Ash seem to be one of those bands who've  been around for ages, but even then it's a bit of a shock to find that they released their debut 1977 eight years ago. 

One of the most revered and fanatically supported of the guitar bands that exploded from the Britpop years of the mid 90s, theirs is an instantly recognisable sound which has endured both ups and downs. 

The history behind Ash is quite amazing.  Only teenagers when 1977 was released, the album was a huge hit, spawning five singles and launching them into the big time.  The follow up Nu-Clear Sounds saw them lose the plot, a darker direction attracting a critical mauling and poor sales.  Stuck in the last chance saloon, singer and songwriter Tim Wheeler found his muse and his final effort at re-establishing the band was a huge success.  The soaring comeback single `Shining Light' had them back in the Top 10 and the excellent album Free All Angels followed, as did another four singles.  Intergalactic Sonic 7's, a collection of their singles in 2002, was also a success and cemented their return.   

Meltdown is the band's fourth studio album, recorded in the US with Foo Fighters producer Nick Raskulinecz.  Although it's billed as a heavier sound, in reality they've gone for the punk pop which they do so well, soaring harmony laden choruses and catchy riffs abundant.  In the main it works well.  Current single `Orpheus' illustrates that Wheeler has lost none of his ability to write a great single while `Detonator' and `Evil Eye' are other highlights, the latter starting rather thrillingly with Omen style ghostly voices before punching its way to a sing-along chorus.  The download single `Clones' is also excellent, with tight, fast riffs, thundering drums and scratching electronic trickery.  

The record does lose its way in bits.  `Starcross'd' is awful, a blatant attempt at a chart bothering ballad which is so cheesy you can almost hear the cows being milked.  `On A Wave' is standard too and `Won't Be Saved', despite a fairly hooky riff, feels half complete.  Lyrically things aren't exactly rocket science either, but then they've never been a band you paid much attention to in that sense. 

Meltdown is more direct and less experimental than previous efforts but it takes Ash back to what they do best.  While Free All Angels was a stronger set of songs, this is still hugely enjoyable and ensures that the band will be around for a good while yet.
(3½/5)

Release date: 17 May 2004

Meltdown