Control from alt rock trio Ash Red is their third single and will see a vinyl release later this year.

Track: Ash Red

Band: Control

Released: July 14 2023

Artwork for Control

... reflects on the gradual realisation of a once-close connection becoming distant, touching on themes of losing control and the sense of hopelessness that can arise from such situations.

Control is the third single from Cork trio Ash Red further to the success of their debut single The Stupid Song and their sophomore track Downtown.

With Control, Ash Red aims to explore the intricacies of human emotions and relationships. The song reflects on the gradual realisation of a once-close connection becoming distant, touching on themes of losing control and the sense of hopelessness that can arise from such situations. The band's introspective songwriting attempts to create an immersive experience for listeners, drawing them into their evocative sonic landscape.

There is a growing trend of creating dissonance between lyrics and music which can be effective; disquieting words sitting uneasily atop pleasing major key melodies create a disconnect and add interest. Equally music which reflects the lyrical themes can amplify them and create a feeling which is greater than the sum of its parts. That is what Ash Red have done with Control as their musical authenticity drives home the emotional impact of Arthur Murray's impassioned vocals.

moving into a portentous introduction of plangent guitar and bass interplay, the music is totally simpatico with Murray's pleasingly melancholy voice.

From the opening bars of hi hat and harmonics, moving into a portentous introduction of plangent guitar and bass interplay, the music is totally simpatico with Murray's pleasingly melancholic voice. With echoes of Killing Joke and Bauhaus, the track both lives up to the band's acknowledged influences and transcends them.

Ash Red, from Cork City, comprise Arthur Murray (vocals and guitar), Tadhg O'Keeffe (bass) and Isaac Walsh (drums). Known for their, dense captivating soundscapes, introspective lyrics and raw energy, they draw inspiration from influential post-punk acts like The Cure, Joy Division, Gang of Four, and The Jesus and Mary Chain. With their gloomy and dark sound, they have carved their own niche in the alternative music scene.

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Stupid Song is available on this Blowtorch compilation album

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