David J Ashley

"Not easily defined," would be one way to describe David J Ashley and his music. The Upper Peninsula of Michigan was his childhood home. He has traveled the world, which has given him a wide perspective of music, life and faith.

Comparisons are quite diverse: David Bowie, Trent Reznor (of Nine Inch Nails), Joe Cocker, James Taylor - a strange and eclectic mix. It's tough to pin down a 'he sounds like' statement. David grew up in a country music home and still finds favor with iconic country like Charlie Rich, Hank Williams or Johnny Cash and even some of the modern country artists like Big and Rich. Then, during his teenage years, he formed his first rock band and played a few gigs before enlisting in the Air Force. Through the years and travels, he's become a lover of most music. "I like it all... mostly... there's really very little music I don't enjoy... except music that promotes violence, hatred or is a constant spewing of vulgar insults to me isn't worthy of an ear," says David in reflection of what turns him on and off musically.

Growing up in the back woods gave him an appreciation for nature. You'll hear references to that in his music - the sounds of wind, water and other nature sounds are uniquely interwoven into this alternative rock style.

You'll find a spiritual overtone to his music, because his faith is at the core of who he is. Candidly speaking, David noted, "Look, I don't pretend to be a great or profound writer or musician... the best music to me is music that comes from the soul, from the heart and speaks to me right here, right now. When I write, it's usually about an emotion, an observation, maybe a significant event in my life... or the breaking of those things that hold me down." Ultimately, he hopes something in his music will cause positive changes.

His years dabbling in music has lead him to the highly anticipated release of his first solo project, David on Earth, released in July of 2008. Most recently, being associated with the band Polaradio has caused a renewed fever for writing and performing again.