Ulster indie survivors Ash say they are enjoying a return to their power trio roots.

The band formed as a three-piece in 1992 then added second guitarist Charlotte Hatherley in 1997.

She quit to pursue a solo career in 2006 but Tim, Mark and Rick say the leaner line-up has not dented their blistering live sound.

A recent gig at the Roundhouse in London saw Ash perform their classic album 1977 from beginning to end.

But they say forthcoming new material will mark a break with the past, with a more experimental sound set to surprise fans.

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