SAD is Ikonika‘s first Hyperdub full-length in eight years, though the artist did release EPs and digital albums in between. As with other Ikonika albums, SAD draws from a different set of influences than the producer’s other albums, and it also reflects changes in their personal life.
They came out as queer and trans, were diagnosed with autism, and also became a parent; a young child’s voice playfully sings along at the end of “WHATCHUREALLYWANT.” Through queer community, Ikonika became more interested in African dance music styles such as amapiano, gqom, and bacardi, while also revisiting music from their Egyptian heritage. Perhaps the biggest update to Ikonika’s sound, however, is the addition of vocals, and more of a focus…