Encore! Rockhal turns 20 and hits all the right notes

Twenty years after opening its doors, Rockhal marked its milestone anniversary with a show that was as ambitious as it was emotional. Encore, staged on 24 September, brought together over 40 musicians representing every corner of Luxembourg’s music scene for a one-night celebration of the country’s creative pulse.

The concert was designed as a living timeline with a vibrant mix of nostalgia and discovery. At its centre stood a powerhouse ten-piece house band, joined throughout the evening by a revolving lineup of artists performing defining songs and reimagined versions of their hits. The 360-degree stage design placed the audience right in the middle of the action, amplifying the sense of connection between performers and fans.

Across two and a half hours, Encore captured the evolution of Luxembourg’s sound with impressive precision. The heavy riffs of Defdump and Fusion Bomb gave way to the polished melodies of Seed to Tree and the technical energy of Mutiny On The Bounty. Each handover between acts flowed seamlessly, supported by flawless production, rich sound, atmospheric lighting, and pacing that never lagged.

For anyone who has followed Luxembourg’s music story, the night overflowed with moments of recognition. Eternal Tango’s return for the finale had the crowd singing every word, while sets from Angel At My Table and Porn Queen reignited memories of the early 2000s rock wave that helped shape Rockhal’s legacy.

Musically, Encore refused to stay in one lane. Hip-hop outfit De Läb brought charisma and lyrical bite; Claire Parsons and Daniel Balthasar offered stripped-back, folk-tinged calm; and blues stalwarts Fred Barreto, Remo Cavallini, and Kid Colling turned up the heat with raw, soulful playing. It was a vivid reminder that Luxembourg’s identity - both cultural and musical - lies in its diversity.

Beyond the performances, Encore felt like a moment of validation for Luxembourg’s musicians and their community. The show didn’t just celebrate Rockhal’s history; it spotlighted the creative force that has grown around it over the last two decades.

In every way, Encore was a statement of intent,  proof that Luxembourg’s music scene is thriving, fearless, and ready for whatever comes next. If this night was any indication, the next 20 years will sound every bit as bold and unforgettable as the last.