Blackout by Loko is a night pub focused on loud afro house and Cape Verdean music, built for dancing, not talking. It isn’t a hybrid bar — it’s pure party. If sound bothers you, skip it. If it moves you, you’ll get it.
When volume isn’t a mistake, it’s the idea
There are places where the music is loud “by accident”. And then there’s Blackout by Loko, where volume isn’t a technical flaw, but a statement of intent. Music here isn’t meant for chatting or holding eye contact over a drink. It’s meant to move.
If you walk in expecting conversation, you’re in the wrong place. And you’ll realise it fast.
What it really is, without apologising
Blackout by Loko is a dance-oriented night pub, with Cape Verdean music and afro house played loud — very loud — well into the night. It doesn’t try to be a hybrid bar or a calm social spot. It’s a venue with a clear musical line and a simple idea: dance until your body gives in.
In Africa — and Cabo Verde is no exception — loud music is part of the nightlife language. Here, volume isn’t lowered to help conversation: it’s raised to create energy.
Music as the only main character
Reviews agree on one thing, even if not everyone values it the same way: the music can be heard from far away. Afro house, local rhythms, beats designed for the dance floor, not for background listening. Even when the place isn’t full, the volume stays high.
For some, it’s unbearable.
For others, exactly what they came for.
At Blackout, you don’t talk over the music. You dance under it.
Drinks, shisha and long nights
Beyond the sound, a few details show up repeatedly: well-rated shishas that last a long time, decent drinks and service that, when mentioned, is usually described as attentive. It’s also a place where major football matches are shown, adding another layer to the crowd — although the music never loses priority.
That said, it’s worth keeping an eye on prices. Some reviews mention differences between menu prices and the final bill. It’s not the dominant theme, but it’s wise to check before ordering.
The inevitable clash with those who didn’t expect it
Many negative reviews don’t come from people looking for a party, but from neighbours, nearby accommodation or visitors who didn’t understand the concept. Complaints about noise at one, two or even later at night. People who walked in expecting a “normal” bar.
There’s no deception here: the name already gives it away.
Blackout doesn’t lower its emotional shutters.
When it works (and for whom)
If you like loud music, afro house, dancing without talking and not watching the clock, this place works. In fact, some consider it the best bar in the area precisely because it refuses to soften its identity.
And when you get tired, you do what people do in Sal: you move on to another place. No drama.
Things worth knowing before you walk in
– This is not a bar for conversation. At all.
– Volume is high even with few people inside.
– Ideal if you’re looking for dancing and energy, not calm socialising.
– Check prices before ordering.
– If loud sound bothers you, this isn’t your place. And that’s fine.
The ending, without detours
Blackout by Loko doesn’t want to please everyone. And paradoxically, that’s its greatest strength. It has a clear line, sticks to it and doesn’t apologise.
You don’t come here to talk about the night.
You come to lose yourself inside it.
At Blackout, silence isn’t invited.
