Dual-Split
Dual-Split is a brother/sister synth pop duo formed in Brooklyn, NYC in 2010. The group is composed of Maïa Ibar ( Lighter, Rita and the Labyrinth, TEEN) and Baptiste Ibar (Bizi Gara, Here We Go Magic).
Inspired by a theory proposed by the Ibar’s physicist - father, the name Dual-Split reflects a concept of duality splitting on a molecular level. A representation of siblings with sameness and different powers - Maïa with a unique and hexhedral voice, and Baptiste a ground in rhythm and melody - their fusion channels a bond that creates a truly unique space. Allowing the listener to float into a lush textural and emotional trance while not feeling the sense of a loss of ground, their music is one of a connection that only siblings can channel.
Dual- Split’s second record “Fuel” was mixed and mastered by Pete Kember (Sonic Boom, Spaceman 3) in 2015. The textures and sound explorations of Kember’s psychedelic touch brought Dual-Split’s music to a new horizon. The group toured the record primarily in the Basque region (France/Spain) playing festivals such as Baleapop in Saint Jean de Luz, France and Kaiola Festibala in Bilbao, Spain.
“Brand New Rain (Volume 1)”, Dual Split’s Third LP, and the first of a double album, is their most realized work yet. Co-Produced by mixing engineer and frequent collaborator Johannes Buff, the album moves away from a psychedelic sound, and leans into Buff’s strong suit - structure. Creating a more sophisticated art-pop sound, the songs sparkle with hooks, and more definitive ideas. Vocalist Maïa sings in both French and English, her buoyant and ethereal voice, dancing on a sea of pulsing kicks and warbly bass.
Just as their sound evolved, so did their story - “Brand New Rain” symbolizes the idea of new beginnings, moving forward; and how loss, aging, and dying systems, affect our very basic being in these turbulent times.
The record was recorded over a two year period in France at the Ibar’s art- performance space, Pioche Projects and Buff’s Shorebreaker Studio.
“Brand New Rain (Volume 1)” is set to release in early 2021.
