Cork trio Ash Red have released their new single, Control. We asked lead singer Arthur Murray the BIG questions . . .
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Ash Red are Arthur, Tadhg O'Keeffe and Isaac Walsh and they are heavily influenced by post-punk legends like The Cure, Joy Division, and Gang of Four.
Tell us three things about yourself...
My name is Arthur Murray, and I'm the lead singer and guitarist of the band Ash Red. I'm 20 years old, and I'm living in Cork.
How would you describe your music?
When I am asked about our music, I often describe it as post-punk because it has the characteristic sound of late 70s post-punk bands. However, I must admit that I find the term a bit nondescript and cliché, much like the overuse of the term "indie" by bands a few years ago. So, for that reason, I prefer not to confine ourselves to a specific genre. In terms of the music itself, I would characterize it as bass-driven, dark, and with a touch of introversion.
Who are your musical inspirations?
There are so many artists and songs that have influenced our music, but I'll narrow it down to 10: The Jam, The Jesus and Mary Chain, Joy Division/New Order, The Smashing Pumpkins, Nirvana, Gang of Four, The Cure, The Stone Roses, Pixies, and of course, The Beatles.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
I went to see Liam Gallagher in Musgrave Park here in Cork City with my dad when I was about 16.
What was the first record you ever bought?
I remember the first vinyl record I had was Boy by U2, which I borrowed (and later returned) from my uncle when I was 14 or 15. I can remember being terrified that I broke it when I put the needle down and heard a giant burst of static in my headphones, but eventually, the guitar from I Will Follow came through, much to my relief. As for the first record I actually purchased, I think it might have been a best of CD by The Killers.
What's your favourite song right now?
Breakfast in America by Supertramp.
Favourite lyric of all time?
"I don't have to sell my soul, he's already in me, I wanna be adored". I Wanna Be Adored by The Stone Roses.
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
That's Entertainment by The Jam or Ceremony by New Order, my two favourite songs of all time.
Where can people find your music/more information?
If you want to keep up with everything related to the band, the best place is our Instagram page @ashredcork. For the tunes, you can find us on Spotify (where we would really appreciate a follow) or your chosen streaming service and up to date info on Blowtorch Records.
