Is Raw to the Bone a good place to start with Wishbone Ash?

Yes, Raw to the Bone is recommended as a starting point for new Wishbone Ash listeners. A fusion of hard rock energy and melodic sensibility, blending intricate guitar work with reflective lyrics. Released in 1985, Raw to the Bone is Wishbone Ash's ninth studio album, arriving after a series of lineup changes that impacted their sound. This period marked a shift as they sought to rejuvenate their style amidst evolving musical landscapes, following their previous album, Just Testing, which showcased a more experimental approach.

Who is Raw to the Bone for?

Raw to the Bone works well if you're into steady mid-tempo groove, gritty melodic hooks and engaging sing-along moments.

How many songs are on Raw to the Bone?

Raw to the Bone has 10 tracks, running approximately 37 minutes.

Raw to the Bone

Wishbone Ash · 1985

37 min · 10 tracks · hard rock

A fusion of hard rock energy and melodic sensibility, blending intricate guitar work with reflective lyrics.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Cell of Fame Start here — This opener sets the tone for the album with its energetic guitar riffs and introspective lyrics about personal ambition and fame, capturing the essence of the band's style.
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Long Live the Night — With its anthemic chorus and driving rhythm, this track embodies the spirit of celebration and resilience, showcasing Wishbone Ash's knack for melodic hooks.
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Rocket in My Pocket — This track stands out for its catchy melody and upbeat tempo, combining lyrical playfulness with a classic rock sound that highlights the band’s ability to craft engaging songs.
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Don’t Cry — A poignant ballad that features heartfelt lyrics and emotive guitar solos, illustrating the band's versatility in balancing hard rock with softer themes.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

43 /100

Lowland

Higher than 2% of albums we've rated

The album blends energetic hard rock with melodic elements but lacks standout compositions.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature driving guitar riffs and upbeat tempos, while the fourth track introduces a slower, more melodic arrangement.
The album closes with a reflective ballad that contrasts sharply with the energetic opening tracks, creating a sense of resolution.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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
gritty melodic hooks
engaging sing-along moments
short bursts of energy

Maybe skip if you

seekers of instant gratification
prefer lengthy immersive albums

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Deep Cut — Solid entry reflecting the band's evolving sound but not widely recognized as essential.
Themes: personal ambition· celebration of resilience· reflective guitar solos
Moods: Energetic· Anthemic
Career context: Released in 1985, Raw to the Bone is Wishbone Ash's ninth studio album, arriving after a series of lineup changes that impacted their sound. This period marked a shift as they sought to rejuvenate their style amidst evolving musical landscapes, following their previous album, Just Testing, which showcased a more experimental approach.
Stylistic neighbors: Thin Lizzy· UFO· Blue Öyster Cult

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Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Don't Cry

The narrator reflects on vulnerability and reassurance, addressing someone directly to alleviate their pain.

This direct address breaks from earlier abstractions in the album, creating an intimate moment that deepens emotional engagement.