Fito y Fitipaldis

On Saturday, 24 January 2026, Valencia’s Roig Arena bore witness to one of the most electrifying performances of the year as Fito & Fitipaldis delivered a sold-out show that will be talked about for years to come. With over 16,000 fans filling the venue to capacity, the atmosphere was electric from the moment the lights dimmed and the first chords rang out.

Fito & Fitipaldis is one of Spain’s most beloved rock bands, formed in 1997 by Adolfo “Fito” Cabrales after his time with the seminal rock group Platero y Tú. Originally intended as a side project, Fito & Fitipaldis quickly carved out its own identity, blending rock and roll with blues, swing, jazz, soul, flamenco, and other influences to create a sound deeply rooted in Spanish and international musical traditions. Over the years, the band has sold millions of records and earned a Diamond certification, a testament to their enduring popularity. (Wikipedia)

Their music isn’t just technically impressive — it’s emotionally resonant. Songs that mix introspective lyrics with unforgettable melodies have become staples in the rock canon of Spain, drawing in fans from different generations who find meaning in Fito’s voice and storytelling.

This particular concert was part of their celebrated “Aullidos Tour 25/26,” which combines new material from their latest album El monte de los aullidos with the timeless classics that have defined their career. From the moment the show began with A contraluz — a stirring track from the new album — the crowd was enthralled. The stage backdrop prominently displayed Fito’s iconic silhouette: beret, glasses and guitar, a visual cue that sent waves of excitement through every corner of the arena.

Without relying on extravagant effects, the band let the music speak for itself. What followed was a masterclass in how a band with deep chemistry and impeccable musicianship can captivate an audience purely with presence and sound. Fito, alongside his tight band of six musicians, built an ebb and flow throughout the set that kept energy and emotion at peak levels. The balance between new songs and classic hits was seamless. After the powerful opening, the night traveled through beloved anthems like Por la boca vive el pez and Me equivocaría otra vez, songs that have become anthems for fans across Spain.

One of the most poignant moments came when Fito performed A Quemarropa, a deeply personal piece about the unconditional love he feels for his children — a truly emotional highlight of the evening. (roigarena.com)

The setlist was rich and varied, offering extended segments from the new album — including the brooding El monte de los aullidos, Volverá el espanto, and Cielo hermético — which were met with enthusiastic crowd reactions that rivaled those for the older classics. As the night drew to a close, the band delivered one triumphant moment after another with deep cuts and fan favorites alike: La casa por el tejado, Soldadito marinero, and even Entre dos mares — a nod to Fito’s roots in Platero y Tú, which sent waves of nostalgia through long-time fans.

The grand finale came with Antes de que cuente diez, a rousing anthem that united the entire arena in song, ending the show with thunderous applause and collective emotion. In a world where concert experiences can sometimes feel manufactured, Fito & Fitipaldis reminded everyone why live rock music still holds a sacred place in the hearts of so many. The band’s ability to connect with a diverse audience — from those who have followed them for decades to younger fans discovering their music for the first time — is nothing short of remarkable.

Valencia’s Roig Arena didn’t just witness a concert — it felt the heartbeat of an artist and band at the top of their game, celebrating their remarkable journey and writing another unforgettable chapter in their legacy.

Words and photos: Rhyan Paul