Mano Alpha

Mano Alpha formed in 1981 in the Lisbon suburb of Amadora, with António Manuel Ribeiro, who went by Nuno Rebelo, as their frontman. Their early material mixed punk with reggae and ska rhythms. In 1983 they put out their first album, Vale de Espinhos, which became a touchstone for Portuguese punk.

Their lyrics often dealt directly with social inequality and political issues, which resonated with listeners but also brought them regular attention from authorities. Police would sometimes show up at their shows. The band's lineup shifted over time, with guitar, bass, and drum duties handled by various players including Pedro Pestana, Ricardo Camacho, and Nuno Bettencourt at different points.