ASH - 2018 new album 'Islands' and tour dates
It's a certainty to say, that anyone can list ten bands from the 90s right now from the top of their head. More so if you were a 90s kid like myself. Of course, there are justified debates about whether you can associate the band as part of the 'Britpop' era. But, there's no way the band Ash would be left out of a conversation, about one of the most iconic times for guitar music on these islands.
Saying that, the trio from Downpatrick (Northern Ireland) had a hard time getting things off the road. Their debut album 'Trailer' (released in 1994) instantly spoke of promise, and after the public promotion of 'Uncle Pat', the band's name started getting recognised. They pushed on with their next album '1977' (released in 1996), where we were graced with smash hits written by Tim such as 'Oh Yeah' and 'Goldfinger'. An album that spoke of reminiscing, an outspoken life tinged with innocence, something that still resonates with many fans today old and new.
They invited guitarist and singer Charlotte Hatherley to join, to add texture to their live sound. She remained part of the line up till 2006, to pursue a successful music career. Despite at one point having an uncertain future, their rhythm and sound was certainly established by their 3rd studio album 'Free All Angels' (released 2001) with unforgettable hits such as 'Burn Baby Burn'. In 2008 came the release of 'Twilight of the Innocents' with hits such as 'End of the World' and the album's title track.
The band took a well-deserved break, before returning in 2015 with 'Kablammo!', then subsequently announcing a tour to celebrate the anniversary of '1977' with them holding their London date at the famous Roundhouse in Camden. two platinum and two gold selling records (in the UK) doesn't even come close to showing how well they've done and how extremely talented they are.
Their next album 'Islands' comes out May this year followed by a tour round the UK and once again, choosing Camden as their touchdown venue in London. I'm sure there'll be a festival or two where you may be lucky to grab a chance to hear them! It's hard to guess what Tim, Mark and Rich have in store for their fans (and new listeners), but without a doubt it will not disappoint. After all, when you've been consistent for so long, your work can only be viewed in high esteem.
Their energy on the live circuit has been missed. Already looks like this year will have a lot of surprises for all of us. Time for us all to get saving for those tickets!
Ash May and October 2018 Live Dates; https://www.ents24.com/uk/tour-dates/ash