Feature Photo: Christian Bertrand / Shutterstock.com
Ash was formed in 1992 by Tim Wheeler (vocals and guitar), Mark Hamilton (bass guitar), and Rick McMurray (drums). The band first gained attention while the members were still in school, initially performing under the name “Vietnam.” Ash’s sound is characterized by a blend of punk rock vigor and melodic pop, with Wheeler’s distinct songwriting leading the charge.
The band’s first full studio album, 1977, was released in 1996 and was a significant success, named after the year two of the members were born and the release year of Star Wars, which Wheeler is a fan of. The album charted at number one on the UK Albums Chart and secured Ash’s place in the Britpop movement. They went on to release a total of eight studio albums, one live album, six compilation albums, and over two dozen singles. Their studio albums include Trailer (1994), Nu-Clear Sounds (1998), Free All Angels (2001), Meltdown (2004), Twilight of the Innocents (2007), Kablammo! (2015), and Islands (2018). Free All Angels was another standout success, reaching number one in the UK and producing the hit single “Shining Light,” which won the Ivor Novello Award for Best Contemporary Song.
Ash’s music has seen chart success not only in the UK but internationally, with several singles reaching the top 40 on UK Singles Charts. In addition to their Ivor Novello, the band has received nominations for other awards such as the BRIT Awards and has made significant contributions to soundtracks for popular films like Shaun of the Dead and A Life Less Ordinary.
ASH STUDIO ALBUMS
Trailer
Released: October 1994
Trailer is Ash’s debut studio album, a compilation of the band’s early EPs, showcasing the gritty enthusiasm and raw power of their music as teenagers. The album includes influences from punk, grunge, and pop, reflecting the diverse interests of the band members. It’s characterized by energetic guitar riffs and catchy melodies, marking Ash’s entry into the music scene with confidence.
The album featured Tim Wheeler on lead vocals and guitar, Mark Hamilton on bass, and Rick McMurray on drums. It was produced by Ash and Miti Adhikari. Trailer was recorded at The Funny Farm Studios in Edinburgh, Scotland, and at Tascam Studios in Castlereagh, Northern Ireland, from July to September 1994.
CD Track Listings:
- “Season” – 3:48
- “Jack Names the Planets” – 3:11
- “Intense Thing” – 4:35
- “Uncle Pat” – 3:11
- “Get Out” – 1:44
- “Petrol” – 4:23
- “Obscure Thing” – 4:24
1977
Released: May 1996
1977, named after the year of the band members’ birth and the year of the “Star Wars” release, captures the peak of Britpop and alternative rock’s mid-90s popularity. This album includes hit singles like “Girl from Mars” and “Goldfinger,” which helped propel Ash to international fame. The record reflects the band’s fascination with adolescence, science fiction, and youthful escapism.
Tim Wheeler (vocals, guitar), Mark Hamilton (bass), and Rick McMurray (drums) returned for this album. It was produced by Owen Morris and the band themselves. 1977 was recorded at Rockfield Studios in Wales during the winter of 1995-1996.
CD Track Listings:
- “Lose Control” – 3:37
- “Goldfinger” – 4:31
- “Girl from Mars” – 3:30
- “I’d Give You Anything” – 4:31
- “Gone the Dream” – 3:29
- “Kung Fu” – 2:17
- “Oh Yeah” – 4:45
- “Let It Flow” – 4:42
- “Innocent Smile” – 5:52
- “Angel Interceptor” – 4:07
- “Lost in You” – 4:19
- “Darkside Lightside” – 16:47
Complete List Of Ash Albums And Songs article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2024
About The Author
Emily Fagan
Emily Fagan grew up in the town of Burford in Oxfordshire, England. She was raised on Progressive Rock music. She is currently writing a book on the history of Charles The Great and the impact of the Carolingian Renaissance.