Words by Luke Byatt

The talent originating from Korea’s music scene has transcended regional bounds and become a mainstay for music lovers globally. The release of CIFIKA’s debut album, HANA not only preserves the trend but expands its bounds.

CIFIKA is undoubtably one of most interesting artists that I listen to on the regular. The composition of each of her records is a journey of sonic intrigue. Central to this is creative expression, a pillar of exploration in the propulsive scope of electronic music. If you’re a fan of ‘MOMOM’, ‘WATER’, ‘OOH-AH-OOH’ or any of CIFIKA’s magnificent catalogue, HANA will delight, surprise and enamour with every listen. Running for a little under three quarters of an hour, the debut release probes the notion of the human condition, the odyssey of life and the lived experience in an abstract yet commercially palatable tone. CIFIKA’s technical intelligentsia and visionary artisanship results in HANA being a perfectly balanced auditory affair. This inclination to morph classical and acoustic instrumentation with compelling electronica calls back to the artist’s years spent in the United States prior to the project’s inception in 2016. If you’re a fan of Bjork, FKA Twigs, or James Blake, HANA is an excellent introduction to the wonderful world of CIFIKA.

With determination and finesse, CIFIKA is redefining the contemporary music scene of Korea. I can’t wait to hear what’s to come from this phenomenal artist.