Photograph by Ian D. Hall.

Originally published by L.S. Media. March 27th 2011.

After last year’s important and mind blowing appearance at the High Voltage Festival in London, Martin Turner’s Wishbone Ash have been busy preparing for yet another tour. After being well received so far, the band arrived on stage at the Robin in Bilston full of hope and a mission statement to entertain and enthrall the adoring crowd.

At The High Voltage Festival the band played the classic Argus album in its entirety, the day was so well received that there really was only one way to kick off the gig and that was with The King Will Come, from this there was no turning back and Martin Turner, Dave Wagstaffe, the sublime Danny Wilson and the talented Ray Hatfield took those assembled at The Robin on a voyage of classic tracks, searing guitar movements and the utter strength to carry it off with aplomb and modesty.

There are few bands who make time for the personal moment within a gig but Martin Turner is one of rocks gentleman and wished a very happy birthday to a member of the crowd which drew a round of warm applause and endeared the man to the crowd even more.

Even though the night was split between two sets there was a lot for the audience to revel in and take heart from. With the obvious exception of a few albums that Martin doesn’t draw from, the crowd was treated to tracks from albums such as New England, the sensational Argus and There’s the Rub. Amongst these were the brilliant Persephone, Ballad of the Beacon, Rock N’ Roll Widow and the hauntingly topical Warrior.

Martin once more showed how his finger is truly on the pulse of public opinion and his genuine love of humanity by dedicating the Warrior to the boys and girls who keep finding themselves going off to war.

A fine night of music only tempered by the fact that the audience could have listened to these four men play on all night, one of the finest exponents of music that this country has had the pleasure to hear.

Ian D. Hall