In ten years' time, when Anglo-American outcast Ashnikko is five albums deep and hitting big stages we'll look back at the COVID-19 pandemic as a defining moment for her career. Pre-COVID Ashnikko was a rising star with a cult fanbase who adored her for being an outspoken queer artist, unafraid to talk about sex with all, fetishes and identity whilst speaking up for those less powerful.
Prior to the release of her debut mixtape, Demidevil (released in January 2021) she had put out a series of EP's and singles that blended rap and pop, fuelled by aggression. Demidevil was her most complete work to date, slick without losing edge as she continued to speak to the weirdos who loved her from day one. Once venues reopened after lockdowns Ashnikko was performing to huge crowds, selling out places that would have been unthinkable pre-COVID.
You could tell Ashnikko was in Manchester last night from some distance as kids queued around the O2 Ritz in colourful hair, glitter, sequins and outfits only they could pull off. It was a wonderful sight, especially with it being a cold December evening.
Once inside there was a sense of joy and positivity in the room as the weirdos partied together. DJ Krystal got the party started, dropping Wap and the Lady GaGa x Ashnikko remix Plastic Doll, which got the whole room singing before woman of the moment Ashnikko bounced on stage and straight into the fierce and energetic Tantrum and for the following sixty-plus minutes, the mood rarely slowed down.
Throughout the set Ashnikko expressed her gratitude for the crowd choosing to spend their Friday with her, she went in-depth into consent and how it should be taught in schools, depression, queer love and kink. When the 25-year-old wasn't empowering her fans she was going all-in on her filth pop bangers from her back catalog, including songs from the mixtape and the two, very different, recent singles, Panic In Paradise and Maggots.
Daisy was the perfect ending piece to a night of creativity and celebration of ourselves.
Ashnikko is an authentic, inspiring artist who is vital RN. Gen Z, you are in safe hands.
Ashnikko is an amazing artist she is sweet beautiful the word queer stuns me tho she’s just brilliant 🤩