Review: Dua Lipa's 'Houdini' - A Catchy Groove with Unique Sonic Layers
- by Peter Källman
- in Reviews
Dua Lipa releases a new upbeat pop banger with an honorable feature of Kevin Parker from Tame Impala, who produced the song. The lyrics of Houdini are quite simple and build on metaphors around the famous magician, with lyrics in the hook:
“I come and I go, “Tell me all the ways you need me, “I’m not here for long, “Catch me or I go Houdini”
These lyrics might not be revolutionary, but within their context, they work pretty well. The song Houdini does not paint the same sonic picture as other hyper-famous Dua Lipa songs, such as “Don’t Start Now,” for example. But it feels like it is reaching for something similar, with a very grooveable rhythm built by decisive drums and a very memorable, repetitive bass line. Houdini feels a little safer than what we are used to hearing from Dua Lipa, but it is still a pretty solid pop track.
The drums are simple and straightforward, like a lot of pop songs. A steady rhythm with some percussive loops and congas to fill the rhythmic space. The main riff is played on a bass, most likely altered by effects and layering several different instruments to play the same pattern to give it a very unique sound. The main riff is very simple with an interesting enough rhythmic pattern, playing the same note but shifting octaves. In the verses, a clavinet can be heard. Dua Lipa’s song is, of course, unbelievably catchy and fits right into the rhythmic and melodic space created by Kevin Parker. Lastly, there are a lot of different '80s synths and in the final section of the song, a repetitive guitar riff with a wah-wah plays a little solo.
I will be honest, I don’t think this release packs the same punch as other DL projects, but it is still a nice listen. For me, the use of the clavinet is up there with one of the most interesting things about this release. Other famous songs that have used a clavinet are:
- Whatever Gets You Through the Night - John Lennon
- Life In the Fast Lane - The Eagles
- Have a Cigar - Pink Floyd
- Use Me - Bill Withers
- Superstition - Stevie Wonder
I think people will be able to dance, groove, and feel better from listening to Houdini. For that, I salute all those involved for their work on this project. I love following the arc of Dua Lipa and seeing the different directions she tries to evolve her sound. Now we will see if the market thinks Houdini is a hit or a miss. My prediction; it will slip under the radar but still be loved by a lot of people. Thank you!
