“Time Was” when Wishbone Ash was simply huge. Formed in 1969 by bass player Martin Turner and drummer Steve Upton, they were one of the pioneers of the harmony twin guitar sound that became their trademark. To achieve this they recruited guitarists Andy Powell and Ted Turner (no relation to Martin). Their first self-titled album was released the following year and all but set in stone the sound that fans associated with the band throughout their subsequent career. Tracks such as “Phoenix” and “Errors Of My Ways” combined progressive rock, blues, and folk, underpinned by some classical elements. When Pilgrimage followed in 1971 it saw the band further explore these influences. “Vas Dis” added a distinctly jazz feel whilst “Valediction” contained vocal harmonies akin to Crosby, Stills, and Nash. However it was their next album, released the following year, that catapulted the band onto the worldwide stage.Argus saw the fruition of the first two albums, and the result was one of the most important albums - not only for the band themselves, but also for the development of rock music. Many bands have employed twin guitars subsequently, but these three albums by Wishbone Ash would help push open that door. Wishbone Ash continues today, albeit in two different guises. Original guitarist Andy Powell has kept the name continually alive throughout the decades with a revolving door of musicians, and releasing numerous highly impressive albums. They continue to tour today and have a large and loyal following.Martin Turner remained a member up until 1980 and the Just Testing album. He rejoined in 1987 in time for Nouveau Calls, an album that marked the return of the entire original line up. He stayed until 1991 before rejoining for another brief spell in 1995. In 2005, despite the continued existence of the long running version of the band, he formed Martin Turner’s Wishbone Ash. When touring, they concentrated on performing material from the bands ‘golden age’. They even released two live albums, New Live Dates Vol 1 and 2. There are now several versions of Argus on the market, and to confuse the issue further, two were released almost at the same time.Firstly, Wishbone Ash, with Andy Powell, released Argus, Then Again – Live (Talking Elephant Records, 2008). It was recorded before a small audience in Washington DC. The other is, Argus Through The Looking Glass (Mystic Records, 2008) under the band name of Martin Turner’s Wishbone Ash.For his album, Martin is joined by drummer Rob Hewins, and no less than three guitarists — Danny Willson, Ray Hatfield, and Keith Buck — to re-create that trademark sound. They were also joined by guests John Wetton and Greg Downes, of Asia fame. Wetton, of course, not only played with Asia, King Crimson, and Uriah Heep, he also briefly covered bass for Wishbone Ash in 1980. Despite many fans’ opinion that Argus simply cannot be improved, Martin decided to plough ahead regardless and re-record the classic album. In doing so he risked further dividing the already split loyalties of the fan base. However, the result is an album that is remarkably loyal to the original. The running order of Argus Through The Looking Glass is slightly different though. “Blowin’ Free” now appears as the final track whereas on the original vinyl album it closed the old side one. Martin reasons that he had written this song before the rest of the material that eventually formed Argus developed. In general that incredible guitar sound, bass, and drums remain loyal to the original. However, there are differences, and this is particularly the case on “Throw Down The Sword,” which features the added keyboards of Geoff Downes. It also has John Wetton providing harmony vocals. As subtle as this change is, it will be immediately apparent to fans of the band, most of who know this album note for note. In general though, he brings a contemporary feel and superb 2008 sound to the album whilst reminding everyone of his credentials within the band’s creation and, of course, it's history. Whatever the motives are for re-recording this classic album, the end result is still a valuable addition to the now huge Wishbone Ash heritage.
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