iKeda's 'Bangs N Braces': A Retro Pop Time Capsule

London-based singer iKeda has released her second EP, "Bangs N Braces," a collection that skillfully navigates the sonic landscapes of late-aughts electronic pop and dancehall.

This new EP builds on her debut, "Pretty Little Problem," by infusing iKeda's unique personality into the music. Producer Tailtiu collaborates again, helping to create a sound that is both weirder and more purposeful than her previous work.

"Bangs N Braces" features playful explorations of eccentricities, such as the track "Tiger Tiger," inspired by children's literature and culminating in a rave-like atmosphere. Another standout, "Mapz," uses the concept of location sharing to tell a story of infidelity in London, echoing the songwriting style of Lily Allen.

While the EP masterfully channels retro-millennial aesthetics, it also pushes their boundaries. Some tracks, like "Pyramids" and "Red Red," exhibit densely packed productions that occasionally overshadow iKeda's vocals, demonstrating a careful balance between influence and originality.

iKeda's approach to dancehall, termed "bubble riddim," merges its characteristic flow with hyperpop's edginess. This innovative style, reminiscent of early 2010s cultural exchanges, positions her alongside other experimental diaspora artists. The EP concludes with "Meoww," a track that exemplifies her ability to blend familiar sounds with contemporary experimentation.