Imperial Ashes

Imperial Ashes was born of an immense frustration with the power abuse and inequality that exists in today’s world. After completing a Master’s thesis on wealth inequality and stigma, lead vocalist Rayna felt that her voice was limited within the confines of academia, and recognized that marrying her lyrics to the power of hard rock/alternative music was the perfect vehicle for unapologetic criticisms of the grave injustices rampant in the world.

Our music is for the fighters, the ones who resist against oppressive systems and for the grassroots agitators and accomplices who confront issues like sexism, racism, ableism, fatphobia, homophobia, transphobia, classism, and xenophobia. Our music is for people on the margins who feel alone. Know that others are in the struggle with you.


Stylistically, the band blends a unique fusion of Alternative Rock, Prog and Post Hardcore for explosive anthems that combine raw, visceral emotiveness, compelling melodies, and musical sophistication. A collective of seasoned musicians, the members have toured internationally and shared stages with some of the world’s biggest bands. These years of experience culminate in a focused musical vision, and the conviction to say things that others are afraid to say.



The band is currently recording new material with multiple Grammy-winning producer/mixer David Bottrill (<a href="spotify:artist:2yEwvVSSSUkcLeSTNyHKh8" data-name="TOOL">TOOL</a>, <a href="spotify:artist:1Dvfqq39HxvCJ3GvfeIFuT" data-name="Mastodon">Mastodon</a>, <a href="spotify:artist:2Hkut4rAAyrQxRdof7FVJq" data-name="Rush">Rush</a>, <a href="spotify:artist:4iudEcmuPlYNdbP3e1bdn1" data-name="Silverchair">Silverchair</a>) and engineer Michael Phillips (<a href="spotify:artist:49qiE8dj4JuNdpYGRPdKbF" data-name="Stone Sour">Stone Sour</a>, Between the Buried and Me, <a href="spotify:artist:4ZIBrskTJWmkJUvM7uAu1o" data-name="Chiodos">Chiodos</a>).