Jane Gallatly ([email protected])
Sun, 17 Jan 1999 21:12:03 +1100
"Many people told us not to do it", said the band's drummer Rick McMurray,
23 on the eve of an Australian visit.
"It was a big step for us because we are not a political band and it could
have had serious drawbacks. We actually thought many of our fans might
think it uncool, but a lot later told us they were really proud of Ash. I
have grown up among the troubles in Ireland, and finally it is time for us
all to move beyond it."
Appearing at the peace gig, Ash attracted criticism from Protestant
firebrand the Reverend Ian Paisley, who tagged the outfit "a Republican
band".
"He has slagged us before and said we are a bad example to the young people
of Northern Ireland. When asked about our music, he said he would rather
sing a hymn. The guy reads the bible, but he obviously does not understand
it".
McMurray said the band had enjoyed playing with U2, probably the biggest
act in the business.
"U2 used our instruments and the volume on stage for us was quite loud, so
when they started playing 'One' you could see them all freaking out going
'Turn it down! Turn it down!' When Bono came off stage he said "Well that
was a bit fast and furious"...I said 'Yeah - you should try it sometime."
"Seriously though, the guys in U2 were really cool."
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Regards,
Jane
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