Album Info
| Artist: | Jethro Tull |
| Album: | Aqualung |
| Gatefold: | Yes |
| Released: | Europe, 2015 |
Tracklist:
| A | Aqualung | |
| A1 | Aqualung | 6:34 |
| Words By - Jennie Anderson | ||
| A2 | Cross-Eyed Mary | 4:06 |
| A3 | Cheap Day Return | 1:21 |
| A4 | Mother Goose | 3:51 |
| A5 | Wond'ring Aloud | 1:53 |
| A6 | Up To Me | 3:15 |
| B | My God | |
| B1 | My God | 7:08 |
| B2 | Hymn 43 | 3:14 |
| B3 | Slipstream | 1:13 |
| B4 | Locomotive Breath | 4:23 |
| B5 | Wind-Up | 6:01 |
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Description
"Aqualung," the fourth studio album by British rock band Jethro Tull, was released on March 19, 1971. Widely regarded as one of the band's most influential works, the album showcases a blend of progressive rock, folk, and hard rock elements. The album was produced by Ian Anderson and Terry Ellis and recorded at Island Records' Basing Street Studios in London.
The album's cover art, created by artist Burton Silverman, features a painting of a disheveled homeless man, which ties into the album's themes of social issues and the human condition. The title track, "Aqualung," introduces listeners to the character of the same name, a homeless man who is shunned by society. The song's powerful riff and haunting lyrics make it one of Jethro Tull's most iconic tracks.
"Aqualung" is often considered a concept album, although Ian Anderson has disputed this label. The album is divided into two distinct sides: "Aqualung" and "My God." The first side, "Aqualung," focuses on various characters and societal observations, while the second side, "My God," delves into themes of religion and spirituality.
The album opens with the title track, "Aqualung," which features a memorable guitar riff by Martin Barre and poignant lyrics by Ian Anderson. The song's structure shifts between acoustic and electric sections, showcasing the band's versatility. "Cross-Eyed Mary," the second track, continues the theme of societal outcasts with its story of a young girl living on the fringes of society.
"Cheap Day Return" is a brief, acoustic interlude that reflects Anderson's personal experiences, while "Mother Goose" offers a whimsical, folk-inspired tune. "Wond'ring Aloud" is another short, acoustic piece that highlights Anderson's introspective lyrics and delicate vocal delivery. "Up to Me" closes the first side with a lively, rhythmic arrangement and thought-provoking lyrics.
The second side, "My God," begins with the title track, which criticizes organized religion and features a powerful flute solo by Anderson. "Hymn 43" continues the critique of religious institutions with its driving rock sound and biting lyrics. "Slipstream" is a brief, acoustic interlude that leads into "Locomotive Breath," one of the album's standout tracks. "Locomotive Breath" addresses themes of existential dread and features a memorable piano intro by John Evan and a powerful guitar solo by Barre. The album closes with "Wind-Up," a song that questions the role of religion in society and features dynamic shifts between acoustic and electric sections.
The band members' performances on "Aqualung" are exceptional. Ian Anderson's distinctive voice and flute playing are central to the album's sound, while Martin Barre's guitar work provides a perfect counterpoint. The rhythm section, consisting of bassist Jeffrey Hammond and drummer Clive Bunker, delivers solid and dynamic support throughout the album. John Evan's keyboard contributions add depth and texture to the arrangements.
"Aqualung" received critical acclaim upon its release and has since been regarded as one of the greatest albums of all time. It reached No. 7 on the UK Albums Chart and No. 4 on the US Billboard 200. The album's success helped establish Jethro Tull as a major force in the progressive rock scene of the 1970s.
In conclusion, "Aqualung" is a masterful album that combines thought-provoking lyrics with innovative musical arrangements. Its exploration of social and religious themes, coupled with the band's exceptional performances, make it a timeless classic. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to Jethro Tull's music, "Aqualung" is an essential listen that continues to resonate with audiences more than five decades after its release.
