Almightly Blues

The Zoo Crew is spinning the infectious "Almighty Blues" by Wishbone Ash from their 2002 album Bona Fide, and the Zoo Freaks are surely grooving to its high-energy rock vibes. This track, a standout opener for the album, channels a ZZ Top-style rocker with a surprising atmospheric bridge that flows into a classic guitar solo, as noted by a reviewer on ProgArchives. The song was penned by Ben Granfelt, who made his only studio appearance with the band on this album, bringing a fresh spark to the songwriting. Fans have praised its live performances, with one Amazon reviewer calling it a staple of the band’s set that captures the dueling guitar magic of Wishbone Ash’s legacy. Another fan on Reddit in 2024 highlighted how Bona Fide marked a return to form, with "Almighty Blues" kicking things off in a way that feels both bluesy and powerfully rock-driven. The track’s production quality, paired with Andy Powell and Granfelt’s sizzling guitar work, has made it a fan favorite, often cited as a highlight for its catchy rhythm and old-school Ash fire.

Delving into the creation of "Almighty Blues," the song emerged during a pivotal moment for Wishbone Ash. After guitarist Mark Birch left at the end of the 2001 German tour, Andy Powell recruited Ben Granfelt, a friend and former guest at the band’s 30th anniversary concert, as noted on ProgArchives. Granfelt’s influence was immediate, contributing three songs, including "Almighty Blues," and co-writing others. His blues-rock sensibilities infused the track with a gritty edge, complemented by the tight rhythm section of Bob Skeat on bass and Ray Weston on drums. A 2002 review from Sea of Tranquility praised the twin-guitar attack, a hallmark of Wishbone Ash, as being in top form, with "Almighty Blues" showcasing Powell’s iconic Gibson Flying V licks alongside Granfelt’s fiery solos. The song’s live rendition on the 2004 album Almighty Blues: London & Beyond, recorded in London on April 15, 2003, further cemented its place in the band’s repertoire, with fans on Amazon noting its ability to evoke the raw energy of their early classics like Argus.

Wishbone Ash’s journey began in 1969 in Torquay, Devon, a seaside town in England, where the seeds of their distinctive sound were planted. The band’s origins trace back to 1966, when drummer Steve Upton, formerly of the Scimitars, joined bassist Martin Turner and his brother Glen in a trio called Tanglewood, as detailed on ProgArchives. After moving to London, Glen left, and Ted Turner (no relation to Martin) from Birmingham’s King Biscuit joined, followed by guitarist Andy Powell, previously of Sugarband. This lineup, finalized in 1969, crafted a melodic twin-lead guitar style that became their trademark. Their self-titled debut in 1970, produced by Martin Birch, featured the epic "Phoenix," a live staple known for its improvisational flair. Blending blues-rock, jazz, and English folk, Wishbone Ash carved a niche in the nascent progressive rock scene, earning acclaim for albums like Pilgrimage (1971) and the multi-million-selling Argus (1972), often cited as a classic rock cornerstone.

Over the decades, Wishbone Ash has navigated numerous lineup changes and musical trends, with Andy Powell remaining the sole constant member. Their relentless touring and vast catalog, including 24 studio albums and 11 live albums, have earned them a global fanbase, as highlighted on their official website. Today, the band features Powell alongside guitarist Mark Abrahams, bassist Bob Skeat, and drummer Mike Truscott, continuing to deliver their signature sound. Fans can connect with Wishbone Ash on their Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts, where they share tour updates and engage with the community. Dedicated fan spaces thrive online, including the Wishbone Ash Fan Group on Facebook, where enthusiasts discuss albums, share memories, and celebrate the band’s enduring legacy. For deeper dives, fans can explore wishboneash.com, a fan-curated site offering discographies and news, keeping the Zoo Freaks and beyond tuned into the Ash’s timeless groove.