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ASHRR Discusses “Sunshine Low” and Their Soundsystem Project

glassefactoryJuly 25, 20253 Mins read362 Views

With “Sunshine Low,” ASHRR steps into a new phase, one that leans into the rhythm and energy of the dancefloor while staying true to the band’s thoughtful approach to songwriting. The album isn’t a dramatic shift but rather a natural evolution, shaped by years of exploring different sounds and letting inspiration take the lead. It’s music made for movement, both physical and emotional, and it captures a sense of being present that runs through every track.

ASHRR’s latest chapter “Sunshine Low,” marks a seamless evolution that embraces both the emotional depth and the kinetic energy of the dancefloor. Parallel to this, the ASHRR Soundsystem project offers a fresh, cosmic spin on their music—reimagining tracks through a lens of dub, club culture, and transcendence, pushing the band’s creative boundaries while staying connected to their core identity. This conversation dives into the inspirations behind “Sunshine Low,” the genesis of the Soundsystem reinterpretations, and the evolving spirit that guides ASHRR’s unique musical journey.

You described Sun Song (ASHRR Soundsystem Version) as a “transcendent, spacey, dubbed-out dance floor jam.” How did the idea for this reinterpretation come about?

This track was an extension of the feeling in the original song, being sun-drenched and vibing to the point of hallucination. But in this one, we went to the deeper end of the pool and explored an aspect that was a bit clubbier and more cosmic.

What’s the intention behind your ASHRR Soundsystem project? Is it a side venture or an extension of your live presence?

It’s at the same time a continuance of what the band expresses and also a total reinvention, often from the ground up in terms of new production. It’s like a different set of clothes or utilizing a different fashion sense.

How does the SOUNDSYSTEM moniker allow you to creatively explore different sonic territories compared to ASHRR’s usual output?

Our aesthetic is always our own. But in these pieces, we have a chance to give ourselves over to a new spirit of movement and energy.

Your most recent album, Sunshine Low, is described as a shift into more dancefloor-ready territory. What inspired that evolution in sound?

For me, that really wasn’t anything conscious so much as an ongoing evolution in our music. Dance and electronic music have always played a role in ASHRR; we just leaned on different parts of our color palette.

Steven mentioned the album is about “embracing the present.” How does that theme manifest throughout the record?

Lyrically, this record explored being in the now and trying to hold onto that in our community and relations. Something more immediate and experiential.

What role does improvisation play in your songwriting process, especially on tracks like “Deux Sons”?

Josh and I always start from a place of improvisation and jamming. If we can conjure a vibe we are enjoying, we figure others might too. If I’m starting a groove or remix concept, the first reaction is usually where all the good stuff comes from, but sometimes it takes a crazy path to land on what really works.

Your tracks have received remixes by Lovefingers. Ron Trent, and more. What do you look for in a remixer, and how do you see remix culture as part of your creative world?

Scientist was a dream, and we were in the studio with him as we did Fizzy. It was a dream. Additionally, we’re friends with Andrew, and he absolutely killed the Sway remix. We asked our label if we could get Ron Trent, who we know is a legend, and he did a magical remix for us as well. We look for originality and that something special, the X factor that is hard to describe. Our label also turned us on to some really great remixers, too.

With the Sunshine Low ASHRR SOUNDSYSTEM remix album on the horizon, what do you hope new listeners take away from this chapter of ASHRR’s journey?

I hope it makes you want to move and hopefully bring some surprises. More than anything, I hope it’s a good ride!