posted by Staff
August 2014

Have you heard Ibeyi? This emerging duo, formed by the French-Cuban twin sisters Naomi and Lisa Díaz,  recently signed with XL Recordings (home of acts like The XX and Vampire Weekend). They have just released an EP called Oya and they're baptism it with this video of "River".

These 19-years-old sisters are daughters of the Cuban percussionist Miguel Angá Díaz. And you can appreciate that musical heritage in this song. Acoustic traditional drums as cajón and batá mix up with electronic beats. Ancient roots and modernity meets in those beats that serve as a bed for the sweet voices of the twins.

They also inherited the Afro-Caribbean Yoruba traditions of their father. In fact, Ibeyi means "twins" in Yoruba language. So that dark and beautiful atmosphere of the tune correspond to the spiritual essence of the song. They are raising up their voices in a pray to Oshun, the Yoruba river Orisha spirit.

I'm sure we are witnessing the baptism of a band that will give a lot to talk about in a near future. Can’t wait to hear more of them.

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