ASHLEY STOVE Biography - Sweetslyrics

The Ashley Stove is a four-piece rock band nurtured in the fertile musical climate of Raleigh, NC. Their forte is craftily skewered rock music with catchy hooks galore. The band got its start in 1992, the by-product of many band-fantasy discussions between boyhood friends Matt Brown and Ben Barwick (guitars/vocals). The lineup remained in flux for a little while, as new collaborators came and went. Billy Alphin joined up to play drums in 1992, after playing with several different bands including the art freaks of Buttsteak. Jennifer Barwick joined as bassist in 1993 after the break up of her previous band, the seminal NC quartet Erectus Monotone (Jennifer and Ben got married in 1999). Matt decided to go his own way in May of 2000, after many years of dedicated service and excellence. The current line up card was filled out in late 2000 with the addition of guitarist Jim Brantley, who brings a depth of natural talent that adds a new dimension, as well as a fresh perspective, to the Ashley Stove.

As the practice and songwriting sessions for All Summer Long began in early 2000, the Stove found itself minus a lead guitarist. Thinking fast, they enlisted the help of local guitar veteran Mike Kenlan (Small, Pipe), whom the band had always admired. Mike helped out in the writing and recording of All Summer Long, dropping large quantities of chorus-laden science on the proceedings. His help and contributions are deeply appreciated.

All Summer Long is the fourth proper full length from the Ashley Stove (their second on Merge) to go along with a slew of singles and compilation tracks. The ubiquitous Brian Paulson handles the production with his legendary skill and grace, with most of the tracks being laid down at the Sound Of Music in Richmond, VA. We think you'll agree that All Summer Long has turned out to be the Ashley Stove's finest recording to date featuring a "new, new wave" twist to round out the band<sup1;s signature hooks and melodies.