Originally conceived by Billy Bacon in 1993 as a Latin percussion-oriented group focusing mainly on material from Carlos Santana with a few cool covers by the band War, the Screamin’ Vatos have always been local favorites. With an average of 8 to 10 members in the band at all times, including percussionists and horn players accompanying the usual guitar, keyboards, bass and drum setup, many an area musician has passed through the ranks of the Vatos.

The current lineup consists of Bacon, along with Kenny Young, Larry Harness, Ed Halerewicz, Ed Fliege, Tim Lacy, Don Udey, Bill Cope, Dewaine Ellis and E.J. Lynch, with Lynch officially the 50th musician to join the band. This year brought a set list overhaul with a “new focus to incorporate a wider array of popular Soul and R&B tunes” including tunes from Earth, Wind & Fire, Sly and the Family Stone and Chicago to complement the original Santana tribute idea. Catch them at summer lake parties and other places large enough to accommodate the expansive and entertaining group.