The Alchemy Unit was formed by New York-based guitarist and songwriter Ash Umhey. Although initially conceived as a solo studio project, it often features multiple collaborators and guests. The debut album Moon Strings on the Fringe was independently released in late 2006, garnering enthusiastic reviews for its unique blend of lo-fi indie rock, psychedelia, funk, jazz, and experimental music.

This was followed by the expansive Eprouvette Ascenseur album in 2010. During this time, The Alchemy Unit performed numerous live shows and supported artists such as KRS-One, DJ Logic, Soulive, and New Riders of the Purple Sage. Meanwhile, Ash also performed and recorded with Plush Crustaceans, Venture Lift, Les Bicyclettes Blanches and other artists in the Hudson Valley, New York, and Paris.

The Alchemy Unit returned with the Time and Space album in 2014, performing occasional live shows and continuing to develop new material. These sessions continued through the end of 2019, but the subsequent pandemic forced a dissolution of this incarnation of the band.

Ash Umhey - vocals, guitar, bass, organ & keyboards, synthesizer, percussion

Members and Guests:

Matias Gagliardone – alto saxophone

Garett Grassi – guitar, bass, keyboard and effects

Trevor Grassi – accordion

Stephen Hoelter – drums and percussion

Don Hover – guitar, bass, ukulele, percussion

Ben Larkin – drums and percussion

Ben Orick – drums and percussion

Alana Orr – bass

Skip Piper – drums and percussion

Alan Silverman – drums

Aaron Thomas – vocals, percussion

Stanton Warren – alto saxophone, keyboard

Scott White – bass, backing vocals, drums

Brandon Wolf – drums

James Zemlock – bass and drums