a Wombats concert.

The Wombats in Zurich – Concert Photos

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Another night, another concert, this time it was Don West at Montreux Jazz Festival. Some concerts have been sitting on your wishlist for a while, and Don West was definitely one of those for me. The Australian soul singer has been making waves with his warm, Motown-inspired sound, silky vocals, and timeless songwriting.

I was supposed to see him at Winterthurer Musikfestwochen last year. But he unfortunately had to cancel at the last minute. So when he was announced for the Montreux Jazz Festival, there wasn’t much to think about. Montreux is always worth the trip, and with the festival returning to the Stravinski Auditorium and Jazz Lab this year, it was also my first time experiencing the Lab.

Don West in Montreux: Soul, Style, and Stunning Vocals 

Don West took the stage at 8 pm in front of an already well-filled Jazz Lab. His set was packed with many of my favourite songs, and yes, he appeared in all of his famously muscular glory. As noticeable as that may be, it’s his music that keeps drawing me back. There’s an effortless smoothness to everything he does. His soulful voice fits those old-school Motown influences perfectly, creating a sound that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Hearing songs like Julia, Small Change, and Friends, which carried me through some difficult moments, made finally seeing him live even more special.

Don West in Montreux Delivers Smooth Soul

As is often the case in Montreux, the audience was incredibly diverse. Unfortunately, it also felt like many people weren’t particularly familiar with Don West. There was quite a bit of chatting towards the back, and the overall atmosphere never fully clicked. It probably didn’t help that he was playing right before Charlotte Cardin,. Her popularity, especially with the French-speaking crowd, made her one of the evening’s biggest draws. Their styles are worlds apart, so perhaps many were simply waiting for the next act. Anyways, I had an amazing time. After missing out last year, finally getting to see and photograph Don West felt incredibly rewarding. And I’ll happily be back the next time he returns to Switzerland.

Don West at Montreux Jazz Festival: Concert Photos

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Another night, another concert, this time it was Charlotte Cardin at Montreux Jazz Festival. Charlotte Cardin has grown into one of Canada’s most captivating pop artists, blending powerful vocals with effortless charisma. Walking into the Jazz Lab at the Montreux Jazz Festival, there was already a noticeable buzz around the venue. 

I actually first saw Charlotte back in 2017, when she briefly joined Aliocha Schneider on stage during his opening set for Curtis Harding. Back then, she came across as a shy young artist with plenty of promise. Fast forward to today, and it’s safe to say she has fully grown into that potential.

Charlotte Cardin Captivates Montreux

By the time Charlotte took the stage, the Jazz Lab was absolutely packed. It was great to see the crowd steadily fill the room throughout the evening, and unlike the more reserved reception for opener Don West, the audience was clearly there for Charlotte. From the first song, the excitement was impossible to miss. She commanded the stage with infectious energy, a confident presence, and a voice that sounded just as impressive live as it does on record. The crowd responded with cheers, singing along and soaking up every moment.

Charlotte Cardin Live at Montreux Jazz Festival

Unfortunately, my evening was cut a little short after a few songs when a light migraine started creeping in, forcing me to step outside before it got any worse. Still, I stayed around after the concert and watched fans leave the venue. Judging by the countless smiling faces and animated conversations, Charlotte Cardin had delivered exactly the kind of show they had hoped for. Even though I couldn’t experience the full set, it was clear this was one of those performances that left people walking away happy.

Charlotte Cardin at Montreux Jazz Festival: Concert Photos

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Another day, another concert. This time it was Rubén Blades in Zurich. He’s a legendary Panamanian singer, songwriter, actor, and activist who brought his unmistakable blend of salsa, jazz, and Latin rhythms to Zurich. 

Widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in Latin music, Blades has spent decades writing songs that combine irresistible dance grooves with powerful storytelling. While the show at Halle 622 wasn’t sold out, with around 1,500 people there, you would never have guessed it from the noise inside. The atmosphere felt just as loud and energetic as a packed house. 

Seeing so many older Latino fans come together was something special. Having seen Bad Bunny not too long ago and watching a younger generation of Latinos fill an entire stadium, this felt like the same incredible passion, just two generations older, and it was wonderful to witness.

Salsa Passion with Rubén Blades in Zurich

There was no opening act, and right at 8:30 pm Rubén Blades and his impressive big band took the stage. From the very first notes, the energy never dipped. The audience sang, clapped, danced, and celebrated every song with enthusiasm. Even though I only understand conversational Spanish and often lose track once lyrics start flying by, it hardly mattered. Music has a way of communicating beyond words, and salsa especially has this incredible ability to make you feel. The joy, warmth, and passion inside the room were impossible not to catch.

Smiling Faces and Full Hearts

Once I got all my photos, I found a spot at the back of the venue to simply watch the crowd. Seeing hundreds of smiling faces dancing together might have been my favourite part of the evening. There was such a genuine sense of happiness in the room that it was impossible not to smile along. Nights like these remind me why I love covering Latin concerts so much. The music speaks a universal language, and every time I get the chance to experience it live, I leave feeling grateful. It was another wonderful evening and yet another reminder that Latino music has a special place in my heart.

Rubén Blades in Zurich: Concert Photos

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Another day another concert, this time it was Kip Moore & Jackson Dean in Zurich. Country fans were in for a treat this week as Kip Moore and Jackson Dean brought their co-headline tour to X-TRA in Zurich. 

While both artists fall under the country umbrella, they each bring their own unique flavor to the stage, making for an evening that felt like two very different shows rolled into one. With temperatures inside the venue feeling almost as high as outside, fans still came early to see both acts and enjoy a night of country and rock-infused music.

Jackson Dean Wins Over Zurich Once Again

First up was Jackson Dean, a familiar face for those who have been around this site for a while. I had the chance to interview him during his last visit to Switzerland, and after already being impressed by that show, it was great to see him back on stage. His voice continues to blow me away every single time. There’s a distinctive raspiness to it, but also a soulful warmth that makes every song feel genuine. Beyond the vocals, Dean has a naturally warm presence on stage and comes across as incredibly down-to-earth. Even in the sweltering heat of X-TRA, the audience quickly connected with him, singing along and soaking up every moment. Watching his growth as a live performer has been a real pleasure, and it genuinely feels like he’s getting better with every tour.

Concert Photos Jackson Dean

Kip Moore in Zurich

When Kip Moore took over, the atmosphere shifted almost instantly. His style leans more towards the rock side of country, and you could feel that change ripple through the crowd. The energy became rougher, louder, and more intense. Not in a bad way at all, just noticeably different from the warmth Jackson Dean had brought earlier. While I personally gravitate a little more towards Dean’s style, there is no denying the passion Kip brings to the stage. Looking around the room, you could see many fans passionately belting out the lyrics and fully immersing themselves in the performance.

The show stretched on longer than many probably expected, but nobody seemed eager to leave. If anything, the crowd happily soaked up every extra minute. In the end, it was a fantastic evening filled with strong performances, great musicianship, and a perfect blend of country and rock vibes that left fans smiling long after the final notes faded away.

Kip Moore in Zurich: Concert Photos

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Another day another concert, this time it was Brad Paisley in Zurich. Very happy that country superstar Brad Paisley found his way back to Zurich this year. We were in for another evening of outstanding musicianship and feel-good country music. 

Having been lucky enough to see Brad perform several times over the years, including photographing his last show at The Hall, it was great to see him back in front of a Swiss audience once again. With country music continuing to grow in popularity across Switzerland, a sold out hybrid setup at The Hall, with both seating up on the balcony as well as on the floor (in the back of the GA area, proved there is definitely an appetite for more.

Florian Fox Opens for Brad Paisley

Before Brad Paisley took the stage, Swiss country artist Florian Fox had the job of warming up the crowd. Blending modern country with his own style of Johnny Cash vibes, he got the audience in the right mood for the evening. I was lucky enough to photograph his entire set, along with a few behind the scenes moments, making for a great start to the night.

Concert Photos: Florian Fox

Brad Paisley Found his Way back to Zurich

As soon as Brad Paisley appeared, the excitement inside The Hall was impossible to miss. Cowboy boots and hats were everywhere, and fans were ready to sing along from the very first song. The show itself felt very similar to his previous tour, which certainly wasn’t a bad thing. It was great hearing so many of my favourite songs live again, although I have to admit I was still hoping for Me Neither to make the setlist.

Brad looked like he was having just as much fun as the audience. One of the funniest moments came when he once again borrowed a fan’s phone to take a selfie on stage and post it to Instagram. Unfortunately for him, he seemed to pick the one person in the crowd without Instagram and also discovered that Samsung phones aren’t quite as intuitive for him as expected. After a bit of trial and error, and a couple more borrowed phones, he eventually managed to take several selfies, giving everyone a good laugh in the process.

The entire evening felt polished, professional and effortlessly entertaining. It may not have been full of surprises, but it delivered exactly what fans came for: great songs, incredible guitar playing and an enjoyable atmosphere. Most importantly, it was another reminder that country music is finding an ever-growing audience in Switzerland. Hopefully that means we’ll continue to see even more big names making the trip here in the years to come.

Brad Paisley in Zurich: Concert Photos 

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Another day another concert, this time it was Lakeview in Zurich. Country meets rock, boots meet headbanging. That’s probably the easiest way to describe a night with Lakeview in Zurich. The Pittsburgh duo (calling Nashville home now) has been making waves with their blend of country storytelling and heavier rock influences, which made this show a particularly exciting one for me. 

There was no support act on the bill, so everyone was ready for Lakeview to hit the stage at 8pm. Well, that was the plan. Just before showtime, things suddenly went dark. Literally. Technical issues and power problems left the venue without much of what a concert usually requires. 

Instead of getting frustrated, the crowd headed to the bar, grabbed a drink, caught up with friends, and waited it out while the venue staff and crew worked behind the scenes. Thankfully, their efforts paid off and after a short delay everything was back up and running.

Small Crowd, Big Atmosphere: Lakeview in Zurich

Once the lights came back on and the show finally got started, the duo wasted no time making up for lost minutes. While Exil wasn’t sold out, the people who showed up were clearly determined to have a good time. Throughout the set there was plenty of headbanging, singing along, and the kind of carefree energy that makes smaller club shows so much fun. The atmosphere felt relaxed and genuine, helped even further by the fact that the air conditioning also returned with the power. Suddenly surviving the evening became much easier.

What surprised me most was how present the country influences were in Lakeview’s sound. Going in, I expected the heavier side to dominate, but the country roots were woven throughout the set and gave the songs a unique character. The combination worked incredibly well live, creating a show that felt equally at home at a country festival and a rock club. Add a bunch of friends in the audience, a crowd that was fully invested, and a band clearly enjoying themselves on stage, and it turned into a really enjoyable night.

If Lakeview ever make their way back to Zurich, I’ll happily be there again. Although I might need to stop saying that about every artist I see, otherwise my calendar is going to become one very expensive and very crowded concert schedule.

Lakeview in Zurich: Concert Photos

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Another day, another concert. This time it was Canadian singer-songwriter Forest Blakk in Zurich. Known for his emotional pop songs and deeply personal lyrics, Forest has quietly built a loyal fanbase over the past few years. And honestly? Even on what felt like the hottest day ever, people were already lining up outside before doors opened.

First up was Kirstyn Johnson, sitting solo behind the piano and delivering such a lovely, intimate set. Her soft voice paired perfectly with the stripped-back setup and gave the crowd the gentlest possible landing into the evening. Sometimes all you really need is a piano, good songs, and someone who knows how to use both properly.

Concert Photos: Kristyn Johnson 

Next up was Luke Burr, who not only brought a lovely voice but also apparently discovered my camera within seconds. The man posed like a pro for me, which got quite a few laughs from the crowd and honestly made photographing his set extra entertaining. His mix of pop and heartfelt songwriting worked super well live, and by the end of his set, the room was already fully warmed up. Literally and emotionally.

Concert Photos: Luke Burr

Forest Blakk in Zurich Brought Pure Positive Energy

Then at 9:30pm, it was finally time for Forest Blakk. The room was already heated beyond reason, but the energy inside was genuinely so nice. Forest walked on stage with this incredibly positive presence that instantly spread through the venue. His smiling face was borderline addictive and you could tell from the first few songs that the crowd was really digging it. I also loved seeing such a mixed audience there. Definitely more 25+ than expected, which gave the whole night a really lovely atmosphere.

One of the funniest moments of the evening came when Forest proudly showed off his Swiss German skills. After successfully pronouncing “Chuchichäschtli” surprisingly well, he announced that his new name was now “Forest Blakk und mehreri Chuchichäschtli.” The crowd absolutely loved it. 

While I personally only knew a couple of songs beforehand (big shoutout to Steffi for putting me onto him though), it became very obvious very quickly that Forest has some seriously dedicated fans. People were singing along to almost every song and the connection between him and the audience felt super genuine throughout the entire set.

You could also tell how much fun Forest himself was having on stage, and that always makes a concert so much more enjoyable to watch. For the final song, he even stepped down into the crowd, making sure everyone in the room got a good look – even in the back.

He announced that he would come outside to meet everyone and stay for as long as it takes to make everybody happy. And honestly, as a fangirlie myself, I wish more artists and bands would do that. Obviously I know this is not always possible for many reasons, but it’s still incredibly cool to see an artist making that kind of effort for fans. You could absolutely tell that his audience loves him even more for it. So all in all, another magical night, and I genuinely cannot wait for Forest Blakk to come back.

Forest Blakk in Zurich – Concert Photos

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Another night, another concert, this time it was Chance Peña in Zurich at X-Tra. The Texas-born singer-songwriter has built a rapidly growing fanbase with his emotional folk-pop sound, raw storytelling and a voice that somehow feels both fragile and huge at the same time. 

Over the past few years, songs like “i am not who i was” and “In My Room” have turned him into one of those artists people don’t just casually listen to, but deeply connect with. Personally, I had been wanting to see him live for almost two years, so seeing that the tour finally included Zurich felt long overdue. Judging by the packed sold out venue, I clearly wasn’t the only one waiting for this moment. The atmosphere inside was already boiling before the first note even hit. Literally. It was ridiculously hot in there, but nobody seemed to care once the lights went down and the crowd started cheering. 

Adam Melchor Opens the Night in Zurich

Before Chance Peña took the stage, we got treated to a lovely opening set by Adam Melchor. The New Jersey artist brought a warm and charming energy to the room, mixing heartfelt songwriting with the kind of stage presence that instantly makes a venue feel smaller and more personal. His set was the perfect start to the evening and definitely won over quite a few new fans in the audience. 

Chance Peña in Zurich Starts With a Bang

Then it was finally time for Chance Peña in Zurich. And wow. He started the show with a bang and immediately reminded everyone why people connect so deeply with his music. That voice? Absolute chef’s kiss. Rich, emotional, and somehow even more mesmerizing live. The audience reaction was instant too. Despite the tropical temperatures inside the venue, people were fully locked in from the very first song. One thing that surprised me in the best way possible was how diverse the crowd was. Definitely older and more mixed than I expected.

A Setlist Full of Emotion and Energy

Hearing these songs live felt almost hypnotic at times. While some of Chance’s best known tracks lean softer and emotional, I really loved how the set wasn’t just slower songs but had a few uptempo songs that worked incredibly well live too, especially with the beats and rhythms echoing through the venue. My personal highlight was probably “Sleep Deprivation”, which hit extra hard considering I was running on dangerously little sleep myself.

We also got treated to unreleased gems, including “Bones”, which Chance performed to close the night. A beautiful ending that left the whole room hanging onto every last word.

By the end of the show, it became very obvious that this night meant a lot to the audience too. The applause just kept going and going, and at one point Chance himself genuinely looked a little overwhelmed by the amount of love being thrown back at him. Completely deserved, by the way. It was one of those endings where nobody really wanted to leave yet. All in all, another great evening. Sweaty? Extremely. Worth it? Absolutely. I’d go see Chance Peña again and again without hesitation.

Chance Peña in Zurich: Concert Photos

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Another night, another concert, this time it was Dermot Kennedy in Zurich, taking over Halle 622 with a sold out crowd that was more than ready for an emotional evening. After recently choosing a much more intimate route with smaller venues like X-TRA, seeing him back on a bigger stage almost felt like watching someone return home after a long walk through the woods. And clearly, people missed him. Halle 622 was packed wall to wall long before the lights even went down.

Before Dermot Kennedy stepped on stage, the lovely guys of Amble had the job of warming up the room. And they did exactly that. Their folk-inspired sound fit the mood of the evening perfectly, somewhere between comforting pub-session warmth and storytelling under rainy skies. Absolutely lovely bunch with genuinely great songs. I’ll definitely be back if they return to Switzerland as headliners one day. By the time their set ended, the audience was fully locked in and the venue itself had turned properly toasty too.

Concert Photos: Amble

Dermot Kennedy in Zurich Felt Like a Forest Dream

The moment the “curtain dropped”, the stage design instantly stood out. Dermot Kennedy brought the world of his new album The Weight of the Woods directly into Halle 622. The entire setup looked like a cozy little forest tucked away somewhere deep in the mountains. Warm lights, earthy tones, bushes surrounding the different levels of the stage. Honestly, the only thing missing was a campfire and someone handing out marshmallows in the pit. It felt intimate despite the size of the venue, which is not an easy thing to pull off.

Dermot Balanced New Songs and Old Favorites

The setlist leaned heavily into the newer material, but surprisingly, those songs worked incredibly well live. Sometimes fresh tracks can slow down the energy of a show, but here they blended naturally into the atmosphere he created. Of course, the older favorites still had their moment too. Outnumbered arriving as song number three genuinely caught me off guard, but hearing the entire crowd instantly sing along reminded everyone why these songs connected with so many people in the first place. It was also nice spotting a few familiar faces in the front row again, tiny little full-circle moments that always make concerts feel special.

Respect for the artist and his art!

One thing that really stood out throughout the night was how respectful the audience was. There was barely any talking, even during the quietest and most fragile moments of the set. You could actually hear the silence between the songs, which somehow made the emotional moments hit even harder. And honestly, I have to say it: Dermot Kennedy keeps getting better with every show I see. I’ve always loved his songwriting and his voice, but years ago at that very first show in Papiersaal, I wasn’t completely convinced by his stage presence yet. Since then, he has come a very long way. These days his performances feel far more natural, grounded, and confident. All in all, this was simply a great evening. Brilliant songs, a genuinely lovely crowd, and a show that felt warm from start to finish. I’ll definitely be back.

Dermot Kennedy in Zurich: Concert Photos

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Another day, another concert—this time with Italian singer Max Pezzali a Zurigo in  Hallenstadion. For anyone unfamiliar, Pezzali is a staple of Italian pop culture, first rising to fame with his band 883 before building a solo career packed with nostalgic, story-driven songs. And judging by the crowd, the Italians were very much back in Zurich.

There was no support act, no slow build-up. Just a steady hum in the arena as fans gathered, greeting each other like it was a reunion rather than a concert. Fellow photographers had warned me beforehand that this would be a 99% Italian audience, and they weren’t exaggerating. Compared to the broader international pull of artists like Eros Ramazzotti or Laura Pausini, this felt like a tightly knit community night. And even without speaking Italian beyond menu items, I found myself completely drawn in. The Hallenstadion wasn’t fully sold out, with some empty seats and plenty of space in general admission, but that only gave people more room to dance.

Max Pezzali in Zurich: A Night Built on Memories

Once Pezzali hit the stage, the atmosphere shifted from casual chatter to full-on emotional release. The audience was in an incredible mood, soaking up every moment. You could feel the anticipation bubbling into joy, especially knowing that for many in the room, Max Pezzali was more than just an artist. He was part of their childhood soundtrack. Friends told me his songs aren’t just about love, but about everyday life, friendships, and growing up. That relatability echoed through the arena as people sang along like they were flipping through old photo albums.

Pure Nostalgia at Hallenstadion

Even though I only recognized “Una canzone d’amore,” it didn’t matter. Watching thousands of people sing, dance, and relive memories created a kind of universal language. It was less about understanding the lyrics and more about feeling them ripple through the crowd. There was something refreshing about it. No overthinking, no barriers, just pure connection. And once again, it proved a simple truth: Italians know how to turn a concert into a celebration. I’d happily step back into that atmosphere anytime.

Max Pezzali a Zurigo – Concert Photos

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Another year, another Montreux Jazz Festival 2026! The MJF has officially unveiled its 2026 lineup, and once again, it proves why this lakeside gem remains one of the most essential stops on the global music calendar. Whether you come for the legends, the discoveries, or simply the atmosphere, MJF is always worth a visit.

This year feels particularly special. After two years of renovations, the festival returns to its iconic indoor home, the Auditorium Stravinski. There’s something almost poetic about it. A space that has held decades of musical history is reopening its doors just in time for an anniversary edition. 

And what a soundtrack for that feeling. The 2026 lineup stretches effortlessly across genres and generations. From the timeless presence of Sting, Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, and Deep Purple to contemporary heavyweights like PinkPantheress and Tyla, the programming feels both rooted and forward-looking. Add names like John Legend, Dermot Kennedy, Lewis Capaldi, and Vulfpeck into the mix, and you get a lineup that invites you to wander, discover, and stay longer than planned.

That’s the magic of Montreux. You might arrive for one artist and leave with ten new favorites.

Personal Faves for Montreux Jazz Festival 2026

No surprise here: RAYE! 

Because, she’s just an absolute icon! Go check out my last coverages of her in Switzerland: RAYE at Montreux Jazz Festival

Don West
Who should have performed at Winterthurer Musikfestwochen last year, but had to cancel on very short notice due to health issues. 

Nectar Woode
Would love to be able to be there that night. Sadly, other responsibilities have come up (uuugh adulting is hard sometimes). 

It’s hard not to feel excited about this one. There’s something about Montreux that keeps calling you back, and I’m already hoping to be there again this summer, camera in hand, ready to capture whatever moments unfold between stage lights and lake reflections.

One thing is certain: Montreux in July isn’t just a festival. It’s a ritual.

Montreux Jazz Festival Full Line-Up

Find the full line-up and ticket links here: Montreux Jazz Festival Line-Up

Dates: July 3rd – 18th 2026
Location: Montreux, Switzerland
Tickets: Montreux Jazz Festival on Ticketcorner 

Free program at Montreux Jazz Festival 2026

Away from the big shows, the Montreux Jazz Festival really comes alive in the spaces you don’t need a ticket for. The whole town turns into a stage, where you can wander into a set by an artist you’ve never heard of and walk out a fan.

And it’s not just a couple of extras thrown in. We’re talking pool parties that blur into sunset, silent discos glowing under the night sky, lakeside concerts, jam sessions that feel completely unplanned, hands-on workshops, and electronic sets that stretch deep into the night. In past editions, up to 250 free events have filled the schedule from midday all the way to 5am, making it almost impossible not to find something happening.

All of this unfolds in some of Montreux’s most beautiful spots, giving the festival its signature open, easygoing energy. It’s where new artists get their moment, established names show a different side, and the crowd becomes part of the experience rather than just watching it.

The free programme for 2026 is still under wraps for now, but as soon as it’s announced, you’ll find all the updates right here.

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Another day, another concert, this time it’s LEAP in St. Gallen at Grabenhalle. My first ever concert at this venue too. LEAP, the UK indie rock band that’s been steadily building a loyal following, have a way of turning rooms into something much bigger than the venue itself. 

Walking in, it felt less like a regular gig and more like stepping into a pressure cooker of anticipation… and actual heat. It honestly felt like 30 degrees inside before anyone even touched a microphone.

Back in 2024, I went to my first LEAP show not knowing what to expect and very close to cancelling. Bad mood, low expectations. That night flipped everything. The catchy hooks, their relentless energy, and the way they genuinely connect with fans completely won me over. Fast forward to now, St. Gallen marked my third show, and at this point it’s safe to say I’ll be back for a fourth without hesitation.

Opening the night was Hana Lili, bringing her dreamy indie-pop sound to an already overheated crowd. Warm-up almost felt unnecessary, but she still managed to elevate the atmosphere even further. Her set was effortlessly cool, and the highlight came when she opened a girls-only mosh pit, a moment that felt both chaotic and wholesome at the same time. 

Concert Photos: Hana Lili

LEAP in St. Gallen: Fire Show and Mosh Pits

By 9 PM, it was time for LEAP, and the energy shot through the ceiling instantly. If there’s one thing this band does consistently, it’s maintaining a high from start to finish. No dips, no breathers. What stood out this time was the crowd. Compared to earlier shows, the audience has evolved into something beautifully mixed. What once leaned younger now feels like a shared space across generations, and it adds a whole new layer to the experience.

It’s still wild to think they only dropped their debut album Entropy last year. The songs already feel like established anthems, each one landing with confidence and punch. With a bigger stage this time, the band had more room to move, jump, and connect. And they used every inch of it. Mosh pits kept breaking out, sometimes even joined by the band themselves, blurring that line between performer and crowd in the best way possible.

I dragged my friend Rahel along, someone who lives firmly in chill singer-songwriter territory, and even she walked out completely blown away. That probably says everything you need to know. Also, a quick shoutout to the tour photographer, right in the middle of the chaos and in the mosh pits, dodging flying limbs and risking their gear like a true hero.

All in all, another unforgettable night. LEAP aren’t just a band you listen to, they’re a band you experience. If you get the chance to catch them on this tour, take it. No hesitation.

LEAP in St. Gallen – Concert Photos 

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Another night, another concert, this time it was The Neighbourhood in Zurich, a band that has quietly (or not so quietly) built a massive global following with their moody, alternative sound and aesthetic. What started as a show announced for the more intimate The Hall quickly snowballed into something much bigger. The show was upgraded to the iconic Hallenstadion, which also completely sold out.

Before the main act, the crowd was treated to two support acts that set the tone perfectly. Noise Dept is a solo project from a multi-instrumentalist and producer closely connected to The Neighbourhood, having previously contributed background vocals to the band. Now also stepping into the spotlight as a special guest on their 2026 tour.

Blending emotional electronic music with soulful vocals, Noise Dept creates a sound that feels intimate yet atmospheric. And in a full-circle moment, he later returned to the stage with The Neighbourhood that same night, reconnecting the project with the band in front of a roaring crowd.

Noise Dept. – Concert Photos

Next came Night Tapes, a dreamy indie trio whose atmospheric soundscapes floated through the venue. The singer, in particular, carried a magnetic presence, effortlessly warming up the audience and raising the anticipation level with every track.

Night Tapes – Concert Photos

The Neighbourhood in Zurich – A Sold-Out Spectacle

By 9pm, it was time. And while I was slightly surprised by how young the crowd was, probably 90% late teens to early twenties, there was zero surprise when the first note hit and the arena erupted. The screaming was instant and deafening. From that moment on, the energy stayed sky-high. Every song felt like a shared experience, with thousands of voices singing along word for word. It was less a concert, more a collective release of excitement that had clearly been building for months.

Aesthetic, Atmosphere, and Fan Energy

The stage setup itself was minimal. A large screen in the background, nothing overly complicated. But honestly, it didn’t need more. The lighting, visuals, and clean camera angles created a polished look that worked perfectly. What stood out even more was the crowd itself. Fans had been lining up for hours, dressed in a clear aesthetic uniform of black boots, short skirts, and alternative, slightly goth-inspired outfits. The venue buzzed with happy, loud energy. Even from the sidelines after shooting, it was impossible not to smile watching fans completely lose themselves in every moment.

The Neighbourhood in Zurich – Hype vs Reality

I have to admit, the full scale of The Neighbourhood’s popularity caught me off guard. I knew the band, of course, but not like this. A sold-out Hallenstadion, fans screaming every lyric, and an atmosphere that felt almost electric. Jesse Rutherford’s stage presence definitely played a role too, and when he ditched his shirt a few songs in, the reaction from the crowd was… predictable, let’s say. While the hype didn’t fully transfer to me personally, I couldn’t deny the experience. The excitement, the passion, the pure joy in that room made it a great night. Even if I still don’t fully get the hype, I can absolutely respect it.

The Neighbourhood in Zurich – Concert Photos

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CA7RIEL & Paco Amoroso are bringing their explosive FREE SPIRITS WORLD TOUR to Zurich! After seeing them live at the Baloise Session last year, I already know this show is going to be absolute insanity in the best possible way.

The energy they brought to the stage in Basel completely blew me away. From the first beat until the last chaotic dance break, the entire room felt so energized. Their live performance somehow balances flawless musicianship with total unpredictability, like a punk show, rave, jazz concert, and internet meme colliding into one beautifully unhinged spectacle.

With viral moments like their NPR Tiny Desk performance, acclaimed releases such as BAÑO MARÍA and PAPOTA, and a rapidly growing global fanbase, CA7RIEL & Paco Amoroso continue to push Latin music into wildly exciting territory. Their genre-hopping sound blends trap, funk, rock, jazz, and experimental pop into something that feels entirely their own.

All Details about CA7RIEL & Paco Amoroso in Zurich

📍 Venue: Halle 622
📅 Date: Monday, 21 September 2026
🎟️ Tickets: Available via Ticketmaster

Expect booming bass, surreal visuals, nonstop movement, and one of those concerts where you leave the venue wondering what on earth just happened. In the best way possible. 

The post Concert Tipp: CA7RIEL & Paco Amoroso in Zurich at Halle 622, 21.09.2026 appeared first on Loads of Music - Blog from Switzerland.