On the heels of their recent record release, LA born synth-rock band ASHRR has released a brand new stand-alone single today; a cover of UK goth post-punk legends Siouxsie and the Banshees’ classic song, “Cities In Dust.” The song is available now at streaming services. Watch the lyric video for the song below.
Commenting on their new take on the song, the band’s multi-instrumentalist/producer Josh Charles says, “”Cities In Dust” is a classic alternative hit from the mid 80’s that permeated the airwaves and MTV when I was a kid. I love the driving bass line and incredibly emotive force behind Siouxsie’s voice. The song draws you in with a repetitive chant that digs deep into your soul. The original production is great but we felt that we wanted it sound like today and one of the main differences of course is Steven’s voice. Whenever you decide to do a cover, I’ve always been fond of males voices covering female singers. It forces you to look at the song in a different light with different keys, textures, etc. The lyric refers to Pompeii but is as relevant now as it was in the 80’s with a message about the destruction of our civilization. This song kicks so much ass live – it’s become one of our favorites to play in the show.”
ASHRR’s unique brand of new-wave/post-punk influenced alternative rock continues to resonate with fans and critics around the world, garnering rave reviews and attention from NPR.org, Post-Punk.com, LA Weekly, Buzzbands.la and more. The band’s newly released album, Oscillator, has spun off several riveting singles (heard at the links below) that are familiar in sound and yet offer a completely fresh and exciting style that’s unlike anything on the airwaves today.
Formed in early 2018, ASHRR is a synth-rock collective made up of singer-songwriter Steven Davis and artists/producers Ethan Allen and Josh Charles. The trio has a long eclectic musical background that meld experience and influence from a multitude of styles and genres, that when combined results in a familiar yet unique and contemporary sound.
Steven Davis’ roots can be traced back to singing gospel in a Midwestern church that pave the way to a booming career as a professional musician. Through his career he’s shared the stage with icons such as Diana Krall and Tony Bennett, headlined Rockefeller Center’s rarefied Rainbow & Stars and co-writes with pop legend John Oates.
Ethan Allen is a record producer, mixer, engineer, writer, multi-instrumentalist musician. His credits include Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, Ben Harper, Tricky, Luscious Jackson, The Cult, Gram Rabbit and Sheryl Crow among others, as well as many licensing placements in film and television.
Josh Charles is a critically acclaimed piano prodigy, guitarist, singer, producer and songwriter mentored by Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Dr. John. He has recorded for Columbia Records/Sony Music Entertainment, Island Records and Elektra Records/Warner Music Group. In addition to songwriting credits with John Oates and others, he has toured with The Neville Brothers, Joss Stone, and the late Buckwheat Zydeco. Josh also works as a sound designer for Native Instrument’s sounds.com and SPLICE.
ASHRR’s unique musical diversity can be heard throughout Oscillator with each song written and performed with distinct purpose and meticulous skill. The band’s contrasting backgrounds allows for a collision of influences from new wave and art rock to indie electronic pop, and thematic elements that are profound and thoughtfully poetic.