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WEST HOLLYWOOD, CA- Entering the vibrant atmosphere of WeHo Pride, I couldn’t shake a sense of preconceived skepticism I had about Ashnikko’s set. I can’t front… It’s easy to form preconceived notions about artists. Ashnikko, with her brightly colored hair and punk-infused pop anthems, seemed like an archetype of the music industry’s cookie-cutter tendencies. Her tracks often felt overproduced and more like a product of meticulous marketing rather than genuine artistry. However, all my skepticism unfolded on the main stage at West Hollywood Park when I saw Ashnikko perform and command the crowd’s attention with the undeniable power of her live performance.
Ashnikko exploded onto the stage with her opener, “You Make Me Sick!,” immediately commanding attention with her fierce energy and magnetic presence. From the first note, it was clear that this was not going to be a routine performance. One of the most striking aspects of Ashnikko’s performance was her ability to blend vulnerability with unbridled power. I can’t remember the songs in particular, but I remember her oscillating between moments of introspection and explosive defiance, bringing the lyrics to life with a visceral intensity often lost in studio recordings. The authenticity of her emotion was palpable, resonating deeply with the audience.
Ashnikko’s stage presence was another revelation. She moved with a confidence that belied her relatively short time in the spotlight, engaging with the crowd in a way that felt both spontaneous and meticulously crafted. Whether through her playful banter between songs or the theatricality of her choreographed movements with her cadre of dancers, she held the audience in the palm of her hand. From the choreography to the visuals, everything was executed with precision, yet it never felt overproduced or insincere.
Closing with “Daisy,” Ashnikko left no doubt about her prowess as a live performer. In these final moments, my initial skepticism was fully converted into genuine admiration. The energy, passion, and connection with the audience culminated in a performance that was as surprising as it was exhilarating.
Ashnikko’s set at Outloud for WeHo Pride was a powerful reminder of the unique magic of live music. Listening to tracks on a playlist is one thing, but it’s an entirely different experience to see an artist pour their heart and soul into a performance. Sometimes, you have to experience the music live to understand it truly. Ashnikko’s ability to captivate and convert skeptics like myself is a testament to her talent and the raw power of live performance. If there was ever a doubt about her artistry, it was unequivocally erased that night.
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LIVE CLIPS
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