Los Angeles band ASHRR are a study in contradictions. Their music is Gothic without being goth, and although it’s gloomy, it’s not also filled with doom. Comprising producers Ethan Allen, and Josh Charles, along with singer Steven Davis, they’re a labour of love from a trio who make music for the sake of making music. No more no less, with the end result a haunting blend of darkwave and post-punk that hits you right *there*. Latest single ‘Waves’, in its synthy, introspective escapism, is the perfect release for a band who is making…well…waves…in LAs underground rock scene.
‘Waves’ follows on from ASHRR’s debut album last year, ‘Oscillator, along with their singles, ‘All Yours All Mine’, and ‘Don’t Wait Too Long’. With their primal sound the track throws off any shackles of genre, in a triumphant declaration of energy and atmospherics. Allen’s production serves as the glue that binds all elements together, with fuzzed-out, bass driven and a strident powerful chorus. Speaking about the song to Consequence Of Sound, ASHRR said,
“‘Waves’ is about life’s struggles, redemption, and the guttural instinct for survival against impossible odds and the realization that by letting anxiety wash over you and pass, you can free yourself.”
Drawing inspiration from the children’s classic, ‘The Balloon’, which sees a young boy chasing a balloon through the streets of Paris, the video for ‘Waves’ sees director Keith Musil examine themes of imprisonment, escape, and above all, self-determination. We follow along with the journey of a goldfish as it takes the adventure of a lifetime. First flushed down the loo, it takes a trip through the hands of an array of different people, who all have very different intentions. Finally free, we’re left with a cliffhanger ending, not knowing what the last human we encounter plans for the little fishy hero.
Watch the video for ‘Waves’ below. You can find out more about ASHRR and their music online on their official website.
