Ashbeck has been on a mission to fly the flag for the UK underground rap scene for a while now. Bursting onto the scene with tracks such as “Booli” back in 2020, the north-west Londoner has continued to ride an ever-increasing wave of popularity. This has included releasing further bangers and the chance to tour the country; an experience which is frequently referred to in the visuals for his recent release, “Side By Side”.
“Side By Side” feels like an homage to how far Ashbeck has come. The tune itself is melancholy yet jumpy, with Ashbeck floating with trademark ease over an airy production by Kxmel and Ephes. Talking about what he’s achieved so far whilst recognising there is still much more he wants to accomplish, the listener is transported into the mind of Ashbeck in 2023.
The accompanying visuals help accentuate this point; as mentioned, tour footage makes up a sizeable portion of the video. Seeing Ashbeck and close friends and collaborators such as Rushy tear up stages across the country is inspiring, and adds emotional weight to the overall message.
Be sure to check out “Side By Side” above!