Wishbone Ash – No Easy Road Box Set Review
Wishbone Ash fans is a new release from Madfish Records. This limited-edition box set, with only 1,000 copies worldwide, centers around a beautifully presented book of rare photographs and memorabilia, all focused on the band’s 1970s heyday. The packaging includes a signed print from the band members—Martin Turner, Laurie Wisefield, Steve Upton, and Andy Powell—capturing a special moment in their history.
The heart of this box set is the photo book, which gives fans an intimate look at the band’s journey, showcasing both on-stage moments and behind-the-scenes snapshots. It’s a historical document, filled with personal recollections and stories from the band members themselves. While many will be familiar with some of the imagery from the Vintage Years box set, No Easy Road offers new, unseen photographs and memorabilia, giving fans more insights into the band’s growth during their classic era.
One of the standout features for me was the detailed insights provided by the band, including their reflections on key moments in their career, such as the making of seminal albums like Argus, Live Dates, and New England. The setlist information alone is fantastic for fans wanting to recreate their own nostalgic Wishbone Ash playlist.
The box also includes a CD of a 1975 live broadcast from Holland, which offers a unique glimpse into the band’s live energy during that period. It’s a performance that is unique to this set.
If you’re a dedicated fan or have fond memories of this pioneering twin-guitar band, this set is worth every penny. At £125, it’s a solid investment in a band whose legacy continues to influence rock and metal to this day.
If you’re a newer fan, this might seem like a luxury purchase, but it’s a fantastic deep dive into one of rock’s most influential bands. With its focus on the band’s peak years and stunning visuals, No Easy Road is a celebration of Wishbone Ash’s musical legacy.
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
