Track Feature Review

"Cities in Dust" by ASHRR  

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• Label: First second
• Music by: Siouxsie and the banshees
• Lyrics by: Susan Ballion
• Vocals by: steven davis
• Produced by: ethan allen, Josh charles
• Mixed by: Ethan allen

Release Date: Fri 28 Jun 2019

Audience Score: Currently unrated
Track Popularity: NEW

 

 

"U.S. alternative rock/new wave act ASHRR, a musical collective made up of Singer/Songwriter Steven Davis and Artist/Producers Ethan Allen & Josh Charles, recently released the great cover classic 'Cities In Dust' originally from the amazing and classic band Siouxie & the Banshees. Their take on it is filled with a fresh new wave sound all over (and obviously offers a new flavour considering the original is sung with female vocals), that on ocassion is sometimes reminiscent of some of the work by David Bowie and also some from The Smiths. But we can assure that they do a superb work injecting their own personality in this already excellent song. The bass & guitar work is what stands out more along with the super solid vocal performance. The music production is on point with a more modern sound in this kind of more rock oriented styles, the overall mood respects the original with the same kind of sarcastic post apocalyptic fanfare that accomplishes mixed feelings about the narrative being sung and finally, vocalist Steven Davis brings to the table a vocal tone and texture that consolidate a very enjoyable tribute to this great 80's alternative hit. If you are looking for great fresh alternative new wave, please follow ASHRR you won't be dissapointed."

 

by Synthpop Your World on Tue 09 Jul 2019

 

 

SYW Overall SCORE: GREAT

INSIDE THE TRACK: [artist's commentary]

Commenting on their new take on the song, the band’s multi-instrumentalist/producer Josh Charles says, ”Cities In Dust” is a classic alternative hit from the mid 80’s that permeated the airwaves and MTV when I was a kid.
I love the driving bass line and incredibly emotive force behind Siouxsie’s voice.
The song draws you in with a repetitive chant that digs deep into your soul.

The original production is great but we felt that we wanted it sound like today and one of the main differences of course is Steven’s voice. Whenever you decide to do a cover, I’ve always been fond of males voices covering female singers. It forces you to look at the song in a different light with different keys, textures, etc.

The lyric refers to Pompeii but is as relevant now as it was in the 80’s with a message about the destruction of our civilization.
This song kicks so much ass live - it’s become one of our favorites to play in the show.”