Dlivan and Carol met through Derbyshire Refugee Solidarity Music Group. Ashti formed in September 2023. Ashti  means peace in both Kurdish and Farsi. Our music has been described as atmospheric, rhythmic and moving in its powerful storytelling. The nature of the instruments and voices are an opportunity to explore and blend music traditions and offer fresh musical expression. Songs are in Arabic, Farsi and original English songs by Carol arranged together for drum, keyboard and guitar.

Since Ashti formed 2 years ago, performances include; the Guildhall Sessions in Lincoln, Departure Lounge New Works Festival 2024, at Derby Theatre, Furthest From the Sea Festival, Refugee Week 2023, 2024 and 2025 at the Museum of Making, Derby, Derby College Lexis Faculty Graduation Ceremonies 2024 and 2025, Derby and at Dubrek Studios, Derby for Cafe Palestina. In 2025 we have played; The Brampton Sessions Love Music Hate Racism in Chesterfield, Amnesty International East Midlands Conference, Derby, Maison Foo at Derby Theatre, Wirksworth Festival Star Disc Music, Derby Community Music Festival and Derby Folk Festival.

Alongside our duo work, in January 2024 Ashti embarked on an exciting collaboration with poet Seni Seneviratne. Our five performances to date combine Music and Poetry exploring and reflecting themes of love, loss and resilience. Our particular focus is on the lives of people caught in and devastated by conflict in the Middle East.