ROCK HISTORY AT Z7

Wishbone Ash are undoubtedly one of the most influential bands in rock history. With their unique twin lead guitar sound, the English legends have left a lasting mark on artists ranging from Thin Lizzy to Iron Maiden. Less than a year after their previous Z7 appearance, the band led by original singer and guitarist Andy Powell returns to Pratteln with songs spanning almost six decades of band history.

They are true Z7 regulars. Since 2010, Wishbone Ash have played our venue eleven times, and we simply can’t get enough. In February 2024, the band celebrated the 50th anniversary of their legendary live album with the “Live Dates 50th Anniversary” tour. January 2025 already brought another full dose of Wishbone Ash at Z7, and in February 2026 the outstanding live act from Torquay returned to Pratteln with “The Time Was Tour”, treating fans to an exhilarating performance packed with all-time favourites. Formed in 1969, Wishbone Ash are now led by lead guitarists Andy Powell – the last remaining founding member – and Mark Abrahams, who joined the band in 2017. Bassist Bob Skeat, a member for three decades, sets the pace together with drummer Windsor McGilvray, who joined in 2026. Over the years, the band have explored a wide range of musical styles, from folk, blues and jazz to pedal-to-the-metal rock and even electronic influences. Whatever the style, however, Wishbone Ash’s unmistakable twin lead guitar sound remains their defining trademark – a sound that has inspired bands such as Thin Lizzy, Judas Priest, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Iron Maiden and Opeth. Few bands have done more with the twin-guitar concept than Wishbone Ash. Live, they remain a force to be reckoned with. Andy Powell still performs with boundless enthusiasm, leading the band through an almost two-hour journey across Wishbone Ash’s remarkable back catalogue. Following their last Z7 show, our in-house chroniclers at Diebüehrers.com wrote: “Musically, the quartet effortlessly bridged the gap between early classics and later material. Powell and Mark Abrahams’ unmistakable twin guitar sound remained at the heart of the performance throughout, creating countless goosebump moments as the two guitar lines elegantly intertwined.” Their concluding verdict was equally enthusiastic: “Without relying on big effects, but with enormous passion and musicianship, the band proved once again why they have remained such a compelling live act for more than five decades. This outstanding show comes with our highest recommendation!” To be continued.