Wishbone Ash – New England

Sounds better than the UK first press - more bright and clear

this japanese should not be blocked ,, this is the correct version to buy and sell , please correct this heading it is blocked incorrectly

notice this cover has the little man on the front with new England on the bottom of picture ,, this is a mix of us version with uk title on bottom

New beginnings in New England, new producers, new approach to recording. A return to Hipgnosis for the cover design and as usual that is full of visual puns and also the case of the disappearing person on the cover.
The album peaked at 22 in UK charts and 154 in the US. Judging by the photos on the inside of the gatefold, the band hadn't eaten since There's the Rub so good sales were essential. The album came out in December 1976 and IMNSHO is one of the highlights of the 2nd Era of the Ash to rival Argus.
This is the UK first issue MCG 3523 and my only gripe on the artwork is the almost unreadable red text on a picture background on the inside of the gatefold.
Sound wise I slightly prefer the US 1st issue but there's not a lot in it.

Not a bad album. While this album may not show what the band was fully capable on past records (ex. There's the Rub), it still had its moments. I prefer side 1 to side 2 for sure, with the second being a bit slow for me. But no matter what speed or style they're playing, the talent and instrumental mastery is clear. Guitar work is top-notch as the be expected from Wishbone Ash.
Favorite tracks: Mother of Pearl, Runaway

Edit: If I were to go back and rate each side I'd say Side 1= 4/5 stars. Side 2= 3/5
As stated before side 2 just moves way too slow for me, despite the adept guitar playing. It really makes me want to fall asleep haha. Maybe it'd be a nice side of music to throw on for a romantic night or something but other than that idk. I'll definitely play side 1 much more than 2.

In regards to the pressing itself, this is an adequate edition. All the instruments are well placed in the mix, with the bass being heavy, but not overwhelming. Could (*maybe*) use a little more emphasis on the highs of the lead guitar. People seem to care about the album cover on this one, so I'll say that for me the U.S. version wins. I think the green text is fitting and the extra boy is okay, but maybe that's because it's the only way I ever see the cover. It's always been one of those album covers that made me want to check the record out.

Probably the high point of WA MkII with some of my fav tracks. You Rescue Me is fragile and beautiful, Outward Bound rocks, Lorelie has some great guitar work. Every track is worthy of a place.

By the way the US cover has an extra "boy" in the cover image as well as green text. Not sure why?

The US copy I own also put the "extra" boy on front cover besides lettering "New England" in green plus colouring the creditletters red inside the gatefold (making it almost impossible to read.)Anybody know Why?