Sunday night April 8th, Tampa Florida was treated to a visit from the legendary founders of progressive rock Wishbone Ash. Playing at the intimate venue Skippers Smokehouse assured all the fans that they would be given an up close opportunity to hear their amazing music.
Founded in 1969 Wishbone Ash pioneered the use of twin lead guitars influencing bands such as Iron Maiden and Thin Lizzy. Founding member Andy Powell absolutely did not sound the part of a 68 year old. His vocals were as strong as they have ever been. As for his guitar playing he clearly is still the master of the “Flying V”.
Opening the set with “Bona Fide” showed that new guitarist Mark Abrahams clearly has the chops as he dazzled playing alongside Andy Powell. Next up was “Eyes Wide Open” from their 2006 album “Clan Destiny”. Andy Powell’s vocals were spot on through out. While the band is well know for their intricate twin electric guitar sound, tonight the eager audience was treated to two acoustic numbers. The first of which was “Blowing Free” from their 1972 album “Argus”. This was followed up with “Wings of Desire” from the album “Strange Affair” released in 1991.
After the acoustic songs the crowd started to really get into all the great songs that Wishbone Ash was playing. At one point an audience member shouted out “Free Bird!”. To which Andy Powell quickly responded: “Our next song is what inspired Free Bird!”, making the audience laugh. While much is said about both guitarists, bass player Bob Skeat and drummer Joe Crabtree form a solid backbone for which Andy Powell and Mark Abrahams can both soar upon.
The set list included classic songs such as: “Way Down South”, “The King Will Come”, “Warrior, Throw Down the Sword”, “Leaf and Stream”, “F.U.B.B.”, “Standing in the Rain”, “Jailbait” and “Phoenix”. After hearing all of these masterpieces they came out for a final rousing encore playing “Faith Hope” and Love”, and “Blowin’ Free”.
After Wishbone Ash leaves Tampa, their tour will continue with stops in New Orleans, Texas, Arizona , Nevada, California then back to Europe. If you get a chance to check out these guys make sure you do. They are absolutely amazing live.
Opening the set with “Bona Fide” showed that new guitarist Mark Abrahams clearly has the chops as he dazzled playing alongside Andy Powell. Next up was “Eyes Wide Open” from their 2006 album “Clan Destiny”. Andy Powell’s vocals were spot on through out. While the band is well know for their intricate twin electric guitar sound, tonight the eager audience was treated to two acoustic numbers. The first of which was “Blowing Free” from their 1972 album “Argus”. This was followed up with “Wings of Desire” from the album “Strange Affair” released in 1991.
After the acoustic songs the crowd started to really get into all the great songs that Wishbone Ash was playing. At one point an audience member shouted out “Free Bird!”. To which Andy Powell quickly responded: “Our next song is what inspired Free Bird!”, making the audience laugh. While much is said about both guitarists, bass player Bob Skeat and drummer Joe Crabtree form a solid backbone for which Andy Powell and Mark Abrahams can both soar upon.
The set list included classic songs such as: “Way Down South”, “The King Will Come”, “Warrior, Throw Down the Sword”, “Leaf and Stream”, “F.U.B.B.”, “Standing in the Rain”, “Jailbait” and “Phoenix”. After hearing all of these masterpieces they came out for a final rousing encore playing “Faith Hope” and Love”, and “Blowin’ Free”.
After Wishbone Ash leaves Tampa, their tour will continue with stops in New Orleans, Texas, Arizona , Nevada, California then back to Europe. If you get a chance to check out these guys make sure you do. They are absolutely amazing live.
photos by Mark Matson
