Augmented 7th

Having received staunch radio support from BBC 6 Music for his recent EP, with airplay from Gideon Coe, Don Letts and Tom Robinson, Ash Walker announces the release of his highly anticipated debut album, 'Augmented 7th'.

Combining an eclectic mix of genres, the engrossing album ranges from abstract trip-hop and King Tubby-influenced dub-reggae to downtempo electronica, all entrenched in a jazz tone - as indicated by its title, which refers to a chord popular in the genre.

Beginning the LP with 4 tracks previously released in his'Agnostic' EP, followed by recent double single 'Six Eight' / 'Noodle', 'Augmented 7th' deftly showcases Ash's musical versatility and strengths as a collaborator.

In contrast to the dubby 'Bamboo Circus' and dark, brooding 'Round The Twist', 'Six Eight' and 'Noodle' possess a more classic jazz feel, with both featuring a brooding bassline developed by bass guitarist Marc Cyril, who has played with the likes of Joss Stone, Dennis Bovell, Jr Walker and the All Stars and Faithless' Maxi Jazz. 'Long Arms' follows suit, with a characteristic jazz ride cymbal rhythm and punchy kick drum which fades to gentle, ambient chimes.

Collectively written by Ash, guitarist Milo O'Halloran, keys player Jay Mozart and bass guitarist Sara Belle at the famous Konk Studios, founded by The Kinks, 'Come On Board' offers a more upbeat feel with a spiraling bassline and intricate guitar and keys. In contrast, mellow, experimental sounds act as the base for the captivating focal guitar in 'Root Vegetables', complemented perfectly by serene keys.

The album also features Ash's remix of 'All That You Are' by Zeb Samuels & Rowl featuring Segilola - the track that first inspired an invitation to join the established electronic imprint, Deep Heads, through which 'Augmented 7th' is released. The LP ends with 'Lost Cranium', written by Ash and label boss Zeb Samuels,who also acted as executive producer for the whole album.

As a DJ, Ash has long performed in support of acts such as The Specials, Lee Scratch Perry and David Rodigan,and nowhis productions are finally getting the recognition they deserve.

With a raw talent that stems from a wide range of influences, showcased in an eclectic DJ mix which recently premiered on okayplayer, 'Augmented 7th' firmly establishes Ash as a producer on the rise.