Outstandingly individual in their own right, yet arrestingly powerful together, Ashnikko’s latest singles Panic Attacks In Paradise and Maggots swiftly demand your attention from the very first listen.

Perpetually defying the limitations of genre, Ashnikko is not only a rapidly-rising rapper, singer and songwriter, but also a sheer force to be reckoned with. American-born but now London-based, Ashnikko blurs the lines between electronic pop and hip-hop, all whilst maintaining anime-esque and video game-inspired aesthetics. Influenced by the likes of M.I.A., Nicki Minaj and Björk, Ashnikko discovered rap music at the mere age of eleven, and later began creating her own sounds during her teen years. After Ashnikko’s hit song and music video Stupid gained viral popularity on multiple platforms, they skyrocketed to new heights in the charts and quickly built a devoted community of listeners.

Following the success of their badass debut album DEMIDEVIL and empowering, collaborative single Plastic Doll with the iconic Lady Gaga, Ashnikko returns with two mesmeric singles. Whilst the stripped-back number Panic Attacks In Paradise bares Ashnikko’s self-deprecating soul, Maggots epitomises the remarkable star’s strength and refusal to let negative emotions beat them down. Reflecting the idyllic connotations of the song’s title, the accompanying and hazy visuals for Panic Attacks In Paradise depict a forlorn Ashnikko surrounded by the juxtaposing serenity of nature. There is even a subtle nod to the tempestuous second single, with intermittent visuals of maggots.

Ashnikko shares:

‘panic attacks in paradise’ and ‘maggots’ were both written when i was in a very low place. a nasty festering place where brushing my teeth and getting out of bed felt like a win. PAIP is a commentary on how much i was annoying myself at the time. everything was fine. i was healthy and my career was going great. i was in a metaphorical “paradise”. but alas my brain chemistry had other plans. i was in so much pain and i couldn’t put a finger on it. i was an insufferable mess, so obsessed with my own hurt. i was leading it around with me like a rabid dog, letting it bite anyone i came into contact with. where PAIP is soft and forlorn, maggots is pure rage. i’m casting a protective shield of electricity around myself and daring anyone to try to cross it. i decide that being a little villainous is an easier lifestyle choice. i’d rather be a raging bitch than let people take advantage of my kindness. i will take every parasite burrowing its way into my flesh and flatten it under my boots.

With over a billion streams, the global love for Ashnikko is undeniable; this adoration appears to only keep growing, as the UK leg of her headline tour is sold out and begins in December this year. Ashnikko’s passion and effortless relatability radiates an addictive and engaging quality, so make sure you pay attention!