Power of Pop

Ash, Ireland’s answer to the power-pop idols of U.S. radio, have made a conscious effort on their latest release, “Meltdown,” to sound American. Such ambition hasn’t hurt them in Ireland and the UK, where the album has been out for almost a year and the singles have all charted respectably.
What Ash has done is essentially released an album of singles. All 14 of the tracks are suited for American radio, and whatever the magic formula was that Ash was after, the band found it.
Because they have been doing this for some time, Ash could be considered the forefathers of modern power pop, as strange as it may be for an Irish band to hold that title.
Luckily, Ash has grown up in the process. They beat the new kids at their own game, and have experience on their side. The lyrics are slightly more inspired than most and the technical aspect of “Meltdown” is something to be admired.
Vocalist and guitarist Tim Wheeler has said that they were in search of a specific sound — something uniquely American in the production that punctuates the record- and they have succeeded. “Meltdown” is a sonic marvel, best suited for subwoofers and surround sound system for maximum effect.
Perhaps the trick was a button on the console that layers thick guitar fuzz over the songs. This effect is present on most of the tracks, and seems a uniquely American touch.
Wheeler’s voice is still as exuberant and kicky as it was when their debut, “1977,” was released. He writes vocals suited to his voice.
One of the most vital elements of “Meltdown” is Charlotte Hatherly, whose harmonizing balances Wheeler’s vocals and gives the album a gravelly edge.
“Evil Eye” is a good example, melding Wheeler and Hatherly’s vocals into a fun, catchy song that seems to borrow from classic Beatles hooks.
“Clones” is a heavy dose of rock, with thunderous drums and a guitar assault that sounds like it came from outer space.
However, the problem with loud albums like this is that they sometimes fall flat in other areas, such as lyrics, and go little beyond the thunderous roar of the music.
“Renegade Cavalcade” is a good example, when Wheeler tries to rhyme the words “drain” and “guillotine.”
In all, “Meltdown” sees Ash taking a turn at metal riffs and arena drums but doesn’t deviate far away from their power-pop sound. It has worked for them so far, and one can almost hear Wheeler and company holding their breath to see how America likes their sound.