In the ever-evolving landscape of alternative R&B, few artists have managed to capture attention with as much grace, depth, and sheer musicality as ASH. A rising star in the genre, she’s more than just a singer-songwriter; ASH is a boundary-breaking visionary whose unique blend of bilingual lyricism, genre-defying production, and evocative storytelling is setting her apart from the rest. Her debut EP, Holding Water, solidifies her place as one of the most captivating new voices in contemporary music, offering a seven-track journey through emotional release, transience, and self-reflection.
ASH’s sound, influenced by everything from R&B and rock to indie and neo-soul, reflects her own eclectic journey. Born and raised in the international community of Beijing, she’s a product of diverse cultural influences. From her classical training as a pianist at the age of four to teaching herself guitar, bass, and drums in her teens, ASH’s musical foundation is as multifaceted as her sound. This well-rounded background is evident in Holding Water, where each track serves as a testament to her dynamic artistry, weaving together a rich tapestry of genres in a way that feels both fresh and timeless.
Her journey to the forefront of the alternative R&B scene wasn’t conventional. After excelling academically at the University of Pennsylvania, she earned a scholarship to The New School in New York City to pursue a Master’s in Music. It was here that she immersed herself in music production and began crafting the demos that would later become Holding Water. It didn’t take long for her work to catch the attention of Grammy Award-winning mixing engineer Jeff Ellis, known for his work with heavyweights like Frank Ocean, Doja Cat, and Kali Uchis.
On the release of, Holding Water, ASH shares, “For my very first project, I wanted to reflect on some of my very first vividly emotional experiences in life. Over these few years, the most potent lesson I learned was that letting go of my need for emotional agency was the only thing that could create space for the mental freedom I craved. Holding Water illustrates the moment in time where you can admire the reflection of the sky in your hands before the water inevitably falls away.”
With Holding Water, ASH delivers a sonic experience that feels deeply personal yet universally relatable. The EP opens with “Infatuated,” a soulful dive into the unrequited emotions of first love. ASH’s vocals float over the track, drenched in longing and heartache. Her ability to channel raw emotion is perhaps one of her greatest strengths, and it's on full display here.
In “Pearl,” ASH shifts the focus inward. The song is a self-assured anthem that encourages prioritising one’s own desires over the expectations of others. Laced with electronic flourishes, the track feels transcendent, offering a sense of liberation. This theme of personal freedom continues in the hauntingly beautiful “Blue Interlude.” Here, ASH lingers in the space between passion and dread, creating an atmosphere of melancholy that feels both intimate and cathartic.
The standout track, “Reverse Psychology,” showcases ASH’s knack for blending intricate production with emotional depth. With its intoxicating beat and layered vocal harmonies, the song explores the final stages of a tumultuous relationship, capturing the push and pull of energy between two people. It’s a masterclass in sonic storytelling, a thread that runs throughout the entire EP.
“These Clouds” brings a lighter, more introspective tone, with its soothing instrumentation and a lush sax solo that transports the listener to a space of comfort and reflection. It’s a reminder that even in life’s gloomiest moments, there’s solace to be found in stillness and contemplation.
The title track, “Holding Water,” is perhaps the most experimental on the EP. An a cappella composition, it strips ASH’s music down to its bare essence—her voice. In this raw, unadorned form, she reminds us of the power of trusting our creative instincts and letting go of what doesn’t define us. It’s a fitting conclusion to a project that feels like a deeply personal meditation on growth, identity, and emotional release.
ASH’s debut single “Infatuated” and sophomore track “Reverse Psychology” laid the groundwork for what was to come, but Holding Water is the full realisation of her vision. The EP is a bold statement, cementing her place in the alternative R&B scene as an artist unafraid to push boundaries and explore the complexities of human emotion through sound.
With each track, ASH continues to blur the lines between genres, crafting a sonic landscape that is as varied as her influences. Whether she’s delving into R&B, touching on indie rock, or embracing neo-soul, her music remains deeply rooted in emotional authenticity.
As ASH continues to rise, there’s no doubt that her unique voice and genre-bending production will continue to resonate with listeners around the world. Holding Water is just the beginning of what promises to be an extraordinary career for this multi-talented artist. With her storytelling prowess and innovative sound, ASH is poised to leave an indelible mark on the contemporary music landscape.
INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE | SPOTIFY | APPLE MUSIC