Ash

The Profile

Northern Irish rock band formed in 1992, led by Tim Wheeler, known for the debut 1977 and the hits collected on Free All Angels; notable for a mix of punky energy and melodic power pop.

Formed in 1992 in Northern Ireland. Core members include Tim Wheeler (vocals/guitar), Mark Hamilton (bass) and Rick McMurray (drums). Charlotte Hatherley was a guitarist in the band and departed after a period of about ten years. The band released the A-Z Series of biweekly singles (2009-2010) and a 25-year compilation titled Teenage Wildlife.

DeBaser's reviews present Ash as a Northern Irish band celebrated for their debut 1977 and the commercial peak Free All Angels, with strong praise for songwriting and guitar work. Critics note stylistic shifts across Nu-Clear Sounds, Meltdown and Twilight Of The Innocents and highlight the ambitious A-Z singles project and the 25-year compilation. Overall the coverage is affectionate and retrospective, valuing both early raw energy and later melodic craft.