ASH have always flouted convention. Whether it was revamping their indie dad-rock sound with the addition of Charlotte Hatherley, or going it alone with their Atomic Heart label, the Northern Irish alternative rock outfit have never been afraid to do something different.

So it is with A-Z Vol 1. The first of two records, the concept comprises 26 singles alphabetically from A-Z, with volume one taking us up to M. The singles are being released every fortnight and, as a collective, it’s an eclectic mix of pop, indie, synth and even metal. With the freedom to do what they want, Ash are ultra adventurous.

The great thing is it largely works. Most of these tracks really could stand as singles and, given the filler which binds most records together, that is no mean feat.