Deuce: A Masterful Convergence of Handpan and Hammered Dulcimer

The Grammy-nominated virtuosos Manu Delago and Max ZT have officially released their highly anticipated debut collaborative album, Deuce, which arrived on February 20, 2026. This nine-track odyssey is the result of a creative partnership that has been maturing for nearly a decade, evolving from initial improvisational sessions into a polished and profound studio work. The recording process took place throughout 2025 within the serene and historic environment of an Alpine monastery in Tyrol. This unique setting is palpable in the album's acoustic signature, which is characterized by a sense of vast air, the resonance of ancient wood, and a lingering, natural decay that defines the listening experience.

Both musicians have long been recognized as trailblazers within their respective instrumental domains. Max ZT, whom NPR famously dubbed the "Jimi Hendrix of the hammered dulcimer," has fundamentally expanded the technical language of his instrument. By incorporating unconventional methods such as string damping, pitch bends, and complex harmonics, he has pushed the dulcimer into new territory. His global perspective is rooted in deep study, having learned from the Cissoko griot family in Senegal and the legendary santoor master Pandit Shivkumar Sharma in India, blending West African and Indian classical traditions into his contemporary approach.

Manu Delago stands as a pivotal figure in the evolution of the handpan. His journey began with the early "Hang" instruments developed by PanArt and has since moved toward a sophisticated, modern handpan vocabulary that has captivated audiences worldwide. Known for his extensive experience on major international stages and high-profile collaborations, Delago brings a rhythmic depth and melodic sensitivity that perfectly complements the intricate textures of the hammered dulcimer, creating a dialogue that is both technically impressive and emotionally resonant.

The sonic architecture of Deuce is constructed upon a rich polyphony of textures where the two instruments do not merely coexist but thrive in a shared space. The handpan provides a rounded, "spherical" harmonic foundation and a steady rhythmic pulse, while the hammered dulcimer contributes sparkling articulation and a fluid, cascading energy. This interplay creates a soundscape that feels both grounded and ethereal, inviting the listener into a world where the boundaries between the two instruments become beautifully blurred.

A centerpiece of the collection is the lead single, "Inhale," a track that serves as the album's rhythmic and energetic core. It is a fast-paced, tightly composed piece where the handpan and dulcimer move in perfect synchronization. Rather than competing for the spotlight, the instruments engage in a symbiotic relationship, "breathing" together to create a sense of organic unity. This track exemplifies the album's broader mission: to show how two distinct voices can merge into a single, coherent musical identity.

In its totality, Deuce represents a moment of "quiet acoustic courage" in an increasingly digital world. It demonstrates that true innovation can be born from the mastery of craft, the resonance of a physical space, and the simple power of human breath rather than technological saturation. The album serves as a poignant reminder that entirely new musical universes can be built using only two instruments, provided they are played with the intention of sounding as one unified whole.