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Preview Tue Sep 22 2015
Ibeyi with Openers Vicktor Taiwò and The Hit Men 9/23 @ Thalia Hall
The story behind the group Ibeyi (pronounced “ee-bey-ee”) is a one of death, lore, and song. Fittingly, the two sisters named their group with the Yoruba word for “twins.” But naming their sound could get lost in translation.
These two 20-year olds debuted their self-titled release this past winter, partly to honor their deceased father — the Grammy awarded Anga Díaz who played with Buena Vista Social Club. They sing and play downtempo pop music, and yet it sounds like James Blake’s electrified R&B with flavors from French jazz and Cuban folk.
They’ve returned to North American this month for their second tour this year. Amid their successful release off the label XL, NPR has named it named as one of their "25 Favorite Albums of 2015 (So Far)" and Beyoncé posted a clip of her Vogue shoot using Ibeyi’s single “River” to her millions of Instagram followers.
The sister Lisa-Kaindé Diaz sings lead and plays piano, and Naomi plays the traditional Cuban percussion instruments the cajón and the Batá drum. Along with the song "River," another critically acclaimed track includes their first single release, "Oya."
They will perform this Wednesday (9/23) at Thalia Hall after doors open at 7 pm. The London-based singer Vicktor Taiwò will be opening, as well as The Hit Men, which is composed of former members of top bands such as the Four Seasons and Frankie Valli. Unless you're shelling out for the $246.00 seats in the Opera Box, general admission tickets are $21.00 — and either can be purchased here.