A classic song from a classic Irish album…
JOE continues our look at some of the best all-time classic songs with a tribute to one of the most iconic albums and talented lyricists that these 32 counties have produced in the last two decades.
Artist, album and year: Ash, 1977, 1996
Why is it a classic? : Tim Wheeler established himself as one of the finest songwriters of the Brit-pop era with Ash’s stellar debut album.
You get the impression that the Girl From Mars CD is almost dripping with teenage hormones, such is the sublime lyrics that capture that initial infatuation, buzz and utter head over heels feeling that accompanies teenage romance.
Most men probably still have no clue about when, where or why ‘that’ girl entered their lives but that doesn’t detract from the fun, intrigue or interest.
Ash have always been one of the best proponents of infectious pop-rock and this song was the first track that brought Downpatrick’s finest to mainstream prominence.
It’s testament to their skill as musicians and Wheeler’s amazing ear for melody that the track still feels like it was just recently recorded in a garage in County Down.
The moment when the track slows down at 02:26 only to erupt in a blissful harmony of guitars, drums and hopelessly romantic lyrics is wonderful.
Did you know? : The Ash frontman wrote this song when he was just 16-years-old and the band played it on their first Top of the Pops appearance two weeks after their A-level exams.
The lyrical hook: “Though she never told me her name, I still love you, Girl From Mars.”
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