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Posts tagged Wishbone Ash
Wishbone Ash – Power Of Eternity (2007) (@256)
04 Jun 2009
(Review from progarchives.com)
New album, a new member — Joseph Crabtree, this time replacing Ray Weston who has been on the roster for nearly two decades. Crabtree fits in well with the rest of the band, most probably due to extensive touring he has done with the band since joining.
The first three tracks are lyrically heavy but include a lot of solos and lovely melodies. The Power and In Crisis are especially catchy and will be the first two songs that will keep brining you back to the album. Then when you reach the fourth song in the album, Argus fans will certainly like the harmonies on Dancing with the Shadows which are very reminiscent of songs like Time Was or The King Will Come while still being very fresh and new.
The twin guitar harmonies have always been the highlight of Wishbone Ash albums and Muddy Manninen has done an excellent job to complement Andy Powell’s playing on a very much more intimate level than on Clan Destiny and it’s very easy to spot that the flow is a lot easier and the two styles work together a lot better. Nowhere is this more evident than the highlight of the album that is Northern Lights, a 3-minute instrumental. The haunting guitars bring you to a serene and sad landscape that truly displays what this new, brilliant incantation of the band are capable of.
The latter part of the album features more softer ballads but are interlocked with lush guitar melodies and catchy lyrics. The album ends on a strong note with Hope Springs Eternal, which has a lush rhythm guitar section bringing it in, and then escalating with a good drum work.
Line-up:
- Andy Powell / guitar, vocals
- Muddy Mannien / guitar
- Bob Skeat / bass
- Joseph Crabtree / drums
Track List:
01. The Power – 5:48
02. Driving a Wedge – 4:24
03. In Crisis – 6:35
04. Dancing with the Shadows – 5:55
05. Happiness – 4:24
06. Northern Lights – 3:05
07. Your Indulgence – 3:30
08. Growing Up – 4:38
09. Disappearing – 5:14
10. Hope Springs Eternal – 5:55
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Wishbone Ash – Clan Destiny (2006) (@256)
03 Jun 2009
(Review from allaboutjazz.com, the-trades.com)
A new album and a new (Finnish) guitarist to complement Andy Powell, this time it’s Muddy Manninen’s turn who was already touring with the band since 2004.
Listening to the opening track, it’s absolutely uncanny to hear the tenor vocals mesh with the dual guitars that harmonize to create hooks. The effect is the same on the next track, “Dreams Outta Dust” but the little things make it sound different, including how the second vocal enters on the second line of the verse while a mandolin murmurs in the background. The largely original material on this disc, recorded in just over three weeks in Massachusetts, takes a variety of forms. “Healing Ground”, for instance, alternates a dirty guitar figure that acts as a refrain, the dynamics of which are highlighted by way the instruments drop out on the bridge to reveal a sole falsetto vocal.
Skeat plays various keyboards, while Manninen handles lap steel and slide (the way he decorates “Your Dog” demonstrates how he serves the song, instead of flashing pure technique). And for his part, Powell, still brandishing a Gibson flying-V guitar, does an admirable job on vocals and like his three compatriots, he knows that less is definitely more when it comes to soloing.
In fact, Clan Destiny keeps improvisation in tight rein. Wishbone Ash uses the studio as a means to craft smart arrangements, rather than confine jamming. Nevertheless, the quartet generates some momentum on “Steam Town”, while the instrumental “Surfing a Slow Wave” sounds at once everything like vintage Wishbone Ash and something more, its delicate tandem lines echoed in the melancholy of “Loose Change”.
The album is a mellow and moody mélange of well-crafted musicianship. Polished and professional, while still retaining a natural, earthy feel.
Line-up:
- Andy Powell / lead vocals, guitars, mandolin
- Muddy Manninen / vocals, guitars
- Bob Skeat / bass, piano, clavinet, vocals
- Ray Weston / drums, percussion
Track List:
01. Eyes Wide Open – 5:13
02. Dreams Outta Dust – 4:26
03. Healing Ground – 4:20
04. Steam Town – 4:00
05. Loose Change – 4:46
06. Surfing On A Slow Wave – 3:47
07. Slime Time – 4:53
08. Capture That Moment – 3:30
09. Your Dog – 3:32
10. The Raven – 4:46
11. Motherless Child – 4:04
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Wishbone Ash – Bona Fide (2002) (@256)
02 Jun 2009
(Review from progarchives.com)
With the addition of Ben Granfelt, Wishbone Ash entered to studio to record their first studio album in six years.
The album kicks off with the rocker “Almighty Blues”, part of their live set, a very catchy song and contains a great guitar solo. “Enigma”, another catchy song with a memorable chorus, sounds very much like a typical early Wishbone Ash song, it has that traditional sound on the vocals and guitars, with a very good short slide guitar solo.
“Faith, Hope and Love” is a very memorable song which could be autobiographical, it features twin guitars and organ, and contains a great guitar solo. This song also became part of their live set and sounds fantastic. “Ancient Remedy” has a very catchy eastern-sounding guitar riff as a hook, interspersed with vocal passages, another favourite track of mine, good one to sing along to! another gem of a guitar solo. “Changing Tracks” is next, great heavy blues guitar, and a collection of blues song cliches! (jumping trains, chicago, texas etc.!). “Shoulda Woulda Coulda” has an almost reggae-style beat and works well.
The title track “Bona Fide” is an instrumental, and has a traditional Ash-style boogie rhythm with some nice twin guitar effects and solos. “Difference in Time” is very much another traditional sounding Ash song, it has some nice vocals and jangly twin guitars, as has “Come Rain Come Shine”, a great song which includes some nice flute playing. Near the end of the song it breaks into a mixture of sound effects, middle-eastern singing, bombs and american voices, then goes back into the song’s main chorus. The last song “Peace” is another instrumental, slow and bluesy – a very “peaceful” way to close an enjoyable album.
Line-up:
- Andy Powell / Vocals, Guitars
- Ben Granfelt / Vocals, Guitars
- Bob Skeat / Vocals, Bass, Hammond Organ, Piano, Flute Sample
- Ray Weston / Drums, Percussion
Track List:
01. Almighty Blues – 5:24
02. Enigma – 4:10
03. Faith, Hope And Love – 5:55
04. Ancient Remedy – 4:48
05. Changing Tracks – 4:18
06. Shoulda, Woulda, Coulda – 4:00
07. Bona Fide – 3:08
08. Difference In Time – 4:30
09. Come Rain, Come Shine – 6:09
10. Peace – 3:49
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Wishbone Ash – Live Dates 3 (1999) (@256)
01 Jun 2009
Thanks to Penny Cilin for the contribution.
(Review from progarchives.com)
“Live Dates 3″ consists entirely of tracks recorded in October 1999 while Wishbone Ash were touring France. My first thoughts were probably the same as yours, do we really need another Wishbone Ash album? Well, after listening to these recordings, the answer is undoubtedly yes. Firstly, this album comes almost 20 years after the “Live Dates 2″ set; secondly, the set list is superb; and thirdly, the sound is excellent.
The line up here will be unfamiliar to most early fans of the band, with only Andy Powell from the original line up remaining. He is joined by second guitarist Mark Birch, the band being completed by bassist Bob Skeat and drummer Ray Weston. The songs are taken from a broad spectrum of albums including a couple each from the Laurie Wisefield era recordings “There’s the rub” and “Just testing”. “Wings of desire” is the newest song, dating from the 1991 album “Strange affair”. The song fits in with its peers well though, demonstrating how the band has maintained both quality and their unique style throughout their career.
It is the old songs which are of course the favourites. Here we have “Error of my ways” and the sublime” Phoenix” from the first album plus “Leaf and stream” and “Throw down the sword” from “Argus”. The “Argus” songs sound as fresh and inspired as ever, “Leaf and stream”, which does not feature on the previous “Live dates” albums, being something of a lost gem. “Throw down the sword” preceded by “Warrior” has a superb rendition. The 14 minute performance of “Phoenix” inevitably has some wonderful guitar work, Mark Birch playing his part with an assured confidence.
The recordings here show no significant deviations from their studio counterparts, although they do benefit form years of development in the live arena. The line up may appear to be largely a tribute act to the band’s glory days, but Andy Powell keeps them honest, and gives these performances sufficient authenticity to make this a fine acquisition for fans of the band.
Line-up:
- Andy Powell / Guitars & vocals
- Mark Birch / Guitars & vocals
- Bob Skeat / Bass & vocals
- Ray Weston / Drums
Track List:
01. Come In From The Rain – 4:58
02. Living Proof – 7:04
03. Persephone – 7:47
04. Lifeline – 6:33
05. Wings Of Desire – 3:34
06. Errors Of My Way – 5:59
07. Leaf And Stream – 4:18
08. Throw Down The Sword – 6:20
09. F.U.B.B. – 9:24
10. Phoenix – 14:16
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Wishbone Ash – Timeline Live (1991) (@256)
31 May 2009
Thanks to Penny Cilin for the contribution.
(Info from wishboneash.co.uk)
Recorded at Nagoya Bottom Line, on 23th of May, 1991; this recording features Andy Powell, Martin Turner, Ted Turner and Ray Weston – not the strongest live performance from this period by any means, but the only available live recording from this era. An early BBC session completes the package.
Line-up:
* Andy Powell – guitar
* Martin Turner – bass
* Ted Turner – guitar
* Ray Weston – drums
Track List:
01. Lost Cause in Paradise – 4:58
02. Standing in the Rain – 6:11
03. This Strange Affair – 5:00
04. The King Will Come – 6:50
05. Throw Down the Sword – 5:57
06. In The Sun – 6:19
07. Why Don’t We – 8:15
08. Wings of Desire – 4:18
09. Time Was – 2:30
10. The Living Proof – 5:59
11. Blowin’ Free – 9:17
12. Vas Dis – 4:17
13. Where Were You Tomorrow – 5:45
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Wishbone Ash – BBC Radio 1 Live in Concert (1972) (@256)
30 May 2009
Thanks to Penny Cilin for the contribution.
(Info from wishboneash.co.uk)
Recorded at London, Paris Theatre on May 25th 1972 — this is the legendary 1972 BBC In Concert programme, featuring 70+ minutes of live Wishbone Ash at their peak, just after the release of Argus.
Line-up:
* Andy Powell – guitar
* Martin Turner – bass
* Ted Turner – guitar
* Steve Upton – drums
Track List:
01. Blowin’ Free – 5:51
02. Time Was – 9:51
03. Jailbait – 5:00
04. The Pilgrim – 10:31
05. Warrior – 5:40
06. Throw Down the Sword – 6:31
07. The King will Come – 7:41
08. Phoenix – 19:37
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Wishbone Ash – Bare Bones (1999) (@256)
21 Jan 2009
(Review from progarchives.com)
During the 90′s there were many artists “unplugging” their guitars and producing acoustic albums of their best songs. Here we have Wishbone Ash’s contribution, “Bare Bones”.
The album could not be described as totally “unplugged”, but contains some nice folky and bluesy songs accompanied by many various stringed instruments including acoustic guitars and dobro guitar, plus accordion, violin and harmonica to good effect, even a Hammond organ is used. The material and instruments have been chosen to good effect, producing a beautiful airy, folky effect, almost like the band in your local pub. “Errors of my Way” sounds absolutely brilliant and the beautiful violin snaking its way through the song is a master stroke.
Overall a very uplifting listen, it would have been nice to see more Ash classics on here given the folky treatment, but the songs chosen fit together seamlessly. Despite this offering’s unique textural quality, Wishbone Ash fans will definitely recognize the easy melodic sense that the band always captured in the studio. For a group so separated in time from their glory years, Powell and company do a remarkable job keeping things fresh on Bare Bones.
Line-up:
- Andy Powell / guitar, vocals
- Mark Birch / guitar, vocals
- Bob Skeat / bass, vocals
- Ray Weston / drums
Guest Artists:
- Lewis Gibson / Violin (2)
- Mick Parker / Accordian (2, 7)
- Morwena Lasko / Violin (3)
- Paul Moran / Hammond Organ (3, 11), Piano (9, 11)
- Glen LeFleur / Percussion (4, 5)
- Claire Hamill / Back Vocals (5)
- Giles Hedley / Harmonica (5, 10)
- Aynsley Powell / Percussion (8)
- Chris Davis / Dobro (10)
Track List:
01. Wings of Desire – 3:40
02. Errors of My Way – 5:14
03. Master of Disguise – 3:50
04. You Won’t Take Me Down – 5:27
05. Love Abuse – 4:01
06. (Won’t You Give Him) One More Chance – 3:14
07. Baby Don’t Mind – 3:48
08. Living Proof – 4:13
09. Hard Times – 4:43
10. Strange Affair – 5:51
11. Everybody Needs a Friend – 5:56
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Wishbone Ash – Illuminations (1996) (@256)
19 Jan 2009
(Review from progarchives.com)
After an anxious wait of some 5 years to see whether there would be any further new material released in the name of Wishbone Ash, Andy Powell finally put the fans out of their misery with this 1996 release. While misgivings about the absence of Ted and Martin Turner plus Steve Upton were only to be expected, the continuation of the twin lead guitar line up, backed by a solid rhythm section and a dedicated lead vocalist, offered the reassurance that Powell was intent on business as usual. Pretty much all the songs here are co-credited to Powell and the multi-talented Roger Filgate.
The 6 minute opener “Mountainside” could easily have been lifted straight from one of the band’s early albums, only the unfamiliar vocals belie its origins. A lengthy burst of harmonised guitars introduces an upbeat toe-tapper with a pleasing energy and freshness.
An early highlight is “Top of the world”, a mid paced number with jangling guitar and a great hook. The song suits Tony Kishman’s voice well and the lead guitar work here is right up there with the band’s finest. The lyrics could be, at least in part, a reflection on the former days of the band: “Say goodbye to the old days, they’re over and gone. Facing up to the realisation that we’ve got to move on.”.
Andy Powell takes on lead vocals for “No Joke”, a song firmly rooted in the “Argus” days, with changes of tempo and incisive guitars. This one will please long term fans immensely. The following 10 minute “Tales of the wise”, might be described as a loose remake of “Phoenix”. This magnificent epic has all the ingredients of a Wishbone Ash classic, with an opening anthem leading to a raising of the pace for a lengthy guitar break. This really is one of the finest songs recorded in the Wishbone Ash name for many a long year, and alone makes the album worthwhile.
The latter part of the album settles down to a series of more straightforward guitar rock songs. Of these, the biting “Mystery man”, a song empathising with the plight of Vietnam war veterans, stands above the rest. The song actually sounds rather like a Free number, with its brooding blues style. We close with a bonus instrumental track “The crack of dawn”, a sort of backing track for “Leaf and stream”.
This is a fine album in the Wishbone Ash name, which captures the essence of the band while moving them firmly into the late 1990′s.
Line-up:
- Andy Powell / electric & acoustic guitars, mandolin, vocals
- Roger Filgate / electric & acoustic guitars, lap steel, bass, keyboards, back vocals
- Mike Sturgis / drums
- Tony Kishman / vocals
with
- Mark Templeton / keyboards
- Mike Mindel / keyboards
- Paul Avgerinos / keyboards, welding, back vocals
Track List:
01. Mountainside – 6:01
02. On Your Own – 5:33
03. Top of the World – 6:38
04. No Joke – 6:46
05. Tales of the Wise – 10:05
06. Another Time – 5:23
07. A Thousand Years – 4:05
08. The Ring – 4:35
09. Comfort Zone – 4:26
10. Mystery Man – 4:28
11. Wait Out The Storm – 3:44
12. Crack Of Dawn – 3:17
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Wishbone Ash – Live In Chicago (1992) (@256)
18 Jan 2009
(Review from progarchives.com)
This 1992 set has been re-released a number of times under slightly different titles (Live in Chicago, Living Proof, Live in the Windy City), but in every case the tracks are identical. The line up has the classic twin guitars of Ted Turner and Andy Powell supported by Andy Pyle (bass) and Ray Weston (drums). This would be Ted Turner’s last appearance on an album by Wishbone Ash.
For those hoping to hear a succession of songs from the band’s early years, the set list will be something of a disappointment. On the plus side, there are three tracks from the legendary “Argus” (perhaps predictably “King Will Come”, “Throw Down the Sword”, “Blowin’ Free”) but apart from those the oldest track is “Living Proof” from 1980′s “Just Testing”. Other than those four songs, the set list focuses on Wishbone Ash’s then latest releases “Nouveau Calls”, “Hear to Hear” and “”Strange Affair”.
The sound quality is best described as adequate, the bass being too up front in the mix, dominating the proceedings throughout. The vocals on the other hand sound a bit feint and suffer from unintended echo. It is a pity really, as the band’s performance is excellent throughout, with fine vocal harmonies and of course truly top rate guitar work.
After the crowd pleasing opener, a slightly extended version of “King Will Come”, the band introduce a couple of tracks from their then latest album “Strange Affair”. Both of these (“Strange Affair” and an extended “Standing in the Rain”) are rollicking affairs, the latter including some particularly excellent lead guitar. There seems to be some unaccredited keyboards on these tracks, the following “Lost Cause in Paradise” also opening with what appeared to be sampled sounds.
“Throw Down the Sword” is naturally a highpoint in mid-set, the following “In the Skin” from the instrumental album “Nouveau Calls” being substantially extended from its studio counterpart through improvisation. Likewise, “Why Don’t We” (from “Here to Hear”) is given a spirited 8 minute run through, the twin guitars offering wonderful echoes of the past.
As we approach the conclusion of the album, a third track from “Argus”, “Blowing Free” is dusted off and given an 8˝ minute workout. The song has lost none of the energy it had when it first appeared, indeed this version may well be the definitive live rendition. The album closes with “Living Proof” from “Just testing”, a track which is a concert staple.
This is a superb live album featuring the classic twin lead guitars of Wishbone Ash. The track list may be largely unfamiliar to those who lost the band after the mid 1970s, but the songs here are all worthy of the Wishbone Ash name, and indeed many benefit from exposure to the live environment.
Line-up:
- Andy Powell / Guitar and vocals
- Ted Turner / Guitar and vocals
- Andy Pyle / Bass
- Ray Weston / Drums
Track List:
01. The King Will Come – 7:39
02. This Strange Affair – 5:42
03. Standing In The Rain – 6:23
04. Lost Cause In Paradise – 5:08
05. Keeper Of The Light – 3:52
06. Throw Down The Sword – 6:14
07. In The Skin – 8:36
08. Why Don’t We – 8:03
09. Hard Times – 5:03
10. Blowing Free – 8:38
11. The Living Proof – 5:57
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Wishbone Ash – Strange Affair (1991) (@256)
17 Jan 2009
(Review from wishboneash.co.uk)
Steve Upton quit the band during the early sessions of this album due to personal problems, marking this album the first album in the band’s 21-year history without him. Upton’s departure led to him not only parting company with the band, but also quitting the music business altogether
For the recording sessions the band initially recruited drummer Robbie France. France toured with Wishbone briefly during the Autumn of 1990, but was eventually replaced by Ray Weston, a noted figure on the London studio scene who had previously played with Martin Turner during the early 80s. Both drummers appear on the album.
As with its predecessor “Here To Hear”, compositions penned by the individual members of the band dominated Strange Affair. The material chosen covered a diverse range of styles but, to a certain extent, indicated that the three songwriters in the band were pulling in three vastly different musical directions.
The dominance of Andy Powell as vocalist/songwriter on tracks such as “Strange Affair”, “Hard Times” and “Renegade” made for an overall bluesier feel on those songs. Martin Turner continued to pursue his interest in incorporating synthesisers into the band’s music and contributed the track “You” which had an autobiographical lyric content. Ted Turner meanwhile contributed a mixed bag of material from the dreamy “Say You Will” through to the all-out of “Standing in the Rain”, the latter being arguably the finest song on the album.
Strange Affair remains a mixed bag of ideas and, while lacking the consistency of many of the band’s other album releases, still contains many first rate tracks.
This album truly marked the end of the “reunion” era. Shortly after the album’s release, Wishbone Ash also parted company with IRS Records and the album was quickly deleted, resulting in it being unavailable for several years.
Line-up:
- Andy Powell / Guitars, Vocals.
- Ted Turner / Guitars, Vocals
- Martin Turner / Bass, Vocals, Keyboards
with
- Robbie France / Drums (3, 4, 9, 13)
- Ray Weston / Drums & percussion (1, 2, 5-8, 10-12)
Track List:
01. Strange Affair – 4:22
02. Wings Of Desire – 3:51
03. Renegade – 3:55
04. Dream Train – 5:01
05. Some Conversation – 4:18
06. Say You Will – 4:08
07. Rollin’ – 3:55
08. You – 3:52
09. Hard Times – 3:03
10. Standing In The Rain – 5:41
11. Strange Affair (Bonus Brass) – 4:28
12. Rollin’ (Bonus Brass) – 3:55
13. Dream Train (Bonus Brass) – 5:03
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Wishbone Ash – Here to Hear (1989) (@256)
16 Jan 2009
(Review from wishboneash.co.uk)
Here To Hear was released in September 1989 – almost two years after Nouveau Calls, the instrumental album which had brought the four original members of Wishbone Ash back together after a fourteen year hiatus. Such was the success of “Nouveau Calls” that not only did the band undertake a European tour in 1988, but they also decided to record a follow up album. During the sessions, it was clear that Ted Turner and Martin Turner both had ample material composed which they were keen to record – fully fledged songs that had been unsuitable for Nouveau Calls instrumental format.
As with “Nouveau Calls”, “Here to Hear” sees Wishbone Ash displaying their trademark ideals of harmony, melody and precision musicianship in the context of a streamlined, contemporary and upbeat approach. The album is a product of its time and the way it sounds reflects the way everyone in the band had evolved on both a musical and personal level.
The strength of the songwriting on Here to Hear is best emphasised by the quality of the material which was left off the album due to time restraints. Two further instrumentals were recorded. An unfinished song was developed into a single b-side on record company’s request. All three are included as bonus tracks in this edition of the album.
Line-up:
- Ted Turner / Guitars, Lap Steel, Vocals
- Martin Turner / Bass Guitar, Vocals, Keyboards
- Andy Powell / Guitar
- Steve Upton / Drums
Track List:
01. Cosmic Jazz – 3:32
02. Keeper Of The Light – 3:55
03. Mental Radio – 4:55
04. Walk On Water – 4:03
05. Witness To Wonder – 4:10
06. Lost Cause In Paradise – 4:46
07. Why Dont We – 6:16
08. In The Case – 3:30
09. Hole In The Heart (part one) – 3:05
10. Hole In The Heart (part two) – 4:35
11. Heaven Is (Bonus) – 4:35
12. Bolan’s Monument (Bonus) – 3:56
13. Duefle Shuffle (Bonus) – 4:06
14. Cosmic Jazz (Bonus Karaoke) – 3:46
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Wishbone Ash – Nouveau Calls (1987) (@256)
15 Jan 2009
(Review from wishboneash.co.uk)
Along comes Miles Copeland with the idea to create a new, all-instrumental label. Having been Wishbone Ash’s original manager, he convinced the band to reform the original lineup and release a new album of vocal-less music. Nouveau Calls saw the four original members of Wishbone Ash – Martin Turner, Steve Upton, Ted Turner and Andy Powell, working together for the first time since 1974. Copeland’s adage was simply “no vocals”, hence the album title pun.
Upon its release, Nouveau Calls surprised both fans and critics with its broad musical scope. As one would have expected, influences that had not been heard in Wishbone Ash’s music for some time – such as Andy Powell’s folk-tinged guitar melodies, Ted Turner’s lap steel and Martin Turner’s strident melodic bass lines – were clearly evident in the album’s music.
Whilst containing the traditional Wishbone Ash hallmarks and ideals, the album also had a definite contemporary feel. Martin Turner, in particular, had been keen to utilise the technological advances of the eighties such as synthesisers and sequencers, which nestled comfortably alongside the band’s trademark twin lead guitars on tracks such as “Tangible Evidence” and “Real Guitars Have Wings”, the latter of which would open the band’s live set for many years.
Although the reformation of the original Wishbone Ash line-up had originally been intended solely for the purpose of recording Nouveau Calls, such was the enthusiasm within the band, that the four originals agreed to undertake a concert tour to promote the release.
Line-up:
- Andy Powell / Electric & Acoustic Guitars, Mandolin
- Ted Turner / Lap Steel & Electric Guitars, Banjo
- Martin Turner / Bass, Keyboards
- Steve Upton / Drums, Percussion
Track List:
01. Tangible Evidence – 4:24
02. Clousseau – 3:41
03. Flags of Convenience – 4:32
04. From Soho to Sunset – 3:27
05. Arabesque – 4:31
06. In The Skin – 4:52
07. Something’s Happening in Room 602 – 3:34
08. Johnny Left Home Without It – 3:40
09. The Spirit Flies Free – 3:45
10. A Rose is a Rose – 3:40
11. Real Guitars have Wings – 3:15
12. T-Bone Shuffle – 3:35
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Wishbone Ash – Raw to the Bone (1985) (@192)
13 Jan 2009
(Review from wishboneash.co.uk)
Following the departure of Trevor Bolder during the Spring of 1983 to return to Uriah Heep, the band recruited Mervyn Spence (ex-Trapeze). “Raw To The Bone” introduced the considerable vocal range and song-writing talents of their new bassist. With the chart success of the previous album Twin Barrels Burning under their belt, Wishbone Ash continued its heavy rock direction for this natural follow-up.
Tracks such as “Cell of Fame”, “People in Motion” and “Love Is Blue” continued the heavy rock direction of the previous album, but added the superior songwriting and vocal talents of Mervyn Spence. In addition tracks such as “Long Live The Night” displayed a melodic content that had been largely missing from Twin Barrels Burning.
Despite being far removed from Wishbone Ash’s classic style and a tendency for some of its songs to sound too similar, Raw To The Bone contained some fine material, firmly rooted in the melodic heavy rock vein, albeit with a more commercial sound.
However, despite being a particularly well-crafted album in its genre, many purist Ash fans clearly resented the band’s continuing move away from its original style and the further abandonment of the twin harmony guitar concept.
Line-up:
- Andy Powell / Guitar, Vocals
- Laurie Wisefield / Guitar, Vocals
- Mervyn “Spam” Spence / Bass guitar, Lead Vocals
- Steve Upton / Drums
Track List:
01. Cell Of Fame – 4:36
02. People In Motion – 3:49
03. Don’t Cry – 3:28
04. Love Is Blue – 3:42
05. Long Live The Night – 3:30
06. Rocket In My Pocket – 3:44
07. It’s Only Love – 4:11
08. Don’t You Mess – 3:51
09. Dreams – 3:28
10. Perfect Timing – 3:52
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Wishbone Ash – Lost Pearls (1978-82) (@256)
12 Jan 2009
(Review from wishboneash.co.uk)
Lost Pearls contains a selection of previously unreleased studio recordings from the period 1978-1982, culled from a haul of multi-track tapes.
The tracks were mostly recorded by the second Wishbone Ash line-up during studio sessions for the “No Smoke Without Fire” and “Just Testing” albums. As typical of this period, much of the material is written by Martin Turner (‘Is Justice Done’, ‘Where You Been’, ‘Football and Boxing’) and Laurie Wisefield (‘The Bells Chime’, ‘Hard On You’). Andy Powell contributed ‘Out on a Limb’, while “Just Testing” backing vocalist Claire Hamill wrote ‘Haunted House’ (of which two versions were included, one sung by Hamill, the other by Turner).
A couple of instrumental jam sessions are also featured, giving an indication as to the way the band worked in the studio. ‘John Sherry Jam’ was titled after the band’s then manager and agent, while ‘Sheriff Of Sherwood’ contains several ideas that were eventually used in “No Smoke Without Fire” track ‘Stand and Deliver’.
A live version of the band’s 1980 stage encore ‘Too Much Monkey Business’, recorded at Sheffield City Hall as well as an early version of Twin Barrels Burning track ‘Streets of Shame’ (then entitled ‘Night Hawker’) featuring Trevor Bolder on bass make up the package.
Lost Pearls is a fascinating insight into what might have been and while arguably the material featured is not of the same standard as that eventually chosen for the albums in question, it remains an essential purchase for fans of this particular era of Wishbone Ash.
Line-up:
- Martin Turner / bass & vocals
- Steve Upton / drums & percussion
- Andy Powell / guitar & vocals
- Laurie Wisefield / guitar & vocals
- Claire Hamill / vocals (7)
- Trevor Bolder / bass (11)
Track List:
01. Is Justice Done – 4:24
02. The Bells Chime – 3:23
03. Hard On You – 5:00
04. Out On A Limb – 3:45
05. Where You Been – 4:01
06. Halfway House (Martin vocal) – 3:47
07. Halfway House (Claire vocal) – 3:50
08. Football And Boxing – 3:30
09. John Sherry Jam – 6:29
10. Too Much Monkey Business (Live) – 5:35
11. Night Hawker – 6:13
12. Sheriff Of Sherwood (Demo) – 6:12
Links in comments.
Wishbone Ash – Twin Barrels Burning (1982) (@320)
11 Jan 2009
(Review from wishboneash.co.uk, progarchives.com)
Following the departure of John Wetton, ex-Uriah Heep Trevor Bolder stepped in for the tour of “Number The Brave” and also participated in the recording of the band’s next album, “Twin Barrels Burning”.
The sessions marked a drastic change in musical direction for the band, with a sound that eschewed the classic Wishbone allmarks of harmony and melody in favour of a more direct, heavy-rock sound (the album coincided with the New Wave of British Heavy Metal movement which was sweeping the UK at the time and had spawned the likes of Iron Maiden, Saxon and Def Leppard).
As a result “Twin Barrels Burning” is a straightforward blues-influenced hard rock album. There are guitar-god love songs (“Genevieve”), back- seat lust songs (“Can’t Fight Love”), missing-my-gal-so-I’m-calling-her-in-the-middle-of- the-night-songs (“Hold On”), picking up skank on the street songs (“Streets of Shame”), you and me against the world songs (“Wind Up”), and a couple of god’s gift to women songs (“Can’t Fight Love”, “No More Lonely Nights”). Only “Angels Have Mercy” is an odd ball and that’s only because the mix on this one is particularly fuzzy.
Weaving all of this together is a two-guitar attack that is sort of like the twin-axe attack the band was known for in the 70s, but not quite. In most cases there is a definitive lead guitar, with the other embellishing somewhat but mostly just providing accompaniment.
The album initially seemed to be a success, yet the band’s new direction alienated many long-time supporters.
Line-up:
- Laurie Wisefield / Vocals, Guitar
- Andy Powell: Vocals, Guitar
- Trevor Bolder / Vocals, Bass Guitar
- Steve Upton / Drums
Track List:
01. Engine Overheat – 4:06
02. Can’t Fight Love – 4:00
03. Genevieve – 3:37
04. Me And My Guitar – 4:01
05. Hold On – 4:51
06. Streets Of Shame – 4:37
07. No More Lonely Nights – 5:17
08. Angels Have Mercy – 3:55
09. Wind Up – 5:04
Link in comments.
Wishbone Ash – Number The Brave (1981) (@256)
09 Jan 2009
(Review from wishboneash.co.uk)
Following the departure of founder member Martin Turner, the remaining members of Wishbone Ash invited respected British bassist/vocalist John Wetton (ex-UK, King Crimson, Roxy Music, Family, Uriah Heep, Mogul Thrash) to join them for the recording of their next album, “Number the Brave”.
“Loaded” opens the album and sets the blueprint for much of the album, which has a funkier feel than previous Wishbone Ash offerings. “Where is the Love” comes next – a workmanlike boogie number. There then follows one of the albums true highlights, the anti-nuclear message “Underground”, which features some fine guitar picking from Andy Powell, whose lead vocal blends effectively with Claire Hamill’s voice. “Kicks on the Street” is pretty standard hard rock, while “Open Road” is perhaps the band’s most successful venture into funk-rock territory.
“Get Ready” is an adequate cover of the Smokey Robinson hit. “That’s That” is John Wetton’s sole songwriting and lead vocal contribution to the album, while the next two tracks both features Laurie Wisefield on lead vocal. Album closer “Number the Brave” is another of this album’s triumphs, perfectly mixing the Ash sound of old with a (then) modern sound and direction for the eighties.
During the sessions, it soon became clear that John Wetton was not going to be a direct replacement for Martin Turner. Wetton believed he was joining the band to take over Turner’s duties of bassist and lead vocalist, yet this would not prove to be the reality. Although John Wetton offered several songs to the band, most of these would be rejected as unsuitable for the band’s style. Wetton was frustrated by Andy Powell and Laurie Wisefield’s decision to take the majority of the lead vocals.
Before the album’s release John Wetton and Wishbone Ash had parted company, Wetton going on to achieve enormous success with Asia.
Line-up:
- Andy Powell / Vocals, guitar
- Laurie Wisefield / Vocals, guitar
- Steve Upton / Drums
- John Wetton / Vocals, bass, keyboards
with
- Claire Hammill / Back vocals
Track List:
01. Loaded – 4:11
02. Where is the Love – 3:20
03. Underground – 4:15
04. Kicks on the Street – 4:16
05. Open Road – 5:20
06. Get Ready – 3:15
07. Rainstorm – 4:55
08. That’s That – 3:04
09. Roller Coaster – 3:18
10. Number the Brave – 4:56
Link in comments.
Wishbone Ash – Live Dates II (1980) (@320)
05 Jan 2009
(Review from progarchives.com, wishboneash.co.uk)
Seven years after their brilliant 1973 “Live Dates” double album comes this 1980 collection, six tracks made at Hull, Bristol, Wolverhampton and London. The same sparkling sound quality, the same amazing cover art, but a different set of songs and a different line-up, Laurie Wisefield replacing Ted Turner on guitar and vocals, but not at all to the band’s detriment, “Live Dates 2″ traces the Wishbone saga from Wishbone Four to Just Testing.
Side one of the first LP represents the biggest Ash cross-section. ‘Doctor’ from Wishbone Four album kicks the album off nicely. ‘Living Proof’ delivered on a windy night at Bristol Colston Hall has beefy chords and dirty words sweetened by a long solo at the end. ‘Runaway’ and ‘Helpless’ culled from Wolverhampton Civic Hall are perennial Ash…two roustabout tracks where the warmth of the audience begins to kindle.
Second side contains two longer, 9-minute prog-rock inclined jamming suites, “FUBB” (from “There’s the Rub”) and “Way of the World” (from “No Smoke Without Fire”). Both are very good compositions with extended twin guitar solos, convincing bass and strong drums with frequent change of themes and rhythmic structure.
The second LP features much lilting Ash with ‘Lorelei’, ‘Persephone’ and ‘You Rescue Me’, all very smooth and magnificently paced especially the delicacy of ‘Persephone’. ‘Time Was’ which opens the second side has mellowed greatly over the years and the handling this time around is particularly soft.
Wisefield gets his vocal solo glory on “Goodbye Baby”. His usual rendition is helped by a strong chorus line. And so we close with ‘No Easy Road’ again considerably reworked with some particularly swaggering vocals from Turner. It’s so good you won’t even miss the blasting brass section of the original. Ash live and rampant.
Line-up:
- Andy Powell / guitars & vocals
- Laurie Wisefield / guitars & vocals
- Martin Turner / bass & vocals
- Steve Upton / drums
Track List:
CD1
01. Doctor – 5:40
02. Living Proof – 5:45
03. Runaway – 3:10
04. Helpless – 3:35
05. F*U*B*B – 9:40
06. The Way Of The World – 10:15
CD2 (Bonus)
01. Lorelei – 6:20
02. Persephone – 8:20
03. You Rescue Me – 6:50
04. Time Was – 6:45
05. Goodbye Baby Hello Friend – 5:20
06. No Easy Road – 7:20
Links in comments.
Wishbone Ash – Just Testing (1980) (@256)
03 Jan 2009
(Review from wishboneash.co.uk, progarchives.com)
Released in January 1980, “Just Testing” was Wishbone Ash’s tenth studio album and coincided with the band’s tenth anniversary celebrations. The title came from a phrase that Laurie Wisefield had made up in earlier recording sessions, when he would say “just testing” if he made a mistake which brought the session to a standstill.
Highlights of the album include the opener and initial single release “Living Proof”, an incredibly catchy song with its pulsing beat and dual harmonies. It would become a concert staple for many years to come.
“Master Of Disguise” marked Andy Powell’s debut solo songwriting for Wishbone Ash. The song has a strong melody which, when combined with more orthodox Ash guitar work and some background organ playing, make for a pleasant diversion.
The epic closer “Lifeline” evolved out of studio jamming. It has pleasing guitar work.
A massive 62-date tour of Britain and Europe was undertaken throughout much of 1980 to promote the album. However, internal conflicts over the future of the band led to Martin Turner quitting in October 1980, thus ending the longest period with the same line-up in the history of Wishbone Ash.
Line-up:
- Andy Powell / Guitars
- Laurie Wisefield / Guitars
- Martin Turner / Bass, Vocals
- Steve Upton / Drums
Track List:
01. Living Proof – 5:44
02. Haunting Me – 4:34
03. Insomnia – 5:09
04. Helpless – 4:03
05. Pay the Price – 3:34
06. New Rising Star – 3:58
07. Master of Disguise – 4:25
08. Lifeline – 6:29
Link in comments.
Wishbone Ash – No Smoke Without Fire (1978) (@256)
03 Jan 2009
(Review from progarchives.com)
After the decent but uncharacteristically laid back “Front Page News”, Wishbone Ash re-united with their original producer Derek Lawrence for “No Smoke Without Fire”.
The results are immediately apparent on the opening “You See Red” with the jamming twin guitars back where they belong, right up front. The pace of the song is not overtly quick, but it has a driving basis while telling a troubling tale of domestic violence.
The troubled themes continue throughout the album, with the exception of the closing song “Way of the World”, which finally evokes optimism. Musically however, this is far from a darkalbum. There are softer songs, such as the brief “Leaf and Stream” like “Ships in the Sky”, but as a whole, this is a far more traditional Ash album than those which preceded it.
“Anger in Harmony” features a striking change of tempo midway to play out with a spirited twin guitar jam. “Like a Child” features some of the strongest harmonies and one of the finest melodies the band has delivered in a long time, a real overlooked gem.
The closing 9˝ minute “Way of the World” is very much a “Time Was, Part 2″. The slower acoustic opening vocal section eventually gives way to a lengthy upbeat guitar jam.
This is an unjustly forgotten album in the band’s back pages.
Line-up:
- Martin Turner / Bass & Vocals
- Andy Powell / Guitar & Vocals
- Laurie Wisefield / Guitar & Vocals
- Steve Upton / Drums
Track List:
01. You See Red – 6:04
02. Baby the Angels Are Here – 4:47
03. Ships in the Sky – 3:02
04. Stand and Deliver – 7:27
05. Anger in Harmony – 5:04
06. Like a Child – 5:00
07. Way of the World, Pt. 1 – 4:09
08. Way of the World, Pt. 2 – 5:30
Link in comments.
Wishbone Ash – On Air (BBC 1971-77) (@256)
01 Jan 2009
(Info from phrock)
The majority of tracks here were recorded for a variety of BBC radio shows, ranging from “Top Gear” to programmes hosted by Stuart Henry, Bob Harris and Pete Drummond. They date from the early 70s when the band was its commercial peak and had a line-up compromising Andy Power and Ted Turner on lead guitars. Martin Turner on bass and vocals, and drummer Steve Upton.
Completing the set are three recordings for the Old Grey Whistle Test, one for 1971, and two from 1977. By the time of these last two cuts Ted Turner had left the group, but the band’s celebrated and influencial twin guitar sound had been retained with the recruitment of Laurie Wisefield. These historic sessions capture Wishbone Ash direct, powerful and without frills.
Line-up:
- Andy Powell / Guitar, Vocals
- Martin Turner / Bass, Vocals
- Ted Turner / Guitar (1-7)
- Laurie Wisefield / Guitar (8-9)
- Steve Upton / Percussion, Drums
Track List:
01. Blind Eye – 3:45
02. Lullaby – 3:13
03. Pilgrim – 8:44
04. Jailbait – 4:50
05. Blowin’ Free – 5:36
06. Throw Down The Sword – 6:12
07. Vas Dis – 4:42
08. Goodbye Baby Hello Friend – 3:31
09. Baby Come In From The Rain – 4:40
Link in comments.
Wishbone Ash – Runaway (Live 1976) (@320)
01 Jan 2009
(Info from wikipedia)
“Runaway” is an archival live album, recorded at the Liverpool Empire, on Nov 17th 1976, one month after the release of “New England”. The only exception is “Helpless”, which was recorded at the Hammersmith, on Feb 2nd 1980.
Here we see the second line-up of the band, performing a good amount of earlier stuff. Half of this set list wouldn’t appear in the future glorious “Live Dates II” album.
Line-up:
- Andy Powell / guitar
- Laurie Wisefield / guitar
- Steve Upton / drums
- Martin Turner / bass guitar, vocals
Track List:
01. Helpless
02. Runaway
03. Warrior
04. Lorelei
05. Persephone (fades out at 3:45)
06. (In All Of My Dreams) You Rescue Me
07. Outward Bound
08. Mother Of Pearl
09. Rest In Peace
10. Time Was
11. Bad Weather Blues
12. The King Will Come
Links in comments.
Wishbone Ash – New England (1976) (@256)
31 Dec 2008
(Review from progarchives.com, wishboneash.co.uk)
For the recording of New England – titled after the area of the US in which they were now living and working – Wishbone Ash decided to record most of the album in Martin Turner’s basement using a mobile recording truck. Only for final overdubs would the band enter the studio. The aim of this unorthadox approach to recording was to capture some of the band’s live energy while still incorporating some of the influences and advanced studio techniques. “New England” was rush released in October 1976, seven months after their disaster of “Locked In”.
We open with “Mother of Pearl”, the loudest track on the album. The song is an upbeat slice of power rock with fine harmonies delivering a strong melody and hook. The twin guitars drive the track along. This however is not representative of the album as a whole. “New England” is surprisingly reflective and melodic. The ballad “(In all of my dreams) You rescue me” gives a far better indication of what to expect here, especially on the second side of the album. “Runaway” is an out and out rock song. “Lorelei”, which became a popular live track, is a mid-paced piece which builds to a fine guitar ending.
Side two flows rather nicely from start to finish. Starting with the routine but enjoyable instrumental “outward bound”, we are taken through a brief “Argus” like “Prelude” to and effective rock ballad “When You Know Love”. The song features Ash’s trademark guitar sound and vocal harmonies delivering an attractive melody. The relaxed, downbeat atmosphere of the side continues with “Lonely Island”, where some of the finest guitar work on the album can be found. The track really is something of a lost gem in the Wishbone Ash catalogue. We close with a further short soft guitar piece “Candlelight”.
“New England” is one of Wishbone Ash’s most accomplished works.
Line-up:
- Andy Powell / electric & acoustic guitars, mandolin, vocals
- Laurie Wisefield / electric & slide guitars, vocals
- Steve Upton / drums
- Martin Turner / bass, lead vocals
with
- Nelson ‘Flaco’ Padron / percussion
Track List:
01. Mother Of Pearl – 4:33
02. (In All Of My Dreams) You Rescue Me – 6:13
03. Runaway – 3:18
04. Lorelie – 5:28
05. Outward Bound – 4:55
06. Prelude – 1:13
07. When You Know Love – 5:50
08. Lonely Island – 4:31
09. Candlelight – 1:50
Link in comments.
Wishbone Ash – Locked In (1976) (@256)
29 Dec 2008
(Review from rateyourmusic.com, wishbone.co.uk, allmusic)
The band had left their record company, had no management and we were working on a record with Tom Dowd. While his credentials are impressive, producer Tom Dowd was not the man for the job. He was much better suited as a producer of southern rock, jazz, and R&B acts. The band was looking for guidance, didn’t realise they should be the ones taking the lead. It was not a particularly healthy time to make a record. That whole time was probably the roughest in the band’s lengthy career.
The aptly titled “Locked In” album was released on March 1976. Critics had a field day, branding the album a disaster. Wishbone Ash had always taken a certain amount of stick from particular elements of the music press, but for once even the band’s loyal fan base could not defend the album, with it’s distinctly lightweight style.
“Locked In” did contain some fine material however – album opener “Rest in Peace”, for example, would become a highpoint of the band’s live set over the ensuing year. Great duel guitar work from Laurie Wisefield and Andy Powell, all powered along with some intensely focused drumming from Steve Upton.
“No Water In The Well” is a classic example of the mellower sound of Ash. “Moonshine” and “Half Past Lovin’” has a predictable southern style and funky grooves. “Trust In You” is full of nice harmony vocals and that instantly recognizable Wishbone Ash guitar sound. The closing number, “Say Goodbye” has poignant lyrics, a haunting melody, tasteful guitars and a heartfelt lead vocal.
Line-up:
- Andy Powell / electric & acoustic guitars, vocals
- Laurie Wisefield / electric & acoustic guitars, slide guitar, vocals
- Martin Turner / bass, vocals
- Steve Upton / drums, percussion
Track List:
01. Rest In Peace – 6:43
02. No Water In The Well – 3:47
03. Moonshine – 3:35
04. She Was My Best Friend – 3:52
05. It Started (In Heaven) – 3:18
06. Half Past Lovin’ – 5:32
07. Trust In You – 5:06
08. Say Goodbye – 4:58
Link in comments.
Wishbone Ash – There's the Rub (1974) (@256)
28 Dec 2008
(Review from wikipedia, progarchives.com)
After replacing Turner with guitarist Laurie Wisefield, the band relocated to America and recorded what would become the “There’s The Rub” album. The title is both a quote from Shakespeare, and a reference to the Hipgnosis cover photo of a cricket player rubbing a cricket ball clean on his trousers, in preparation for a pitch. To address the production issues which arose with the band’s self-production of their previous album, Eagles producer Bill Szymczyk was brought in.
The differences are immediately apparent on the opening “Silver Shoes”. An otherwise fairly ordinary guitar rock song is exploited to the full through the crisp production. The song represents the album being made up of high quality rock songs. Most of these are certainly extended, but the structures remain relatively straight-forward.
Occasionally, such as on “Persephone”, we have something more meaty. This slower number is vaguely similar to “Everybody needs a friend”, with some fine twin guitar work and a strong melody. The other slower track of the album is the folk influenced “Lady Jay”, the lyrics of which were inspired by an English west country folk legend. The song is a sort of cross between “Warrior” and “Leaf and stream”.
The final track, “F.U.B.B.” takes its title from a variation on the US army term SNAFU (“Fucked Up Beyond Belief”). This lengthy instrumental builds from a solo bass guitar intro through a series of fine guitar workouts. The early part of the track tends to plod along a bit, until the pace is raised and a more dynamic element is introduced, with the album closing on a high.
Unfortunately, the record company seemed to have lost faith and without the appropriate promotion the album failed to sell well. The band parted ways with MCA.
Line-up:
- Martin Turner / Lead Vocals, Bass
- Andy Powell / Guitars, Mandolin, Vocals
- Laurie Wisefield / Guitars, Banjo, Steel Guitar, Vocals
- Steve Upton / Drums
Track List:
01. Silver Shoes – 6:40
02. Don’t Come Back – 5:12
03. Persephone – 7:00
04. Hometown – 4:49
05. Lady Jay – 5:58
06. F*U*B*B – 9:32
Link in comments.
Wishbone Ash – Live Dates (1973) (@320)
27 Dec 2008
(Review from amazon, progarchives.com)
“Live Dates” is one of those classic live albums of the 70′s that any rock fan must have. Unlike many of their peers, Wishbone Ash are really better live than in the studio, as this album shows all the time. The performances are spotless, beautiful and extremely well recorded.
This is, clearly, the place to marvel at the band’s innovative melange of blues, folk, Yes- style riffs, and endearingly cosmic lyrics, not to mention its centrepiece–the tag team dueling guitars of Andy Powell and Ted Turner. The album is full of great guitar solos, licks and duels, fine vocal hamonies and a very strong rhythm section.
The album’s main attraction is the epic “Phoenix”, expanded by seven minutes from its studio version and included in two different performances. It’s precisely the sort of psychedelic jam that used to really wow them at the Fillmore during the Summer Of Love. Other highlights include a heartfelt version of “Rock ‘n’ Roll Widow”, and an impressively arranged take on the Jimmy Reed blues classic “Baby What You Want Me to Do” (misidentified, for some reason, as the Everly Brothers’ “You Got Me Runnin’”).
Line-up:
- Martin Turner / Vocals, Bass
- Andy Powell / Guitars, Vocals
- Ted Turner / Guitars, Vocals
- Steve Upton / Drums
Track List:
CD1
01. The King Will Come 7:15
02. Warrior 5:41
03. Throw Down The Sword 5:57
04. Rock ‘n’ Roll Widow 5:44
05. Ballad Of The Beacon 5:16
06. Baby What You Want Me To Do 7:36
07. Phoenix (Bonus Live In Memphis) 17:05
CD2
01. The Pilgrim 9:17
02. Blowin’ Free 5:24
03. Jailbait 4:38
04. Lady Whiskey 5:40
05. Phoenix 17:20
Links in comments.
Wishbone Ash – Wishbone Four (1973) (@256)
27 Dec 2008
(Review from progarchives.com, amazon)
Following up the magnificent “Argus” was always going to be a monumental task for Wishbone Ash. Instead of trying to create another similar album, the band decided to go back to basics, making their folk sound more apparent than ever.
Many songs in Wishbone Four seem precursors to sounds honed by latter groups like Bad Company, Foreigner and Bob Seeger’s Silver Bullet Band. There are also similarities to the Grateful Dead, early Fleetwood Mac and even King Crimson to be heard in Wishbone’s first of several attempts to become a singles band. Unlike Wishbone’s previous three recordings, songs are shorter and often catchier as well. There are some great rockers on this album, alternating with some softer tracks, all of them sprinkled with anthemic solos from the dual guitars of Andy Powell and Ted Turner. Yet it is the ballads which dominate the album, two in particular standout above the rest.
“Ballad of the Beacon” hails the return of more traditional harmonised multi-tracked vocals and the unique guitar sound of the band is far more apparent. The song (the lyrics of which reflect the band’s decamping to Wales to work on it) is one of the hidden gems of the Wishbone Ash catalogue.
The wonderful “Everybody Needs a Friend” is an acoustic guitar based 8˝ minute ballad features an excellent vocal performance of a fine melody, combined with some of the finest lead guitar work the band have come up with. The lyrics, while melancholy, are optimistic and supportive. The track is immeasurably enhanced by the addition of mellotron.
Guitarist Ted Turner would leave the band after the tour of this album, apparently unhappy with the step he felt the band had taken, and the classic line up of the band was at an end.
Line-up:
- Martin Turner / bass, vocals
- Andy Powell / guitars, vocals
- Ted Turner / guitars, vocals
- Steve Upton / drums
Track List:
01. So Many Things To Say – 5:06
02. Ballad Of The Beacon – 5:04
03. No Easy Road – 3:48
04. Everybody Needs A Friend – 8:24
05. Doctor – 5:53
06. Sorrel – 5:03
07. Sing Out The Song – 4:24
08. Rock ‘N Roll Widow – 5:50
Link in comments.
Wishbone Ash – Argus (1972) (@256)
26 Dec 2008
(Review from progarchives.com)
It is in fact difficult to categorise Wishbone Ash’s third album in terms of a sub-genre. The many acoustic parts convey a prog-folk feel, frequently accentuated by the mediaeval lyrics, while the strong guitars and vocal harmonies can perhaps be compared to bands such as Camel. While never overtly metallic, when the band work their way through a few strong bluesy riffs they offer comparisons with the work of Uriah Heep or Deep Purple.
Every little thing that seems not perfect on the first two albums here are completely absent and the album is close to flawless in this gorgeous set of tracks.
From the 9 min+ stunning opener Time Was (and its quiet intro, and strong tightness of the group) to the catchy Blowin’ Free (again returning more towards the tighter and more macho side of the group) and passing through the awesome Sometime World (with its superb intro and then the superb bass line supporting the now-famous scatting, great succeeding guitar solos), the first side of the album ends all too shortly.
The second side of the album manages to top the first one, with their seminal the “King Will Come”, with Ted Turner playing a great solo. Just as superb is leaf and stream with its beautiful arpeggios and that superb pastoral ambiance, a quiet and reflective track from beginning to end and a pure joy. Spine chills guaranteed!! Out comes one of the most awesome track ever written, Warrior and its message for force to become a free man. Throw Down The Sword is a fitting exit to an almost perfect album with both Powell and Turner playing so emotionally that one can only want to spin the album again.
There really is not a weak track on “Argus”, it represents one of the finest albums of its era, a truly essential masterpiece.
There’s a bonus track included in this edition of the album. It is really out-of-place and unnecessary since it’s a track from their next studio album. Just skip it and listen to it at its rightful place, in their next album.
Line-up:
- Martin Turner / vocals, bass
- Andy Powell / guitar, vocals
- Ted Turner / guitar, vocals
- Steve Upton / drums
with
- John Tout / keyboards (7)
Track List:
01. Time Was – 9:45
02. Sometime World – 6:57
03. Blowin’ Free – 5:18
04. The King Will Come – 7:08
05. Leaf And Stream – 3:56
06. Warrior – 5:54
07. Throw Down The Sword – 5:55
08. No Easy Road (Bonus) – 3:36
Link in comments.
Wishbone Ash – Pilgrimage (1971) (@256)
25 Dec 2008
(Review from progarchives.com)
With such brilliant debut, Wishbone Ash had their hands full to live-up to their burgeoning reputation.
With the impressive opener “Quo Vadis”, Wishbone Ash shows that they have become even tighter than before and they use some of the best scatting on a hard-driving beat: this will become a trademark of theirs for a few years to come.
Once the lenghty intro over with, the (sort of) title track actually swings into a typical Wishbone Ash swing that they were becoming so famous for, and once the three vocalist get into their scatting, the track is really take you places that all progheads love: paradise. “Jailbait” is clearly a return to the rockier (and macho) tracks of the first album. Another highlight of the album is the enjoyable “Valediction”. The usual great drumming, complementary dual guitars and incredible bass works are still among the major asset of the album.
“Pilgrimage” is a something of a transitional album for Wishbone Ash, sitting between the raw excitement of their superb first album, and the majestic excellence of “Argus”. A unique hybrid of these two albums.
Line-up:
- Martin Turner / vocals, bass
- Andy Powell / guitar, vocals
- Ted Turner / guitar, vocals
- Steve Upton / drums
Track List:
01. Vas Dis – 4:46
02. The Pilgrim – 8:33
03. Jail Bait – 4:45
04. Alone – 2:23
05. Lullaby – 3:03
06. Valediction – 6:20
07. Where Were You Tomorrow – 10:25
08. Jail Bait (Live) – 4:54
Link in comments.
Wishbone Ash – First Light (1970) (@256)
24 Dec 2008
(Review from progarchives.com, wikipedia)
“First Light” is the first studio recording by Wishbone Ash, recorded in Spring & Summer 1970. These recordings helped the band get a recording contract from MCA but were then left languishing in the vaults until recently. As for the songs, 6 out of 8 of them were later re-recorded/used on official Wishbone studio albums.
The original versions on “First Light” reflect both the raw energy of the early stages of the band and the original arrangements of some well-known classics. While perhaps less polished than the first MCA recordings. one can hear the experimentation here that led to that later work. The raw energy that gives the music a very fresh sound. The sound quality is also very good.
The versions of “Alone” (with vocals) and the extended instrumental “Handy” are special treats. Also included are two previously unheard pieces, “Roads of Day to Day” and a short instrumental called “Joshua”.
This archival album as a whole represents the band in their first stages of their creation. During the sessions of recording, the band used home made instruments – Martin Turner used a home made bass guitar which he had bought for 5 pounds.
Line-up:
- Martin Turner / bass, vocals
- Andy Powell / guitar, vocals
- Ted Turner / guitar, vocals
- Steve Upton / drums
Track List:
01. Lady Whiskey – 3:11
02. Roads of Day to Day – 5:51
03. Blind Eye – 3:35
04. Joshua – 2:13
05. Queen of Torture – 3:09
06. Alone – 3:09
07. Handy – 12:41
08. Errors of My Way – 6:24
Link in comments.
Wishbone Ash – Front Page News (1977) (@256)
30 Apr 2007
(Review from progarchives.com)
With Laurie Wisefield now firmly installed as the second lead guitarist and sometime vocalist, Wishbone Ash continued to develop the sound and style they had introduced on “New England”.
The opening title track sets the scene for the album in a slightly laid back, mid-paced song. Apart from the delightful vocals, the song features some excellent integral guitar work, which complements the composition rather than dominating it. That laid back atmosphere is repeated in songs such as “Midnight dancer” which changes pace mid- way, the slow wah-wah guitar giving way to an all to rare burst of faster lead guitar duelling. Wisefield assumes lead vocal duty on the Crosby Stills and Nash like “Goodbye baby, hello friend”, another relaxed song with more of a pop basis. The CSN influences appear elsewhere from time to time, perhaps emanating in part from the style of Wisefield’s previous band Home. On the relaxed instrumental “714″, we even have orchestration by Mike Lewis, surely a first for Wishbone Ash.
And so it is that a succession of slightly melancholy mid-paced songs with strong harmonies flows seamlessly on. All the while, bursts of great but all too brief guitar work intrude, but usually they simply serve as a solid basis for the tracks.
The second side is slightly harder, but rarely does the pace reach anything like what might be described as energetic. Songs such as “Right or wrong” have a stronger blues influence, with hints of Led Zeppelin or Deep Purple.
There are no feature tracks on “Front Page News”. This is a straightforward album of ten 4-5 minute songs, consummately performed but with little development. This is a proficient offering packed with pleasant melodies, while undoubtedly standing as the band’s least aggressive release.
Line-up:
- Martin Turner / bass, vocals
- Laurie Wisefield / lead, 12 string & rhythm guitars, vocals
- Andy Powell / lead, rhythym & acoustic guitars, vocals
- Steve Upton / drums
Track List:
01. Front Page News
02. Midnight Dancer
03. Goodbye Baby, Hello Friend
04. Surface To Air
05. 714
06. Come In From The Rain
07. Right Or Wrong
08. Heart Beat
09. The Day I Found Your Love
10. Diamond Jack
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Wishbone Ash – Wishbone Ash (1970) (@256)
13 Jan 2007
(Review from progarchives.com)
Some 30+ years before the arrival of “Explosions in the Sky”, Wishbone Ash pioneered the line up of bass, drums and twin lead guitars. They may not have been the first band to do so (that is a debate for the forum) but they were certainly the first to enjoy a run of major success with that structure. (Unlike Explosions in the Sky however, Wishbone Ash were prepared to let each of the lead guitarists ply his trade with solos, and also added vocals to their songs).
This their eponymous debut album displays all the naivety of a band setting out, while simultaneously offering some truly inspired work. It is side two of the album to which we need to look to find anything prog, and in particular to the criminally under- recognised “Phoenix”. This 10˝ minute epic has a classic prog structure, with some wonderful melodies, and supreme guitar work. When placed in context (it was recorded in 1970), it arguably laid the framework for many prog classics which followed. Admittedly it is at times rather clumsy but in many ways that only adds to the attraction of the piece. “Pheonix” was some years ahead of its time, and it still stands up well today as a magnificent opus. The other track occupying side two of the album is the 11˝ minute “Handy”. This is a rather more orthodox extended blues rock number, which in all honesty outstays its welcome considerably.
Side one of the album consists of four more orthodox folk and blues based songs. While these are more than adequate offerings for a first album, on their own they do little to distinguish Wishbone Ash as a band to be watched.
In all, “Wishbone Ash” was a highly credible first album, “Phoenix” in particular offering real hope that the band could come up with some excellent progressive music, with or without keyboards in their line up.
Line-up:
- Martin Turner / vocals, bass
- Andy Powell / guitar, vocals
- Ted Turner / guitar, vocals
- Steve Upton / drums
Track List:
01. Blind Eye (3:42)
02. Lady Whiskey (6:11)
03. Error Of My Ways (6:56)
04. Queen Of Torture (3:21)
05. Handy (11:36)
06. Phoenix (10:27)
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