Martin Turner's Wishbone Ash

Martin Turner and Keith Buck - photo FlyGuitars.com

FlyGuitars You've gigged with, recorded on and produced the Blue Bishops last record was that you getting back in to the live scene, playing out again?

Martin Turner I guess you could say that yeah. I mean not the recording. I got to know Simon the guitar player through a friend of mine Keith Chapman (the creator of Bob the Builder no less) and we used to see each other at parties and dinners and stuff, they'd existed for quite a long time. When their bass player did a walkies or fell over they called me up and said we've got these gigs could you fill in for us you know it would be a doddle for you. So I had a listen to their music and it seemed pretty straight forward really.

FlyGuitars I remember seeing in my local newspaper when you guys were playing at the Wavendon Stables and that was I suppose putting you back on my radar again having been well aware of Wishbone Ash.

Martin Turner Well yeah, one of the dangers is when you become a studio animal that you do develop tunnel vision sound wise. Everything becomes more and more kind of mainline you know direct inject and all that and you can lose the feel for live stuff a bit which I think I was in danger of doing. So it was appropriate timing and it certainly got me back in to the whole live thing because they''re quite a scruffy edged band and because they all had jobs it wasn't heavy gigging, it's like now and again and we could all turn up not having rehearsed count 1, 2, 3, 4 and just plough in to it and if it was out of tune and loose it didn't actually matter because of the kind of music it was. That made it very, very enjoyable for me to keep going, it certainly got me back playing on stage.

Martin Turners Wishbone Ash - promo shot, 2006. Left to right, Rob Hewins, Keith Buck, Martin Turner, Ray Hatfield (courtesy wishboneash.co.uk)

FlyGuitars Did that get your mind back in to thinking about putting together the current band and to start doing the Wishbone material again?

Martin Turner No, not really. I had this kind of gnawing guilt feeling, various people that loved Wishbone asked me when I was going to get up and do it again. Gary Carter who'd run the fan club and helped me run the wishboneash.co.uk site was constantly on to me that I must get a band together. I had always I think like most people involved with the band thought that Wishbone Ash has to get back together eventually you know in some form either with Ted or with Laurie or who knows with both of them and Steve of course. Bearing in mind I'd been constantly putting together albums, every year I did at least one sometimes more, three or four. I was always involved in the background you know keeping the thing alive remixes, re-masterings and odds and sods like the Lost Pearls thing was probably the last one I did which was reject songs some of which were really, really enjoyable. At that stage which was what the beginning of 2004 Andy had had those tapes (I had most of them) and he'd obviously run in to deep water trying to sort them out. They had various different noise reductions on the tapes and they didn't know how to deal with it so I took the project over and sorted it out. It was really difficult to get it done in time to coincide with Andy's Wishbone Ash latest tour, I was working flat out on it for weeks. At that point Andy hit me with a lawyers letter. He must of thought after that album I guess well there's not a lot more Martin can do in terms of albums now because it's all been done already so alright I'll see if I can shut his website down and he had a pop at me, you know sent a lawyers letter saying that they would like me to surrender the domain name wishboneash.co.uk and secondly undertake never to use the name again and thirdly pay their, his reasonable costs in this matter. To which I sent a nice legal lawyers letter back telling him to fuck off basically, to put it simply.

I was very upset and outraged by it, I mean it was the same old stab in the back routine you know and it really, really pissed me off big time. Then low and behold I told him to get lost and they then put in a formal complaint to Nominet who are the kind of UK domain name police. There was a whole dispute procedure that you go through which ended up being found kind of in my favour, that Andy's complaint against me to try and get my website shutdown because it caused confusion with his was found not to be the case and I was allowed to continue to exist. Through that whole nasty little affair instigated by Mr Powell I obviously needed help and it put me in contact with a few people like Martin Darvill who's studio we're sitting in right now. He was just fantastic, I'd only just met the bloke and I think it really offended his sensibilities the injustice of it. He offered to help in any way he could and we've since got real friendly and we're working together and it was like if ever there was a time to get a band together it's now. It really had reached the point where it was perfectly obvious that Andy was making too much money in his own right with just replacing musicians whenever he needed to and there was no possibility really that any original Wishbone Ash was going to reform and so therefore the logical next step for me was to put together my own version of Wishbone Ash.

FlyGuitars Had you seen Andy's Wishbone Ash play?

Martin Turner I'd been along to his gigs like we all had and I stood there and listened to these pretty much complete strangers some of them, guys in his band playing music that I'd written and to me the notes were there but it just had no bloody spirit. It was missing the whole content, it used to do my head in. Most times I'd kind of head for the bar and get some alcohol down my neck and then kind of go up, it was nice to say hi to the guys after the show you know, Andy included until things got rather ugly. It made complete sense to say to myself well I've been doing this Blue Bishops thing it's not really a career it was an occasional thing and Wishbone Ash is what my life has been about as a musician and I finally started to listen to some of the people around me who were telling me to get my bloody finger out.

New Live Dates Volume 1

Then low and behold I was doing a Lucy Diamond session and I met Keith (Buck) the guy who's become one of my guitar players and we hit it off. He knew a couple of guys he said would be ideal for the band and I'm like woah wait a minute you know one guy at a time I'm really fussy about drummers and all the rest of it but when we finally got together it was just bang. It was obvious that there was a basis there for a band and it's only been what a year/eighteen months since we first put it together but we've done maybe 25 gigs or something. It's early days but there's some momentum and it's going along great. The band sounds good, I'm thrilled to bits with it.

FlyGuitars And you've got the new live album (New Live Dates) obviously.

Martin Turner Yeah, that actually gives us something tangible that we can say ok this is my version of Wishbone Ash and people can listen to it and like it or not. I would have to admit that probably Andy's treatment of me, which I think was pretty unpleasant, certainly seemed to have an effect of stinging me in to action. Partly because it became so obvious that this little thing at the back of my head which was 'well I just know the band will get back together again one day, you know Steve will pop out of the woodwork and Laurie will be up for it, Ted will and well all get back together and it will be wonderful' at that point you know when I realised what I was dealing with it wasn't going to happen. It took me to the next stage.

Rickenbacker bass guitars for sale

Flyguitars.com is funded by its visitors. When you buy through links on our site we may earn an affiliate commission. For more info see terms and conditions.

1976 Rickenbacker 4001 Fretless Bass very rare example that's a beat sweet bass.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 333**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$4995

This is a very clean & extremely good looking 1976 Rickenbacker 4001 Fretless Bass that has all the right stuff. Its Fireglo finish as yellowed a bit & is worn in w / a cool factor & a ton of Patina. Its fretless fingerboard is nicely figured w / a ton of finish wear from regular use. Its got both its original rhythm & bridge pickups. Plays & intonates quite well. It??s got a rare neck thru of maple w / a single walnut stripe. Its very good overall & ready to use & ... more

Gibson Non Reverse Thunderbird Bass Guitar

Beach City, Ohio, 446**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1599

Beautiful red sparkle non-reverse Thunderbird bass guitar professional set up excellent condition some very light scratches. Nothing to mention. Looks just like the pictures Babicz replacement bridge Bartolini Thunderbird pick ups Plays and sounds fantastic. New strings case has some scratches nothing major
... more

1965 Gibson Thunderbird IV Bass in Pelham Blue oh-so rare & cool you need it !

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 333**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$13495

These 2nd issue ??Non-Reverse?? Thunderbird??s & Firebird??s were so far ahead of time & very few were ever made comparatively to Fender??s P & J Basses. Most all T??bird??s were available in a Sunburst finish. But some were ordered in their select Custom Colors. This particular example was ordered in Gibson??s most luv??d optional color of Pelham Blue all over its neck & body. Very little yellowing but she??s has plenty of playtime wear. These tend to get funky from playing in ... more

1964 Gibson Thunderbird IV Bass 1 of the best originals it's 1 of a kind & Minty

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 333**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$27495

These early production Reverse?? Thunderbird??s & Firebird??s were so far ahead of time & very few were ever made comparatively to Fender??s P & J Basses. This particular example was ordered in Gibson??s most popular color of a Dark 2-tone Sunburst finish all over its neck & body. Very little yellowing appears yet she has slight playtime all over. These tend to get funky from playing in bars & clubs & get nicotine stained. Its rosewood fingerboard is straight as an arrow ... more

Rare Black Gibson 1976 Bicentennial Thunderbird / All Original / No Breaks

Louisville, Kentucky, 402**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$5500

Only 91 Black Thunderbirds were produced in 1976 and here is one of the nicest I've seen. All original, no cracks, no breaks and an ebony fretboard. The neck is straight and really not a lot of playwear for it's age. Overall a fine playing bass. Original pickup cover, bridgecover plus a later hard-shell case that is also in fine condition. As per usual with older Thunderbirds, the strap button on the neck has been moved for better balance. It has never been gigged in the years I have owned it ... more

Rickenbacker 4001 Bass Guitar 1974 Made in US #13812 + Hard Case (Free Shipping)

San Ysidro, California, 921**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$4999

The Rickenbacker 4001 Bass Guitar from 1974 in Mapleglo finish is a vintage electric bass guitar proudly made in the USA. This classic model features a maple body, providing a unique tone and feel that is sought after by many bass players. With its iconic features and high-quality craftsmanship, this Rickenbacker bass guitar is a versatile and reliable choice for musicians looking to add a touch of vintage charm to their music.... more

1972 4001 Rickenbacker Bass Guitar. Great Christmas gift!

Hayward, Wisconsin, 548**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$7800

Unveil your musical creativity with the 1972 Rickenbacker 4001 Electric Bass Guitar, a legendary choice for both players and collectors alike. Sporting a vibrant red body color, this four-string bass guitar embodies the iconic style and exceptional craftsmanship synonymous with the Rickenbacker brand The Model 4001 is known for its rich, warm sound and durable construction, making it a favorite for performances and studio sessions. An ideal gift for the music enthusiast or a seasoned musician, ... more

1972 RICKENBACKER 4001JG BASS w / HSC

Minneapolis, Minnesota, 554**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$5500

VINTAGE 1972 RICKENBACKER 4001 BASS IN JETGLO WITH HARD SHELL CASE. GREAT CONDITION FOR A 53 YEAR OLD. STRAIGHT NECK. SMALL AMOUNT OF FRET WEAR. SOME PLAYER WEAR ON THE BACKSIDE AND A HOLE DRILLED PRESUMABLY FOR A STRAP BUTTON. EVERYTHING WORKS FINE. A CLASSIC OF ITS KIND. FINAL NO RETURN SALE ON THIS BASS. ASK QUESTIONS. $$$$$PAYPAL ONLY$$$$$ NO TRADES OR OFFERS. CONTINENTAL USA 48 STATE SHIPPING ONLY. NO P O. BOX OR FREIGHT FORWARDING LOCATION SHIP.
... more

Bass guitar string mute From 1966 Gibson Thunderbird

Cumming, Georgia, 300**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$400

This bass guitar string mute is a must-have for any Gibson Thunderbird owner. Made in 1966, this mute is a rare find for collectors and musicians alike. It is designed to fit perfectly on your bass guitar and provides a unique sound that is sure to impress
Crafted with precision and care, this mute is made to last. It is made from high-quality materials and is built to withstand the wear and tear of regular use. Whether you are a seasoned musician or just starting out, this bass guitar ... more

Used 2022 Gibson Gene Simmons G2 Thunderbird Bass, Ebony

Tampa, Florida, 336**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2380

A rock 'n' roll legend, Gene Simmons has inspired countless metal-heads to bring groovy, rockin' sound to the world. The 2022-model Gibson Gene Simmons G2 Thunderbird Bass carries that essence in the purest form. Built in America, this striking bass has a Reverse Thunderbird body made from mahogany, with a Mirror Plex pickguard for an awesome look. The rounded mahogany neck hosts an ebony fingerboard, and it's powered by a set of T-Bird pickups, each with individual volumes and a master tone ... more

1973 Vintage Rickenbacker 4001 Checkboard Binding Fireglo ~ Collector Grade ~

Jacksonville, Florida, 322**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$7597

Up for sale is an exceptionally rare and collector-grade 1973 Rickenbacker 4001 finished in its original Fireglo. This bass hails from the golden era of Rickenbacker production and features the highly coveted checkered binding, triangle inlays, and all original components. At 8lbs 13oz, it??s lightweight for this era and resonates beautifully with the signature Rickenbacker growl and clarity
A true time capsule for enthusiasts and collectors alike, this bass has remained 100% original, ... more

NOS 1976 Rickenbacker 4001 Bass Potentiometers Pots

Fort Wayne, Indiana, 468**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$150

NOS 1976 Rickenbacker Bass Potentiometers Pots
New old stock
See photos for exact condition
See my ebay store for more vintage music items
... more

1980 Rickenbacker 4001 Bass White w / OHSC

San Diego, California, 921**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$4495

1980 Rickenbacker 4001 Bass In White Finish
This Bass Is Located At IVG Sherman Oaks
In Very Good Overall Condition (Please See Photos)
Finish Shows Heavy Fading And Checking With Some Cosmetic Playwear Including Various Small Dings, Marks, And Scratches Throughout
A-String Saddle Screw Replaced And Non-Adjustable, Slightly Sharp Intonation On That String Only
Small Fingerboard / Finish Crack As Shown
All Original Pickups And Electronics
Pots Date To Late 1979
... more

1982 Rickenbacker 4001 Vintage Neck Through Bass Burgundyglo w / Case

Seattle, Washington, 981**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$4200

Up for sale, a 1982 Rickenbacker 4001 in perfect working order, complete with a hardshell case. This 4003 boasts a Burgundyglo gloss finish, a rare custom color which hasn??t been offered by Rickenbacker in decades. Featuring neck through maple body construction, this Rickenbacker offers distinctive midrange-forward growl and broad thump via the Hi-Gain pickup pair. Weighing 9lbs 12oz, this 4001 has been professionally setup here at Mike & Mike's Guitar Bar with 45-100 roundwound strings, ... more

1979 Rickenbacker 4001 Stereo Bass Guitar

Brooklyn, New York, 112**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3500

Missing one volume knob and pickup guard
... more

Rickenbacker 4001 1976 - White

Chicago, Illinois, 606**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3995

Rickenbacker 4001 1976 w original case and pickup cover
Place of Manufacture: California, USA
Year of manufacture: 1976
Finish: White aged to off white
Case: Comes with original Rickenbacker case. Case is in Good (-) shape with some dings, marks, expected wear for its age and a strip of tape that runs along the corner. Case latches / hinges, etc are fully-working
Operational Condition: Fully-Functional. Tuners, truss rod, electronics all work great Frets are in good shape and the ... more

rickenbacker 1979 4001 bass fireglo

New Lenox, Illinois, 604**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$4500

This Rickenbacker electric bass guitar is a vintage 1979 Fireglo model with a solid body type and 4 string configuration. It is a right-handed instrument made by the well-known brand Rickenbacker. This model 4001 bass guitar is highly sought after by musicians and collectors alike, and is perfect for those who appreciate the classic sound of a high-quality bass guitar. Whether you're a professional musician looking for the perfect instrument for your gigs, or a collector looking to add a piece ... more

Rickenbacker 1975 4001 Mapleglo Vintage Electric Bass w / Case (Pre-Owned)

San Rafael, California, 949**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3250

Rickenbacker 1975 4001 Mapleglo Vintage Electric Bass w / Case (Pre-Owned) Rickenbacker 1975 4001 Mapleglo Vintage Electric Bass w / Case (Pre-Owned)
Rickenbacker 1975 4001 Mapleglo Vintage Electric Bass w / Case (Pre-Owned)
The Rickenbacker 4001 is an electric bass that was manufactured by Rickenbacker as a two-pickup ... more

1977 Gibson Thunderbird Bicentennial - Rare Vintage Electric Bass

New York, 100**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

€2200

1977 Gibson Thunderbird Bicentennial Bass ?? All Original, Near Mint Condition
This rare 1977 Gibson Thunderbird Bicentennial bass is in exceptionally well-preserved, near mint condition. Everything on the instrument is 100% original, including the electronics ?? with potentiometers dated to 1976. Importantly, the neck is completely intact, with no breaks or repairs, which is uncommon for this model. It comes with the original Gibson hardshell case
? Historical Background:In 1976, to ... more

1976 Rickenbacker 4001 FL Fretless Jetglo

Verona, Pennsylvania, 151**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2700

An uncommon Rickenbacker 4001FL made in December 1976. Overall a clean bass with some small signs of use. Fully functional truss rods and adjustable action. What a growl, too! The neck is mighty comfortable and conducive to fast movement.

Neck width at nut: 1 64??
Neck width at 12th position: 2 08??
Weight: 9 lbs. 9 5 oz

There is a small cloudy patch in the finish on the back of the body along with a handful of dings closer to the jack plate. Chrome is missing from ... more

Find more vintage guitars for sale at vintageguitarsforsale.co