Born out of post-pandemic introspection and late-night studio sessions, Ash Lex is a Montreal-based alt-rock artist who blends raw emotion with the nostalgic grit of ’90s rock. Formed in 2023 after a chance meeting with acclaimed producer and musician Rad Crasto, Ash carves out a sound that’s both familiar and unfiltered, steeped in distortion, melody, and just enough chaos.
With roots in classic alt-rock and a flair for the unexpected, Ash Lex channels the spirit of bands from the ’90s while forging something undeniably her own. Her debut album, Trees + Bones, released in April 2025, marked a defining moment in her evolution as an artist. Written in the wake of a sudden loss, the project explores themes of grief, growth, and rebuilding, showcasing both her powerful vocals and her ability to balance intensity with vulnerability.
Following the album’s release, Ash began working with guitarist and songwriter Zach Winn, entering a new creative phase that blends his grungier, more textured style with her commanding vocal presence. Together, they are currently developing new music that pushes her sound into bolder, more dynamic territory, where gritty textures meet driving riffs and a strong emotional edge.
Beyond her work as an artist, Ash is also the co-founder of 3F- Festival Femmes Fatales, debuting this summer at P’tit Ours in Montreal. The festival is dedicated to showcasing women in music and creating space for underrepresented voices, with proceeds going to the Montreal chapter of Women in Music. Conceived as the first of many mini festivals, 3F reflects her commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive music community.
Name:
Ash Lex
Genre:
Alt-rock
Founded:
2023
# of Albums:
1
Latest Album:
Trees + Bones
Latest Single:
It’s Calling Me
Latest Video:
Favourite musician growing up:
Just one? So many amazing musicians influenced me in different ways. Alanis Morissette, Stevie Nicks, Tina Turner, Brittany Howard, Kim Deal, Brody Dalle, Lee-la Baum, Grace Slick, Chrissie Hynde, Joan Jett, Veruca Salt, Republica, Madonna, Whitney Houston, Celine Dion, Melissa Auf der Mar, Courtney Love, Courtney Barnett, Janis Joplin, Nancy and Ann Wilson, Sarah McLaughlin, Florence Welch, The Beaches, Emily Haines of Metric, Debbie Harris, L7, Sleater-Kinney, 4 Non Blondes, Babes in Toyland…. I could go on forever! But if I had to (like HAD TO!) choose just one, I would have to say Kathleen Hannah. Bikini Kill, Le Tigre and The Julie Ruin changed my life and the way I viewed women in music and in the world. We could tell a story, and we could be mad about it. We could be happy, sad, or confused about it. We didn’t have to live in the world that told us to make ourselves small and agreeable. And that was everything.
Favourite musician now:
Hahahah! Just one?! I’m super into the Lambrini Girls right now. Bringing back punk with a very riot grrrl feel.
Guilty pleasure song:
My nieces Isla and Kyllian asked if I could do Let It Go at one of my shows, so of course I did. I would do anything for those amazing girls. Turns out it’s a total banger! Disney songs never disappoint.
Live show ritual:
Double Jameson neat. Glass of water, no ice. Vocal warmups
Favourite local musician:
You have to check out Rachel Dara, Ema Jean, Those Trees, Death Proof, Blackmagic, and of course The Damn Truth. But don’t stop there! Montreal has so much absolutely amazing talent to be discovered.
EP or LP?
I love an LP because you have so much more time to hear the artist’s story. I miss the days when people would buy an album and actually sit down and listen to it front to back. No shuffle, no skips, no ads. Just you and the music.
Early bird or night owl?
Definitely a night owl. Trying to get me anywhere before noon is like herding cats! Honestly, as I’m saying this, I’m thinking, noon? Nah, better make it one.
Road or studio?
Having only been on the scene for a year, I haven’t had the pleasure of being on the road yet, so I’ll have to go with studio. But check back with me next year!
Where can we follow you?
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Rapid Fire Local Questions:
What is your favourite local restaurant?
I should really expand my horizons with the amazing food scene in this city, but I’m really partial to pubs. Gimme fried food, whiskey and live music, and I’m a happy girl!
What is your favourite street in your city and why?
St. Denis Street holds a special place in my heart. It’s where I would go to watch the fireworks as a kid from the top floor of my dad’s office building. It’s where I bought my first pair of Doc Martens at X2O when I was a teenager. It’s where the first Suite 88 was (I’m a chocolatier by day). And it’s where Turbo Haus found a home. That venue will always be very meaningful to me.
What is your favourite park in your city and why?
I like to consider myself an indoor cat. I don’t often go to parks, even though Montreal really has a lot of great outdoor spaces.
What is your favourite music venue in your city?
Turbo Haus. Aside from it being an amazing, welcoming space with incredible bands and live events, it was originally founded by Trigger Effect, a band that is part of my origin story, whether they know it or not.
What is your favourite music store in your city?
Beatnick Records, also on St. Denis. Awesome spot to find your next obsession! (And my latest on vinyl *wink*)
