Why Emotions Influence Ibeyi

Speaking from her home in Paris, Lisa-Kainde Diaz says the last 18 months have been an enjoyable roller coaster ride of performances while trying to write new material.

"We've been touring for more than a year-and-a-half now and will be on the road until mid August," she says. "That doesn't leave much time for anything else although we are trying to keep on writing in the van while we travel."

The songs on Ibeyi's self-titled debut EP often evoke haunting feelings with some tracks dedicated to their late father and sister and the duo has already been compared to FKA Twigs among other artists.

"We are influenced by many things and music is a part of life, so life is a major influence in itself," Diaz says. "Art, film, poetry, paintings, songs, books and landscape also play a part... basically anything that brings up some emotions tends to influence us.

"As twin sisters we are very different and yet complementary.

"Paris is like New York City, it's a melting pot with a big cultural life, hundreds of nationalities​, many artists and our friends."

Naomi listens to a lot of hip hop, reggae, funk and she loves Kendrick Lamar, Jay Electronica, Mos Def, Fetty Wap, Jasmine Sullivan, BJ The Chicago Kid.

"I tend to love jazz, Nina Simone, Fink, Meshell Nedegoncelo, James Blake, King Krule and too many others to list."

When it comes to the question of the working relationship between the twin sisters, Diaz says it has its benefits but has also caused arguments in the past between the duo.

"It's a blessing, but it can also be a pain in the arse!" she laughs.

The duo are steadily working on their second album and plan to head back to the studio to record after their current world tour finishes.

"We already have some songs and ideas. The tour ends in August, then we'll write more and go on studio​ to start a new adventure. We don't know how long it will take, but we are not in any hurry.​"

When it comes to basing yourself in a certain city as an artist, Diaz says she wouldn't live anywhere else other than Paris.

"Paris is like New York City, it's a melting pot with a big cultural life, hundreds of nationalities​, many artists and our friends. It's just a lovely, inspirational place to live.

"We are very excited about coming to Australia for the first time and can't wait to visit you all!"

And what can Australian audiences expect from an Ibeyi show? To Diaz the answer is simple: "Love and hope!​"

Ibeyi perform on Friday March 4, 2016, at the Chevron Festival Gardens as part of the Perth International Arts Festival. TIM MAYNE chats with Lisa-Kainde Diaz, one half of the talented singing duo.

Originally published in X-Press Magazine.