Annahstasia: Concert Review

On June 27th 2025 I saw Annahstasia perform at the Pico Union Project in Downtown Los Angeles and it was genuinely one of the most moving shows I’ve ever experienced.

The venue was small and intimate housed in what looked like a repurposed church. With stained glass windows a few pews for seating and mostly standing room the space added a sacred and soulful energy to the night. They had vinyl records and t-shirts available for sale all reasonably priced for such an emerging artist and after the show Annahstasia even stayed to do signings which made the night feel even more personal.

I arrived around 7:00 pm and the show kicked off at 8:00 pm with openers Salenta and Topu and Ketu. Ketu opened with a short acoustic set of about six songs just him and his guitar. His voice was incredible live smooth emotional and capable of hitting those delicate high notes with ease.

Then Topu and Ketu performed as a duo and it was one of the most unique and mesmerizing sets I’ve ever heard. Topu played cello while Ketu accompanied him on piano. The sound was experimental but gorgeous like a modern take on jazz chamber music. Everyone in the crowd was totally locked in it was hard not to be.

When Annahstasia finally came onstage she completely captivated the room. Her set lasted around an hour and a half and included songs from her new album Tether as well as older tracks from her earlier work. Her vocals were beyond stunning a blend of Tracy Chapman’s soul and Nina Simone’s depth. Her speaking voice is light almost girlish but when she sings it transforms deep rich and earthy. It felt effortless yet incredibly powerful. One of the most satisfying vocal performances I’ve ever witnessed.

If you haven’t listened to Tether yet you absolutely should. Pitchfork gave it an 8.4 out of 10 which is especially impressive for such an underground artist. One standout track Believer mixes a subtle rock edge with lyrics that feel tender and exposed. The production feels almost at odds with her vocals but somehow it works beautifully.