Wishbone Ash March 29, 2010

Wishbone Ash is THE pioneering British twin-lead guitar band that influenced Thin Lizzy and others along with a crop of new, young guitar bands. You can hear echoes of their work in songs by such diverse artists as Steely Dan and Franz Ferdinand.

Formed in October 1969 in London, Wishbone Ash garnered notice in the early days for a unique blend of blues, jazz and English folk. But it was the way the guitars played melodic leads together that would become Wishbone Ash's trademark. A chance jam between Andy [Powell] and Ritchie Blackmore, on a show as openers to Deep Purple prompted Blackmore to recommend them to producer Derek Lawrence who in turn aided their signing with MCA / Universal in L.A.

Today, just as in 1969, Wishbone Ash features founding guitarist Andy Powell, whose name is often associated with the Gibson Flying V, which he has popularized over the years. The current lineup includes Finnish guitar slinger Muddy Manninen and the stalwart rhythm section of bassist Bob Skeat and drummer par excellence, Joe Crabtree. 2009 is also a real milestone for founding member Andy Powell, being the band’s 40th anniversary year.

On the heels of a whirlwind year, promoting their most recent studio album, "The Power of Eternity," Wishbone Ash begins with what has become an annual tradition: a tour of Germany, Switzerland, Belgium and Holland, plus dates in Scandinavia, followed by spring tours of the United Kingdom and the United States.

Official Website: http://www.thewinchester.net