NIIKA, conceived and fronted by Russian-born Chicago-raised Nika Nemirovsky (guitar and voice), is an effervescent blend of intimate indie, soul, and jazz-tinged folk. Drawing upon the creative ethos of artists like Lhasa De Sela, Kate Bush, and The Dirty Projectors, her writing defies categorization and instead draws people in with an unwavering mystery. After releasing her first full-length album in March of 2020 which featured a full band, and sonically full arrangements, NIIKA shifted gears somewhat. Her new body of work, created with a stripped back performance in mind, reflects much of what sets her work apart- a sound that is distinctly, undeniably her own. An open hand upon a nurturing flame. An ecstatic flight that plays between harmonic and rhythmic registries. At times elusive but never lacking in a steady groove and often locking into that distinct jangle and abandon of anyone's favorite art pop reverie. In any mode, her sound is fully realized and the artistry is intact.