Non Talkers are a Portuguese–Belgian pop-folk duo known for their cinematic sound and heartfelt harmonies. Formed by Marco and Evita Brantner in 2019, their music blends emotion, storytelling, and acoustic warmth. With one album, one EP, and several singles, the duo has performed across Europe and continues to captivate audiences with their Weight of Doubt tour and upcoming releases.
Introduce us to the band! What are your names and what do you do in the band?
Where do you call home?
We’re Non Talkers, a Portuguese–Belgian pop-folk duo formed by Marco and Evita Brantner. Marco is the main songwriter, guitarist, and producer, while Evita is the lead vocalist and co-writer. We’re based in Caminha, Viana do Castelo, a beautiful coastal town in northern Portugal that we proudly call home.
- How long have you been together as a band and how did you find each other?
We started making music together around 2014. We’re also married, so it all began quite naturally, Marco was already making music when he heard Evita singing for fun one day, and he instantly knew her voice had something special. That was the start of Non Talkers.
- Do you have a special songwriting recipe you follow?
Not really a recipe, but we always start from emotion. Sometimes it’s a lyric, sometimes a melody or even a simple feeling that needs to come out. Marco usually starts the structure on guitar or piano, and then Evita adds harmonies and emotional depth, that’s when it becomes truly ours.
- How would members of your family describe your music to someone that hasn’t heard it?
They’d probably say it’s emotional, melodic, and sincere. Our families often describe our music as something that makes people feel, even if they don’t understand every word.
- What do you have on your(Spotify) playlists you would be embarrassed for others to see?
Probably Aqua! We both have a soft spot for some unapologetic pop from the 90s. Sometimes you just need something fun and nostalgic to lighten the mood.
- Do you have any pre-show rituals?
Not really, we don’t have any specific ritual before going on stage. We just try to stay relaxed, focused, and enjoy the moment as it comes. Every show has its own energy, and we like to go with the flow.
- Who have you met that has left you starstruck?
A few years ago, when we performed at Festival Vilar de Mouros in Portugal, the headliners that night were Simple Minds. After our show, we were still a bit euphoric and distracted when Evita crossed paths with a man who said, “Congratulations, you have an amazing voice.” She quickly thanked him and kept walking, still caught up in the excitement of the moment.
A few minutes later, she realized it had been Jim Kerr, the lead singer of Simple Minds! She felt a little embarrassed for not giving him more attention, but at the same time deeply touched by his humility. So here’s the official apology and thank-you, it’s truly inspiring to see when great artists carry themselves with kindness and take the time to encourage the next generation.
- What do you consider your greatest achievement as far as a band?
Definitely the start of our Weight of Doubt tour in Portugal. The connection with the audience was unforgettable, emotional, real, and deeply motivating. It reminded us exactly why we do this.
- What key elements do you believe makes up a successful song?
Honesty, emotion, and simplicity. If a song feels true and makes someone feel something, then it’s already successful.
* When writing, how do you know when it is finally done?
When it gives us that feeling of peace, when we listen and feel that nothing else needs to be added or taken away. It’s not about perfection, it’s about emotional balance.
* What song of yours are you most proud of?
It’s impossible to choose just one. Every song tells something honest about who we are or how we see the world, and each one has its own place in our hearts. We’re genuinely proud of all the music we create, and as our repertoire keeps growing, it’s becoming harder and harder to decide which songs to leave out of our live shows.
* Is it possible to be on the road and not eat junk food? How do you keep it leveled out?
We try our best! Touring can be unpredictable, but we always look for small local places to eat proper meals. Balance is key, a little bit of junk food now and then is fine, but good food keeps the energy up.
* Are you able to write while on the road or do you need a calm familiar space like home?
We tend to write more at home, where we can take our time and dive deep into the creative process. But being on the road gives us a lot of inspiration, we take notes, record small ideas, and let the experiences shape future songs.
* What’s the most embarrassing thing to happen on stage or on tour?
Once, during a performance, Marco stood up in the middle of a song and Evita moved his stool out of the way to give him more space. He didn’t notice, and when he went to sit back down, he completely missed it and fell flat on the floor! Everyone laughed, and he finished the song lying there, luckily, only his pride was hurt.
* What can BleachBANGS do to help you in any way?
Just sharing our music and story with more people is already an amazing help. Every bit of exposure helps independent artists like us grow and reach new listeners.
* How can everyone keep up with everything you have going on? Where can they get albums/merch?
You can find us on all major streaming platforms: Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, and Deezer.
Our website nontalkers.com has everything: news, merch, tour dates, and more. You can also follow us on social media under Non Talkers (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok).
