As her previous single "What Is Love" indicated,
Kiesza loves the '90s. Her beatless, breathless reworking of
Haddaway's dancefloor staple offered a fresh take on a song so overplayed that it seemed impossible to find a new angle on it. On the Hideaway EP, however, she delivers a more faithful version of that decade's dance music, with tight, pulsing productions that call to mind Black Box,
Ce Ce Peniston, and
Technotronic. The EP's title track and "No Enemiesz" are worthy homages, all cavernous spaces, tinkling keyboards, and house-inspired rhythms. Even if
Kiesza's voice isn't quite as formidable as that of a '90s diva, it's brassy and powerful enough to hold its own against the driving arrangements. The
Gorgon City remix of "Hideaway" gives it an even more kinetic thump and some wobbly dubstep bass; meanwhile, in the EP's context, "What Is Love"'s delicate balladry feels richer, adding another facet to the vocal and musical range
Kiesza displays here. ~ Heather Phares