Manchester’s very own Freak Slug, the musical moniker of visual artist and songwriter Xenya Genovese, is set to bring her unique sonic world to Deaf Institute this May. Known for her raw, unfiltered self-expression, Freak Slug blends ‘90s nostalgia with dreamy, lo-fi textures, crafting a sound that’s both intimate and eccentric.
Genovese’s journey to music was unexpected. Initially pursuing fine art in London and later Barcelona, she stumbled into performing and never looked back. What started as a personal creative outlet—recording fuzzy, experimental tracks through a computer mic—has now evolved into a fully realised musical identity. Her debut album, I Blow Out Big Candles, encapsulates this evolution, embracing imperfection and a nonchalant, instinctive approach to songwriting.
With influences ranging from Mazzy Star to Pavement, Freak Slug’s music moves between slacker rock, hypnotic dream-pop, and grunge-infused confessionals. Her lyrics navigate themes of emotional detachment, spirituality, and self-discovery, all delivered with a sly wink and a refusal to conform. Tracks like “Ya Ready” and “Be Your Girl” demonstrate her ability to mix grit with vulnerability, while “Sexy Lemon” and “Piece of Cake” reveal her playful, irreverent side.
Expect an immersive and unpredictable live show—one that promises to transport you deep into Freak Slug’s world of distorted guitars, airy vocals, and raw, magnetic energy.
