WISHBONE ASH Band Description:
Wishbone Ash is a British rock band formed in 1969, which gained popularity in the early 1970s as pioneers of the twin-lead guitar sound that has since become a signature of classic rock. The band's original lineup consisted of Martin Turner on bass guitar and lead vocals, Steve Upton on drums, Ted Turner on lead guitar and vocals, and Andy Powell on lead guitar and vocals. Over the years, the band has seen numerous lineup changes, but Powell has remained a constant member throughout, making him the band's longest-serving member.
Wishbone Ash's sound is characterized by their use of harmony and melody, and their twin-lead guitar sound. Their music has been described as a mix of hard rock, progressive rock, and folk rock, which was influenced by bands such as Cream, Jimi Hendrix, and Led Zeppelin.
The band's debut album, "Wishbone Ash," was released in 1970 and received critical acclaim. The album featured songs such as "Blind Eye" and "Phoenix," which showcased the band's unique sound and style. The album also marked the beginning of the band's trademark twin-lead guitar sound, which was developed by Andy Powell and Ted Turner.
In 1971, Wishbone Ash released their second album, "Pilgrimage," which featured the songs "Jail Bait" and "The Pilgrim." The album also saw the introduction of Martin Turner's distinctive bass sound, which added to the band's unique style.
The band's third album, "Argus," released in 1972, is considered their breakthrough album and remains their most popular release. The album featured the hit single "Blowin' Free" and other fan favorites such as "Warrior," "Throw Down the Sword," and "The King Will Come." "Argus" is widely regarded as one of the greatest rock albums of all time, and it cemented Wishbone Ash's place in rock history.
After the success of "Argus," the band released a string of successful albums, including "Wishbone Four" (1973), "There's the Rub" (1974), and "New England" (1976). These albums continued to showcase the band's unique twin-lead guitar sound and their ability to write memorable melodies and harmonies.
Despite the band's success, they experienced several lineup changes in the late 1970s and early 1980s. However, Powell remained a constant member, and the band continued to release new music and tour.
In the 1990s and 2000s, Wishbone Ash continued to release new music and tour, with Powell and Turner being the only original members remaining in the band. They released albums such as "Strange Affair" (1991), "Bare Bones" (1999), and "Elegant Stealth" (2011). The band's music continued to showcase their unique sound and style, which has influenced many other rock bands over the years.
Wishbone Ash's legacy can be seen in their influence on other rock bands, particularly in their use of twin-lead guitars. Bands such as Thin Lizzy, Iron Maiden, and Lynyrd Skynyrd have all cited Wishbone Ash as an influence on their music.
