Powerful Pop-Rock from this Distinct Swiss-based Duo: IKAN HYU’s latest single is as bold and groovy as ever, as they continue to bridge the gap between pop and alternative

By Edwin Fairbrother

Single Review: flying V by IKAN HYU

Swiss-based alternative pop-rock duo IKAN HYU are back as bold as ever, having just released their new single flying V. The single is testament to their vigorous sound; with this song coming with perhaps more modest subject matter than some of their previous releases, which at first glance may have touched on more sensitive and controversial topics. That said, when taking a closer look (and listen) at their new single, it’s certainly not lacking any passionate, serious or poignant undertones in its topics and sound.


 Anisa (left) and Hannah (right) aka IKAN HYU


IKAN HYU have been cooking up a storm the past couple of years, including a flurry of notable anthems released last year amidst their JAAWS EP, and wowing live crowds with an extensive and consistent array of festival performances and vivacious concerts. They have supported artists such as Royal Blood and Sofi Tukker, and have played festivals like The Great Escape in Brighton, and Montreux Jazz Festival this summer. With their valiant and talented music it’s no surprise they’ve received editorial placements on a number of big Spotify playlists, as well as radio support from stations across Europe.


Flying V is Anisa’s cherished guitar – which certainly makes its presence known beautifully in this song. And although upon listening to the lyrics you’d be quick to think this is a kind of love song to her instrument, in true IKAN fashion it also holds wider connotations to do with sexuality and spirituality.


 flying V Cover


The song gets straight into it starting with Anisa’s enchanting vocals accompanied by a groovy as hell guitar hook that characterise much of the song. Hannah’s electronic drum beats creep in during this verse and burst into a rigid and bassy rhythm in the chorus – with the guitar also exploding into a catchy chord progression that your mind is not likely to forget for some time afterwards.


 IKAN HYU


My words are riding on your slow rock ‘n’ roll

I give myself to rhythms I can’t control


IKAN have once again managed to do what they do best, create a piece of music with infectious instrumentation and resonant vocal elements that so eloquently combine explicit expressions with deeper implicit messages. Like true avant-garde artists they are able to convey feelings on serious issues while producing music with wide radio-friendly appeal.


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flying v is a thought provoking single that really takes you into IKAN’s experiences, and paints a picture of the world around them that many other pop artists might be too afraid to speak about so poetically. With regard to this song’s overt appreciation of Anisa’s melody maker, what more fitting way to end it than with an exceptional guitar solo erupting alongside the main hook. If you’re into pop, rock, or essentially any duality enriched music to nod your head to, then you’ll want to listen to this!