Ash

Fact Sheet

Country	Northern Ireland, UK
Years active	1989-

Ash is a band which was originally formed in Downpatrick (Northern Ireland) in 1990. Ash's music, though originally commonly described as Britpop, has also been catagorised as indie, rock and punk.

The original band members were Tim Wheeler (vocals / guitar), Mark Hamilton (bass guitar) and Rick McMurray (drums), who were later joined by Charlotte Hatherley (guitar/vocals).

Initially inspired by Twisted Sister and Iron Maiden in the early 90s, Tim and Mark formed a heavy metal band called Vietnam with a few schoolfriends. After barely a couple of gigs they were left on their own when the others left. Requiring a drummer they had a few drinks with Rick, who was in the year above them at school and had switched from playing the guitar to drums. They then ambitiously decided to try to develop their own music.

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