Sometimes the most compelling stories emerge from the unexpected intersections of life. This one began in the days leading up to Gliding Barnacles, a unique surf-art-music festival held annually in Figueira da Foz, Portugal. It was at the Malibu Foz Hotel, renowned among festival veterans for its exceptional breakfast buffet, that I reconnected with Ambrose McNeill, a figure whose own story feels like an unfolding epic. Ambrose’s upcoming Single Fin Mingle, scheduled for March 26-29 in Sumner, New Zealand, promises to share more of his journey.
It was through Ambrose that I met Bradley Mervyn King, a New Zealander who immediately captivated me. Standing over six feet tall, sporting “swift guy shades” and long blond hair flowing from under a hat emblazoned with “HOWL” – a nod to Allen Ginsberg’s seminal poem – and a pair of jean shorts, Brad possessed a quiet confidence and a unique energy. He had a way of moving and thinking that signaled something special. I remember thinking, “This guy’s got to be good.”
Chris Dodds
As we walked the ten minutes to the ferry crossing the harbor to Praia Cabedelo, the home of Gliding Barnacles, I learned more about my new companions and caught up with Ambrose. It turned out Brad is a musician, a member of a popular Kiwi band called The Butlers. But the most astonishing revelation came when he casually mentioned his journey to Portugal. “You rode your bike here?” I asked, incredulous.
“Yeah, I rode my bike here.”
I initially assumed he meant Lisbon, but pressed further. “From where?”
“London.”
“Holy shit, for real! You must be a big cyclist then, yeah?”
He laughed. “Honestly, no. I just picked it up a couple weeks ago as a way to enjoy England without having to spend so much money in London—I was going broke.”
From Two Wheels to Indie Rock: Discovering The Butlers
It wasn’t until after the festival concluded that I truly immersed myself in The Butlers’ music, and I was immediately hooked. I found myself dancing and bobbing along to their tunes while making dinner. Describing their sound isn’t easy – perhaps indie rock is a starting point – but this four-piece band from Sumner, New Zealand, delivers lyrics and rhythms that feel genuinely original. Tracks like “Vodka’s What You’re Drinking” and “No Good Nina” are instantly engaging, while the more mystical “Leopard of Sweet Dreams” evoked a surprisingly psychedelic experience.
Their popularity in New Zealand is evident; I heard two of their songs played within a two-hour span while enjoying a drink at a bar in Auckland awaiting my flight home. The Butlers have clearly resonated with a growing audience.
If you’re looking to add some surf rock infused with jazzy poetry to your playlists, you can find The Butlers on Spotify, Apple Music, or YouTube.
Gliding Barnacles: A Celebration of Surf Culture and Creativity
The encounter with Brad and Ambrose unfolded against the backdrop of Gliding Barnacles, a non-profit event established in 2014 to showcase Figueira da Foz as a premier surfing destination, particularly for classic longboarding. Gliding Barnacles aims to connect the ocean to the city, transforming Cabedelo Beach into a hub for ocean culture, art, music, and gastronomy. The festival offers free access to surf expression sessions, a beach market, street food, and daytime concerts, though a pass is required for access to the artistic residences and nighttime concerts within the hangar and warehouse.
Attendees can reach Praia Cabedelo by cycling, taxi, Uber, or even boat. Surfboards are permitted, though surfing is not allowed during the expression sessions. Unfortunately, surfboard rentals are not available at the event.
The Allure of Sumner, New Zealand
Ambrose McNeill’s upcoming Single Fin Mingle, taking place in Sumner, New Zealand, from March 26-29, promises to build on the spirit of connection and creativity fostered at Gliding Barnacles. Sumner, a coastal suburb of Christchurch, is known for its surf breaks and laid-back atmosphere. It’s a fitting location for an event celebrating the intersection of surfing, music, and art.
The story of Bradley King, the cycling musician, and the vibrant energy of Gliding Barnacles serve as a reminder of the unexpected connections that can arise through shared passions. It’s a testament to the power of travel, music, and a willingness to embrace the unknown.
As Ambrose prepares for the Single Fin Mingle, the surfing community and music lovers alike eagerly anticipate what he and his collaborators will bring to the shores of Sumner. Further details about the event will be released in the coming weeks.
What unexpected encounters have shaped your own passions? Share your stories in the comments below.
