OVER THE past decade, Ash have fared phenomenally well in Britain, but less so abroad, such as the United States or Asia. Indeed, some British music critics have expressed surprise that the former 'teenage pop-punk machine' lasted longer than a few years.
But someone out there must love their catchy - often noisy - tunes, as they have just released Intergalatic Sonic 7's, a bumper collection of their singles and B-sides.
Stuffed with more than 24 tracks, this double-CD is value for money. However, melodic as their music may be, Ash really isn't everybody's cup of tea.
Intergalatic Sonic 7's charts the band's progress as well as change of musical direction.
Formed in 1992 by three lads from Belfast, Northern Ireland - Tim Wheeler (vocals, guitar), Mark Hamilton (bass) and Rick McMurray (drums) - the trio were inspired by grunge supremo Nirvana. They released their first single Jack Names The Planet two years later and immediately found a huge fan base.
However, like so many rock bands and pop groups, success was too much for Ash. Addictions, arguments, arrests and even breakdowns ensued. During this period they somehow still managed to come up with some credible stuff, including hit singles Goldfinger and Oh Yeah in 1996.
