Ash Set Date for A-Z Singles Compilation

Ash are to release a compilation that marks the halfway stage of their plan to release 26 singles on a fortnightly basis.

'A-Z Vol 1' brings together the first 13 tracks they have put out since October 2009, alongside earlier single 'Return of the White Rabbit' and four extra tracks, including a cover of Carly Simon's 'Coming Around Again.'

Each single is linked to a letter of the alphabet – A is 'True Love, 1980' – so this first instalment covers A-M. Also on offer is a limited CD/DVD edition that features a tour diary filmed last autumn of the Northern Irish trio's A-Z jaunt that covered the UK via every letter – from Aldershot to Zennor, with Exmouth representing the letter X.

On the band's website forum, bassist Mark Hamilton explained a digital bundle of bonus tracks would be available to those that had subscribed to the singles. "We always said we were going to do A-Z compilations," he wrote. "Those who feel duped / ripped off can get off their soapboxes, my heart bleeds for you."

Ash have been in their New York studio recording songs that will complete the second part of a venture that marks the group's decision to stop releasing albums. Their compilation is set for release April 19 on Ash's own Atomic Heart Records, the same date they embark on a UK tour that begins at Southampton University.