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Yes, Azealia Banks is one the the hottest new rappers to come out of our language-twinned brother - The United States of America, in what appears to be a resurgence of the rise of female rap. Gigwise previously selected her as one of our "Ones to Watch 2012", and this foul-mouthed girl from the streets of New York is definitely creating a stir.
She has regularly been compared to the brashness and filth of Lil Kim, and the theatricality of Nicki Minaj, and having the lyrical staying-power of Missy Elliott's - big expectations for a rapper who has only released two videos on YouTube. However, there seems be be more to the story than simply 'New York girl-rapper hits the big time'.
While the crowd seemed to clearly enjoy the half-hour set, the showcase was far from polished. Azealia's cover of Valerie - made famous by the late Amy Winehouse was hardly palatable, as the rapper's voice faltered and where clearly her singing is not her forte.
The actual content of the rapper's showcase also fluctuated in terms of quality. Although there is no denying her speed, talent and panache for delivery, the rapper seemed to only hark on about one thing. She constantly spat about her obsession with sex, being better than the boys, being better than the white girls and being better than the other black rappers… but maybe her unashamed confidence is what draws this crowd to her tonight.
When the room erupted with the force of teen spirit as '212' was blasted, you could not help but feel that this new kid doing the rounds had hit a spot, and it is clear that, for now at least, Azealia will be everywhere.
