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DANIEL ASH (Daniel Ash self-titled) album review
(c) Stephen Blotner

Daniel Ash was a member of two of the greatest (including Love and Rockets - my favorite) bands from the eighties. I've learned over the years to respect a few artists, and love others, that offered consistency in songwriting, lyrics, and a unique live performance that rewarded the fans and concertgoers, fans who bought the t-shirts, videos, and had walls covered with posters. I'm mentioned on the current Daniel Ash discography website, and I've loved his earlier work from many years back.

The 2002 album “DANIEL ASH” seems quite strange. “Burning Man” is interesting in some ways, and subsequently was released in several formats - including the ubiquitous approach of countless dance remixes, most quite repetitive to my ears and sadly lacking much similarity to the lyrics or original song. “Spooky” from Daniel Ash is similar to the Dusty Springfield version (CLASSIC IV original), and again the production distracts from the song. Two of the tracks on “DANIEL ASH” were originally from an independent CD e.p. (basically the e.p. featured three instrumental tracks - sold independently and his personalized autograph on the sleeve was not enough to make up for the poor mastering and disappointing songs). I found the entire release disappointing and the songwriting has none of the flair of his earlier tunes. The production to my ears was distracting, the songs are loud but the vocals overpower some of the instruments. Additionally, the bass rhythms and drums or drum machines are overpowering in the mix of most tracks. I listened a number of times and found there are no great songs on “DANIEL ASH”, but perhaps interesting lyrics on one or two tracks. This is the same problem with the past few Love and Rockets releases, a few good songs though nothing outstanding as a whole.

Again I point you to a finer work - and more consistent in style - his first full solo release “COMING” DOWN”. Sadly “COMING DOWN” is out of print but careful scrutiny or online shoppes will yield a copy. I additionally recommend the first record from bandmate David J - “ETIQUETTE OF VIOLENCE”. It's a very personal and interesting recording (actually oriented toward a folk style). I hope Mr. Ash is reminded of the times he penned songs with great music and strong, insightful lyrics, and creates stronger efforts on his future output.

05/2003
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