Pilgrimage (1971)

"This second Wishbone Ash album unveiled their creative genius after a boogie- and blues-based debut. The opening track, "Vas Dis," with its jazz bassline, slicing rhythm guitar, and gibberish vocals was their answer to "Hocus Pocus" by Focus (or vice versa as both were released in 1971). "Jail Bait" has gone on to become a Wishbone Ash staple as well as possessing one of the more memorable guitar riffs of '70s rock. A conscientious effort seemed to be in place for this band to write and perform material better suited to their gentler vocal tendencies. Where the debut album went full tilt throughout, "Pilgrimage" is a moodier affair that includes beautiful, slower melodies like the brief instrumentals "Alone" and "Lullaby" along with the chilling "Valediction," which should have been an Ash classic. Their impressive guitar playing was heightened due to the variance in their songwriting. Next to "Argus" this is the Wishbone Ash album to judge all other Ash albums by." (David Sleeger, Allmusic)

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