Wishbone Ash at the BBC 1970–1988: Unboxing Madfish Records’ Latest Masterpiece
For fans of Wishbone Ash, the release of Wishbone Ash at the BBC 1970–1988 by Madfish Records feels like the arrival of a long-lost treasure. Comprised of 11 CDs and 1 DVD housed in a handsome slipcase and hardcover-style book, this set brings together decades of BBC sessions, live concerts, and rare footage into one stunning package. As someone who has followed Wishbone Ash for years (and devoured everything Madfish has produced for them), I can confirm that this box set more than lives up to the hype.
Unboxing the Set
From the moment you slide off the slipcase, it’s clear just how lovingly put-together this release is. Madfish is known for high-quality presentations, and they’ve gone above and beyond here. Inside, you’ll find:
Four discs neatly housed in the front section of the book-style interior.
Seven more CDs and a DVD tucked safely in the back, each in its own slot.
A beautifully detailed booklet containing band interviews, session notes, and a rich gallery of photographs and press clippings—many of which are rarely seen, if at all.
The booklet alone is worth the price of admission. It details the evolution of the band’s BBC appearances and live recordings, featuring everything from track-by-track commentary to stories behind the sessions. For longtime fans, it’s a joy to discover new anecdotes even after so many Wishbone Ash reissues.
Highlights of the Audio Content
This box set spans the band’s BBC archives from 1970 through 1988, showcasing multiple eras and lineups. Here are just a few of the highlights:
Early 1970s Sessions
Experience the raw, twin-guitar magic that put Wishbone Ash on the map. These vintage recordings still sound fresh, especially given the BBC’s high-quality production standards.
Mid-’70s Concerts
Several in-concert performances capture the band firing on all cylinders. Some tracks (like certain Glasgow Apollo recordings) have appeared before, albeit in limited or expensive standalone releases, but Madfish has unearthed additional material that’s brand new to fans.
Late ’70s to Early ’80s
This period includes some real hidden gems: full performances from the Hammersmith Odeon, the Wembley Empire Pool, and other iconic venues. Hearing Wishbone Ash flex their creative muscle live—especially on lesser-played cuts from albums beyond Argus—is a treat.
1988 Reunion Show
Perhaps the crown jewel for many fans: the set that reunited the original lineup, with Ted Turner arriving late and triumphantly mid-concert. The energy is palpable, and the sound quality truly does the performance justice.
Throughout these discs, the sound quality remains impressively crisp. The BBC’s professional engineering comes through, ensuring that even the earliest material sounds vibrant.
The DVD Component
Visually, the DVD is a rare treat. Wishbone Ash didn’t leave behind an enormous amount of filmed material, so Madfish has included what’s available—multiple performances of crowd favourites like “Jail Bait” from different camera angles, as well as segments from shows in 1977, 1980, and other years. While it’s not extensive, it’s definitely a welcome bonus for those wanting to see the band’s onstage chemistry.
Presentation and Value
One hallmark of Madfish releases is the depth of detail in the accompanying books—and this set is no exception. The new booklet offers extra stories, photos, and historical context on each BBC session. The price point (hovering around £130–£140) strikes me as fair for a lavish 12-disc set plus hardcover book. Compared to similar “at the BBC” style collections, this one feels more substantial thanks to its gorgeous presentation and band involvement.
Wishbone Ash is a band whose twin-guitar interplay and consistently adventurous live sets still captivate audiences today. Whether you’re a diehard collector or are simply curious about their legacy, Wishbone Ash at the BBC 1970–1988 is a box set that rewards repeated listens. From the earliest 1970s lineup to the special reunion in 1988, it captures the many twists and turns of a group that defined the melodic hard-rock sound for generations.
If you’ve already got the band’s other deluxe sets from Madfish, this release still manages to surprise with rare tracks and fresh photos. If you’re new to Wishbone Ash, it’s an immersive crash course in why they remain such a beloved institution. Either way, this is one box set no fan will want to miss.
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
