Colombian psychedelic funk trio BALTHVS delivered an electrifying performance at Garcia’s Chicago on Friday, marking a standout concert in the venue’s inaugural season. Known for its fusion of cumbia, surf rock, funk, and Middle Eastern influences, the band captivated the audience with its dynamic stage presence and infectious grooves.

Besides this being the first show of the expansive Year of the Snake tour, it was also the first show featuring Vanessa Cejudo, a.k.a. Vane, on bass. Cejudo is temporarily filling in for founding member Johana Mercuriana, who is out on maternity leave.

As the lights dimmed, and with the stage still empty, a beautiful guitar introduction welcomed the crowd. Eventually, guitarist Balthazar Aguirre emerged. Cejudo and drummer Santiago Lizcano slowly joined him, and with all three together on stage, the guitar introduction transformed into the opening notes of “Mango Season”. Their set continued with songs such as “Vapor Waves”, “Ojos Verdes”, “Eclipse Solar”, and a cover of “Dove” by British funk legends Cymande.

The biggest surprise (and greatest delight) of the night was a scorching version of “Shakedown Street”. Before diving into the Grateful Dead classic, Aguirre delivered a heartfelt tribute to Jerry Garcia, expressing his deep admiration for the late guitarist and inspiration behind the new Chicago venue. The electrifying rendition marked BALTHVS’ first time performing the disco-tinged Dead staple.

“Year of the Snake”, the namesake of the tour, closed out the night.

The band returned to Garcia’s the following evening for another hypnotic performance. Check out fan-shot videos from the show below.

BALTHVS continues to build momentum, with upcoming festival appearances at BottleRock Napa Valley, Electric Forest, and more, as well as shows with Lettuce and My Morning Jacket later this year. Find a full list of the band’s upcoming tour dates here.

BALTHVS – “Turkish Coffee” – 5/17/25

[Video: Timur Simon]

BALTHVS – “Year Of The Snake”, “Asha” – 5/17/25

[Video: TheWindyCity]

Setlist: BALTHVS | Garcia’s | Chicago, IL | 5/16/25
Set: Mango Season, Anouk, Vapor Waves, Ojos Verdes, Gypsy Queen, Asha, All is One, Famagusta Port, Dove (Cymande), Shakedown Street (Grateful Dead), Sun Colored Eyes, Eclipse Solar, Johanna’s Dream
Encore: Mood Swing, Year of the Snake
Note: Setlist incomplete.