You knew this time would come. You’ve had the date in your diary since the release of Nu-Clear sounds. You know it. Ash are back, baby! And back in style. A tour of teeny venues (always the best gigs) and a new, sorry NU_ single entitled ‘Warmer than Fire’. This track is written by Steve Ludwin, any name-spotters amongst you will know him as the guy who used to front Carrie [see: sugar metal bands in 1997-98 featuring members of EMF] and he is now in _Little Hell, who are supporting Ash on their tour - click here for the dates.

That’s the main facts out of the way. Firstly, it’s confession time; 'Warmer than fire' is not really a comeback single, it’s an mp3 download-only-thing from www.ash-official.com. It’s part of an Infectious marketing plan to rekindle our love for Ash. Not mocking it if you’re reading people! Just I've heard a little hysteria about people thinking Ash have lost it and can't fill the big venues anymore.

Right, now the song… Well, for me it’s not really typical Ash. It’s a typical Ash single but not what I like them for i.e. Kung Fu, Numbskull and most of Trailer. It is a typical Ash single in that it is a love song with harmonies and cheesy lines, that's kind of a trademark, innit? I guess this reminds me of Mercury Rev, which I wouldn’t say is a bad thing. It’s still very much the Ash of old (not really Trailer era tho’) and I’m sure someone wearing an Ash anorak can tell me a b-side of theirs that this resembles (please use the messageboard). This really is a grower and I’m sure it’ll keep the allegiance happy.

You can get this, for free, so go and download it (from November 19th) and try to check ‘em out on this special tour. I think most of the gigs are sold out - I know Verdis where I DJ, which is the smallest gig on the tour, could of sold out about 50times.

…the next album is due early next year, just in case you’re wondering :o) And DiS will be interviewing them v.soon!