Ashes to Omens

Sometimes, all you need to get something started is a spark. For singer James Branton, drummer Casey Lee and bassist Christopher Blake, that spark came from an obvious musical chemistry they shared when they started playing together in 2017. That spark gave birth to Ashes To Omens.

Based in Athens, Georgia, Ashes To Omens comprises Branton, Blake, and drummer Casey Lee. They seamlessly blend Hard Rock, Alternative Rock and Post-Grunge styles into something powerful and unique.

With the help of producer Michael Guevarez, Ashes To Omens is set to took 2024 by storm with the release of three new singles (the first of which released in April 2024). Fans can expect nothing less than a further evolution of the sound they have come to know and love.


Beyond the music, the band’s story is one of triumph over hardship, overcoming challenges and staying true to a vision.

Ashes To Omens’ story starts as a four-piece band in 2017 with the release of their debut single, “The Screws” and its accompanying music video. They served as a fitting introduction to what the world can expect from the Georgian group, combining heavy stylings with memorable hooks and thoughtful lyrics. Things were on a roll until a significant setback paused plans.

Singer Branton was hit with a thyroid cancer diagnosis early in the band’s career. Not one to back down from a challenge, and with the support of his brothers in music, Branton was able to beat cancer. The band re-established itself as a five-piece and released its 2018 self-titled debut EP. The album was a hit, garnering praise from the local press and taking the top spot on ReverbNation for over a year.

Following this, along with a line-up change that saw founding member Casey Lee leave in 2019, Ashes to Omens took their show on the road. Backed by the release of several singles, including 2019’s “The Conflict Within,” 2020’s “War Cry,” as well as their 2021 album “Black Boxes” (produced by Matt Washburn at LedBelly Sound Studios), the band found itself moving from opener to headliner in several venues, eventually going beyond the Georgian borders with successful tours along the east coast. “The Conflict Within” also demonstrated a growing sophistication and maturity in the band’s songwriting, gaining them press in the Georgia Music Spotlight and Rawkus Magazine and radio airplay for “War Cry.” The crowds were growing also, all eager to experience the music and message Ashes To Omens has to offer.

Cut to 2022, and Branton and Blake took a much-needed break to rest and reevaluate the band and its direction. With a new and reinvigorated line-up, including the return of Casey Lee, Ashes To Omens gave the world new music and a new show in 2024. The new singles further show the band’s growing maturity and evolution in their craft, sure to draw new fans while keeping the faithful coming back for more.

Subsequently releasing their newest EP, "Vessels & Vices" in June 2025 to a tremendous response, the band then announced multi-date tour in October 2025 and through the remainder of the year. They were featured by numerous online music influencers and graced the cover of Athens colorbearer, Flagpole magazine. Additionally they shared the stage with rock legends, Fuel, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, and Keith Wallen (Breaking Benjamin).