Elegant Stealth review

December 08, 2011

by Andy Powell

Here's a pretty cool review of our latest CD in case you are wondering about obtaining a copy.

http://www.muzikreviews.com/reviews.php?ID=1934

Wishbone Ash Elegant Stealth

I guess an Elegant Stealth would be a butterfly now wouldn’t it? Don’t be deceived by the mellow pastels and the image on the cover of the new Wishbone Ash album. Inside what you will find is 12 tracks packed with the classic rocking Wishbone Ash sound.

What I have found uplifting about this band on a consistent basis is that they have never come across as a bunch of guys trying to relive their past, hang onto it and then live off their back catalog with countless resissues and best of collections. Andy Powell and the band have remained renewed and vital for a very long time. The longtime founding member has kept the same group intact for a few years now and it has paid off. The youngster Joe Crabtree (drums), the precise Muddy Manninen (guitar) and the animated in step Bob Skeat (bass) have found a solid groove and show no signs of slowing down. Elegant Stealth *keeps the Wishbone Ash patented sound in place and Andy sounds as strong as ever fronting the band. Having seen the band perform live over the summer was proof positive for this long time fan that this band is a relevant and exciting act. There is not a lot that is progressive about this band anymore, what you hear is for the most part is a classic rock blues influenced sound with soaring harmonies and dueling guitars that rival any active band that is playing out or recording today. The opening track (see the cool accompanying video) “Reason To Believe” is a pedal to the metal rocker that only this band can produce. If you are familiar with their sound you will understand exactly what I am talking about. There is not a weak link on the recording; it is stellar from beginning to end. The subject matter is very familiar, much of it covers relationships and love and all its complications. The music and lyrics has always gone hand in hand for Wishbone Ash regardless of the lineup, as long as Mr. Powell is at the helm they will sound as you would expect and that is good thing. That is not to say that they do not mix it up musically. The rockers, like the opener and “Big Issues,” offers up a thumping rhythm section leading the way into some extended scalding hot blues-rock licks (the track runs over 7 minutes) or the instrumental gem “Mud-Slick,” where the dueling guitars and a whirling dervish organ sweep you away and keep the strong momentum going throughout the entire listen. There are many different sounds and textures that are carefully painted on their diverse musical canvas. Take track 7 for instance, “Heavy Weather,” is one of the most complex and fascinating tracks on the recording, showcasing the excellent musicality this talented group of musicians have at their command. If any of the older fans are looking for the prog rock from earlier albums like *Argusand such they will find it all in full bloom on this long player (6:38). It is a real show stopper and will certainly become a favorite at their shows very quickly no doubt. There is nothing not to like here, every track is 100% Wishbone Ash at their very best. This band is like a fine wine that just keeps getting better with age and this is one of their strongest studio releases in years. *Key Tracks: Reason To Believe. Heavy Weather, Mud-Slick

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