Ibeyi is the Yoruba word for “twins,” and the twins behind the band Ibeyi have an almost-supernatural musical bond. Lisa-Kaindé Diaz and Naomi Diaz are the daughters of Anga Diaz, noted percussionist with the Buena Vista Social Club. Their mother also took them to see Yoruba choirs in their native France, and both Cuban and French influences pop up on their self-titled debut. The Diaz twins also have a love for electronic and hip-hop, but live at the Four Seasons, they used their most powerful instrument: their harmonizing vocals. Ibeyi pulled off an a cappella version of “River,” transforming the beat-heavy original into a religious-like chant. Watch video of their performance and download “River” below.
–Art Levy