Concert Review: The Mallett Brothers Band at Madrid's in Portland, ME

Listening to music is one thing. Being part of a live concert is an incredible experience. Combining the venue's atmosphere, performance details, and personal reactions, the experience is truly unique. This is why attending a live music concert is so fun and exciting.

On July 11, 2026, I went to Portland, Maine, to capture photos of The Mallett Brothers Band, with special guest Eastbound Jesus.

They performed at Live at Madrid's, a new venue featuring exposed brick walls, excellent lighting and sound, and a friendly crowd devoted entirely to live music. The opening act, Eastbound Jesus, set the tone with captivating melodies and an energetic stage presence, drawing the audience into a warm and intimate atmosphere.

Composed of Dave Wright (bass, vocals), Zack Infante (lap steel, guitar, mandolin, vocals), Andrew Lynch (electric guitar), Carl Anderson (drums, vocals), Luke Anderson (banjo, vocals), and Adam Brockway (acoustic guitar, vocals), Eastbound Jesus is an Americana, bluegrass, and northern rock band from Greenwich, New York.

At Live at Madrid's, the group's stage presence and musical execution combined to create a terrific set that exceeded audience expectations.

At 9:30 p.m., The Mallett Brothers Band, the evening's headliner, took the stage. An independent country rock band from Maine, the group blends bluegrass and rock music into a unique and distinctive sound.

Formed in 2009, the band is led by brothers Luke Mallett (vocals, guitar) and Will Mallett (electric and acoustic guitar, harmonica, vocals). They were joined by Nick Leen (bass), Andrew Martelle (fiddle, synth, backing vocals), and Brian Higgins (drums, percussion, backing vocals).

Fueled by searing guitar solos, powerful rhythms, and strong lead vocals, The Mallett Brothers Band created an atmosphere of joy and excitement for their audience in Portland. Some of their most popular songs, including Low Down, Walk Down the River, and Vive L'Acadie, were performed during the evening. Having been together for more than 15 years, the band continues to impress audiences with its musicianship and energy.

Luke Mallett once described the group as "a rock band with a fiddle." Their performance at Live at Madrid's demonstrated once again why they are considered one of the premier bluegrass and rock bands in New England.