Albums
Riposte
2017
Release Date: 2017
By Pitchfork
Reviewed May 24, 2017
For the Magic City III compilation
While Ikonika’s sound has certainly evolved since the wonky dubstep of her 2010 debut, Contact, Love, Want, Have, she’s always had a knack for captivating melodies and relentless basslines. It’s allowed her to master a wide variety of club-ready genres. The London producer’s mutable, bass-heavy style lends itself well to the latest Magic City compilation, the third issuing in Brooklyn Miami bass don Jubilee’s annual series, which pay tribute to the booty-shaking sounds of Jubilee’s hometown of Miami.
“Riposte,” Ikonika’s playful contribution to the record, creates a powerful groove from deep, sliding bass chords and high-pitched synths. While the song’s ever-shifting, staccato melody conveys a certain looseness, Ikonika’s relaxed pacing is deceiving: Every sugary note and string-like flourish is meticulously placed. While it’s a feat to sound both nonchalant and precise, it’s even more impressive to do so while soundtracking a Miami dancefloor, and with “Riposte,” Ikonika accomplishes all three.