Ashnikko Brings Whimsical Energy to The Fillmore

Ashnikko deserves all the credit for creating a unique atmosphere inside the Fillmore Charlotte on Friday, May 8. The people-watching alone made for a captivating scene. But it wasn’t about judgments on who dressed weird or looked out-of-place; within those four walls, everyone belonged.

There were plenty of unique presentations by people of all kinds — a man being led around by a leash, someone with a tiny shopping cart on their head, another patron with a plush hotdog on the side of their hat, and lots and lots of neon.

While Ashnikko’s high-energy set blends a variety of genres, including pop, punk, hip-hop and dance, there are also elements of sexuality, feminism and empowerment. It’s that overall vibe that brings so many different kinds of people under one roof. And none of the people in that sold-out venue could get enough.

They cheered. They sang. They danced. They offered supportive applause when Ashnikko bluntly told the crowd she had been suffering from some digestive issues before the show. The crowd cheered for each other’s outfits and laughed at the random signs being held up, such as “He/Him/Hole.”

All that inclusive positivity combined with fun music, choreographed dancing and the feeling that Ashnikko sees everyone in that room is what keeps her fanbase growing. It’s a show in every sense of the word and could easily work on a much bigger stage.

It’s hard to believe the North Carolina native has only released two albums — her latest, Smoochies, dropped in fall 2025.

It was also a happy coincidence that one of the openers, Royal & The Serpent, released their debut full-length album, Emptiness is Godly, on the same day as the show. After four EPs and countless tours, Royal & The Serpent has plenty of experience playing for lively crowds.

Royal & the Serpent’s Ryan Jillian Santiago even hopped aboard a robot vacuum at times, riding around in circles between songs in a slow, dramatic way and certainly leaving the stage somewhat cleaner in the process. Royal’s single “Overwhelmed” has been certified gold and is likely her most familiar song, but it fit seamlessly with the rest of the music during her 40-minute set.

The night opened with a short set by singer Googly Eyes that caught many in the crowd by surprise. To put it simply, the singer’s vocals were strong yet somewhat ethereal as she captivated the crowd and, no doubt, won over new fans.

Write her off for her silly stage name at your own peril; she’s a classically trained singer on Tove Lo’s label who deserves more attention and a brighter spotlight.

It’s worth noting that the last time she was in town, Ashnikko’s opener was Audrey Nuna, now an Oscar winner as one third of the trio Huntr/x, which was recognized at this year’s ceremony for Best Original Song for “Golden” from KPop Demon Hunters.

Ashnikko’s Smoochies tour will continue in the United States through June before she heads overseas in August.

Ashnikko setlist
Sticky Fingers
Working Bitch
Microplastics
She’s So Pretty
Lip Smacker
Trinkets
Smoochie Girl
Skin Cleared
Toxic/Invitation
Chichinya
Manners
You Make Me Sick!
Stupid
Tantrum
Chokehold Cherry Python
Weedkiller
Possession of a Weapon
It Girl
Wet Like
Full Frontal
I Want My Boyfriends to Kiss
Liquid
Itty Bitty
Slumber Party
Daisy

Be sure to check out Queen City Nerve’s Soundwave, Charlotte’s most comprehensive live music listing, so you don’t miss out on any shows or concerts coming up. And hell, if you’re looking for something else to do, you can check out our events page as well, which runs the gamut of things to do in Charlotte. You don’t ever have to be bored again. You can check out more of Jeff’s pics and live reviews here.