Ashtray Boy

Ashtray Boy is two indie pop bands in one: the first existed in Chicago, the other — simultaneously — in Sydney, Australia. Both were led by vocalist Randall Lee, formerly of the Cannanes and Nice; after the latter's 1993 demise, Lee began splitting his time between his native Australia and the U.S., and the first Ashtray Boy lineup formed was the American version, rounded out by future Pulsars member Dave Trumfio and drummer Justin Niimi. Their 1993 full-length, The Honeymoon Suite (featuring backing vocals from Liz Phair), was the first release issued under the name, while 1994's Macho Champions featured material from the Chicago unit as well as the Sydney group, which also featured bassist Thomas Tallis and drummer Neil Johnston. Candypants Beach, issued the following year, and 1996's The Everyman's 4th Dimension were also joint ventures from both Ashtray Boy rosters. In 2002, Lee left Australia for Vancouver B.C., where he set about putting together a Canadian lineup as well.