Track Listing
1. Aqualung 2. Cross-Eyed Mary 3. Cheap day return 4. Mother goose 5. Wond'ring aloud 6. Up to me 7. My god 8. Hymn 43 9. Slipstream 10. Locomotive breath 11. Wind up Year: 1971 Label: Chrysalis - Official Site |
Jethro Tull - 'Aqualung' - By C. Diamantis
Almost 30 years ago, during the 70's, Britain was undeniably one of the major powers in the rock scene. Countless bands, some of which truly wrote their own history, originated from the island. Among these bands, Jethro Tull have their own chapter in the great book of rock. While the band has released many masterpieces, "Aqualung" is probably their most famous (and many say best) album. When the mastermind of the band, Ian Anderson, decided to create a concept album about religion and the church of England not many could imagine the result. Having their roots in the traditional hard rock sound, Jethro Tull always managed to push it to its limits. When someone hears the words Jethro Tull, the first thing that comes to mind is probably Ian Anderson's flute. In this record its appearance is once again a great asset to the music, but that's not the only thing that makes this record a masterpiece. We could say that this record reveals the art of songwriting in its purest form. Every composition, from the first all-time classic Aqualung to the last Wind Up, is perfectly conceived, composed and performed. The riffs, the melodies, the solos and generally everything sticks in the memory of the listener and draws him in the magic of this album. The songs may not be simple in structure but manage to avoid boring the listener and always keep their interest alive. Jethro Tull may not be considered a progressive rock band (like Yes or Rush) but they capture the true essence of progressive music, since they don't put limitations on their music. All the songs are rich in emotions but certain songs like Wind Up or My God perfectly reveal the thoughts and emotions of their creator, Ian Anderson. My personal favorite from the album is the songs that closes the album, Wind Up, because it's a composition where the music and the lyrics blend perfectly. As for the lyrics of the album, as I mentioned in the first paragraph of the review it's a direct attack at organised religion and, more precisely at the church of England. I think many so-called "evil" and "dark" metallers should take the time to read Anderson's lyrics in order to understand the difference between something a 10-year old can write and true art. All the lyrics of the album are characterized by a mocking feeling and a sense of humour, but that doesn't take away their sting. On the contrary it makes them even more sharp. I don't know if with this album Anderson managed to reach his peak as a writer but I'm sure that very few people can match the intelligence and the artistic success of his writing. So, if you call yourselves fans of hard rock and you don't have this album, maybe you should think about changing your musical tastes. But even if you don't this album is a real monument in the history of music and a jewel for every music collection. You said you wanted a rating? Not that it really matters with albums such as this one but... Metal Obsessive Grade: 100% |