Greek Theatre in Berkeley, CA — July 21, 2025

After an incredible breakout year selling out multiple stops on their last tour run and playing Camp Flog Gnaw and Coachella, The Marías returned to the Bay Area for two sold out nights at The Greek Theatre in Berkeley. Billed as alt-pop, the Los Angeles band incorporates a variety of genres, from reggaeton to jazz, bedroom pop, and more. However you want to describe it, the band’s live performances whisk listeners into a sonic dream world. Known for the distinct velvety vocals of their frontwoman María Zardoya, the band is rounded out with the incredible percussion of Josh Conway, dreamy guitars and keys by Jesse Perlman and Edward James. Their latest album, Submarine was released last summer to critical acclaim and proves their mastery as artists. Following the success of the album, the band went on to release two new singles “Back to Me” and “Nobody New” prior to their appearance at last year’s Coachella festival.

The set opened with band members taking the stage to an instrumental intro, with lights flickering blue in sync with sonar pings. María’s silhouette behind a circular portal was then the only thing that illuminated the stage as the band led into “Hamptons” off of Submarine. María’s gentleness was evident through the way she moved around the stage: a delicate, feather-like nature that perfectly fit with the melodic dreamy bedroom pop songs.

Even in a sold out arena, everything about the set felt incredibly intimate. The production was well thought out throughout the entire performance. The circular portal served as the main focal point, illuminating María’s silhouette as she delicately moved with the music. Lighting cues matched the aura of each song creating flawless artistic cohesion. It was the kind of performance where you couldn’t help but be mesmerized and involved in the hype.

One outfit change and a steamy water-filled transparent bathtub later, the band played an extensive encore featuring old classics like “Superclean” and “Cariño” as well as new favorites “Ojos Tristes” and “No One Noticed.” The Marías are one of those artists that are so endearing – they took the time during the set to express their gratitude to the audience for being there, especially the barricaders that stood outside since that morning to get the coveted front row view. Their music moves you to an ethereal dimension, filling your soul with a warmness that many cannot replicate.

Words & Photography: Sabrina Poei