On The Line w/ BALTHVS
Bogotás Evolving Concept
Formed in 2020, BALTHVS has become of one Colombia's leading alternative acts. With four critically acclaimed albums amassing over 45 million streams, the band has captivated audiences worldwide. Their live shows, known for their transformative energy, have taken them across 19 countries, including festival appearances at SXSW, Austin City Limits, and Outside Lands. This powerhouse trio – featuring Balthazar Aguirre (Guitar, Vocals), Johanna Mercuriana (Bass, Vocals), and Santiago Lizcano (Drums, Vocals) – continues to push boundaries with their unique blend of psychedelic songwriting.
BALTHVS: Pronunciation: English: bôl + thŭs | Spanish: Bal + tus
Hometown:
Bogotá, Colombia. Born and raised.
Who was the person that got you into music? Are you still in touch with them?
I guess my father by having a big CD collection in the 90s. The music path came on its own.
What's been the biggest non-music inspiration for you lately?
The Greek Myths.
What has been the most shocking or surprising thing from touring America?
How an entire society shaped their existence around the motor vehicle. Very practical for touring, somewhat appalling for day-to-day existence.
Do you have a favorite American city or venue?
Austin, TX, the city that welcomed us when nobody knew who we were. Some of my favorite venues are there too, such as Antone's and Mohawk.
What is the biggest challenge you've had to face as a band thus far?
Airlines not letting us carry our instruments with us in the cabin, especially in Europe and Australia.
Is there anyone you'd like to collaborate with? Other artists to appear on a song or even a visual artist for an album cover or merch?
We would love to play with Carlos Santana.
What's been the best thing that's happened since you started releasing music?
Having the band as my full-time job is the best thing that's happened.
Meditation and spirituality seem to play a big part in the band. Is there a certain practice, book, or person you would recommend to those searching?
Meditations, by Marcus Aurelius, and The Kybalion, by the Three Initiates.
Have you had an "it happened for a reason" moment in the recent past? Something you weren't happy about at the time but turned out to be a good thing?
Having a near death experience while climbing made me switch to music, greatest accident ever.
What platforms have been the most helpful with getting your music heard? Bandcamp, YouTube, IG, etc.?
Spotify, by far. We're so thankful for our royalties, they pay our rent, and it's definitely more than 3 cents.
What's the biggest difference in your life between now and 5 years ago?
Not being a broke musician anymore is nice.
How would you define success?
Being a Cause and not an Effect.
Can you share one of your lyrics from your songs that sums up your state of mind right now / feels representative of you?
… And if you want something done right...
...You gotta do it yourself...
— fragment from 'Ashes' (Third Vibration, 2023)
The Psychedelic Experience is clearly present but it has mutated into another form: Psychedelic is external, it doesn't come from within, watching a kaleidoscopic 4d film inside your mind, such experiences leave lessons and temporary states of transcendence. Far too many don't go beyond this temporary chemical high, some become forever lost in the trip.
BALTHVS: An Evolving Concept"
