Ashtray Avenue, hailing from Brisbane, Australia, is a band that has rapidly captured attention with their loud, hard-hitting sound. Formed in mid-2023, the group consists of frontman Eric Thomas (vocals/guitar), Anthony Lazo (guitar), Nathan Salangsang (bass), and Aiden Baker (drums). Their first show in October 2023 marked the beginning of their journey fueled by a shared passion for powerful performances.
The Unique “Trash Rock” Sound
Ashtray Avenue’s music defies conventional genre boundaries, leading them to coin the term “trash rock” to describe their eclectic style. Drawing inspiration from punk, alternative rock, grunge, ska-punk, 60s rock 'n' roll, and metal, their sound is a melting pot of various influences. Each song presents a different facet of their musical identity, from introspective lyrics exploring deep emotional themes to high-energy tracks designed to get audiences moving. Eric Thomas, the band’s primary songwriter, crafts lyrics that delve into personal struggles, like the difficulty of letting go of the past, alongside more straightforward rock anthems like “So Fine.”
Inspirations and Songwriting
Eric Thomas channels a mix of his musical heroes—Green Day, The Beatles, Nirvana, Muse, Paramore, and Placebo—into his songwriting. His process is meticulous and introspective, often conceptualizing songs entirely in his head before picking up a guitar. This approach ensures that by the time a demo is ready, the foundation of the song is already solidly built. The band collaborates closely, with each member adding their own unique flair to Eric’s initial arrangements, enhancing the dynamic and diverse nature of their music.
Visual and Artistic Simplicity
Despite their complex sound, Ashtray Avenue opts for simplicity in their visual presentation. This minimalist approach is both a practical choice, given their DIY ethos, and a deliberate artistic decision. By keeping visuals straightforward and uncluttered, they ensure that the focus remains on their music. This strategy effectively captures and holds the audience’s attention without distractions.
Future Collaborations and Growth
Although Ashtray Avenue has yet to collaborate with other artists, they have their sights set on working with Brisbane’s own Waax and their lead singer Marie "Maz" DeVita. The band admires Waax’s energy and musical style, and a collaboration would be a dream come true. Looking ahead, Ashtray Avenue plans to involve all band members more deeply in the songwriting process, aiming to diversify their sound even further by incorporating elements from shoegazy metal, midwest emo, and the powerful choruses characteristic of Foo Fighters.
Live Performances: The Heart of Ashtray Avenue
For Ashtray Avenue, live performances are the essence of their existence. The band prides itself on delivering high-energy shows that leave audiences exhilarated and craving more. Their first single release show at Brisbane’s Tomcat venue was a memorable highlight, with the crowd’s enthusiastic response to “So Fine” providing an unforgettable moment for the band. The experience of having the audience sing along was a powerful affirmation of their music’s impact.
Conclusion
Ashtray Avenue is a band that thrives on the raw energy of live performances and the creative freedom of their self-styled “trash rock” genre. As they continue to evolve and refine their sound, their commitment to authenticity and their connection with fans promise a bright future. For those looking to discover the next big thing in rock music, Ashtray Avenue is a band to watch. Keep an eye on them as they push boundaries and make their mark on the Brisbane music scene and beyond.
