Song Review: XG – IYKYK

As their career progresses, XG have moved between two major modes: hip-hop and club music. Often, there are elements of both in their music, but songs like Something Ain’t Right and New Dance leaned heavily into melodic house influences. New single IYKYK builds upon this approach, adding smooth R&B-style vocals that give it a sleek, airy appeal.

This song is a bit more subdued than past efforts, but there’s enough going on within the production to make its more languid touches work. IYKYK kicks off with its most addictive hook — a singsong vocal riff that recalls 90’s dance music in the best way. I would have used this element even more heavily throughout, as it offers an engaging through line that gives the track focus. Thankfully, the riff returns for IYKYK‘s engaging chorus, painted with a gorgeous blend of vocals that add depth and texture to the arrangement.

IYKYK never builds toward any knockout moment (though its colorful second verse rap comes close), but its groove consistently hits all the pleasure centers. In a market crowded with music trying to sound like the late-90’s and early-2000’s, this hits those marks but feels modern enough to stand on its own. It may be their best single yet.

Hooks
8

 Production
9

 Longevity
9

 Bias
8

 RATING
8.5

Grade: B

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