This Colombian quintet has been in the spotlight since the 2010s, creating a cumbia wave that is far from puristic or one directional. That’s because Chiva Gantiva combines the quintessence of Columbian music with unique elements of funk and salsa. And, for this group out of Belgium, their sound is expansive enough to embrace rock, hip-hop, and innovative electro influences. It goes without saying that this has contributed to their success around the world.

Since the group was brought together by the charismatic musician and singer-songwriter Rafael Espinel, who is also a master illustrator, the band’s visual dimension has reached a high level of excellence. Multiculturalism, sharing with others and the exploration of musical compositions are the ingredients of their longevity. And it shows in their videos! Their tributes to life, like in “Yo vuelo al revés,” which features 14 musicians and a chorus of women from diverse backgrounds, emphasize this taste for cultural openness and connections. An ode to resilience in a world that could benefit greatly from friendships to better flourish. In their presence, you can just feel the urge to jump into the groove, head first. Not surprising, since that’s what La Chiva Gantiva sings about in “Tiene Hambre,” a track from their latest album, EGO. It’s a call to explore one’s inner being to discover the subtlety of its movement, another expression of renewal in the age of mindfulness, in celebration of our deeper selves.

The band, who has received praise from the world over, will be making their first appearance this summer at Festival Nuits d’Afrique – a show that is sure to keep the audience hopping. Join the thousands of devoted fans from Russia to Spain, Australia to the UK, who have been cheering them for the past fifteen years. Accept their cheerful invitation to groove to life, guaranteed to be a festive event because those good vibes are in harmony with our friends La Chiva Gantiva!