Wishbone Ash: Stockton Arc

WISHBONE Ash has a legacy stretching back more than 47 years to the birth of progressive rock. They were one of the first groups to use a twin lead guitar format, influencing bands like Thin Lizzy and Iron Maiden, and their extensive back catalogue includes 1972’s Argus, long recognised as a classic album.

Two versions of the band now exist, one led by original guitarist Andy Powell, the other by original bassist Martin Turner, and, rather confusingly, both are currently undertaking UK tours.

Powell's version arrived in Stockton as part of their Road Warriors tour and provided a crowd-pleasing set of classic blues-rock based songs including Eyes Wide Open, Front Page News, Throw Down The Sword, Blowin’ Free and Phoenix.

Lead singer Powell, the only remaining member from the original line-up, was in a genial mood, thanking the audience for helping to support live music. Introducing The King Will Come, the first of several tracks from Argus, he confessed that he, like his bank manager, was eternally grateful for the album's success and longevity.

The duelling twin guitars of Powell – still playing his trademark Gibson Flying V – and Muddy Manninen delighted an enthusiastic audience some of whom indulged in some carefree air guitar down at the front. Bassist Bob Skeat made the task of playing five string bass look easy.

Old rockers they may be, but music this good, played with such passion has its place and deserves to be heard.

Dave Lawrence