Wishbone Ash

ROCK HISTORY AT Z7

Wishbone Ash are undoubtedly one of the most influential bands in the entire history of rock. With their unique dual-lead-guitar sound, the Englishmen have had a lasting influence on bands ranging from Thin Lizzy to Iron Maiden. Just under a year after their last Z7 show, the line-up led by original singer and guitarist Andy Powell returns to Pratteln with songs from almost six decades of band history.

They are a Z7 fixture. Wishbone Ash have performed here eleven times since 2010, and we still cannot get enough of them. In February 2024, the band appeared with their “Live Dates 50th Anniversary” tour; in January 2025, the next full dose of Wishbone Ash already hit Z7, and in February 2026, the fantastic live band from Torquay, England, returned to Pratteln with their “The Time Was Tour” to delight their fans with their rousing show and a programme of all-time favourites. Founded in 1969, Wishbone Ash are now fronted by lead guitarists Andy Powell (the last remaining original member) and Mark Abrahams (with the band since 2017). Bassist Bob Skeat, who has been part of the band for three decades, sets the pace alongside drummer Windsor McGilvray, who joined the band in 2026. Over the years, the band have explored a wide range of musical styles, from folk, blues and jazz to pedal-to-the-metal rock and electronica. Yet whatever the style, Wishbone Ash’s trademark remains the unmistakable sound of two lead guitars – a sound that influenced bands such as Thin Lizzy, Judas Priest, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Iron Maiden and Opeth. There is probably no other band that has made more of the twin-guitar concept than Wishbone Ash. Live, the band are still a force to be reckoned with: Andy Powell continues to perform on stage with boundless enthusiasm and confidently guides his band through an almost two-hour journey across Wishbone Ash’s rich back catalogue. After the last show, our in-house chroniclers at Diebüehrers.com wrote: “Musically, the quartet effortlessly bridged the gap between early classics and later material. Powell and Mark Abrahams’ unmistakable twin-guitar sound was always at the centre, repeatedly creating spine-tingling moments as the two guitar lines elegantly intertwined.” Their compelling final verdict was: “Without flashy effects, but with plenty of passion and skill, the band impressively demonstrated why they have been such an exhilarating live act for more than five decades. This top-class show comes highly recommended to everyone!” To be continued.