Project Description
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Interview with
TIM WHEELER
from
ASH
(26th September, 2024)
Interview with Dave Bruce
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Watch the full interview below
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Recent Praise for Ash Live:
“Their Set is a speeding cavalcade of hits; the cascading riffs of Petrol into a Firebrand Jack Names The Planets; Angel Interceptor giving way to the severed brakes romance of A Life Less Ordinary. When new song Crashed Out Wasted delves into the downside of chasing one’s youth to the bottom of every bottle is a moment of bliss-pop respite from a torrent of classics” (Mark Beaumont)
“This crack commando, buzz rock trio” (NME)
“Wheeler was as animated as ever, waving his famous Flying V around, bassist Mark Hamilton was all across the stage, and drummer Rick McMurray was furious and faultless behind the kit” (Scenestr)
“One of the most exciting live bands you’ve ever witnessed” (Rate Your Music)
“The entire venue now a heaving mass of smiling faces and sweaty bodies” (Golden Plec)
“Ash rule. They are geniuses. Gods maybe” (NME)
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**Interview with Tim Wheeler from Ash: A Deep Dive into 30 Years of Music**
In a recent chat with Tim Wheeler, the frontman of *Ash*, we dug deep into the band’s incredible 30-year journey. From their humble beginnings as schoolmates in 1992 to achieving massive success as one of the UK’s standout indie rock bands, Tim shared insights about the highs, lows, and everything in between.
The Beginning of Ash
Tim reminisced about the early days when he and bass player Mark got guitars for Christmas at the age of 12, forming their first heavy metal band. “It was a disaster,” he laughs. But soon, grunge and punk caught their attention, and by the age of 15, they found their drummer Rick, and Ash was born.
By 19, *Ash* had a UK number-one album, a major feat for any young band. Their first visit to Australia was in 1995, just after leaving school, and that marked the beginning of a long-standing connection with Australian fans.
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Surviving the Decades
Unlike many bands, Ash never took a hiatus. Even through challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, they’ve remained active. Tim explained how the pandemic brought an unexpected forced break, but they continued working on new material. “There’s nothing worse than starting a tour and not finishing it,” he said, recalling how the pandemic disrupted their European tour.
Musical Evolution and Staying Power
Ash’s sound has evolved over the years, blending rock, punk, and pop influences. Tim described the band as “indie rock” or “alternative rock,” with a mix of punk energy and melodic pop sensibilities. Their latest album, *Race the Night*, continues this tradition with a mix of youthful energy and reflections on growing older.
Tim highlighted tracks like “Usual Places,” which touches on nostalgia and the passage of time, while maintaining the band’s signature energy. Other standout tracks from the album include “Like a God,” known for its heavy riffing, and “Crashed Out Wasted,” which features what Tim considers his best guitar solo.
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What Keeps Ash Going
Tim attributes Ash’s longevity to two key factors: great songs and strong live performances. Over the years, they’ve perfected their live shows, knowing how to get the crowd moving and transforming the energy in the room. “You need good songs and be good live,” he said, offering advice to new artists.
A Look at the Future
Excitingly, Tim revealed that he’s been recording new material over the summer. Fans can expect another rock-driven record, perfect for live shows, likely dropping by next UK spring. Ash will also be back on tour, playing fan-favorite singles spanning their 30-year career, from their early hits to tracks from *Race the Night*.
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The Legacy of Ash
A defining moment in Ash’s career came in 1997 when they headlined Glastonbury, becoming the youngest artists to do so. This happened unexpectedly after terrible weather canceled other performances, leaving Ash to step in and headline the second stage. It’s a memory Tim cherishes, and it’s a testament to their place in music history.
As the conversation drew to a close, Tim shared his love for Thin Lizzy, Japan, and his sentimental connection to the film *Casablanca*. And yes, even after 30 years, he’s still chasing that next peak, always looking for the next hit song that connects with people in a new way.
**Catch Ash on their upcoming tour, and stay tuned for more new music from this legendary band!**
Check out more interviews like this on [Amnplify].
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ASH
October 2024
Australian Tour Dates
Sunday 6th October – PERTH – Rosemount Hotel
Tuesday 8th October – ADELAIDE – The Gov
Thursday 10th October – BRISBANE – The Triffid
Friday 11th October – MELBOURNE – 170 Russell
Saturday 12th October – SYDNEY – Manning Bar
TICKETS: HERE
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Watch the full interview below
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Press Release 27th May 2024 (below) HERE
ASH
The Singles Tour
1994-2024
From Jack Names the Planets
to Race the Night
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