Under the leadership of Scottish composer, singer, and flutist Ian Anderson (born 10 August 1947 in Edinburgh), Jethro Tull became one of the essential groups in British blues-rock, folk-rock, and prog rock music of the late 60s and early 70s.
Thick as a Brick (Part 1)
When ‘Aqualung’ appeared, many critics and fans saw it as a concept album, very much in vogue in those years. Anderson, who did not see it that way, decided to make a satire about it with ‘Thicks as a Brick’.
Locomotive Breath
A long piano introduction gives way to a powerful riff on which Anderson tells the story of an inevitable train accident that serves as a metaphor for the life of a man who finds himself doomed to a sad end. Anderson’s solo is one of the best of his career. Another classic from ‘Aqualung’.
Teacher
‘Benefit’ was Glenn Cornick’s last record as the band’s bassist. Released in 1970 it was, in Anderson’s words, a record based on guitar riffs. As such it is the hardest rock album of the band. ‘Teacher’ is one of their best examples, even though it appeared in two different versions in the UK and US editions.
Hymn 43
One of the most direct and rock songs on Jethro Tull’s discography. It served as the only single from their best album, ‘Aqualung’.
Minstrel of the Gallery
‘Minstrel in the Gallery’ was the band’s eighth album and the one that saw them regain the form of ‘Thick as a Brick’. The title track begins in the best vein of British folk, inherited from the Fairport Convention, with acoustic guitar, flute, and Anderson’s voice.