Archive Postings: April 2001 - September 2002

dave 09/04/01
dave.patrick@bigfoot.com
Hello, this is a test message to kick off the Guestbook area of the site.

Fred Renz 25/04/01
fr21555@aol.com
Excellent site! Look forward to seeing more fans from the USA join in here as well.

Richard Thomas 26/04/01
Outswing@aol.com
Hey there everyone!!! Not a bad site is it?!! You can never have too much WA info!!! Could anyone tell me what position Argus reached in the album charts? The site didn't say in the 70's history bit! Tara for now!

Gary Carter 26/04/01
No E-mail given
Richard - "Argus" made UK#3 on the album chart - thanks for pointing this omission out, we'll add it to the history section.

James A. Needham 04/05/01
jim@taginet.freeserve.co.uk
Congrats on a very nice site Gary.
Re. O'Ryan - you briefly mentioned the Phenomena project. What musical genre do these recordings fit into & are they available on CD anywhere?

Andy Yates 09/05/01
sbarrier@cwcom.net
why the need for yet another wishbone site when we have a top notch one already?

Gary Carter 09/05/01
gary@nouveau.screaming.net
Hi Andy. In answer to your query, I will simply repeat what is stated elsewhere on this site - that is the more sites out there promoting WA and related music the better. The net is big enough to accomodate us all. There are, after all, WA sites in USA, Germany, Japan, etc, of varying quality. You're right, Andy, the official site is top notch and a credit to all involved but, as Richard Thomas said "you can never have too much WA info". Best Regards.

billy auld 12/05/01
billy@auld1.freeserve.co.uk
hello gary great to see the site is up and running at last.no doubt you'll be very busy as it's not easy to maintain a popular website that this will definitely become in time.the world of classic rock music is a very big place and a class act like WISHBONE ASH can handle many more websites as far as i'm concerned,especially one endorsed by Martin Turner!everyone knows that WISHBONE ASH has become more of a concept than just the current line up therefore we as fans of the music created by the collective ASH welcome all of the related projects and spin offs which might not be picked up on the other sites dedicated to the band.let's face it the official site excellent as it is concentrates mainly on the current line up.that said it's about time the likes of MARTIN,TED and LAURIE acknowledged the fact that their fans worldwide need to be FED!!!GET ON WITH IT!!! BEST WISHES
BILLY

Alan Workman 12/05/01
gillworkman@blueyonder.co.uk
Hi Gary.
As founder of the old Hot Ash as we know it and propable saviour and supporter of the band in its' dark days, I wish you and your site well. Any exposure of Wishbone Ash is good and your site will certainly be more proactive to ex members' projects.Saw the band last night at Chiddingford, they were excellent and Ben fitted in well and gave the band a harder,rockier edge.They played much Mark II stuff and encored with Way of the World for the first time in 21 years.Once again good luck!!!!!!!

Nicky Masters 15/05/01
Brian_m@copnor98.freeserve.co.uk
Hello Gary, sorry about previous e-mail. I pressed the wrong button. Just found the new website and all I can say is About Time Too.
Seriously though, its a great idea. I shall be waiting to read all the upcoming news and hopefully one day news of Martin doing a tour? We live in hope.

Les Dumbell 05/06/01
dumbell@wortham.freserve.co.uk
Gary
Organised a party of 20 from my local (Dolphin, Wortham, Diss Norfolk) for the concert at Norwich. To start with I was disappointed to see Mark was missing. But I have to say Ben fitted in brilliantly (I agree with Alan Workman)especially in the twin guitar stuff. They went down really well and I've never seen them do as many encores- one of our crowd a 50+ veteran of concerts who'd never seen them live said it was one of the best performances he'd been to. 2 guys from our local band also came and were pleased to hear Blowing Free, as they perform it - they must have picked up a few tips as it went down a bomb at the Dolphin last Friday. What's the position for the future re Ben and Mark?

Mike Tarling 17/06/01
Mike.Tarling@blueyonder.co.uk
Your readers have already proved how ingenious they are by managing to find out about this site! With that in mind I wonder if any of them have been able to buy (that's buy, not just order) Live in Koln or Depths of Winter anywhere online. Print your answers here!

Andy Garcarz 25/06/01
a
Nothing said

Andy Garcarz 25/06/01
andrew.garcarz@virgin.net
Damm clever things this internet....
I am pleased to see that you still carry a torch for all things wishbone. A nice lookng site, and a credit to the designers. Pity there's nothing new on it, but it can only get better.
Andy Garcarz

gary carter 26/06/01
wishboneashukonline@hotmail.com
Hi Andy - thanks for your positive comments. We're still working on the content - it's early days yet. There will certainly be new material as things progress as well as detailed archives and other unusual stuff - keep checking!

alison emmett 08/07/01
ali.emmett@btinternet.com
well done Gary for your brilliant site ,taking no sides but giving all the news.great to see e.mails from people who were at the first couple of conventions, (and the tours) not just the last couple!...any old mates e.mail me I am new to the internet. also the book is great but with a few mistakes --get back to you great site --bye for now

Andy Garcarz 11/07/01
andrew.garcarz@virgin.net
Wishbone on DVD Update. The first Wishbone Ash DVD was on the K-TEL lable. It was a repackage of the 1980's Marquee concert, but with the same (original) artwork as the Video and Laser Disk. It came out in September/October, before last years convention, selling for $10.00 dollars, through Amazon.com. It was a Region 1 disk, but the majority of budget DVD players have multi-region capability and can play it. Unlike the recent region 2 DVD/CD it does not have a CD side as well.
Regards
Andy

margaret 11/07/01
margaretkirkby@hotmail.com
nice to be able to say hi to Martin, Gary, etc and keep up with developments.

dave 24/07/01
dave.patrick@bigfoot.com
Hi all, this review of the new DVD has just come to my attention. It has to be seen to be believed...! Whilst a totally unfair attack on the band it does make the (IMHO wholly valid) point that the DVD is a complete turkey and is only the sort of thing that enthusiasts could love. I must admit I used to own the video of the concert and even as a fan I was hard pushed to find anything good to say about it. (In the end my copy melted because it was too close to the fire!). Anyway I invite people to have a look at the review and post up a comment on the DVD Times web site... Here's the link.
http://www.dvdtimes.co.uk/getreview.cgi?id=152&story=1847

Mike 31/07/01
No E-mail given
Nothing said

Mike Tarling 31/07/01
Mike.Tarling@blueyonder.co.uk
Oops! Sorry about that. Just wanted to thank Alan Workman for supplying me with a copy of Depths of Winter. If anyone wants to swap some rare material, feel free to get in touch!

Dee Wilkinson 23/08/01
deeder729@aol.com
As a fan from the U.S. it's easy to feel disconnected, but this web site helps a lot. I especially love the old interviews and the "stories behind the songs." It's great to know that Martin is working on new music, and I can't wait to hear it.

Kenny 04/10/01
ken.jobson@btopenworld.com
Can anyone give me a list of songs likely to be played at Newcastle Opera House on the 10th October?
Thanks folks

Johan Bengtsson 28/10/01
johanb@lls.se
Check out new pics of Martin Turner performing with The Blue Bishops at: http://www.movinmusic.co.uk/bluesbish.htm

Douglas McBean 06/12/01
dmcbean@qmuc.ac.uk
The site's beginning to stagnate a bit - anything happening?

Dave 07/12/01
dave.patrick@bigfoot.com
Fair play Doug. Yes it hasn't been updated for a little while but Gary's getting to grips with software to update it on a much more regular basis than I could. Check out the News section which Gary is really going to get on top of now.

Gary Carter 07/12/01
WishboneashUKonline@hotmail.com
We must apologise for the lack of updates over the past few months. Until now, I have had to rely on Dave to maintain the site as and when he has the time (Like myself, he has numerous other projects on the go!). WE now have the software and technical facilities in place to allow me to update the site on a more regular basis. Fear not, as of now, as soon as we hear any WA and related news, it will appear on the news page immediately. You will also see the rest of the site expanding rapidly over the next few weeks - keep a look out. Regards, GARY

Douglas McBean 12/12/01
dmcbean@qmuc.ac.uk
Checked back to find all the latest news. Wasn't having a pop at anyone - just wondering. Cheers.

Wishbone Ash UK On Line web team 29/12/01
wishboneashukonline@hotmail.com
We have no desire to censor but, at the request of numerous fans who have contacted us by e-mail, we have removed a recent thread of conversation from the guestbook. While debate and constructive criticism is healthy and always welcome here, we will not tolerate verbal attacks on indivduals connected with this (or indeed any other) organisation, since it has nothing to do with music. Any further messages of this nature will be removed as quick as they appear. This is a GUESTBOOK and while here we would expect visitors to behave in a guest-like manner. We are all lovers of intelligent rock music - can we please behave as such. Thank You.

Gary Sawyer 03/01/02
gary@sawyer.tc
Nice to see another Ash site on the web, particularly one run by someone as keen on the band as Gary Carter, who, as I recall, gave a lot of support to Andy Powell & co. The official site is excellent, although obviously it is run very much with Andy Powell's current version of the band in mind. Where this site can fill in the gaps is in the reporting of the current activities of former Wishbone Ash members. However I hope that the site won't ignore the people who were only in the band for a short period...Trevor Bolder and Mervyn Spence for example, as I firmly believe that ALL the ex-members of Ash have made a significant contribution to the history of the band. Having said that, the site seems to be doing a good job so far! Best regards, Gary Sawyer

Steve Dorans 06/01/02
Doransnake@msn.com
Just dragged myself into the 21st century and bought a computer. love the site and really enjoyed reading the album reviews in particular. I have an album review of "Live Dates II" if the webmaster wants it!

soms naicker 13/01/02
naickersoms7@hotmail.com
ash undoubtly is one of the greatest rock bands of our time,their music is class and speaks volumes,i will always love this band and its music . from soms naicker -42 year old indian\south african pop\rock musician, naickersoms7@hotmail.com

Leg Room Records 22/01/02
LegRoomRecords@aol.com
Andy: Do you have any photos of you with Micky Groome in the Sugar Band? regards, Roger.

dave hodges 30/01/02
dhodges@hotmail.com
You ask for feedback on the Blue Biships samples. All I can say is Martin Turner is simply wasted in this outfit. Ditch this and do what you do best, MT. Get back to writing, recording and touring classic melodic rock - you are way above tenth rate pub rock.

Lady Jay 30/01/02
nah!
Mr Hodgers - you always were a moaner, but I do agree MT's talents could be better spent.

Detroit Rock 01/02/02
evenmorerock@yahoo.com
This is Terry Stafford bass player from the 70's classic band, Frijid Pink from Detroit, Michigan. I just found this site and would like to express my sincere appreciation to all the guys for their combined effort in making timeless works. I havn't really followed the band for more years than I would like to remember, but now is the time to restore some of that magic. I always thought the band was a driving force in the industry, and what a great time in the business where the pressure is off and get out with the guys and really enjoy the music and the crowds.We have just recorded a new album ourselves called Thirst, and have been working on a European swing this summer. Hope to see you all, keep the faith.

Mark Chatterton 07/02/02
Ashchat80@aol.com
A thought for all Wishbone Ash fans. April 2002 will see the 30th Anniversary of the release of "Argus", the album many fans see as the band's best ever album. I know that a new remixed version of the album is being released at this time to celebrate the fact, but how about a get together for the fans to celebrate this special anniversary? I feel strongly that this anniversary should not go unnoticed and wonder if any fans out there feel the same way?

John Carlton 11/02/02
jwc1955@yahoo.com
Have to agree with the other posts about the Blue Bishop sound bites. AS the most talented member of any WA line-up, it is very disappointing to see Martin involved in such a weak outfit. Whatever happened to the band Martin was supposed to be forming a few years ago? Is this it?

Gary Carter 11/02/02
wishboneashukonline@hotmail.com
John - no the Blue Bishops are not "Martin's band", but very much a "side project", hence the music is obviously a departure from MT's usual style.

Dieter Pfister 11/02/02
No E-mail given
Well done on the best detail Wishbone site. I enjoy Blue Bishops as much as I enjoy Blue Law - not much. Walking the Reeperbahn is best Martin music.

Johan Bengtsson 12/02/02
johanb@lls.se
I'm a fan of UK author Ian Rankin's police novels. Rankin's hero John Rebus has great taste in music - check out the beginning of chapter 21 in the latest book "Resurrection men"!

Thomas Baxter 15/02/02
No E-mail given
Since i was 16 i have been listening and enjoying Wishbone Ashes music, and i have been to verious concerts throughout the country, i was thrilled when i heard that many members of the band have gone on to further projects and i can safly say that i am not disopointed in any of the music in any way! Thank you for many years of music, and i hope you are around for many more years to come!

amatha 20/02/02
contact@hollywooddiaries.com
nice site, love wishbone ash! www.hollywooddiaries.com - 1970's rock n roll and sooo much more!

Garry 12/03/02
sidewinder2000rock@hotmail.com
Great site for all us 'Bones' fans. all the best, Garry.

David 20/03/02
dgprozzo@bellsouth.net
Great website. Excellent content. Easy to navigate, nicely designed. Superb job.

David 20/03/02
dgprozzo@bellsouth.net
Has anyone had a chance to see the 30th anniversary DVD? What do you think?

Jay Harmon 04/04/02
jay_vic_2000@yahoo.com
Hi, Ted is an old freind and neighbor of mine,if anybody talks to him, please give him my e-mail address Thanx :-)

Sadie 06/04/02
sadie@brookes.net
Constructive criticism? OK. This site is the pits. Hasn't been updated for ages, hardly any info on the present Wishbone line-up. And who the hell is Roy Hollingsworth? Worked with Martin Turner - so what???? Get a grip, and go to www.wishboneash.com for a proper Ash experience.

Lord Lucan 08/04/02
lucan@vanished.com
Sadie - if you dont like this site, why waste your time visiting it? You're right, the other site is great - and it does have more on the current band, but it also is not updated too regularly. this site is great as it has more on the classic personnel's latest activities, info which is not available elsewhere. Stop bitchin' and take both sites for what they are and enjoy the wide range of info which is available to you.

David Prozzo 09/04/02
dgprozzo@bellsouth.net
Interesting how tastes vary. I like the layout of this site better. Cleaner and easier to navigate. The other site is nice too, but the Flash features and extra windows slow things down. "You say toe-may-toe and I say toe-mah-toe." :-)

Dave Hodges 09/04/02
dhodges@hotmail.com
I personally agree with David P. This site is superior, not necesarily for the layout, but because of the quality of the writing and the wider range of info. The other site is more of a publicity vehicle for the latest band, whereas this one seems to pay more respect to the band's heritage and and is more accurate in that respect and also less syncophantic. Considering the short time this site has been online, I think Gary and co are doing an excellent job in presenting WA info the way I like to read it. Having said that, any WA info on the web is useful and I would not put down the efforts of anyone who is prepared to roll up their sleeves and do something worthwhile - what contribution have you made towards promoting WA music, Sadie?? If you can't do better, don't criticise, right?

John Carlton 10/04/02
No E-mail given
the other WA site have audio soundbites of Bona Tide - I listened to one track Almighty Blues and its the head down guitar jam album Andy promised, but sadly at the abandonment of any melody, subtlety or substance. Twin Barrels fans will love this...what do others think?

Sadie 11/04/02
sadie@brookes.net
I'm inclined to agree with you, John. But I suppose you can't judge the whole record on a copule of clips, so we'll have to wait for the release of the album!

Sadie 11/04/02
sadie@brookes.net
Dave Hodges - according to some of my pals in the WA fan community, the owner of this site fell out with Andy Powell a long time ago, so I am curious to know why he is running this website - he has not been to a WA concert in ages. He should make it clear that the site is about ex-members of Wishbone Ash, rather than the current version of the group. His honesty would be appreciated.

Gary Carter 11/04/02
wishboneashukonline@hotmail.com
Sadie - in answer to your speculation, I am running this web site because I was invited to by Martin Turner. You will read elsewhere on this site what our aims are - that is to include news of all WA related artists past and present - and that is exactly what you get (a bit of everything). After all why would we want to cover ground which is extremely well documented elsewhere? Any past differences with any individual I may or may not have had is really neither here nor there - wouldn't it be boring if we all agreed all the time? I have total respect for Andy Powell and that respect should be obvious from some of the articles I've compiled for this site - there is hardly another guitarist I'd rather listen to. As to whether or not I have been to a WA concert in recent years or not is, again, hardly the point. I haven't been to a Deep Purple, Yes r Jethro Tull concert in years either. That doesn't mean I no longer respect or enjoy their music. I hope this answers your questions. I have no intentions of getting drawn into a long winded debate on this (very old) topic, but naturally will defend myself when my integrity and honesty is being questioned by a total stranger. With respect, let's talk music instead...

Alison Emmett 12/04/02
ali.emmett@btinternet.com
Hi Gary, I for one appreciate your site, as I do the other Ash sites. Since first meeting you at the 1st Ash convention in Solihull ( many moons ago), your hard work, and dedication to the band has been an example to behold, and put many of us (old timers) to shame.I"d love to get to the Argus bash, but due to family circumstances I"ll have to wait and see.Meanwhile, Hi to Billy A, Jan K, Peter H, and Bob Rand who"s e.mail I"ve lost. Keep up the good work.Alison

wim de vos 12/04/02
willemdevos@hotmail.com
hey martin howzit,back from florida yet? I am in afghanistan now and looking forward to getting back ti kingston so we can have a party or dinner at your place or mine. if you can send me an e-mail back,my adress here is,willendevos@hotmail.com cheers mate,Wim.

Johan Bengtsson 12/04/02
johanb@lls.se
I'm very impressed by Robin Berlyn's (Berlin?) guitar work on Martin's solo album an the Hollingworth album. Does anyone know any other albums that he's played on? I tried www.allmusic.com, but no luck...

Gary Sawyer 15/04/02
gary@sawyer.tc
Regarding this site v the official one: as i've said before the official site is very good, but is obviously a promotional tool for Andy's current Ash activities. Unfortunately the fan club magazine has also gone that way - in my personal opinion its now hardly worth subscribing to, as it mostly contains very little news, and consists mainly of letters reproduced from the official website. This site fills the gap nicely, in providing news of projects by former members of the band. Both are good sites, they just provide different things. Gary........is there any chance of reproducing some of the articles from your fan club days on this site? Some of the interviews you did with people such as Trevor, Martin & Mervyn, would be well worth reading again.

Gary Carter 16/04/02
wishboneashukonline@hotmail.com
Gary S. - thanks for your positive comments. Re: the interviews with Trevor, Merv, Martin etc - I'm not certain they they would merit reproducing here, since the "bones" of these interviews were (from what I can recall) also featured in the Blowin Free book. You can only tell the story so many times before it gets stale and, obviously, we don't want to "give away" too much of the book online, since a lot of fans have yet to buy it!!!

Roy Marsh 16/04/02
roymarsh57@hotmail.com
I saw the band two days ago at the Robin 2.I can only say that it was a fantastic gig blending old and new alike.I bought the new album and have to say am suitably impressed by it.The twin guitars are as twinned as they ever have been.I have seen Ben play three times now once as support band and twice as fully fledged WA member and can see why Andy invited him to join the band.He fits in perfectly and has in my opinion added a touch of his own to classic tracks and the sheer intricacy of some of the new songs have to be heard to be believed ,in particular , Enigma and Ancient Remedy.

Ben Reinhardt 17/04/02
ben.reinhardt@bentley.co.uk
Just Phenominal is all I can say after seeing the band for the first time with Ben ( what a grand name ) at the Limelight - Crewe last night . I Knew he was good but Andy picked a winner here. The guitar work on classic tracks Warrier and Throw down the Sword was amazing . The band justs gets better -Looking forward to the new album . Keep up the brilliant work and come back to Crewe soon.

David Prozzo 18/04/02
dgprozzo@bellsouth.net
Does anyone have a .mp3 of Cosmic Jazz they could e-mail me? I downloaded the one available in this site, but it is only 96kbps. I don't think the guys in the band would mind because the original CD is out of print.

Don Duggan 21/04/02
signifer@manx.net
I have only just got on line Garry and am very impressed by the site and its contents. In any event it is great to know you are still out there championing the cause. Sincere best wishes to yourself, Martin T and fans everywhere. I was also very impressed by your excellent book "Blowin' Free" and would recommend it to anyone and everyone interested in the greatest guitar band of all time. Well up to your past high standards. It was kind of you to include my photo of Ted on page 153 although I believe the photos of the two Andys on page 154 were also taken by me and not Trevor Vanderplank as credited in the book. Don Duggan. (Still clinging to a rock in the middle of the Irish Sea.)

Mike Tarling 21/04/02
Mike.Tarling@blueyonder.co.uk
wow - nice to see a bit of debate finally taking place on this site - keep them coming! gary c you are a star but i'm afraid you will always be viewed with an element of suspicion by some people until you start going to see the band again.

Pilgrim Pete 23/04/02
No E-mail given
To Mike, Sadie, etc - why all the fuss about how, why and for whom Mr. Carter does this site. Who cares whether or not he's been to a gig lately. Surely how he spends his leisure time is his concern only? if fans want to be suspicious, then they have must little else to occupy their minds. His love of the band's music should be obvious from his work now and in the past. This site must take a lot of hard work - for him to spend what I presume is his spare time on this site surely shows he cares - whether that care is about the band of old or the current band does not matter. He takes an unbiased stance on the whole deal anyway and the site is respectful to all. By the way, what instrument did Gary play in the band?? NONE - get my point. It just isnt important. Do as GC said and talk music instead.

Martin J. Adams 24/04/02
martinadams@focusdynamics.com.au
Hi guys ... Can anyone tell me if "The Night of the Guitars" has been released on DVD yet? if yes where can I get it who/which company has released it. Cheers Martin

Gary Carter 24/04/02
wishboneashukonline@hotmail.com
Martin A. - Night of Guitars is not yet available on DVD, we understand Classic Rock Legends have it scheduled for release sometime this year. Don - good to hear from you. Sorry about the photo credit - will see that it is corrected if the book is ever updated. Mike T. - please refer to my last comment re: concert attendances - simple fact is I don't go to many shows at all these days. Maybe I should, but right now its not a priority - this is no reflection on Wishbone or indeed any of the other bands I have followed. I dont think the level of appreciation of a bands music should be measured in units of how many shows one attends (NB - I do have 200+ WA shows under my belt!). Pilgrim P. - yes, it does take a lot of hard work. If people want to let their minds work overtime and get suspicious - that's fine!! This subject really is getting boringnow....

Mike 25/04/02
mikerule@hotmail.com
Went to see Wishbone twice this tour, and Andy has finally got it right - the best 20 odd quid ive spent in ages! Hey any musicians out there who play Wishbone stuff - fancy getting together for a jam one day - Id love to play some Wishbone with people who appreciate and can play the music. Just a suggestion, but email me if interested!

David 26/04/02
davidjames11@yahoo.com
Just brought the Wishbone Ash album on a recommendation from my boss and it is amazing. I am 24 but always been a fan of 70's stuff, but this album is mind blowing. Personal fav is "error of my ways". Excellent!

Martin 26/04/02
martin@temperton.com
Just like to say thanks to MT for the great job on the Argus remaster. Spine tingling stuff!!

peetee 27/04/02
No E-mail given
come rain or shine how many men in Tianemen etc

billy auld 28/04/02
billy@auld1.freeserve.co.uk
Hi Gary thought i'd get in touch here as we have not spoken for a little while hope you are well and married life is the bed of roses you imagined it to be!!! Ofcourse it is!! Now let's get down to the WA concept.. I've loved the music of WA for 30yrs now and have always used WA as a benchmark for other bands to measure upto which is a massive challenge for most.Not only have WA been superior in songwriting/performing but the aura which the band have is so unique that I cant find too many other bands even close maybe Jethro Tull are closest as they seem to have a similar mix of influences.The magical classic mark 1 line up with all it's explosive invention and desire will always be my #1 even though the technical ability was still not fully developed the talent was second to none and the balance between the 4 was genius.My admiration for all of the WA incarnations has never faltered.Even when at times it looked a bit dodgy I always knew that Andy would make sure that WA would march right on regardless.The twin lead guitar sound is my passion and right now the Ben/Andy twinning is excellent but more reminicent of Thin Lizzy than WA (not a criticism as I love the Lizzy )Andy has good songwriting skills obviously as well as Ben and hopefully they will keep on improving together.The influence that Roger Filgate had is sadly missed as I felt his talent was so right for WA and also Tony Kishman,this line up was great just a shame it was so short lived but I wish the guys well in their own projects.Laurie is a giant of a little guy one of the greatest players around and I would love to see him get a top class band together with new material.Martin to my mind is one of greats who like most gifted individuals just doesn't appreciate the full extent of their genius,he shouldhave a much higher profile in modern music and I believe that in time his contribution as well as the collective WA will be appreciated even more. It would be a crime otherwise.My concern for the future of WA is that as time races on the dream that the original line up will never grasp the opportunity to overcome/overlook their own differences and make magic at least one more time.Even if elements of their own abilities i.e sadly Martin's vocal chords have been sacrifised for the WA cause and fans but that can be addressed in another way if the desire was there.I am so disappointed that the ARGUS 30th anniversary was not seen by the collective ASH as an opportunity to give their very loyal fans a lifetime treat of a weekend special gathering of as many of the various members and perform all of ARGUS as well as other whole albums with the relative line ups. This if done right could have been massive and lucritive for them.Could you imagine booking a holiday camp for the weekend and having a whole weekend together with all the fans for one incredible event,I'd pay plenty and i'm sure fans from all over the world would.Another concern I have for the band is the amount of small pub/club gigs they are doing very often fans are not able to get tickets.Surely with a bit more planning slightly larger venues would be found.I'm sure the band would benefit from a few less small gigs dotted all over the place with better stratigically placed larger venues.Well I think have said enough for now maybe someone else will see some stuff here worth developing. regards and best wishes Billy Auld

GODGE 28/04/02
after.dark@ntlworld.com
keep up the good work martin.

bob c 28/04/02
bobc33@ntlworld.com
Hi guys, You invited us to air our views on the latest WA CD 'Bona Fide'- I must admit it is much better than I ever expected. The musicianship is superb, and WA have not sat on their laurels at all - the material is fresh and innovative as a whole, which is what WA were really respected for way back in the 70's. All power to the new line up - go and hear them. You will not be disappointed! I love all things WA, and appreciate your site. I always had a musical love affair with MT, and I feel attached to the original line-up which thrilled us all. However, now is now, and fresh is fresh. I love the new CD, and more importantly, my 15 year old kid does too.She's seen the (latest line up) band 3 times now, but it is refreshing that she appreciated the Colston Hall DVD and embraces all things WA! I really don't know where this message is heading, but WA is alive and kicking ass! They should still be playing top venues...all the best to you MT.Kind regards! Bob C

Mike Tarling 28/04/02
Mike.Tarling@blueyonder.co.uk
See you all next Sunday then? Lets hope Chelsea win on Saturday (for Martin's as well as football's sake). Billy, if you havent found somewhere to stay yet, email me.

Mike Dixon 29/04/02
mwdixon@lineone.net
Has anyone else noticed the error in the credits on the Argus remaster? Mart is credited with vocals on Jailbait when we all know it is Ted. It's good that at long last all of the remastered tracks are available all together and that the disc is selling so well. Any more remixing in the near future from MT?

Gerardo Gimenez 29/04/02
logistica@bodegarobino.com
Soy de Buenos Aires Argentina #1 fan de Wishbone Ash, sorry no speak english,pero me gustaria recibir noticias de la banda como tambien chatear con los fans del mundo que somos muchos.

bob c 30/04/02
bobc33@ntlworld.com
Yeah, well done MT on Argus remix. Indeed selling well, as is latest CD.

Brian W. 01/05/02
proudwords1@aol.com
Great site. I think that now is such a great time to be a WA fan. The new album, Bona Fide, is absolutely brilliant -much better than Illumination (I thought that Tony Kishman had a rather annoying voice and was completely ill-suited to WA) and the Argus reissue is also great and receiving loads of good press. Now if WA would only tour the US with the new lineup and, somehow, get this CD in the US shops...

tony winslow 01/05/02
tonywinslow@hotmail.com
Hi mart, nice to see you on the web, especially with a site like this one, I reckon a lot of people are interested in the ex members of the band, speaking of which, does anybody know what Robbie France is up to these days. As an ex roadie for the bones from around 89-92, I have a lot of great memories of touring with the band.(not to mention photo's). I saw the current line up a few years ago at St Albans and was pretty impressed. Maybe you'll be doing a show on the south coast sometime soon.

Iñaki Aguirre 05/05/02
pikotto@eresmas.com
Hi Mart!!!, I hope see you soon with the B. Bishops or W.A. This month is impossible... I love you. Iñaki. Madrid.

Mike Tarling 06/05/02
Mike.Tarling@blueyonder.co.uk
can only echo Gary's comments in that anyone who couldn't make Worcester Park yesterday missed something special. martin was clearly up for this one and ashbone-u-wish are the nearest you will see to the real thing.

Pilgrim Pete 07/05/02
No E-mail given
Great evening with Martin & co in Worcester Pk! Great to see the true spirit of Wishbone Ash in action once more. As for Ashbone being the nearest thing youll hear to the real thing, I disagree - they are actually better than the present WA band and I hope MT will perform with them again. Only disappointment - Martin's non-comittal remarks on forming a new band - NO BUTS, MT, THIS MUST HAPPEN WITHOUT FAIL. Your talent has been much missed.

Jim Bren 07/05/02
jbren@wandsworth.gov.uk
I didn't get to Worcester Park - but does anyone know if there is likely to be any repeat of this in future (including excluding MT). Also is anyone up for a jam around WA/similar type material? I'm in Brighton but can travel - or for any WA gigs in future - I'll be at Chiddingfold but can do most SE venues

dave hodges 08/05/02
dhodges@hotmail.com
Had hoped to get to Worc Park, seems I missed a good one. If Martin and Ashbone Wish were that great together (the audio on Ashbone's website sounds very pro), surely the next logical step is for Martin to adopt them as his band - MT touring situation resolved. Anyone agree?

Alan Cottrell 08/05/02
contact@ashboneuwish.co.uk
Just a quick note to say thanks to everybody who came to the Worcester Park gig last Sunday. It was a pleasure & a privelege to share the stage with Martin Turner & we all has a great time. Also thanks for the nice comments re the band as a whole, we weren't sure how you the fans would react when we formed the band, but you've certainly laid that demon to rest!! Please keep checking our website for future gigs, as for MT joining us on stage at a future gig, who knows!!?? Watch this space!!

Campbell Devine 08/05/02
No E-mail given
Marvellous evening at Worcester Park on Sunday. Great to see Martin in such fine form. I have always said - No Martin Turner No Wishbone. Ash have never been the same without him. The Blue Bishops set was brilliant - best I've seen in ages. What a band. Geoff Grange is amazing. The album Deep is thoroughly recommended. More Bishops gigs please. Martin Turner rules!!

Mike Tarling 09/05/02
as previous
yes dave hodges you did miss a good one. dont know you personally, but check the ashbone website and maybe we will see you at the next gig (without martin alas, but let's give credit to graham as the frontman singing bass player)

Matt Jarvis 10/05/02
No E-mail given
Ashbone U Wish were great, Martin was great - anyone who can play the solo in Persephone note for note or the Sometime World bassline and sing is worth checking out. Keep it up guys!!

Dave Greenwood 10/05/02
DaveWGreenwood@care4free.net
Very impressed by the Ashbone's at Worcester Park. Good singing from Graham too. Pity I missed half the first set as I didn't realise it started early & only discovered it at 18:15 looking at the Feenstra site! Lucky I'm only a bit down the A3. Martin seemed to enjoy his three songs & looked ready for more. Thinks, the current line up only has one original member too (I enjoy them too. Good gig.

Anne Onnie Mouse 11/05/02
No E-mail given
We've had numorous versions of WA with Andy Powell and assorted ANOthers - some good, some not so good, but Martin's appearance proved that - with the right choice of musicians, WA music also works just as well even without Andy himself, this all proves that the music is biggers and stronger than ANY of the individual members and puts paid to the often voiced oponion that Mr.Powell IS Wishbone Ash.

Gary Sawyer 12/05/02
gary@sawyer.tc
'Anne Onnie Mouse' - certainly a decent point of view there, but at least have the courage to identify yourself! Hiding behind a cloak of anonymity does not lend validity to your opinions!

Anne Onnie Mouse 12/05/02
No E-mail given
I did ID myself - Mrs. Anne Onnie Mouse. Wife of Mick E. Mouse.

Chris Auld 13/05/02
chrisauld1@hotmail.com
Hi everyone, Hi Gary, great site! I'm gonna change the direction a bit, if you don't mind. Im interested in getting together and setting up a band with any musicians here who want to get out there and play some Wishbone and some other covers. I play in Moonstone at the minute(Wishbone covers), but am not doing it half as much as I would like to, so any musicians out there interested please email me...Thanks Gary for letting me use this site! :) Hope all's well

Tony Marnell 13/05/02
tony.marnell@anpost.ie
Desperately seeking .. Classic Rock Magazine January 2002

Billy Auld 28/06/2002
billy@auld1.freeserve.co.uk
Is this site up and running or what?

chris 28/06/2002
chrisauld1@hotmail.com
Im not sure, I think its more Gary's idea of a modern-day 'hide + seek'!! hehe!

Gary Carter 29/06/2002
wishboneashukonline@hotmail.com
Hi Folks. We must apologise for the site being temporarily unavailable during the past week due to technical difficulties. The site is very much up and running and normal service will now resume...

Richard Rice 30/06/2002
dabluzeguy@juno.com
I have enjoyed your music since the early seventies, and wish to perform a song or two in public. (The Warrior is one of my favourites of all time), do I need permission to use it in my act with family band Soundtrack Deluxe? Thanks in advance.

Bobby Cameron 01/07/2002
robbie_cameron@capespan.co.za
What happened to all the mail for the last 6 weeks. I enjoyed watching Billy and Gary fighting.

Chris 01/07/2002
chrisauld1@hotmail.com
Hi Richard, I think Im right in saying that you dont need permission from the band as long as the venue you perform at is covered by 'P.R.S' (performing rights society) which means that the band get something for the priveledge, by the way, where abouts are you from? hope that helps

billy auld 01/07/2002
billy@auld1.freeserve.co.uk
Hi again Bobby I cant really say what happened but round about the same time I got a worm/virus in email.....painful!!! so maybe spread it or was infected through a discussion group all sorted now.Dont know where Gary is hiding must be waiting to pounce when he sees me posting LOL cheers for now Billy

Gary Sawyer 01/07/2002
gary@sawyer.tc
Bobby - Billy & I weren't fighting, we were debating!! Anyway, I'm waiting for Billy to make the next move, before I launch a counter-attack!! ;-)

Billy Auld 01/07/2002
billy@auld1.freeserve.co.uk
Bobby see what did i tell you!!! Gary was hiding in the bushes,Good to see you are on your toes Gary...now give me a little more time and I'll get you going. Cheers Billy

Chris 04/07/2002
chrisauld1@hotmail.com
HI everyone, just to let you know that there are a few more gig updates on out site, please check it to see if you are in the area, we play loads of Wishbone covers, please come and see, thanks http://skymarshall.com/moon/moon.html

Chris 04/07/2002
chrisauld1@hotmail.com
HI everyone, I just wanna let everyone know that there are a few more gig updates on our site, we play loads of Wishbone covers, please come and see, some people would say its definitely worth the bother, thanks http://skymarshall.com/moon/moon.html

tony 09/07/2002
kwinnanntee@aol.com
luv the new album,best rock album i've bought in ades.

Georg 14/07/2002
gr@tplus.at
hi from austria and www.race.at

Martin Turner 16/07/2002
No E-mail given
Hi to everyone,
Just want to say a few thankyous: to Gary Carter and Dave Patrick for a very open and interesting site. To Mike Pering in Torquay for sending me a tape of the Worcester Park gig - it sounded horrible Mike but I always was a fussy sod when it comes to recording. Mark Chatterton did a good job pulling the gig together despite some negative feedback from certain people with an interest in the name Wishbone Ash. Enjoyed playing with the Ashbones who I thought reproduced the guitar sounds of the early material more accurately than anything Ive heard since the Ted Turner days. For myself I was just getting warmed up when we had to stop (I refer to the music - nothing sexual). Be good to do it again sometime (same brackets) - I must get out more often, but in my defence I have had a heavy last year - moving house, trying to get my studio built, so much sickness and the grim reaper around, but we did at least finish the Blue Bishops album on which I would like to say that - it is not W. Ash music but the spirit it contains does remind me of the raw, honest early days of Wishbone and I enjoy the guys and the music we make - a lot - its got me back into playing live and enjoying it ! Hi to Tony Winslow (who worked with Wishbone years ago) - nice to here from you. Thanks to Campbell Devine for getting me down to see Ian Hunter + Mick Ralphs - we played many a gig together - I was at Trident Studios when Mott were recording the Young Dudes album and I'm still playing Pete Watts old TBird.
Hi also to Billy and Chris Auld - another fine young Wishbonian guitarist.
If Sarah (Miami) is out there - I send my love. Thanks to everyone else for the positive feedback - it warms the heart that so many people care after so long,
Goodnight - its late - I need to get naked, horizontal and dream.

Bobby Cameron 16/07/2002
robbie_cameron@capespan.co.za
What a mess !!! DO NOT press "Enter" in the message box. Please fix this. CHEERS BOBBY.

Dave Patrick 16/07/2002
dave.patrick@wellstudio.co.uk
Sorry Bobby - I have to hold my hands up to that error on the feedback forum. Shoddy programming!
If you want to get round it (until I've found a way of fixing it properly) enter <br> after your sentence. Cheers.
While I'm here by the way, I just thought I'd mention seeing as my band 'Otis' supported Andy Powell's Wishbone Ash 2 years running at AshCon that we have a new album out.
'Proximity' is the name of the album. I couldn't really describe the music properly - if you are interested have a listen to some of the samples at Otis on MP3.com(but do not buy the album here!) or leave us a comment at the official UK site (where you can buy the album) at www.thewell.co.uk/otis. Cheers and sorry for the shameless plug.

Bobby Cameron 16/07/2002
robbie_cameron@capespan.co.za
Now that's what I call service Dave. I'm in the IT industry myself so I understand completely.

Billy Auld 17/07/2002
billy@auld1.freeserve.co.uk
Well hello there fellow forum folk nice to see Martin's posting here, must have been having one of his insomniacal moments! Now I am going to make a suggestion here that maybe Martin will take up. I am trying to put some gigs together for a South African singer/songwriter called Robin Auld....yeah same surname as me and that is how I came across him while doing a bit of family research. Robin is a very successful musician in SA and has had a few chart successes there. He is planning to tour here in Oct/Nov. The challenge is that it has been rather short notice and getting decent music venues at short notice is very difficult,so I am thinking that maybe if Martin is up for it with a few contacts made we could get a double header gig or two set planned. Maybe the Blue Bishops or even a Wishbone ensemble with MT. This would help to get a decent attendance and would help Robin Auld get in front of a good audience. If anyone wants to check him out his website is www.robinauld.co.za He is a guitarist and usually has a full band situation and can call on players over here that he has played with before who know his stuff. Either that or he will play solo acoustic. Martin could you let me know if there is any possibility of this? A couple of venues in London would be great. Cheers Billy

Dave Hodges 18/07/2002
dhodges@hotmail.com
Nice to see a posting from Martin on this site. Martin, you r right, u really do need to get out more often. You really don't quench the thirst of those Wishbone Ash fans who knew there was more to the classic band than flying V guitars. That your ive performance and writing talents are not being spent to full effect is a henious crime.

mike tarling 19/07/2002
No E-mail given
blimey martin, you havent let mike pering know where you live? he'll be round your garage in no time looking for lost wishbone ash tapes!

Andy Yates 20/07/2002
andyyates@wishboneash.com
ASHCON2002
Hi all, for those who dont know. Ashcon will happen this year after a year off. Saturday 26th October 2002, Mansfield Leisure Centre, Nottinghamshire, full details on www.wishboneash.com. hope to contact gary to get postings on this site.

j winder 23/07/2002
winder10@msn.com
broke down and purchased the remastered no smoke w/o fire cd. hey, martin shame on your ex fellow band mates especially steve upton for not likeing "firesign" i'ts a damn good song and i'm glad you put it on that cd

Johan Bengtsson 25/07/2002
johanb@lls.se
Martin - when do get a folluw up to "Reeperbahn" - I've almost worn out my copy!;-)

Tom 04/08/2002
tommy@voteyes.com
Its a shame that the owner of this site does not have the courage to name it after Martin Turner. Let us face it........Turner is no longer part of Wishbone Ash. Andy Powell owns Wishbone Ash,. and fliers the flag through thick and thin. Turner left the band twice..........proving his lack of commitment. Long live Andy Powell's Wishbone Ash.

Tom 04/08/2002
tommy@voteyes.co.uk
Let's examine the achievements of Martin Turner and Andy Powell over the last 10 years: Andy Powell has, as leader of Wishbone Ash, put out 3 great live albums and 3 equally good studio albums, as well as touring the UK, Europe and America. Martin Turner has released an album of demos from the 80's (packaged as a 'new' album) and played on an album with a rubbish blues band. he also appeared as a hired musician on a Wishbone Ash tour. I know who gets my vote for workrate.

Name not given 05/08/2002
No E-mail given
Nothing said

David 05/08/2002
dgprozzo@bellsouth.net
I'm not sure what prompted Tom's outbursts, but they seem a bit ill-considered. I don't know why MT isn't involved with Wishbone Ash...I'd sure like to know...but maybe he and Andy just don't see eye-to-eye musically. It happens. I'm most grateful that Andy is still touring with a version of Wishbone Ash, and I'll be there in Atlanta, just as I was in Orlando (2000). But I still long for the older sounds.

Gary Carter 05/08/2002
WishboneAshUKOnline@hotmail.com
Hello Tom. I am not sure who you refer to as the owner of this site. In fact the registered owner of this site is none other than Martin Turner himself (I myself merely update the site). I am not sure quite what you wish to achieve with your post. It is, of course, your absolute right to dislike any of Martin's recent work. However we must correct you on some of the "facts" you post - MT may have reluctantly "left" WA in 1980, but in 1991 it was not of his choosing - read the WA biog!). It is true Andy Powell has a higher work rate, and he has our full respect and admiration for that - you will find nothing less than complimentary about Andy's immense talents here. I too agree MT's work rate is not what it should have been, but I feel it more constructive to offer him positive encouragement to alter that, rather than play him off against other musicians. As for "WTR" being old material packaged as new, the sleeve notes always stated clearly that the album mixed unreleased archive recordings with newer cuts. As for this site not being named after Martin - it was always the intention to include a wide variety of WA related material - not just MT - and that's what you get, not just Martin Turner. Please feel free to come here with your comments. Feel free also to launch your band member vs band member contests here, but please do research your facts before sounding off. Kindest Regards, Gary.

Tom 05/08/2002
No E-mail given
Hmmm. I have just checked the domain registration database. Apparently, the domain name 'wisboneash.co.uk' was registered by a company called Merula on behalf of Wishbone Ash. It seems that Martin Turner is getting a little ahead of himself. I think Andy Powell would be interested to hear that Mr Turner is using the Wishbone Ash name to register business interests. Lo9ng live Andy Powell's Wishbone Ash.

Tom 05/08/2002
No E-mail given
And, Gary, just in case you accuse me of not researching my facts..........here are the details: Domain Name: WISHBONEASH.CO.UK Registered For: Wishbone Ash WHOIS database last updated at 23:18:00 04-Aug-2002. Domain Registered By: MERULA Registered on 15-Jun-1998. Record last updated on 19-Jun-2002 by . Domain servers listed in order: NS2.MERULA.NET 217.146.97.11 NS1.MERULA.NET 217.146.97.3 NS3.MERULA.NET 194.205.65.104 TRISTAN.MERULA.NET 217.146.105.2

Tom 05/08/2002
No E-mail given
Does this mean that Martin Turner is planning to hijack the Wishbone Ash name for touring & recording purposes?

Tom 05/08/2002
No E-mail given
Also Gary, it was inaccurate to refer to my comments as a band member v band member contest, as only Andy Powell is actually a member of the band. Martin Turner is not, and hopefully will never be.

Dave Hodges 05/08/2002
dhodges@hotmail.com
I think its pretty obvious to see what Gary meant, why the need to get so petty Tom. If Gary has made a blunder, so what, at least he can count!! So, Tom, Andy Powell has made 3 studio albums in 10 years - er, Bona Fide; Illuminations and ?????what? He's put out loads of live albums, mainly full of Martin Turner co-written songs incidentally...and fair play to him. Does any of this really matter? Is quantity always better than quality? Did anyone ever suggest Martin was going to hi-jack the "band"? If Martin has registered this site, as your research states "for Wishbone Ash", what is wrong with that. Presumably this means for the use of anyone associated with the band in a broad sense. That is certainly what this site portrays. He has never implied he "is" or "will be" Wishbone Ash? Finally, for someone who obviously hates this site and Mr Turner so much, you seem to spend a lot of time here - 5 posts in 24 hours! Grow up and join the real world.

Tom 05/08/2002
No E-mail given
Yes Dave, 3 studio albums. Bona Fide, Illuminations and Bare Bones. I think it is you that needs numeracy tuition.

Bob 05/08/2002
No E-mail given
what is Tom's problem? this site shows full respect to the musicianship of all WA members now and bygone and is a credit to Gary, Martin et al. Tom's comments do not make Mr. Powell look clever or superior. Andy does not need that, his talent speaks for itself. So does Martin's. If Martin chooses to work less than Andy, that's his choice. Doesn't make him any less credible an artist. If a musician is judged on work rate then does that make Peter Gabriel or Kate Bush inferior artists? Maybe MT has reasons for not touring/recording more, family, personal or simply not wanting/needing to. Either way its his right and his business. Would you take anyone telling you how to earn your living Tom?

Dave Hodges 05/08/2002
dhodges@hotmail.com
POint taken, Tom, and my oversight, but it wasn't a proper "new" album, more a revamp of mainly old songs, right?? Anyway, I've enrolled at my local college for a crash course in numeracy.

Tom 05/08/2002
tommy@voteyes.co.uk
It wasn't a proper 'new' album? I never said anything about that. I merely stated Andy Powell had recorded 3 studio albums. Not, of course, counting the Blue Law effort.

Bobby Cameron 05/08/2002
robbie_cameron@capespan.co.za
WOW !!! This is great. Is this the five minute argument or the full half hour? C'mon Billy where are you? You're missing a good fight (discussion for Gary). Oh by the way, grow up Tom, what the heck are you going on about china?

Dave Hodges 05/08/2002
as B4
Martin has released Blue Bishops, Reeperbahn, Hollingworth/Turner, remixed Argus, Just Testing, No Smoke, mixed Distillation. I'm sure there is more studio work we dont know about, so in his own field maybe hes just as prolific as Andy. In attacking Martin for not doing more WA music, you could ask what Andy has done/is capable of doing outside WA? I say COULD. I wouldn't. I'd prefer to be adult and settle for the fact that both musicians prefer different outlets for their talents, why should any one be less valid?

Dave H 05/08/2002
No E-mail given
Bobby - lets hope its only five minutes and that only Tom is ad enough to spend a full half hour on a site he dislikes

Tom 05/08/2002
No E-mail given
Dave, I'm not attacking Martin for doing no WA music, as quite plainly, its not his place to do WA music. Andy Powell is the rightful leader of Wishbone Ash.

Name not given 05/08/2002
No E-mail given
'Tom is ad enough?' What does that mean Dave???? Dear me, standards are falling. And, for the record, I have never once stated I disliked this site. It's actually rather good.

Tom 05/08/2002
tommy@voteyes.co.uki
Ooops, forgot to put my name in the last post. Wouldn't wish to be anonymous.

billy auld 05/08/2002
billy@auld1.freeserve.co.uk
Hello again folks, The last posting I just read on the WA.com site was asking what Ted Turner is doing now, looks like the man of mystery has vanished into thin air. I just wonder if he ever takes a quick peek at the websites. I find it hard to understand that the likes of Martin and Ted who obviously have creative abilities as much as any other WA band members past or present don't still work at writing and performing. The creativity always seems to have been at it's best when there was colaboration between ALL the band members especially the Mark 1/2 line-ups. Some of the best WA material IMHO was when the mark1 line-up were reformed for the No Speak series which spawned the brilliant Nouveau Calls followed up by Here to hear and Strange Affair. These albums prove to me that WA were and are at their best when Turner Turner Powell and Upton work together. Since then with the creative input from Roger Filgate and Ben Granfelt and Ofcourse Andy Powell there has been some good material especially Roger's contribution in Illuminations came close to the WA benchmark. Sadly I felt that Bonafide was a reworking of former WA songs,almost lifting whole sections and cutting them in and other songs were Ben's,good stuff but definitely stamped as Ben's style. I have always prefered the folkier side of WA with the progressive even jazzier style,the subtle blending of these elements in brilliant melodies and harmonies.Again I think this brings us back to the original collective. Like Tom I think I'm coming round to thinking that Martin should not return to WA if it was ever an option but certainly he would do well to put a band together with good creative musicians and get out there playing. The music can stand on it's own merit with or without the WA name tag. Let's face it there are a lot of great players and performers who would work well with Martin or Ted for that matter if he ever resurfaces! Enough for now cheers Billy

Dave H 05/08/2002
No E-mail given
Why shouldn't Martin play WA music IF he wanted to Tom? He wrote/co-wrote some of the material, that makes it his right as much as anyone else's. If there is logic in your statement that it is not Martin's "place" to play WA music, then does that mean we don't want to hear Beatles songs at a McCartney concert, Roger Waters daren't play any Floyd music, don't shout for any Police at a Sting concert, and hwo dare Brian Wilson play those Beach Boys songs he wrote in a solo gig, etc, etc. Whatever Martin's "place" is, I'm sure it's a better place than yours Tom - that is sat right in front of your computer talking bollocks all day. I've had enough of this Strange Affair. Au Revoir...

Tom 05/08/2002
No E-mail given
Hmmm, strange that David buggers off without admitting he is WRONG!!!!!!!!!!!!

billy auld 05/08/2002
billy@auld1.freeserve.co.uk
My last posting appears not to have configured properly it's in small black print above my name and out of sequence start at second paragraph where hopefully it makes sense. By the way Robbie did you chicken out guitar man!!! cheers Billy

Bobby Cameron (Robbie) 05/08/2002
robbie_cameron@capespan.co.za
Hi Billy, Unfortunately (Luckily ???) the DEAD END KID made up some feeble excuse about going overseas to Scotland for a couple of weeks. I'll just have to put my plectrum back in it's case for a while. Thank goodness 'Tom Thumb' has ducked off. Didn't really see the point in the whole debate. Cheers

Tom 05/08/2002
No E-mail given
Thw point was, Bobby, to ascertain Andy Powell's superiority.

Tom 05/08/2002
No E-mail given
Oops, typing error! The point was, Bobby, to ascertain Andy Powell's superiority.

Name not given 05/08/2002
No E-mail given
Its pretty obvious Tommy Tank is getting up all our noses. Rather than play his stooopid game, why dont we all just completely ignore him, dont respond to his inane drivel and he'll go away...either that or he'll make conversation with himself like the sad tosser he is.

Tom 05/08/2002
No E-mail given
It's a shame that the anonymous poster has to resort to verbal insults. He/she obciously doesn't have the intelligence to contribute to a discussion. Probably an American.

Tom 05/08/2002
No E-mail given
Bloody hell, another typo. Must be working too hard.

mike tarling 05/08/2002
as previous
wow - what have i missed!! there doesnt seem to be much support for tom up here but has he really said anything controversial? even martin's staunchest fans would have to admit that his output over the last 20 years has been criminally poor. and most of us would give respect to andy for keeping the band going through thick and thin. however i disagree with him about the blue bishops who i prefer to blue law any day. anyway keep the comments coming! comments

Johan Bengtsson 05/08/2002
johanb@lls.se
Tom - I like "Bona Fide", but how good would it have been without Ben Granfelt's input as songwriter? Most of the WA albums without Martin Turner are IMO very poor. "Reeperbahn" is clearly superior to anything WA has dome without MT. Feeling the taste of you own medicine Tom?;-)

Name not given 06/08/2002
No E-mail given
I the anonymous poster am not an American. If you had half a brain Tom you would realise that "Tommy Tank" is as English an expression as youll get - its a cockney rhyming slang (for what you can work out yourself...)

Tom 06/08/2002
tommy@voteyes.co.uk
Oh dear, anonymous poster, of course i know what Tommy Tank is. It's what paying customers do in front of your mother every night. Anyway, you must be related to Dave Hodges.....your level of literacy is almost as bad as his.

Gary Carter 06/08/2002
Wishboneashukonline@hotmail.com
Gentlemen, please can we take a minute to observe the guestbook guidelines above. Your debate on all aspects of WA related music - pro or anti - is welcome here and we do not wish to censor. However, abusive language and insults towards fellow guests will not be tolerated. Without taking sides (this goes for both of you Tom and Name Not Given), further posts from ANY guests which contain insults or abusive language will be removed. Please pursue your debate in a respectful manner or else take it elsewhere. Thank You.

David Prozzo 07/08/2002
dgprozzo@bellsouth.net
So what's Tom got against Americans? We probably don't use the word 'proper' as often as the Brits, but are we really less literate? :-)

Martin Turner 07/08/2002
No E-mail given
A few things to consider: It was pointed out me some years ago that since I was responsible for naming the band Wishbone Ash, the name is therefore my intellectual property (an English legal term), especially as there are witnesses to this fact. - I was also told that an American Congressional body had declared that any original member of a band does have the right to use the band's name - anybody out there throw any light on that one? Under this interpretation Andy has every right to use the bands name although one would have to say that "the Andy Powell Band" would be a more accurate description nowadays. Surely the important thing is that whoever performs it, someone is out there playing the band's music and that people still want to hear it - Right ? As far as my creative output is concerned I got very sick last year, cement into a cut = chromate poisoning, put me horizontal for 6 weeks, taken months to come back from but getting strong again now albeit battered and torn. So now its time to help my little brother Kim (Police + Sting) do battle with Cancer - tough going but we still laugh in its face + sometimes cry. If I can just help to straighten out my criminal Barbie daughter then maybe I can find some time for music and creativity. That would be welcome indeed cos lately its been like walking in a hurricane - life is heavy isn't it ?

jon winder 07/08/2002
winder10@msn.com
wow- what a vicious and furious chat forum we have had here the past day or so. i guess i am fortunate that i like both andy's and martin's contribution to wishbone ash. i have a copy of the excellent "30 yrs of wa" book (thnks gary) and yes it's ashame things are sour between past, present band members and i'm not going to blame any one of them. i'ts none of my business, i like old,in the middle, and new WA music and appreciate all conributions from all past and present members, isn't that what it's all about when your a fan of WA? thnks martin for you last posting, life can sometimes be a real bitch, my thoughts are with you

Billy Auld 07/08/2002
billy@auld1.freeserve.co.uk
I have been sat here staring at the keyboard not knowing which keys to press in other words,"Everybody needs a friend" You said it all Martin in that beautiful song. So please be assured that we are all thinking of you and Kim and all of your family and wish you all peace of mind. I'm sure that many of us can relate to your parental challenges and even think back through the mist of time to our own teenage years,i'm just glad that somethings remain unknown to my parents.You must know Martin that your music has been special to your fans and has been the backdrop in many of our life's experiences,just hearing a song can bring back vivid memories of good and difficult times,so it's good that we have this forum to in some measure stand by you.So take care Martin and concentrate on your priorities. Billy

Dave Hodges 07/08/2002
dhodges@hotmail.com
After all the wrangling in this forum over the past few days, I hope certain people feel bad having read Martin's latest post. Some things in life are somehow more important than a bunch of guys with guitars and the recent fuss over who has made the most records in the past ten years now seems trivial and somewhat infantile. I apologise to Martin for any offence caused by my part of the argument and I hope others will be humane enough to do the same. Martin, my thoughts go out to you, Kim and your families. I note from the Blowin Free book that many of your finest musical moments were inspired by personal troubles, so I hope you can use your creativity as a comfort and a vehicle for healing and to express the intense emotions you must be feeling. You have a great gift, make the most of it. I'm sure many of us wished we could let our emotions out in song in this way. Mike T - its not that Tom said anything untoward in itself, I think it was more the arrogance of his attitude which people found offensive. Whatever we feel about Martin's recent admittedly sparse output, whether or not he should be in WA or perform WA music, let's all pull together and support him at this difficult time. We owe him that much, since as Billy said his music has surely helped us all at one time or another.

Phil Griffiths 07/08/2002
phil@qualtec.co.uk
Dear Martin Turner, your songs and music have helped to get at least one person (ie yours truly) through some pretty rough times. Your music has also made the good times even better than they were already. I have many memories that involve your music in one way or another and I want to thank you for that. Life can be heavy and 'walking in a hurricane' is a good way to describe it. This message is just my way of trying to give something back, to someone who has given so much pleasure to so many, by offering some love and moral support. My thoughts are with you and your family while the gale is blowing. But stick with it because ill winds blow themselves out and then the good times do have a way of making the bad times seem worthwhile. You have a lot of friends in this world many of them you have never met but you have touched their souls with your musical gift and that is why they will be routing for you and your family.love and best wishes, Phil G

Bobby Cameron 07/08/2002
robbie_cameron@capespan.co.za
I hope 'Tom Thumb' is well and truly satisfied. Martin my heart goes out to you and your family in this troubled time. We all hope you get through this and you manage to share some of your music with us again. 'Baby the angels are here' !!!

Bobby Cameron 07/08/2002
robbie_cameron@capespan.co.za
This is just a short note in tribute to my mate John Munro who sadly passed away on Monday night. John your humour will be sadly missed. Sorry to use this forum but he just emailed me last week to tell me he had just bought 'Live Dates'. Cheers John .........

Gordon 07/08/2002
No E-mail given
Martin - I'm really sorry to hear about the difficulties that you are going through right now. Life truly is like a hurricaine at times. Your music (especially your wonderful voice) has helped me weather many storms over the past 30 years, for which I thank-you from the bottom of my heart. The first time I ever heard 'Everybody Needs a Friend' was during a live performance on the 'Wishbone Four' tour (Portsmouth Guildhall); your singing on that song was so beautiful and emotional that I'll never forget that moment and the song itself has been a staple of my Wishbone diet. Broken wings will heal and mend again!

Tom 07/08/2002
tommy@voteyes.co.uk
Some things are indeed more important than arguments about music. Two members of my family have suffered the same disease as Kim, so I know the heartache it can cause families. If there's one thing we can all agree on, then I'm sure its that we can spare a thought for Martin and HIS family. Also, my comments werre not meant to cause offence to anyone, but if they did, I offer my apologies.

mike tarling 07/08/2002
as previous
yes, cheers mart - keep your chin up

Bob C 07/08/2002
bobc33@ntlworld.com
I was indeed sad to hear of your personal difficulties, Martin. I can indeed empathise with you, and wish you all the very best for the future. Regarding recent postings, I think most of the recent communications here has been borne out of a real frustration that us fans will not (and realistically cannot) witness what we did in the early 70's and experience a young, highly musically-motivated group of individuals living totally on the edge and ploughing in all their reserves in a common desire. I salute you Martin in acknowledging that WA music is the foremost thing which unite us, and that experiencing it live still is a good vibe. Which is where I hold my hand up to Mr Powell.Live performances with the current band have been superb, recreating even the early stuff excellently. Witnessing this, I feel that your observation of the band as 'the Andy Powell Band' is perhaps slightly jaundiced (after all, Ray is not exactly new to WA or yourself)? All the current members are excellent and creative people in their own right. I don't feel (like one observer) that 'Bona Fide' is a reworking in any way - 'Come Rain, Come Shine' for example is a fairly brave creative effort, which is how we like to remember WA, after all. But without doubt,Martin, your contribtion to WA is huge, enormous, critical! Without you, it probably wouldn't have happened, so don't think I'm not grateful, man! Like a recent posting regarding Ted, we all feel deeply for you guys. Also like a recent posting, I remember 'Everybody Needs A Friend' (monster track) at the Portsmouth Guildhall all those years ago. From the aspect of being a straight-down-the-line Wishbone Ash fan, I thank you for your input, which remains to this day. I was also glad that Andy P acknowledged your superb effort re the Argus remix on their recent tour. Hope that everything works out. Many regards Bob C

Alan B 07/08/2002
contact@ashboneuwish.co.uk
Martin, I am certain all the guys in our band won't mind me writing on their behalf to send best wishes to Kim for a speedy recovery. If we can help in any way at all, just call. Ashbone U Wish

Dee Wilkinson 08/08/2002
firesign@ptd.net
I haven't checked the guestbook in a while, and it really hurt me today to read some of the messages here. I know it happens around all bands and it shouldn't surprise me. I know I should try to maintain objectivity. It's very difficult, though, when people are talking about something I care a great deal about - the music of Wishbone Ash and particularly Martin Turner, who is my favorite musician. The hours I've spent listening to WA, and following Martin's bass and feeling like I physically stepped inside his vocals, literally changed the way I listen to ALL music. Martin's bass and lyrics are a huge part of what I loved about Wishbone Ash - lead bass! I suggest we try to respect each other's perspectives. I know no one is going to change my thoughts or feelings with a few arguments. They're based on way too much time and emotion. And I wouldn't want to do that to anyone else, either. Maybe we can learn from each other, though? Martin, thanks for your personal attention to my CD! What a treat. I, too, hold in mind that maybe you can take your recent life experiences and let some of the pain seep out into your music. Peace.

Brian W. 08/08/2002
No E-mail given
Martin, I have been a fan of WA for a long time and during the year 2000, at the age of 28, I successfully battled bone cancer. I listened to the band's entire output from 1970 to 1981 during my long chemotherapy treatments (admittedly, I am partial to the Laurie Wisefield era). It was your incredible bass and voice that gave many of the songs such character, even with those twin guitars blazing. I also enjoy your very personal angle in your lyrics. I wish you and your family all the strength and courage to fight this awful disease. Kim is truly a "Warrior"...

Andy Yates 08/08/2002
andyyates@wishboneash.com
After a 16 day holiday (vacation to the yanks) in the U>S>A> i came home, jet lagged and full of airline food to read these postings.. have to admit to smiling despite the pain of doing so. Everyone on this discussion and that on the dot.com official site have their own opinions, usually with no knowlege of real situations. i have opinions, but keep thjem to myself. the one thing we should all focus on is our common link. "WISHBONE ASH MUSIC". Can the bitching ever stop and our common ground be recovered in peace? Some VERY valid points have been made, some crap. (hope thats polite enough a word to use Gary). Martin, you did a wonderful job, co-fonder of a superb concept, recruiting Andy and Ted being your finest achievements in terms of the band, and author of many great works. I thank and salute you and EVERY other band member through the years. I wish you well. For now people we have a well focussed, hard working, committed band. Andy leads and does a great job. think of the alternative, never again to see a wishbone gig? Those who decry Andy's hard work, just think back to the late 70's early 80's when we all thought it was over. want that again? The argument about line-ups should really cease, going back is never good whether the subject be music or otherwise, we should really look to the future, and for one I think the current line up of Andy, Bob, Ray and Ben is as strong as ever it has been if not the best ever. Bona Fidi is one day going to be a classic in all our homes. Come opn folks, support the music and keep personalities out of it. We have an extended family here, and apart from a few who belong in retirement homes (sory Mike P and Billy A) we should stick together ina positive mode.

Gary Carter 08/08/2002
wishboneashukonline@hotmail.com
Hi Andy - thanks for your post. Did get your e-mail, and will get the Ash-Con info up ASAP. Advice to all - there is a slight problem with the programming on the guestbook. PLEASE avoid using the "return" key when typing your messages. This should eliminate the problem until our tech. expert Dave fixes things.

Jef Culhane 09/08/2002
jef@ganymusic.com
AN OPEN LETTER TO MARTIN TURNER: Can not express how sorry I am to hear of your recent troubles. I have been an enormous fan for 30 years. Lost touch with what was going on with the WA members for a few years. Glad to know you are at least still around, and communicating with fans. Never stopped listening to the records I had! I recently picked up some of the recordings I missed over the years, and have been really enjoying tracing your growth and maturity through the recorded "diary". No small feat for someone who came out of the gate ahead of the pack all those years ago. I for one, will be first in line to buy a copy of the Wolfgang recordings, should they ever be available. Walk on Water has long been among my all time favourite songs. It's not my place to comment on the ownership topic of the WA name, but I hope to see you and Mr. Powell both at the 40 year anniversry show! As we all reach middle age, illness increasingly takes it's toll on all of us and our loved ones. Wishing you and yours all the best care, and complete recoveries. Looking forward to your next CD, whenever you can get one out. I would like to send you a copy of my new self released CD, maybe help provide a diversion for you. It's not "imitation WA", but your writing absolutely had an impact on me. As you like to keep your email address private, have any friend contact me with a mailing address that you can pick up from, if you have any interest. Also have some hi-end studio/hi fi accessories I market through my web site, (www.ganymusic.com) I'd like to send you as a gift. You've given me alot, without ever knowing. Thanks for everything, Jef Culhane

Billy Auld 09/08/2002
billy@auld1.freeserve.co.uk
Hi folks it's Auld Billy reporting from the retro retirement home. Just setting off with my zimmer frame should make it down to Mansfield in time for the Old codgers convention. Andy if you care to read my posting dated 07/08/02 you might notice that I am anything but retro in my thinking. Surely we are all a bit nostalgic when it comes to the music we grew up with? Wether you know it or not the reason I have commented in the past about wishing that the original WA or at least the mark 2 line up might get together again even if just for a special occasion is because I have never seen either line up play live. That's all. People who know me know that I am not stuck in the past musically or other wise.Right time for my midday nap..zzzz

Dave Hodges 09/08/2002
dhodges@hotmail.com
Some good points from Andy Yates, although I don't think its fair to say that in the late 70s it was nearly all over. Some of the band's finest work and biggest success was the period from their return to UK in 77 up to 1980 (and of course there have been great achievements since). I agree that arguments over line-ups achieve nothing, but we can't all be EXPECTED to like the current band. I would not deny Andy his right to continue or argue against his great talent, but I simply do not like the musical direction he pursues when leading WA(though Illuminatons had some great moments). I didn't like it in 1982, I don't like it in 2002 - the voice, the new songs styling, the way the old songs are played, etc, it just aint my cup of tea. That does not mean I do not respect AP or am living in the past. I like many forms of music, modern and retrospective, not just classic rock, but the AP dominated WA is simply not to my taste. I think somethimes we all expect each other to like what we ourselves regard highly, but it can't always be. I respect the fact that many people get great enjoyment from the current WA. All power to them. But people should also be able to respect that some people may simply not like the music, without having to tag such people as living in the past, retirement home bound or bitching. No bias - I don't like Martin's Blue Bishops either (but love Reeperbahn). I also agree with Billy that Martin shouldn't return to WA. It would achieve nothing and would probably not last long given past differences. But, he could form a great new band to play his own material plus some different WA tunes, contrasting and sitting nicely alongside AP's group not necessarily competing with it. And I think this would attract more interest than his work with Blue Bishops. So, agreed arguing over line-ups is pointless, but I still think comparing likes/dislikes is interesting and we should listen to and respect each others views/tastes, regardless of what we ourselves feel. People should be able to speak their minds and discuss their tastes without being labelled illiterate, half brain, Tommy Tank, son of a hoare, etc, etc. Different strokes for different folks??? Anyone agree?

Billy Auld 09/08/2002
billy@auld1.freeserve.co.uk
At last maybe we are getting some sensible reasoning here. As Andy Yates said recently " It's all about the music " Now where's my zimmer frame now that I've had my nap. Come to think of it can Mike and I get a pensioners discount for Ashcon Andy? cheers Auld Billy

Brendan Bebb 11/08/2002
Brennybebb@aol.com
Will Martin be returning to the band in the future or has he left for good?

Alan Cottrell 11/08/2002
alan.cottrell@virgin.net
Oh do try and keep up Brendan!!!!

John Lockney 12/08/2002
No E-mail given
This infernal in-house fighting is ridiculous! The present Wishbone line-up is doing a GREAT job. I certainly can't wait for the tour and Ashcon 2002. Andy kept the flame alive when others wanted to go and do their own thing (which they were, of course, fully entitled to do). Other ex-members should get our support, but Wishbone Ash as a band as of this moment, consist of Andy, Ben, Bob and Ray and they are doing a job worthy of our support. My best wishes for future projects go to Mart, Lawrie and Ted (wherever he is!) and I will be listening out for any new stuff. Also many sympathies to Martin for the 'stuff' that he's had to live through recently. I'm sure all our thoughts are with you mate! One final request...Let's all sing from the same song-sheet folks!!

Dave Hodges 12/08/2002
No E-mail given
all sing from the same song sheet? That's impossible, John. You cannot stereotype people. We cannot ALL like the same thing all the time! You cannot force people to like the current WA, no more than I can force people to dislike their direction as I have previously expressed. Neither of us are right, neither wrong, but surely in posting your comment, John, you are actually only adding to the in house fighting, rather than accepting, as I suggested in my last post, that some of us may just quite simply have different musical tastes. That doesn't mean we want to "fight" or that we have any less respect for Andy Powell just because we may not like his current project? Just the right to make our choice. AS for the others wanting to go and do their own thing, if I read the Blowin Free book correctly, this doesn't seem to be the case, with Martin seemingly always up for working with WA, more a case of Andy and co not wanting his involvement. Again, no disrespect meant towards Andy,his talent and determination is always admirable whatever I may think of his current music, but "let's all support AP cos he was left on his own" doesn't raelly stand as an argument does it? Semmingly he has chosen his route, so doesn't need us feeling sorry for him. Will this line of topic ever end? Can we evr get back to talking about the music? Anyone out wanna start another thread to detract from this endless and ultimately inconclusive line?

Billy Auld 12/08/2002
billy@auld1.freeserve.co.uk
OK lets have a go at changing tac here. Has anyone ever thought about a famous rock guitarist or bassist or drummer or maybe even a keyboard player that would in their opinion fit with the WA style. Now before any of you get confused about the WA " style " let's just say the most obvious style is twin guitar harmony element. One thing that in my opinion really needs to be considered here would be the addition of a very good vocalist wether as a vocalist only or as a player as well. One person that I thought might add in many ways would be Midge Ure. Midge is a great guitarist and vocalist and songwriter. He also plays keyboards. Ofcourse I'm not suggesting that this would ever happen but the idea is to just try to imagine who might fit. There was talk when Ted left that a suitable replacement might be Peter Frampton now there's a thought. Another that I thought of was Bill Nelson of Be Bop Delux what do you think? Now here's a thought ...what about a replacement for Andy...in second thoughts dont even go there!!! There was a time when I thought that Paul McCartney would be a fantastic Wishbonian,well wouldn't he??? OK have a go folks. Cheers Billy

Iñaki A. 13/08/2002
pikotto@hotmail.com
Hey!!, come in from the rain...

jef 13/08/2002
jef@ganymusic.com
I always hoped that Tim Renwick would one day take up Ted's spot! His playing on those Al Stewart records showed a command of the instrument you only find on WA records. -And yes, Bill Nelson would bring with him the blues element Ted had that the other guitarists really didn't, despite the obvious talents of Laurie, and those following. Jef

John Lockney 13/08/2002
No E-mail given
Dave....fair points mate. What started as a plea for collective support for all under the WA umbrella did edge towards all out support for the current line-up, simply because I think that they are doing a fine job. To be honest i've only just discovered thtis site so i've not read through all of the posts here, so I don't know of the origine of this particular arguement. I just wanted to put my two'pennoth into an arguement that i've come across time and again which concerns my favourite band.

AJAX 13/08/2002
dave.payne@npower.com
There is another band that plays the 'ROCK STANDARDS' UFO, LIZZY, SCORPIONS etc and also include within their set BLOWIN FREE & JAILBAIT I saw a 'blues band' last week, who were playing the standard CREAM, CLAPTON, SRV etc (which is fine by me) Then suddenly, they came in with the intro to BLIND EYE. I was in heaven !!!! As far as I am concerned, as long as someone is out there playing the songs, then I will be happy. I have been a fan of The ASH ever since my bestest mate played me his brand new copy of LIVE DATES many moons ago !!! I just have one small thing to say. WOW......lots of activity !!!! So, please please stop the 'in-fighting' and lets keep the PHOENIX alive !!!

Livvy Ingda Parst 13/08/2002
litp@oldfart.com
Interesting concept Billy, but as hard as I try to think of an established name who could inject new blood into WA, the very best I could come up would be recommending the unbeatable Mr. Powell as guitar - yes, only guitar, no lead vocals pls, the irreplaceable Martin Turner on bass and vocals, a toss up between the authenticity of Steve Upton or the technique of Michael Sturgis on drums. As for guitar no.2 how about a Frankenstein's Monster hybrid of Ted Turner's soul and melody, Laurie Wisefield's "flash" and rhythmic ability and Roger Filgate's variety?? THAT, to me, would be the perfect Wishbone Ash. Living in the past - not really, because I believe a version of the classic combination could still produce great NEW music. However much I try to think of alternative players, and as good as the current band are, when I think of the "sound" of WA (and that's what you wanted Billy!), nothing comes anywhere near as close as the aforementioned combo. But, as an alternative - howzabout Andy Powell (guitar), Snowy White (guitar, he got the bluesy element and can play great rock twin lead too), Sting (bass/vocals - no joke, think about it! Plays great "lead bass", sings great, looks good centre stage), Terry Williams (drums - ex-Dire Straits, check out Alchemy for great solid rock drumming with finesse).

Billy Auld 13/08/2002
billy@auld1.freeserve.co.uk
Hi fold artcom,Yeah Snowy white entered my mind for the Ted Turner type player...DAVE another would be Dave Killiminster who plays/played with John Wetton. Talking of bass players wouldn't Chris Squire make a brilliant WA bassman? Sting would inevitably turn it into sting jazz and to be honest his vocal grates me a little but I still rate him as a brilliant bassist and musician. I suppose a credible replacement for Andy would be Gary Moore, what do you think? Hey just thought of a real mindbender why not Martin,Gary moore. Snowy White and Terry Williams create a WA-Lizzy band.. FANTASTIC!!! What say you? Billy

Name not given 14/08/2002
No E-mail given
Snowy White, while technically gifted, is unimaginative and boring. Sting is a tosser. Terry Williams is welsh. No good for Wishbone.

Hal Pliss 14/08/2002
No E-mail given
Mr/Ms. Name Not Given. You are entitled to your opinions, but why not give your name to add creedence to your thoughts. Why so many people here dont use their names or use false names?? What does being Welsh have to do with being suitable for WA. WA have had a Scotsman, a Fin, three Americans, why not a Welshman. Are you saying Mr. Powell is racist and doesn't like Welshmen? That I do not believe. Sting a tosser?? Well, he aint done to bad for a tosser has he? Regardless of whether or not you like his music (some I like, some I can take or leave, some I strongly dislike), you cannot deny his talent. Like him or not, he is a fine basssist/songwriter/vocalist with a melodic sense and for that I agree with Livvy that he would be suitable. In fact more suitable than certain people who have played bass in WA..

Val Addiction 14/08/2002
No E-mail given
Wishbone Ash have already had a Welshman. Steve Upton was born in Wrexham. So was he "no good for Wishbone", eh, Name Not Given. Retraction in order methinks!

Name not given 14/08/2002
No E-mail given
Hal Pliss - I would rather giver no name, than use a pathetic fake name. Its obvious that you and Val Addiction ( & Livvy)are one & the same, yet you feel the need to write 2 messages in essence agreeing with yourself. Fool. And what does Steve Upton's nationality have to do with anything? I didn't particulary rate him as a fine drummer. Mike Sturgis was far better.

Val Addiction 14/08/2002
No E-mail given
all I meant was that u said Terry Williams was welsh and therefore wouldnt be no good for WA - based on the way u phrased it, because of his nationality. Isn't that the way it reads, folks. All Im saying is Steve U was welsh but that didnt stop him being good for WA

Billy Auld 14/08/2002
billy@auld1.freeserve.co.uk
Either give your name and be up front about who you are or you will simply be seen as someone who has no interest in the spirit of this forum and simply are a person who just enjoys arguing for the sake of it or maybe has an agenda of trying to sabotage this forum. My advice to everyone who wants to contribute and enjoy reasonable conversation and even reasonable debate without offence should always give their name and e-mail address as I personally will not respond again to anything but, no matter what drivvel they come up with. No reasonable minded contributor will take any offence with what I've just said. Billy Auld

mike tarling 14/08/2002
as previous
visiting this site these days reminds me of that harry enfield scousers sketch - hey calm down! its good entertainment though!unfortunately the process of giving your name and email address is also open to abuse - for example i could have said my name was martin turner - or val addiction! but i agree people should be prepared to put their name to their own comments and maybe we should just ignore anyone who doesnt. i agree with both the comments about snowy white - he would be quite good as a guitarist but he really is - er - boring! anyway we have 2 exc guitarists in the band already - the vacancy is in the singing department. sting no thanks and i dont suppose andy could afford him anyway. that also opens up the debate about whether a "big name" would get the band playing bigger venues thus still leaving andy a big enough slice of the pie. personally i think bobs bass playing is so good we would have to get a 5th member in for vocals. what about mark birch in a molly hatchet/outlaws style line up??

Paul Carter 15/08/2002
p.carter10@tiscali.co.uk
The ryhmes and melodies of early ash experienced during my college days in the 70's have never left me; instead they have indelibly stamped an impression on my (really limited)braincells. Cheers Andy, and all of WA for keeping, what I believe is a work of art alive. Paul

Andy Yates 15/08/2002
andyyates@wishboneash.com
sheeesh, dont get here as often as i would like, BILLY... you get pensioners discount and a spot at the front so you can leave the zimmer and lean on the stage, spoilt my plans a bit, had you down as MC again. Even with the scottish accent you do better than me.... (well someone started on the welsh, thought I'd go for the Scottish.

Mel Tinside 15/08/2002
No E-mail given
Agree with Billy, people should give their real full name when posting. BUT some may prefer to leave out their e-mail on the grounds of privacy. We all know that once we post on any public forum we are open for receiving spam mailings - mortgages, loans, penile enlargement, tits n bums, etc. Bearing in mind that some of us have kids who use our computers, its quite understandable that some may not like to divulge their e-mail address.

Andy Yates 15/08/2002
andyyates@wishboneash.com
yeah but at least when I get a viagra offer I also get a loan offer to pay for it.

Billy Auld 15/08/2002
billy@auld1.freeserve.co.uk
Hi Mel,Yeah point taken concerning email address and I did consider that as I know how annoying spamming is as well as the prolific porno pushers invading our sense of decency especially as young children could be confronted with it. The thing is Mel that as long as anybody uses the internet and tries very hard to avoid virus's,spam,porno etc it is almost impossible not to get some sometime. I find it just as annoying that people use this medium which makes it so easy to be anonymous and abusive and allows them to almost hijack a perfectly harmless forum which is of interest to people. I'm sure many people are put off contributing when they see that someone is waiting to ridicule and be extremely abusive. I still feel that giving your real name and email address is the best way to go. It's so easy to give a false name and get away with saying what you like. I know many people have given ficticious names but the spirit behind it has been well intentioned and is borne out in the content of their message. Now on a lighter note,Andy Yates you only considered me for MC so that you could throw rotten tomatoes at me!!! Seriously though if no one else wants the honour then if you get two strong men to help me up on stage then I'll do it,but don't expect the highland fling!!! cheers for now Billy

Billy Auld 15/08/2002
billy@auld1.freeserve.co.uk
OK mountainside you got me there, see what I mean!!! Tim Wass

Fee Nicks 15/08/2002
No E-mail given
actually I thought the fake names were good fun, though of course id never use one myself. The main things is that the conversation is polite, respectful of others opinions, and not abusive. As someone said, anyone can use any names - we have no idea if they say they are who they say. Was that really Mr Turner who posted here a while back?

Y DONTWEE 15/08/2002
No E-mail given
FEE, Yep it was Martin Turner cos he mailed me with same comments but elaborated a bit more so watch what you say as Mart might know who Fee Nicks is you see he can see through sudonyms[?] YNOT

Andy Yates 15/08/2002
andyyates@wishboneash.com
wow. a scotsman condoning throwing something away? rotten tomatoes maybe but actually throw them for free? Maybe i should use a false name, wont ask for suggestions, know that the answers would probably contravene some law somewhere.

Percy Phone (nee Gordon) 15/08/2002
No E-mail given
Could Martin (or anyone else for that matter) give us an update on Ted? I gather Martin and Ted got together briefly last year when Ted relocated back to England. He suffered such a terrible tradegy in 1994, and has scarcely been heard of recently. I hope he's okay. Perhaps the power of music (which I know he believes in strongly) helped him cope.

Fred Renz 16/08/2002
fr21555@aol.com
Andy Yates! God Bless You, my friend! Saw your postings and wanted to remind everyone about that fact that YOUR efforts at the AshCon events have always made them memorable, enjoyable and a great excuse to come visit the U.K. whenever possible. Keep your fingers crossed, we may make it this year. Love to you and yours. Fred and Andrea

Eddie Dwyer 16/08/2002
No E-mail given
Have reviewed some of the postings whilst I have been away on holiday, it only confirms how passionate you all are about your music. Re-reading “Blowin Free” again and listening to a lot of Ash music gave me a chance to reflect on some of things that as a fan I am grateful for. The fact that as a band in a variety of forms, Wishbone Ash has been active and touring for 30 plus years is both amazing and pleasing. As a teenager, I remember the way that the hairs stood up on the back of my neck, on hearing the band’s first album. My excitement in seeing them play live again earlier this year had not diminished. I think the change of personnel over the years has only helped to keep the band fresh and I think the latest 'Bona Fide' album is a very strong and enjoyable offering. I believe Andy Powell is to be commended for the resilience and fortitude he has shown over the recent years, in keeping the band active and productive. There must have been numerous times when he felt like throwing in the towel but I am thankful he did not. Am I looking forward to ASH-CON 2002? You bet! I doubt whether Martin Turner will ever again feature in a Wishbone Ash line-up. However, I cannot but imagine him as an unseen 5th member, as his song writing influence will always be present. My kids took a liking to the Just Testing CD. After hearing them discussing and liking the lyrics to some of Martin’s songs, I was quietly pleased that an appreciation of his talent can span generations. I will make every effort to see his band before the end of the year also. Lastly, I appreciate the efforts of Gary Carter and Dave Patrick in making this site the interesting and informative point of communication – you must be doing a good job if my kids think its “cool”. For what the Lord has provided - may we truly be thankful!

Phil Grimage 16/08/2002
No E-mail given
Nothing much to say , just another novelty name to add to the ever growing list and may the boys stay Blowin' Free for many years to come

doris day 17/08/2002
dorisaday@doctoraway.aol
Dear Mr Eddie Dwyer,that's the best 'heartfelt' letter that has ever been posted on any WA website anytime. peace doris & albert

Gibson Hamer I 17/08/2002
No E-mail given
Wishbone IV is the best album ever created by anyone anytime even if the production stunk. Substitute 'No easy Road' with 'Persephone' & it's a classic.

Lee Van Streem 21/08/2002
No E-mail given
agree with Gibson, Four was a great much under estimated album some great songs Everybody Needs, Sorrel, Beacon, etc. Thought Sing Out The Song was a bit naff though. On that note, how bout a new thread - Wishbone have produced some of the best music of all time, but even the most ardent fan must have had a few disappointments and I expect the band were not proud of everything in retro. So, how about your 3 LEAST favourite WA songs (and why). Mine :- 1)Rollin (dire tenth rate boogie, cheap sound); 2) No Joke (tenth rate funk rock), 3) Genevieve (tenth rate heavy metal).

Diamond Jack 21/08/2002
No E-mail given
here we go - silly name time again. Worst WA moment - yep, Rollin would have to come out on top. Wot about No Water in the Well with Lauries awful "singing", on Locked In, or the Fast Johnny single track, which was well below the usual high stndard of its era.

Fred Renz 21/08/2002
fr21555@aol.com
Nicely stated, Eddie! The band has always been and will always be the most important musical influence on my life. It's also a point of pride to say that I had a chance to get to know them in the late 70s and discover they were really nice people as well. Martin and Andy always made me feel welcome in their homes. There was never any of that "star" vibe.I just reread Blowin' Free again myself, and like all realtionships, they have their ups and downs, I guess. I'm glad that the book exists. At least it's testimony to the fact that the band thrived and survived longer than most, and continued to produce good music. My thoughts on Wishbone Ash will forever be fond ones. As we say in the USA, no one hits a "home run" every time at bat. I doubt there's one group anyone could agree on and say EVERY song on every album was a hit. We all have our faves. I share your feelings where Andy is concerned, about keeping some form of the band going for over 30 years. Andy and I had lunch last week and were talking about that. He said that he and Mar

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Archive Postings: April 2001 - September 2002