Prog Rock Review: Jethro Tull-Live Bursting Out (The Inflated Version-3CD/3DVD)

Format: 3CD/3DVD

Release Date: ‎ April 11, 2024

Label: Chrysalis

Website

Keeping with the ongoing flow of remasters of the Jethro Tull catalog by Steven Wilson, a most excellent live 1978 release, Live Bursting Out (The Inflated Version), is available in the usual book format that all the other releases have arrived in. Hopefully, the vinyl version will follow shortly, as it is a superb live recording. Inflated is an accurate description. It is all packaged in a hardcover book with trays for 3 CDs and 3 DVDs. And if you have a 5.1 surround sound system, you are in for many extras. Also, there is an extensive overview of the recording in 96 pages of text and pictures. It is quite the package that I thoroughly enjoyed.

 

Here is the breakdown of each disc:

•CD 1: Jethro Tull live: Bursting Out (Part 1) - A Steven Wilson stereo remix. Soundcheck recordings - A Steven Wilson stereo remix. Tracks 7, 10, 11 (full version) & 12-16 previously unreleased

 

•CD 2: Jethro Tull live: Bursting Out (Part 2) - A Steven Wilson stereo remix

Soundcheck recordings - A Steven Wilson stereo remix. Tracks 11-13 previously unreleased

 

•CD 3: contains an edited version of the 1978 Madison Square Garden Show, which

was issued in 2009 but is now mixed by Steven Wilson.

 

•DVDs 1 & 2 have the remixed tracks in 96/24 stereo and 5.1 surround plus the flat transfers of the original album at 96/24 stereo.

 

•DVD 3 has the full 93-minute MSG show, including 50+ minutes of video, which was part of a transatlantic broadcast with the BBC and Radio 1. The audio is 48/24 stereo and 5.1 surround.

 

I usually do a track-by-track account in my review of one of my favorite artists to cover; however, the read would be too exhaustive. I can offer prospective buyers and fans who have not pursued this set a more condensed version with what I feel are the most relevant points.

 

Of course, Ian is the group's focal point, being the frontman, writer, multi-musician, and all-around animated entertainer. So, it was no surprise that the cameras showed close-ups of Ian with sweat glistening on his forehead and face during the Madison Square Garden broadcast video. Those were excellent shots of him performing at his best during the band's peak decade. The shots that pulled away from the stage were foggy and looked dated. Also, the entire show was not on the video; it was missing parts in the front and back of the show. When there is no video, you get a rotation of pictures of the band, which is subpar as well. I am sure they did the best they could with what they had, and the bottom line is that the sound is excellent.

 

I appreciated the remix Steven Wilson masterfully created, as usual. I found it interesting to see what Ian said about that process. He mentioned he did not want to know what was going on. In his case, I can understand from an artist's standpoint how important your recorded work is, and the fact that Ian is such a professional and perfectionist would cause the man a bad case of nerves to watch Steven at work.

 

I appreciated Jethro Tull's talent and how they could recreate all of their studio works on the stage with a unique flair and precision. Some of my favorites were "Thick As A Brick," "Aqualung," "Songs From The Wood," "Heavy Horses," "Minstrel In The Gallery," "Skating Away (On the Thin Ice of the New Day)," which, as some of your older fans may remember, was on the flip side of the "Bungle in The Jungle" 45. Warchild was my first JT album in the 70s and remains my favorite. I am sure many fans would not agree that it was their best album, but I loved it. Minstrel in the Gallery is the album that followed it, and it impressed me as a musically intense prog rocker. This convinced me to continue to explore their catalog of releases.

 

If you are a classic prog rock fan, from what most folks say is the most fertile decade of the genre, you need to hear one of the best of that period at the height of their success. There is a valid reason why all these repackaged releases still sell: they are undoubtedly some of the best rock music ever recorded and performed on the stage. You'll agree once you hear this recording again or for the first time. It's on Amazon now for $49.59, a bargain for what you will get in return.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Progressive Music Reviews Founder

August 9, 2024

 

Tracks: Disc 1: 01. Claude Nobs - Introduction by Claude Nobs (Live) [2024 Remaster] 02. No Lullaby (Live) [2024 Remaster] 03. Sweet Dream (Live) [2024 Remaster] 04. Skating Away (On the Thin Ice of the New Day) [Live] [2024 Remaster] 05. Jack-in-the-Green (Live) [2024 Remaster] 06. One Brown Mouse (Live) [2024 Remaster] 07. Heavy Horses (Live) [2024 Remaster] 08. A New Day Yesterday (Live) [2024 Remaster] 09. Flute Solo Improvisation / God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen / Bouree (Medley) [Live] [2024 Remaster] 10. Living in the Past (Live) 11. Songs from the Wood (Live) [2024 Remaster] 12. No Lullaby (Live) 13. Sweet Dream (Live) 14. Heavy Horses (Live) 15. Botanic Man (Live) 16. 4.W.D (Low Ratio) [Live] Disc 2: 01.  Thick As a Brick (Live) [2024 Remaster] 02.  Hunting Girl (Live) [2024 Remaster] 03.  Too Old to Rock ‘n’ Roll: Too Young to Die! (Live) [2024 Remaster] 04.  Conundrum (Live) [2024 Remaster] 05.  Minstrel In The Gallery (Live) [2024 Remaster] 06.  Cross-Eyed Mary (Live) [2024 Remaster] 07.  Quatrain (Live) [2024 Remaster] 08.  Aqualung (Live) [2024 Remaster] 09.  Locomotive Breath (Live) [2024 Remaster] 10.  The Dambusters March (Live) [2024 Remaster] 11.  Conundrum (Live) 12.  Quatrain (Live) 13.  The Dambusters March (Live) Disc 3: 01. Sweet Dream Fanfare (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) 02. Sweet Dream (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) 03. One Brown Mouse (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) 04. Heavy Horses (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) 05. Thick As a Brick (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) 06. No Lullaby (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) 07. Flute Solo Improvisation (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) 08. Songs From the Wood (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) 09. Quatrain (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) 10. Aqualung (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) 11. Locomotive Breath (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) 12. The Dambusters March (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) 13. A Single Man (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) 14. Too Old to Rock ‘n’ Roll: Too Old to Die! (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) 15. My God (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) 16. Cross-Eyed Mary (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) DVD 1: 01. Claude Nobs - Introduction by Claude Nobs (Live) [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 02. No Lullaby (Live) [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 03. Sweet Dream (Live) [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 04. Skating Away (On the Thin Ice of the New Day) [Live] [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 05. Jack-in-the-Green (Live) [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 06. One Brown Mouse (Live) [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 07. Heavy Horses (Live) [96/24 Stereo] 08. A New Day Yesterday (Live) [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 09. Flute Solo Improvisation / God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen / Bourée (Medley) [Live] [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 10. Living in the Past (Live) [96/24 Stereo] 11. Songs from the Wood (Live) [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 12. No lullaby (Live) [96/24 Stereo] 13. Sweet Dream (Live) [96/24 Stereo] 14. Heavy Horses (Live) [96/24 Stereo] 15. Botanic Man (Live) [96/24 Stereo] 16. 4.W.D (Low Ratio) [Live] [96/24 Stereo] 17. Claude Nobs - Introduction by Claude Nobs (Live) [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 18. No Lullaby (Live) [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 19. Sweet Dream (Live) [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 20. Skating Away (On the Thin Ice of the New Day) [Live] [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 21. Jack-in-the-Green (Live) [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 22. One Brown Mouse (Live) [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 23. Heavy Horses (Live) [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 24. A New Day Yesterday (Live) [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 25. Flute Solo Improvisation / God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen / Bourée (Medley) [Live] [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 26. Living in the Past (Live) [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 27. Songs from the Wood (Live) [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 28. No lullaby (Live) [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 29. Sweet Dream (Live) [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 30. Heavy Horses (Live) [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 31. Botanic Man (Live) [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 32. 4.W.D (Low Ratio) [Live] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 33. No Lullaby (Live) [Flat Transfer] 34. Sweet Dream (Live) [Flat Transfer] 35. Skating Away (On the Thin Ice of the New Day) [Live] [Flat Transfer] 36. Jack-in-the-Green (Live) [Flat Transfer] 37. One Brown Mouse (Live) [Flat Transfer] 38. A New Day Yesterday (Live) [Flat Transfer] 39. Flute Solo Improvisation / God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen / Bourée (Medley) [Live] [Flat Transfer] 40. Songs from the Wood (Live) [Flat Transfer] 41. Thick As A Brick (Live) [Flat Transfer] DVD 2: 01. Thick As A Brick (Live) [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 02. Hunting Girl (Live) [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 03. Too Old To Rock ‘n’ Roll: Too Young To Die! (Live) [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 04. Conundrum (Live) [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 05. Minstrel In The Gallery (Live) [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 06. Cross-Eyed Mary (Live) [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 07. Quatrain (Live) [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 08. Aqualung (Live) [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 09. Locomotive Breath (Live) [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 10. The Dambusters March (Live) [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 11. Conundrum (Live) [96/24 Stereo 12. Quatrain (Live) [96/24 Stereo] 13. The Dambusters March (Live) [96/24 Stereo] 14. Thick As A Brick (Live) [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 15. Hunting Girl (Live) [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 16. Too Old To Rock ‘n’ Roll: Too Young To Die! (Live) [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 17. Conundrum (Live) [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 18. Minstrel In The Gallery (Live) [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 19. Cross-Eyed Mary (Live) [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 20. Quatrain (Live) [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 21. Aqualung (Live) [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 22. Locomotive Breath (Live) [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 23. The Dambusters March (Live) [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 24. Conundrum (Live) [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 25. Quatrain (Live) [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 26. The Dambusters March (Live) [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 27. Hunting Girl (Live) [Flat Transfer] 28. Too Old To Rock ‘n’ Roll: Too Young To Die! (Live) [Flat Transfer] 29. Conundrum (Live) [Flat Transfer] 30. Minstrel In The Gallery (Live) [Flat Transfer] 31. Cross-Eyed Mary (Live) [Flat Transfer] 32. Quatrain (Live) [Flat Transfer] 33. Aqualung (Live) [Flat Transfer] 34. Locomotive Breath (Live) [Flat Transfer] 35. The Dambusters March (Live) [Flat Transfer DVD 3: 01. Sweet Dream Fanfare (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) (Music Video) 02. Sweet Dream (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) (Music Video) 03. One Brown Mouse (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) (Music Video) 04. Heavy Horses (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) (Music Video) 05. Thick As A Brick (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) (Music Video) 06. No Lullaby (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) (Music Video) 07. Songs From The Wood (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) (Music Video) 08. Quatrain (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) (Music Video) 09. Aqualung (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) (Music Video) 10. Locomotive Breath (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) (Music Video) 11. The Dambusters March (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) (Music Video) 12. A Single Man (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) (Music Video) 13. Too Old Too Rock ‘n’ Roll: Too Old To Die! (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) (Music Video) 14. My God (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) (Music Video) 15. Cross-Eyed Mary (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) (Music Video)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

JETHRO TULL LEGEND IAN ANDERSON SHARES UNBOXING VIDEO OF NEW 8314 BOXED COLLECTION AHEAD OF RELEASE ON AUGUST 23, 2024

10LP BOXSET INCLUDES MULTIPLE FIRST-TIME VINYL RELEASES OF JETHRO TULL FRONTMAN’S SOLO WORK

WATCH THE UNBOXING VIDEO HERE:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jzM3nUS-Hos

In preparation for the release of his highly anticipated new collection 8314 Boxed, celebrated solo artist and Jethro Tull frontman Ian Anderson has shared an exclusive unboxing video. Now available for viewing, the video offers fans a glimpse into the beautifully presented and meticulously curated 10LP box set that will officially be released on August 23rd through reissue specialist label Madfish.

A comprehensive anthology that spans Anderson’s illustrious solo career, 8314 Boxed features multiple first-time vinyl releases of classic Ian Anderson solo albums and showcases the depth and diversity of Anderson’s musical journey beyond his tenure with Jethro Tull.

PRE-ORDER 8314 BOXED RELEASED ON 23RD AUGUST
https://iananderson.lnk.to/8314

• Includes exclusive first-time vinyl releases of Divinities: Twelve Dances with God, The Secret Language of Birds (2LP), and Rupi's Dance (2LP)
• Walk Into Light, Divinities: Twelve Dances with God and Homo Erraticus remastered at half speed by Air Studio
• Roaming in the Gloaming LP offers previously unreleased live recordings from 1995-2007
• Beautiful side D etchings on 3 of the 10 records
• 96-page book with foreword by Ian Anderson, extensive liner notes by Paul Sexton and exclusive pictures

WATCH THE BOXED 8314 TRAILER
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KPmRe9dJbO4

“Hey, but someone has to try oddball things, don’t they? Might as well be me...” - Ian Anderson

Ian Anderson’s solo albums explore different sonic landscapes and instrumental line-ups, each record in this boxset standing as a testament to his versatility. From the electronic experimentation in Walk Into Light and the profound narratives of Homo Erraticus, to the acoustic serenity of The Secret Language of Birds, these albums are a reflection of Anderson's unending creativity and his ability to seamlessly blend diverse musical styles into cohesive, captivating works.

A word from Ian Anderson on 8314 Boxed:
"Since 1983, I have made a few solo albums, not as dissatisfaction with fellow musicians or the group identity but usually just to try something a bit different, whether sonically, stylistically or in terms of instrumental line-up. These records all stand out for me as being quite different from each other and in some ways demonstrate a broader depth of my songwriting. The flute instrumental Divinities record is one of my favourites to this day.”

“Hey, but someone has to try oddball things, don’t they? Might as well be me...” - Ian Anderson

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158 (USA), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Jethro Tull Frontman Ian Anderson Limited Edition 10LP Limited Box Set “8314 Boxed” Available August 23rd on Madfish Label

Included first time vinyl releases of “Divinities: Twelve Dances With God”, “The Secret Language of Birds” and “Rupi’s Dance”

Reissue specialist label Madfish have shared details of “8314 Boxed”, a limited-edition deluxe box set tribute to Jethro Tull frontman Ian Anderson’s treasured solo works. The package, set for release on 23rd August, will include:

Includes exclusive first-time vinyl releases of “Divinities: Twelve Dances with God”, “The Secret Language of Birds” (2LP), and “Rupi’s Dance” (2LP)

“Walk Into Light”, “Divinities: Twelve Dances with God” and “Homo Erraticus” remastered at half speed by Air Studio
“Roaming in the Gloaming” LP offers previously unreleased live recordings from 1995-2007

Beautiful side D etchings on 3 of the 10 records

96-page book with foreword by Ian Anderson, extensive liner notes by Paul Sexton and exclusive pictures

Watch the “8314 Boxed” trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KPmRe9dJbO4

photo by Carl Glover

Ian Anderson’s solo albums explore different sonic landscapes and instrumental line-ups, each record in this box set standing as a testament to his versatility. From the electronic experimentation in “Walk Into Light” and the profound narratives of “Homo Erraticus”, to the acoustic serenity of “The Secret Language of Birds”, these albums are a reflection of Anderson's unending creativity and his ability to seamlessly blend diverse musical styles into cohesive, captivating works.

Pre-order  “8314 Boxed”, Released August 23, 2024: https://iananderson.lnk.to/8314

“8314 Boxed” 10LP breakdown:
“Walk Into Light” (1983) – half-speed remaster
“Divinities: Twelve Dances with God” (1995) – first time on vinyl, half-speed remaster
“The Secret Language of Birds” (2LP) (2000), etching on side D – first time on vinyl
“Rupi’s Dance” (2LP) (2003), etching on side D – first time on vinyl
“Thick as a Brick 2” (2LP) (2012), etching on side D
“Homo Erraticus” (2014) – half-speed remaster
“Roaming in the Gloaming” (previously unreleased live shows from 1995-2007)

“Hey, but someone has to try oddball things, don’t they? Might as well be me...” - Ian Anderson

Ian Anderson performing in Brighton in 2014, photo by Martin Webb

Ian Anderson’s mind as a listener, which would mature into a lifetime of format-blurring creative ingenuity, was opened when he was a mere six-year-old. By then, already relocated with his family from his birthplace in Dunfermline to Edinburgh, he heard an old family 78 rpm disc of Glenn Miller and his Orchestra's irresistible gem of 1939, “In The Mood”.

“My father had a few treasured wartime records, mostly big-band stuff,” he told Prog magazine. “I remember having an epiphany, because ‘In The Mood’ introduces you to the elements of blues, effectively. That was my first moment of thinking: ‘Hmm, this music is something special.’”

A word from Ian Anderson on “8314 Boxed”:
“Since 1983, I have made a few solo albums, not as dissatisfaction with fellow musicians or the group identity but usually just to try something a bit different, whether sonically, stylistically or in terms of instrumental line-up. These records all stand out for me as being quite different from each other and in some ways demonstrate a broader depth of my songwriting. The flute instrumental Divinities record is one of my favourites to this day”.

“8314 Boxed” will be released on Madfish on 23rd August. Pre-order: https://iananderson.lnk.to/8314

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158 (USA), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Prog Rock Review: Jethro Tull-The Château D’herouville Sessions 1972

Release Date: March 15, 2024

Label: ‎Chrysalis

Website

Pre Order Link

Review Source Link 

In July 2014, I covered Jethro Tull's A Passion Play- An Extended Performance (2 CDs/2 DVDs), remastered by Steven Wilson's musical genius. Now, for the first time, that release, which included The Château D'herouville Sessions 1972, is on a 2-LP Gatefold set. Although these are separate tracks, they segue one into the next, keeping the flow of the music, however different, going without pausing. 

 

I also found the back story of these sessions interesting and quite humorous. As I read the extensive liner notes on the gatefold sleeves, Martin Barre's account had me laughing with tears in my eyes. Indeed, at the time, it was not so funny; it was a complete disaster on all accounts. Fortunately for music fans, we can hear it on vinyl's beautiful and warm clarity.

 

The tracks are solid, and it was a shame that the entire project had to be scrapped then; however, as the saying goes, better late than never. Well, at least for this JT fan. Most fans of their music would agree that the 70s was the band's most fertile period. Tull recorded this music after the immense success of the Thick As Brick album and a long worldwide tour to promote it. I believe most listeners will find tremendous enjoyment from start to finish, except listening to the reading of "The Story Of The Hare Who Lost His Spectacles" twice!

 

The lineup at the time was as follows:

Ian Anderson: vocals, flute, saxophones, acoustic guitar.

Martin Barre: electric guitar.

John Evan: piano, organ, synthesizers, speech.

Jeffrey Hammond-Hammond: bass guitar, speech, Narration on 'The Story Of The Hare Who Lost His Spectacles'.

Barriemore Barlow: drums, glockenspiel, marimba.

David Palmer (now Dee Palmer) arranged and conducted the orchestra.

Note: Sides 1, 2, and 3 were remixed by Steven Wilson in 2013 (except * 2021).

Side 4, mixed by Ian Anderson.

 

Track one begins with a short synth ditty, then on to the "Big Top" as a rousing guitar starts as Ian begins his vocals, then an acoustic guitar, which segues into tracks "Scenario" and "Audition," and the music continues to build after some nice acoustic picking. The band's power congeals into the prog rock they were famous for. It reminded me of the Thick As A Brick album.

 

So on to track four, we go "Skating Away On The Thin Ice Of The New Day." I fondly remember it being on the flip side of the "Bungle In The Jungle" 45. When I started my podcast a few years back, I had an interview with Ian. The interview never saw the light of day because of a technical issue. After mentioning that it was one of my favorite tracks, he told me it was an environmental awareness statement (which may be old news to some long-time fans). This version is all acoustic and missing the electric guitar; however, it is still excellent. 

 

"Sailor" begins with a soft acoustic guitar and Ian singing at his mellow rhythmic best. The bass playing is notably superb. The keys are layered nicely, and a superior convergence of the band's strengths goes to an instrumental segment and right into "No Rehearsal." Side one closes out firmly, showing a crew working in sync and at its pinnacle. Then, a fast-paced period begins with a marvelous guitar and ends with the way the side started with a brief synth passage.

 

Side two starts oddly with babies fussing on "Left Right" as an ominous guitar begins. The keys drive forcefully, with a solid bottom keeping the course steady and accurate. Enter that familiar flute as it merges with the keys. A sharp guitar arrives and cuts through with dominance. The bass and cowbell quietly end the track as it moves into "Only Solitaire" and then to "Critique Oblique (Part I and II)." The formula of mellow acoustics to a more potent electric mix then takes over the direction. Flourishes of Tull at their best instrumentally is a highlight of this set, with some tasteful rocking to showcase their abilities and diversity. There are too many changes to count, but all of it is exceptional prog rock. Never knowing what contrast is coming next is the mark of this magnificent lineup.

 

Side three opens with "Animelee" (1st and 2nd Dance). Another round of instrumental bliss is upon your senses, showcasing again how vital this version of Tull was (perhaps the best version of the band?). They put all their cards on the table as a creative musical unit and continue to succeed. Towards the end, it stops with a brief acoustic piano entry, then back to the prog rock classic instrumental sound, to my delight. "The Story Of The Hare Who Lost His Spectacles*" is next as you wait for "Law Of The Bungle (Part I)", "Tiger Toon," and "Law Of The Bungle (Part II)." The precursor to their hit "Bungle In The Jungle" shows its origin, and you notice some familiar melodies. Their lyrics are a riot, too!

 

Up next are the different mixes of "Scenario" (1988 mix), "Audition" (1988 mix), "No Rehearsal" (1988 mix), and "Only Solitaire" (1974 mix). It's different from the previous mixes, but all very good. Excellent acoustic guitar starts as it builds to a more aggressive sound, and Ian is in fine form. The flute, as usual, compliments the other instruments with no sacrifice at any position to make way for that. That is the reason this music is so strong consistently. Martin cuts loose on a big riff and then gives way to Ian's short reading. Then it reverts to rocking, blending into "Only Solitaire" and then "The Story Of The Hare Who Lost His Spectacles (1973 mix)". The album closes its fourth and final side with the final version of "Skating Away On The Thin Ice Of The New Day (1974 mix)" from the Warchild album.    

                                                                                                                    

The Château D'herouville Sessions 1972 were a lot to absorb, but I did so eagerly with great joy. Ironically, with all the disappointments from these sessions at the time, we got a double shot of all the music, first in 2014 and now on vinyl ten years later. Don't miss it if you love vinyl, prog rock, and Jethro Tull.   

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-PMR Founder

February 10, 2024

Tracks:

SIDE 1 (Reel date: 10th September 1972):

   1) The Big Top                                                                     

   2) Scenario                                                                          

   3) Audition                                                                            

   4) Skating Away On The Thin Ice Of The New Day           

   5) Sailor                                                                               

   6) No Rehearsal     

Notes: A clue to what the original album title might have been: ‘the one about the after life’ is faintly written at the top of the tape reel box. ‘Audition’ and ‘No Rehearsal’ were played live in concert during late 1972 and early 1973. ‘Skating Away’ received further overdubs in 1974 and was included on the ‘Warchild’ album released that year. In 1988, ‘Scenario’, ‘Audition’ and ‘No Rehearsal’ were edited together and presented with new flute overdubs on the ’20 Years Of Jethro Tull’ 5LP box set.

SIDE 2 (Reel date: 15th September 1972):

   1) Left Right                                                                         

   2) Only Solitaire                                                                   

   3) Critique Oblique (Part I)                                      

   4) Critique Oblique (Part II)

Notes: ‘Left Right’ was played live in concert during late 1972 and early 1973 and ‘Only Solitaire’ was briefly played live as an instrumental at the start of some shows in July 1972. ‘Critique Oblique (Part I)’ was re-worked and re-recorded in early 1973 for ‘A Passion Play’ while elements of ‘(Part II)’ became the passage ‘Best Friends’, also on ‘A Passion Play’. ‘Only Solitaire’ was released without further overdubs a year later in 1974 on the ‘Warchild’ album. This album reel was eventually released in its entirety on the ‘Nightcap’ double CD in 1993 with new flute overdubs.

SIDE 3 (Reel date: 25th September 1972):

   1) Animelee (1st Dance)                                                       

   2) Animelee (2nd Dance)

   3) The Story Of The Hare Who Lost His Spectacles*                                 

   4) Law Of The Bungle (Part I)                                             

   5) Tiger Toon                                                                       

   6) Law Of The Bungle (Part II)  

Notes: This tape box was clearly labeled ‘Side 3’. A missing song entitled ‘Animal Song (Hare’s Spectacles)’ that appeared between ‘Animelee (2nd Dance)’ and ‘Law Of The Bungle (Part I)’ was indeed ‘The Story Of The Hare Who Lost His Spectacles’. It was cut from the third Château reel and spliced into the 16-track tape for ‘A Passion Play’ side 2 in January 1973 with extensive orchestral overdubs sadly wiping Ian’s original acoustic guitar track. Presented here for the first time is the track as close as possible to how it was recorded in the Chateau. The tune for ‘The Hare Who Lost His Spectacles’ was played in concert on the summer 1972 US tour during an on-stage comedy routine.

The ‘Tiger Toon’ motif was re-recorded in December 1972 to form the opening section ‘Prelude’ of ‘A Passion Play’. An excerpt of ‘Animelee (1st Dance)’ was played live during Ian’s flute solo during late 1972 and early 1973.

This album reel was eventually released in its entirety (minus ‘The Hare…’) on the ‘Nightcap’ double CD in 1993 with new flute overdubs.

SIDE 4 (Original Released Mixes):

   1) Scenario [1988 mix]                                                        

   2) Audition [1988 mix]                                  

   3) No Rehearsal [1988 mix]

   4) Only Solitaire [1974 mix]          

   5) The Story Of The Hare Who Lost His Spectacles [1973 mix]                            

   6) Skating Away On The Thin Ice Of The New Day [1974 mix]

Notes: Presented here is a selection of the songs from the three recorded sides of the aborted LP as they appeared on later records. ‘Scenario,’ ‘Audition’, and ‘No Rehearsal’ was mixed and edited in 1988 for the ’20 Years Of Jethro Tull’ 5LP box set for which Ian recorded new flute overdubs. ‘The Hare Who Lost His Spectacles’ is presented in the arrangement completed in early 1973 with orchestral overdubs to end side one and begin side two of the ‘A Passion Play’ LP.

The original 1974 ‘Warchild’ LP mixes for ‘Skating Away’ and ‘Only Solitaire’ complete the selection.

Concert Review: Martin Barre At The Worthington Country Club

   Martin Barre 2 Concert-A Brief History of Jethro Tull

The Worthington 5 Country Club, Massachusetts

June 18, 2023

https://martinbarre.com/martin-barre-tour/

Nestled in the country along Route 143 off Worthington Road in Massachusetts is the beautiful Golf Links, owned by David and Helen Pollard. It was my distinct pleasure to attend the concert being held there with Martin Barre. For a few reasons: I knew the Pollards very well and had worked for them for five years in the early 2000s. And I had not seen them in 14 years! Secondly, I am very familiar with Martin’s guitar playing with Jethro Tull, covering several of the reissues of their group’s studio recordings over the years, seeing them play live with the band, and providing coverage before he departed on his solo career. With that in mind and being able to see some old friends, I had been anticipating this event for months.

 

We had a beautiful clear blue sky with the sun shining to usher in this rock legend; however, as the night rolled on, it got a bit nippy, and Martin was warming his fingers to keep them agile.

Martin Barre is one of the finest guitar players in the world and has been for many decades. Now in his 70s, he has not lost a step in showcasing his six-string virtuosity. I was to realize this fully last night as he made his way through two lengthy sets. His band consists of Dan Crisp (lead vocals/keyboards), Alan Thomson (bass), and Darby Todd on Drums. The lead singer bares a remarkable resemblance to a younger Phil Collins. That is what I recognized in short order. And besides that, after belting out the first number with authority, he did a complete turnaround. He sang like a young Ian Anderson, including all the facial expressions and mannerisms of the Jethro Tull mastermind and leader, writer, singer, and musician.

 

Another surprise may have been Martin being an accomplished flute player. I had known this, but many in attendance were surprised. The crowd expressed their delight as Martin handled his second instrument quite well. Quite honestly, and even though I still enjoy Jethro Tull to this day, Ian has lost his voice due to age and wear and tear, and nobody ever could replace Martin on guitar. It has not been the same since he left the band.

 

This night I relived the good old days with Martin wailing away and rocking the crowd and Dan Crisp doing a splendid job with each song from the Tull catalog. There are so many outstanding Tull albums and much ground to cover. Martin and his band are tight and did a marvelous job recreating all the music. Even Ian Anderson would be impressed.

 

The first Tull album I got was Warchild back in the day when there were record and CD clubs that no longer exists. It still stands as my favorite album. Now there are many different choices if you are a vinyl enthusiast to choose from. Hearing them play “Warchild,” “Back Door Angels,” and “Sea Lion” was a treat for the ears and senses. And of course, there are many of the favorites that the audience recognized immediately, such as “Bouree,” “My God,” “Thick As A Brick,” and many more, including the all-out rocking encore numbers “Locomotive Breath” and “Teacher.” Martin and the band ended the show on fire, cranking out those two prog rock classics. Fitting, it ended with plenty of fireworks from Martin’s guitar.

 

It was another night for me to remember, and an honor to be able to see the show and report on it. Thank you, David and Helen, for the night that will forever be in my consciousness and for giving this old rocker a smile from the inside out.

 

If you like the beauty of nature and outdoor music, visiting the Worthington Golf Club this summer is a must. Look at what is on tap for the rest of the season and get your tickets here: https://worthingtongolfclub.com/music-concerts-and-events.

 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

June 19, 2023

First Set:

Look Into The Sun

Someday The Sun

Cat’s Squirrel

We Used To Know

Serenade To A Cuckoo

Bouree

Sossity

Bass Solo

Back To The Family

Nothing To Say

My God

(chat) Thick As A Brick

Passion Play

Whistler

Black Satin Dancer

Back Door Angels

(chat) Warchild

Sea Lion

 

Set Two:

Acres Wild

Jack Frost

(chat) Under Wraps Acoustic

Under Wraps Electric

Protect And Survive

Watching Me

Fallen On Hard Times

Too Old To Rock & Roll

Slow Marching Band

(chat)
Locomotive Breath

Teacher.

Progressive Rock Review: Jethro Tull-Rok Flote

Release Date: April 21, 2023

Label: ‎ Inside Out

Website

Pre-Order Now

Ian Anderson found great interest in exploring his ancestral roots, which turned into the forthcoming Jethro Tull release Rok Flote (Rock Flute), their 23rd album. 

Ian Anderson (Flute, Guitar, Bouzouki, Mandolin, Harmonica, Vocals), Joe Parrish (Guitar), Scott Hammond (Drums and percussion), John O’Hara (Orchestral conductor, piano, keyboards, and accordion), David Goodeier (Bass guitar and double bass) have created a stellar exhibition of prog rock.

 

What starts as an interest turns into a commitment to excellence and the musical journey of yesteryear for Ian and the band. 

 

Ian stated: I am not here to promote the old Norse religion or, indeed, any religion. My own preference is for the ultimate esotericism of Panentheism (the belief or doctrine that God is greater than the universe and includes and interpenetrates it). I see no need for imaginary man-made visual representations of God. No need for symbols, idols, icons, relics and the ritual of prayer to an interventionist god. Problem is, it might make for rather a dull rock music album....

 

Whether you are in sync with the creator of this music or have no opinion, the music and lyrics paint an accurate picture of the subject matter. You even get a taste of some of the Scandinavian dialects. As expected of any Jethro Tull album, the lion’s share of this release moves along and rocks progressively. Superlative flute and guitar lead the way, as the bottom end is a rock-solid foundation for them to remain consistent from start to finish.

 

The movements in each track range from fast-paced to joyous, profound, and outright toe-tapping rhythmic flute passages. Keeping that all in mind, you will not get any bombastic 6 to 8-minute-long tracks, the longest being “Wolf Unchained,” complete with the said wolf baying at the beginning and end of the track and clocking in at an economical 4:58. It is one of the best songs along with “The Navigators,” “Ithavoll,” and “Guardians Watch.” If anything, I was surprised by how quickly each track passed. That did not seem to matter; it made an impact and was completely enjoyable for this long-time fan.

 

Elements of Rok Flote reminded me of some of my favorite JT albums of the 70s (Warchild, Minstrel In The Gallery), particularly with the guitar passages. The flute, as usual, is outstanding and fits like a glove with the rest of the music, serving as the engine that drives this unstoppable locomotive of prog rock. This is one of the essential JT classics that should not be missed!

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-TFOV Founder

March 3, 2023

Tracks:

01. Voluspo

02. Ginnungagap

03. Allfather

04.The Feathered Consort

05. Hammer On Hammer

06. Wolf Unchained

07. The Perfect One

08. Trickster (And The Mistletoe)

09. Cornucopia

10. The Navigators

11. Guardian’s Watch

12. Ithavoll