Ikon

Subtlety thematic, surprisingly dub-y and refreshingly easy to settle into, Signs marks the return of Ikon. The musical child of Alex Rizzo and Elliot Ireland, best known for their single "The Dove,” Ikon fill this outing with a bevy of guest vocalists to complement their jazzy, idyllically chilled sound. The album opens with the soul-tinged voice of Dee Ellington in "No Reason To Stay” and is followed by Ian Britt, who adds his clear vocals and singer/songwriter sensibility to "Dirty Girl” and "Out Of Our Hands.” While soft-edged vocals and low-key instrumentals do offer a mellowing vibe, there are enough engaging hooks to keep the album from being relegated to mere background music. Clap happy, lyric-less tracks such as "Salvador” and "Flutterby” complement the overriding soft pop electronica and add a perfect amount of pep to the mostly downtempo vibe.