SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: ASHES AND DIAMONDS – ASHES AND DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER

ASHES AND DIAMONDS
ASHES AND DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER
CLEOPATRA RECORDS

Ashes And Diamonds is a new supergroup. The three members of the band all come from classic alternative rock bands, and all three have certainly left their mark on music throughout the years. Daniel Ash (Bauhaus, Love and Rockets, Tones on Tail), Bruce Smith (Public Image Ltd., The Pop Group), and Paul Spencer Denman (Sade, Sweetback) have joined forces. This extraordinary album is the result. While the album has its roots in some of the classic music of the 1980s, there is so much more to admire here.

Given the pedigree of the members of this band, the fact that the album is brilliant should come as no surprise. The three bring their respective talents to the table for 12 songs that create a distinct atmosphere and sound. Let’s face it, Daniel Ash’s voice is Daniel Ash’s voice. So, some comparisons to Love and Rockets are to be expected, but this is not an extension of that band. From the city sounds that open the album with the song “Hollywood” until the very end of its length, this album delivers what it sets out to and then some. Ash tips his hat to The Doors, referencing their song “The Crystal Ship” in the album’s lyrics. He describes a crystal ship, hoping it will change the city, which seems to be suffering. Ash’s EBow, combined with the incredible rhythm section of Smith and Denman, produces a sad yet unsettling feeling. It is a brilliant way to open the album.

SPILL FEATURE: WE MET IN THE PARKING LOT – A CONVERSATION WITH DANIEL ASH & BRUCE SMITH OF ASHES AND DIAMONDS

Elsewhere, the band combines glam with 1950s rock to come up with the odd “On A Rocka,” a song that simply should not work, but it just does. The grinding guitars and thundering drums make it enjoyable and actually quite fun. The song “Boy Or Girl” follows a similar vein, with great backing vocals. Both songs are infectious and stay with the listener long after the album is over. “The A Listers” (complete with Bauhaus classic guitar) and “Champagne Charlie” aim at the Hollywood elite and point out the hypocrisies of that crowd.

There is a lot going on with this album. It is full of twists and turns throughout. In classic rock style, they do save the best for last. “2020” is heavily influenced by Ziggy Stardust-era David Bowie and is sort of a sequel to the album (had that world not been canonically destroyed in Bowie’s five-year plan). “2020” is a classic, and in some ways defines the band. Sure, it is influenced by Bowie, but the band incorporates its own sound, and it is a glorious sound.

Ashes And Diamonds Are Forever is an astonishing debut album. Each member brings their best to the table, and we, the listeners, benefit from it. It is a very layered album, with a lot to unpack and appreciate. The lyrics are strong and say a great deal in a very unique manner. When all is said and done, Ashes And Diamonds have created an album filled with surprise and depth. The album should be listened to from beginning to end, in order to embrace the sound and music.

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