Wishbone Ash achieved considerable success in the 1970s, during which they were among England’s most popular hard rock acts, achieving an incredible eight top 40 albums. Often regarded as one of the premiere UK live acts of the 1970s, the band toured throughout this period and into the following decades.
1972 was one of rock music’s most memorable years for regal releases – a golden age of classic albums – Exile on Main Street, Machine Head, The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars, All the Young Dudes, Roxy Music, Can’t Buy a Thrill, Sailin’ Shoes, Foxtrot, Demons and Wizards, Transformer and Barnstorm – by rock royalty – The Rolling Stones, Deep Purple, Davie Bowie, Mott the Hoople, Roxy Music, Steely Dan, Little Feat, Genesis, Uriah Heep, Lou Reed and Joe Walsh. Not least among these amazing artists and records was Wishbone Ash – and their award-winning ‘Album of the Year’ – “Argus”.
Undoubtedly the most famous of the bands’ 1970s canon, “Argus” is not only the biggest selling album of Wishbone Ash’s career – featuring the beloved fan-favourite ‘Blowin’ Free’ – but also full of memorable and timeless tunes such as ‘The King Will Come’, ‘Time Was’, ‘Warrior’ and ‘Throw Down The Sword’.
Featuring a heady blend of prog rock, folk and hard rock, “Argus” is widely considered a vital moment in the progression of twin-lead guitar harmonisation.
As they reigned supreme through the 1970s, Wishbone Ash was centred on inspired musicianship, joyful spirit and inventive songs. Their concerts were uplifting and their recorded work sublime. “Argus” remains a stunning highpoint in the band’s startling repertoire.
This is a vital addition to the Wishbone Ash catalogue.
Wishbone Ash celebrate the 50th anniversary of their classic album “Argus” with a 7-Disc multi-format box set.
The set includes:
3 CDs comprising Martin Turner’s Argus remaster, “Live at The Alexandra Palace” 1973, “Live in Memphis” 1972, 4 previously unreleased early version demos.
2 LPs – An original “Argus” replica (remastered for this release) and “Argus” Live on yellow vinyl (selected recordings from Alexandra Palace and Memphis).
A DVD including French and Swiss TV footage, “Live from the Rainbow” 1973, and an RTS Broadcast from 1974.
A 7” Single of ‘Blowin’ Free’.
A 48-page book with rare photographs and extensive liner notes featuring contributions from Andy Powell, Martin Turner and Steve Upton. “Argus” – a 50th Anniversary multi-format Box Set will be released by @Madfishlabel on 14th April 2023 to celebrate one of the most pivotal entries in the history of great British rock and prog albums.
A numbered certificate of authenticity. The band’s ultimate statement given the deluxe treatment it richly deserves.
The Fat Angel Sings 