Bleep

With their latest signing, XL Recordings assure themselves a piece of contemporary Cuban legacy: Ibeyi are the Paris-based twin sisters Lisa-Kaindé and Naomi Diaz, daughters to Buena Vista Social Club’s Anga Diaz. Sung in English and Yoruba, a West African language introduced into Cuba as a result of slavery, their debut single ‘Oya’ is dedicated to the eponymous Undergoddess of the Niger River, seen as a guardian for the underworld. Rich and deep synth sounds support their longing a capella polyphony before galloping drums take over the lead in this modern interpretation of soul with traditional Cuban elements.