Self-describing their tunes as “pop folk world psychedelic music inspired by travels,” Duplex is comprised of two renowned Belgian musicians, Didier Laloy (diatonic accordion) and Damien Chierici (violin). On Maelstrom, they are joined by Olivier Cox (drums) and Quentin Nguyen (keyboards).  The 2020 pandemic lockdown allowed them to embark on a new musical adventure that merges their personal influences sprinkled with world music, electro-pop and cinematic atmospheres.

Over the years, accordionist Didier Laloy has collaborated with many talented artists around the world, and he’s also developed a passion for his own "creative world" through several personal projects. Exploring different types of music has allowed him to define his own fluid, creative style that takes audiences to mysterious places.

Classically trained, Damien Chierici quickly developed a passion for using the violin in non-classical settings. Since his teen years, he has enjoyed playing play with others, as well as discovering the many sonic possibilities offered by the amplification of the violin and the use of effect pedals.  Whether involved in Celtic folk rock, pop-rock, classical music, film scores, or accompanying international artists, Chierici is a very versatile musician.

Didier and Damien met in 2018 during a project around Nirvana intended for Jeunesses Musicales, and Duplex has been the creative result. Maelstrom is a surreal musical travelogue with a Belgian twist, inspired by both real and imaginary journeys. An eclectic and ethereal experience, Maelstrom is a musical journey that will take you to the ends of the earth. Their powerful, circular current of melodies is not so much violently turbulent as it is an exploration and expression of new horizons. Their dreamy, surreal and fantasized instrumental travel diary with a Belgian touch is made of multi-colored encounters and spicy flavors.  Besides the title cut, other vivid standout tracks include “Magic House,” “Bakerloo Circle,” “Pavane” and “Honey Rider.” (Joe Ross, Roots Music Report)