Nicki Knightz is a rapper based in Hackney who has just come to my attention thanks to the release of her new album. An eight-track tale of trauma and self-sabotage, it’s called Lonely Girls Hearts Club.

By Graeme Smith

Lonely Girls Hearts Club gives us Nicki’s story, marrying intense storytelling with twists of humour. It starts with its title track, a chronical of her life growing up on a council estate, feeling like an outsider. Nicki has an effortless flow with her vocal delivery, and her verses brim with an understated but powerful energy. Her lyrics are visceral and astute. It’s a captivating start.

Along Came Molly is a moody moment with some big, atmospheric beats, suitable given its story of drug-taking. Step With Me features JoeJas and takes us back to the ’00s with its nostalgic and boastful style. You Want Me sees Nicki team up with East London multi-disciplinary artist TAI and takes things a sultry direction with an unapologetically sexy tale of the fantasy of the girl next door. It’s a highlight.

Bigger Things, featuring Ivohé, brings things back to reality with its exploration of the daily toil, beautifully supported by its looping melody. Icy is dark and experimental with quickfire verses and distorted textures. Cherry, with Retropxssy, is a raw and vulnerable moment that explores Nicki’s sexuality. P.O.V then closes the album with an outward-looking moment, speaking more broadly about the female experience. It’s a hard-hitting finale that will stay with you. It’s another highlight.

Nicki Knightz is out here representing female rappers, of which we need much more. This album is the perfect balance of autobiographical detail and relatable, clever storytelling. If you’re a fan of UK hip hop then you need to give it a listen.

Lonely Girls Hearts Club was produced by Henny Knightz. The album is out now and you can check it out below.