Northern Ireland's Ash celebrated 25 years of their debut album 1977, this past Saturday (June 5th). A global live stream transmission was streamed, exclusively via Stabal.
The band formed in the late 1980s in Downpatrick by original members Tim Wheeler (Vocals), bassist Mark Hamilton and drummer Rick McMurray with plans on becoming a punk band. It wasn't until a change in the music schism, the band changed their own direction to release 1996 debut 1977. This was an opportunity for fans to gather around and enjoy the album played in its entirety via the internet.
Ash kicks off with the infectious "Lose Control", a teenage favourite that hasn't missed a beat. Tim Wheeler takes the microphone to thank all for tuning in under the bright lights of the studio. They soon break into another one of their hits, the melodic "Goldfinger", which segues into "Girl from Mars", a track that still feels relevant now, than it did for the twenty-somethings during the mid-nineties. The band don't take much breaks as they glide from one song to another. They like to play the rockier songs loud, whilst the sweet melodies sound crisp through maturity.
The heavy-hitting "Kung Fu" lifts spirits after a few poppier ballads with its exuberance and youthfulness still feeling relatable now. "Oh Yeah" follows, as the trio really look like they are enjoying themselves. Hamilton plays his low slung bass with enthusiasm and intent, whilst McMurray confidently bangs the drums with impeccable timing. It's easy to forget how clever Ash was at composing simple songs with complex chord structures. Other highlights for this memorable night are the extensive instrumental "Freak out" on "Innocent Smile", the doo-wap-infused "Angel Interceptor" and the blistering "Lost In You" to finish a welcome return for the band.
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