Ashley Stove

Ashley Stove is an indie rock band from Raleigh, North Carolina, formed in 1992 by guitarists and vocalists Matt Brown and Ben Barwick. Known for their craftily skewered rock music packed with catchy hooks, they gained a following through a string of releases on labels including Jesus Christ Records and Merge Records. Their sound combines alt-rock with power pop chord progressions and harmonious boy-girl vocals, drawing influences from ’80s new wave and indie pop, with comparisons to The Cars, The Police, and Belle and Sebastian. Key albums include *New Scars* and *All Summer Long*, the latter noted for its breezy, upbeat vibe and absence of heavy riffs, embodying a warm, optimistic spirit reminiscent of classic power pop.

Over the years, the band has seen lineup changes, adding musicians like Mike Kenlan and Jim Brantley to enrich their sound. Their more recent work includes singles such as *Fair Zipper*, continuing their legacy as purveyors of melodic, upbeat indie rock that appeals to fans of both classic and modern pop sounds.