Ash

Here’s the event page content for Ash at SWG3, Glasgow:

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Ash Live at SWG3, Glasgow

About the Event

Prepare yourself for an electrifying night as Northern Irish rock titans, Ash, descend upon SWG3 in Glasgow on Thursday, 20th November 2025. This isn’t just another gig; it’s a celebration of enduring rock and roll energy, a chance to witness a band that has consistently delivered anthemic tunes and blistering live performances for over three decades. SWG3, a renowned hub for live music in Glasgow, provides the perfect industrial-chic backdrop for Ash’s signature blend of punk urgency and melodic grandeur. Expect a night packed with singalong anthems, raw energy, and the unmistakable spirit that has made Ash a beloved fixture in the British music scene. This is an opportunity to reconnect with classic hits and experience the vibrant dynamism of Ash in their element, promising a truly unforgettable evening for all in attendance.

About Ash

Emerging from Downpatrick, Northern Ireland, in the mid-1990s, Ash exploded onto the music scene with a raw, energetic sound that captured the zeitgeist of Britpop and beyond. Fronted by the charismatic Tim Wheeler, the band – also featuring Mark Hamilton on bass and Rick McMurray on drums – quickly became synonymous with infectious melodies, sharp lyrical wit, and a relentless live show. Their debut album, 1977, released in 1996, was a critical and commercial triumph, spawning iconic singles like “Girl from Mars,” a track that perfectly encapsulated their blend of youthful exuberance and sonic power. This was followed by the equally successful Nu-Clear Sounds in 1998, which delivered further fan favourites such as “Jesus Freaks” and “Wildsurf.”

Ash’s commitment to prolific output and unwavering quality continued with Free All Angels in 2001, an album that showcased a more mature yet equally potent sound, featuring the anthemic “Shining Light” and the introspective “Burn Baby Burn.” Their discography is a testament to their creative longevity, with subsequent albums like Meltdown (2004), Twilight of the Innocents (2007), and Isle of Summer (2012) demonstrating their ability to evolve their sound while retaining the core elements that fans adore. They are celebrated for their commitment to releasing singles, famously dropping a series of 52 singles, one per week, as part of their Commando project in 2008, a bold testament to their ongoing creative drive. Ash have consistently defied expectations, offering a live performance that is as vital and exhilarating today as it was at the height of their initial fame, making them a true institution of British rock music.

Venue Information

SWG3 is Glasgow’s premier destination for cutting-edge arts and live music, housed within a series of galvanised iron structures in the city’s West End. This industrial complex has been transformed into a dynamic space that plays host to a diverse range of cultural events, from intimate club nights to large-scale concerts. Known for its raw aesthetic and excellent acoustics, SWG3 offers a unique and immersive environment for experiencing live music. The venue’s adaptable spaces ensure that whether it’s an energetic rock show or a more subdued performance, the atmosphere is always electric. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

When Ash take to the stage at SWG3, you can anticipate a performance that is nothing short of electrifying. Their live shows are renowned for their unadulterated energy, a whirlwind of fuzzy guitars, driving rhythms, and Tim Wheeler’s distinctive, soaring vocals. Expect a setlist that expertly navigates their extensive and beloved back catalogue, seamlessly blending fan favourites with deeper cuts that showcase their enduring musical prowess.

Get ready to lose yourself in the anthemic choruses of “Girl from Mars,” a track that still possesses an incredible ability to unite a crowd in joyous abandon. The poignant beauty of “Shining Light” will undoubtedly fill the room, creating a moment of collective reflection before the band launches back into the infectious, crowd-pleasing power of “Burn Baby Burn.” Their ability to craft timeless indie-rock anthems means that hits like “Kung Fu” and “Angel Interceptor” will have the entire venue singing along at the top of their lungs.

Ash are not a band that rests on their laurels; their performance style is dynamic and engaging. Tim Wheeler is a captivating frontman, exuding a genuine passion for his music that is infectious. The tight interplay between Hamilton and McMurray provides a rock-solid foundation for Wheeler’s guitar work, creating a sonic force that is both powerful and precise. Expect a show that is loud, fast, and full of heart, with no shortage of stage presence. While the exact setlist will remain a thrilling surprise, you can be assured of a performance that honours their legacy while demonstrating the vitality of their current output. The duration of their sets typically spans around 90 minutes to two hours, packed with an impressive array of hits and high-octane performances, ensuring that every moment is savoured.

FAQs

Q1: Will Ash be playing material from their entire career, or will it be focused on a specific album? Ash are renowned for their extensive and beloved back catalogue. While they often celebrate anniversaries or specific albums, for a general headline show like this, you can expect a setlist that spans their entire career. They are masters at weaving together their most iconic hits from albums like 1977 and Free All Angels with fan favourites from their later work, ensuring a comprehensive and satisfying journey through their musical evolution.

Q2: Is Ash’s live show suitable for all ages? Ash’s live shows are generally energetic and feature loud music, which is typical of rock concerts. While they have a broad appeal, it’s advisable for parents to consider the age and sensitivity of their children to loud noise and a potentially boisterous crowd environment. The venue itself has its own age restrictions, so it’s always best to check the specific guidelines for SWG3 regarding unaccompanied minors.

Q3: What is Ash’s typical stage presence like? Ash are known for their incredibly energetic and engaging live performances. Tim Wheeler is a charismatic and passionate frontman who connects with the audience through his vocals and guitar work. The band as a whole delivers a tight, powerful performance, brimming with raw rock and roll energy. Expect a dynamic and visually exciting show with plenty of guitar solos, driving rhythms, and genuine enthusiasm from the stage.

Q4: Will there be any merchandise available at the show? It is highly probable that Ash will have a merchandise stand at SWG3, offering a range of official band merchandise. This typically includes t-shirts, hoodies, vinyl records, and potentially other exclusive items. It’s always a good idea to bring some extra cash or be prepared to use card payment methods if you’re keen to pick up some memorabilia from the gig.

Q5: Are there any specific songs that are considered “must-hear” Ash live tracks? Absolutely! While their setlist can vary, certain songs are almost guaranteed to be crowd-pleasers and essential live experiences. Tracks like “Girl from Mars,” “Burn Baby Burn,” “Shining Light,” “Kung Fu,” and “Angel Interceptor” are all anthemic singalongs that consistently get the audience roaring. Hearing these hits performed with Ash’s signature live intensity is a highlight of any of their shows.

Q6: Has Ash performed at SWG3 before? Ash have a history of performing in Glasgow and have graced various stages within the city throughout their career. While a specific past performance at SWG3 isn’t detailed here, the venue is a well-established spot for significant live acts, making it a fitting location for a band of Ash’s calibre. Their return to Glasgow, particularly at a venue known for its quality live music programming, is always a highly anticipated event for their Scottish fanbase.

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