The Power of Eternity by Wishbone Ash (CD, Nov-2007, Sanctuary USA)

The greatest dual-lead guitar band in history comes back with another CD of guitar-driven classic rock- but with a more diverse set of songs than previous outings. Highlights like "The Power", "In Crisis" and "Driving A Wedge" will evoke comparisons to artists like the Beatles, Hendrix, Steely Dan and others. There's a more pop feel here- unlike with much of the back catalog from this band, now in its 38th year of existence.

The vocals of founder-guitarist Andy Powell are strong and more confident, the songs being more suited to his range and style. Co-guitarist Muddy Manninen provides much of the songwriting and he has hit his stride in his two years with the band. His presence is felt here is a big way and pushes the band through tunes like the brooding "Dancing With the Shadows" and "Growing Up". Longtime bassist Bob Skeat is rock-solid as always, bringing his melodic but percussive bass lines to the fore. Newcomer Joe Crabtree replaces the retired Ray Weston on drums. His playing meshes perfectly with the band and this new music, pushing the guitars with his aggressive style.


A very nice collection of moods are contained here, with one of the best instrumentals from the band ever released; "Northern Lights" is pure magic! The haunting tune "Disappearing" is one of my favorites here, with a kind of Fred Frith atmospheric guitar track.


For all old fans, there's plenty of the classic twin harmony guitars. For new listeners, there's the promise of some fine new music from a band that's been too long ignored my the mainstream.