Ash are a rock band from Northern Ireland, formed in Downpatrick in 1992 by Tim Wheeler, Mark Hamilton, and Rick McMurray. They first gained attention with their mini-album Trailer in 1994, followed by the acclaimed album 1977 in 1996, which was later listed among NME’s 500 greatest albums. After expanding to a four-piece with guitarist Charlotte Hatherley, Ash released Nu-Clear Sounds in 1998 and the successful Free All Angels in 2001. Returning to their original trio in 2006, the band later launched their ambitious A-Z Series, releasing 26 singles in 2009. Ash have achieved multiple platinum and gold records in the UK and produced numerous top 40 singles. Although often linked to the Britpop movement, they have kept their own musical identity.