‘Coat Of Arms’ by Wishbone Ash
Artists
Andy Powell / Vocals and Guitar
Mark Abrahams / Guitar
Bob Skeat / Bass
Joe Crabtree / Drums
Rating
Musical Feel
Song / Album Composition
Tracks
We Stand As One
Coat Of Arms
Empty Man
Floreana
Drive
It’s Only You I See
Too Cool For AC
Back In The Day
Deja Vu
When The Love Is Shared
Personal Halloween
Wishbone Ash, the legendary British band who championed the dual guitar leads are back with a new album entitled Coat of Arms, in celebration of their 50th anniversary. But far from resting on their laurels, the band are exploring new areas and showing that you can in fact teach an old dog new tricks.
“We Stand As One,” has that classic Wishbone Ash vibe to it. Big thumping rhythm and a soaring melodical lead. The vocals are anthemic and the song itself merges together to produce something quite compelling, a powerful opening statement.
“Coat of Arms,” the title track is filled with nice little intricacies, that filter through, and shift in tempo and tenor. The song is very well put together and shows just how good the band are.
“Empty Man,” has some fascinating changes and movements. A swaggering rhythm as the song explores some complex themes.
“Floreana,” is simply brilliant.
“Drive,” swaggers through. The main riff is intoxicating and filled with delight.
“It’s Only You I See,” is an interesting divergence, slowly moving through and bringing differing complexities together.
“Too Cool For AC,” is another swaggering song that truly moves and grooves with the best of them. Bringing about some interesting changes and slowly turning it on itself.
“Back In The Day,” moves quickly and with relentless pace to ensure the listener is immediately hooked.
“Consider Me Now,” brings out classic Wishbone Ash. The melodies are soulful, the vocals are on point, the song is an all round classic.
“When Love is Shared,” is a good old fashioned rocker.
“Personal Halloween,” slowly moves into being, and brings the listener a sense of completion.
This album is a classic. Be sure to get it when it’s released on 28th February via Steamhammer/SPV.