The JJ Ash Band formed in the early 1990s as teenagers under the name Essential, gaining local support and early industry attention. Working with the late producer Bob Lamb recording their first set of material, their debut single “Foreign War” drew controversy for its political lyrics and was considered too provocative for radio. After changing their name and experiencing line-up changes and internal struggles, they reunited in the Britpop era and released the album Skin in 1999, which received mixed reviews.
Ash Hemming later formed the electronic duo Parisian Cowboy releasing the album ‘Strange’ on the Moseley Sounds label, (single- Pink Green - “Exquisite” -Mary Anne Hobbs BBC Radio 1) Ash also produced and recorded local bands in between projects.
Now, The JJ Ash Band has reformed with original members for a new album and live shows, bringing renewed energy and experience to their music.