Reflector #16: Sophia – “Portugal”

“Reflector” is series undertaken by Atlas correspondent David Soares to bring to your attention songs by non-Portuguese bands inspired — in many cases, rather mysteriously — by the westernmost European nation.

Sophia are an English indie rock band that’s been active for a quarter of a century now. They have quite a substantial deal of loyal fans around Europe, especially in Germany and the Benelux. “Portugal” closes the 2009 LP There Are No Goodbyes on a rather optimistic note in a work whose backdrop is more sombre in tone and in the personal life of singer Robin Proper-Sheppard, who happened to be here at a time he was taking stock.