Album Review: “Argus” by Wishbone Ash

A Must-Listen

Wishbone Ash made their mark in progressive rock with “Argus.” It wasn’t until their third LP when they finally found their own sound and style. It’s their most commercially successful album and for good reason. It boasts of diversity – every track is solid and consistent with stellar arrangements. With a total of seven songs, there’s no room for fillers.

Wishbone Ash incorporated folk, blues, and prog-rock which somehow made the LP more mystical and imaginative. But perhaps the only flaw here is that individually, the tracks don’t exactly stand out on their own. For a full entertaining listening experience, one has to listen to “Argus” in its entirety. There’s a singularity flowing from the opener to the closer and yet with each number, it only gets more and more exciting.

“Time Was” sets the tone for the LP. It’s also the longest song – clocking in at almost 10 minutes. It starts off with a lovely guitar work and soaring harmonies. “Sometime World” is a bit slow and bluesy with impressive bass lines. “Blowin’ Free” is catchy and has a little country flavor to it.

“The King Will Come” is majestic and haunting. “Leaf and Stream” is hands-down beautiful. “Warrior” is straightforward rock and packs a lot of punch especially with that stunning intro. “Throw Down the Sword” features an unforgettable guitar solo – enough to make you want to play the album all over again.

“Argus” catapulted Wishbone Ash to next-level success. And even time hasn’t diminished its greatness.