Live in Tokyo cover

Live in Tokyo

Wishbone Ash · 1979

39 min · 5 tracks · hard rock

A dynamic showcase of hard rock energy, blending intricate guitar work with passionate live performance fervor.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    F.U.B.B. Start here — The extended improvisational sections highlight the band's signature dual guitar harmonies, making it a powerful opener that sets the tone for the entire set.
  • →
    Blowin’ Free — This track features an anthemic chorus and showcases the band's ability to blend melodic elements with driving hard rock rhythms, resonating well with live audiences.
  • →
    You See Red — With its compelling lyrical narrative and energetic performance, this track underscores Wishbone Ash's knack for combining thoughtful lyrics with vibrant instrumentation.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

50 /100
Foothills
Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album highlights strong musicianship but lacks a cohesive narrative across its tracks.

What we noticed

  • Each track maintains a high energy level, with no significant tempo drops throughout the five songs.
  • The live recording captures audience reactions, adding to the overall atmosphere and intensity of the performance.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady mid-tempo groove
  • vibrant live energy
  • intricate guitar harmonies
  • engaging long-form tracks

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer short, standalone songs
  • seek fast-paced intensity

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Fan Favorite — Beloved by fans for its live energy and musicianship, showcasing the band's strengths.
Themes
Tokyo concert scene· live rock energy· dual guitar harmonies
Career context
Released in 1979, Live in Tokyo captures Wishbone Ash during a period of solidifying their reputation as a leading live act following their earlier successes with albums like Argus. This live album served as a testament to their prowess on stage, highlighting their dual lead guitar approach and extending their discography amidst evolving rock landscapes.
Stylistic neighbors
Thin Lizzy· UFO· Blue Öyster Cult

Tracklist

  • 1 F.U.B.B. Start here 10:48
  • 2 The Way of the World 10:24
  • 3 You See Red 6:14
  • 4 Jail Bait 5:18
  • 5 Blowin’ Free 7:04

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata