Maribou State: Crafting Sonic Landscapes of Resilience and Renewal
Maribou State, the British electronic duo comprising Chris Davids and Liam Ivory, has been redefining downtempo electronica since their inception in 2011. Originating from Hertfordshire, England, the pair met during their school years and began collaborating musically, eventually forming Maribou State. Their early work, including the EP Habitat, showcased a blend of organic textures and electronic beats, setting the stage for their unique sound.
Their debut album, Portraits (2015), recorded in a garden shed, introduced listeners to their signature fusion of soulful melodies and electronic rhythms. The album's success led to extensive touring and collaborations, including the acclaimed Kingdoms in Colour (2018), which featured global influences and partnerships with artists like Khruangbin and Holly Walker.
In 2025, Maribou State released Hallucinating Love, a deeply personal album born from adversity. During its creation, Chris Davids was diagnosed with Chiari Malformation, a rare brain condition causing severe symptoms. His subsequent surgery and recovery period influenced the album's themes of resilience and hope. Tracks like "Blackoak" and "Otherside" exemplify their evolved sound, blending intricate electronics with emotive vocals.
Following a widely praised performance at Coachella 2025, where their textured, immersive set captivated one of the festival’s most discerning crowds, Maribou State now brings that same energy and emotional depth to Canada. The duo is set to headline the Main Stage at Rifflandia Festival in Victoria, BC, on Thursday, September 11, 2025, marking a major highlight of the festival’s 15th anniversary edition.
Maribou State’s live performances are renowned for their immersive quality, featuring a full band setup that brings their studio recordings to life. They have graced stages at major festivals and venues including Glastonbury, the Sydney Opera House, Coachella, and now they can add Rifflandia to that list.
As they continue to innovate and inspire, Maribou State's journey reflects a commitment to artistic growth and emotional authenticity. Their music resonates with themes of transformation, making them a compelling act for audiences seeking depth and connection in electronic music.
– Morgan Sutherland
Catch Maribou State headlining Thursday night at Rifflandia Festival 2025 in Victoria. For tickets and full lineup details, visit rifflandia.com.