Argus
Argus gives Wishbone Ash's twin guitars a clear musical purpose. The leads can move together or follow separate lines, but they remain connected to the songs around them. Folk-influenced melodies, hard rock playing and longer arrangements fit together with surprising ease. The record's appeal lies in the band finding space for detailed instrumental work without losing the sense of a complete song.
Time Was establishes that range through a quiet acoustic opening and measured singing. The music becomes faster and heavier as it develops, giving the guitars room to take a more active role. Its extended shape feels earned because the arrangement changes along the way. The band can explore several ideas while keeping a clear relationship between them.
Sometime World uses a different route to a similar effect. Its softer opening gives way to a melodic bass line that helps move the song into a more energetic section. The guitars build around that change before the soloing takes over. Martin Turner's bass is an important part of the album, often contributing its own movement instead of simply following the lead instruments.
Blowin' Free offers a more direct song, with vocal harmonies adding to its folk-rock character. The King Will Come builds more gradually, allowing the guitar parts and the changing pressure of the arrangement to create its atmosphere. The quieter middle section makes the surrounding playing more effective. The music has weight without constantly needing the heaviest possible attack.
Warrior pushes further towards hard rock, contrasting a strong riff and lead guitar with more measured passages. The medieval imagery gives it a grander character, but the arrangement makes that mood convincing. The band's strengths are musical: clear melodic lines, responsive playing and enough space for the different parts to remain audible.
Throw Down the Sword provides a fitting conclusion, bringing the two guitars into a close exchange while allowing their lines to remain distinct. The vocals across the album are less striking than the instrumental work, though they suit the songs. Argus is a rich and approachable meeting of folk, progressive rock and harder guitar music. Its longer performances reward attention because the detail remains connected to melody and purposeful movement.
