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Number the Brave

by Wishbone Ash

Released: April 01, 1981

Hard rock

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Why This Album Matters

This album matters because its strongest editorial story is: Cult Following.

The Album

Released in April 1981, the album was notable for marking a significant lineup change in the band. The band's frontman, Martin Turner, left during the recording of the album and was replaced by John Wetton, formerly of King Crimson and Uriah Heep. "Number the Brave" is the 11th studio album by the British rock band Wishbone Ash.

Stories and details

Interesting Facts

Overall, "Number the Brave" represented a period of…

Overall, "Number the Brave" represented a period of transition for Wishbone Ash.

The lead single from the album was the…

The lead single from the album was the title track, "Number the Brave", which displayed a harder rock sound compared to the band's earlier work.

It has since become something of a cult…

It has since become something of a cult favorite among fans of the band.

However, the album still retained much of Wishbone…

However, the album still retained much of Wishbone Ash's signature sound - dual lead guitars and complex song structures.

It featured a mix of short, punchy rock…

It featured a mix of short, punchy rock songs and longer, more progressive tracks.

Watch and listen

Explore the Album

Wishbone Ash - Number the Brave

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Then

Reception

Despite some changes in musical direction, the album received mixed to positive reviews. Critics praised its diversity, with standout tracks including "Loaded" and "Underground".

Full background

The Complete Album Story

"Number the Brave" is the 11th studio album by the British rock band Wishbone Ash. Released in April 1981, the album was notable for marking a significant lineup change in the band. The band's frontman, Martin Turner, left during the recording of the album and was replaced by John Wetton, formerly of King Crimson and Uriah Heep.

The lead single from the album was the title track, "Number the Brave", which displayed a harder rock sound compared to the band's earlier work. However, the album still retained much of Wishbone Ash's signature sound - dual lead guitars and complex song structures. It featured a mix of short, punchy rock songs and longer, more progressive tracks.

Despite some changes in musical direction, the album received mixed to positive reviews. It has since become something of a cult favorite among fans of the band. Critics praised its diversity, with standout tracks including "Loaded" and "Underground".

Overall, "Number the Brave" represented a period of transition for Wishbone Ash. It showcased the band's willingness to evolve their sound, while still retaining the characteristics that made them unique in the rock scene.