My Favorite Albums – War Child – Jethro Tull

Well, do you ever get the feeling that the story’s
too damn real and in the present tense?
Or that everybody’s on the stage, and it seems like
you’re the only person sitting in the audience?

“War Child” by Jethro Tull is the band’s seventh studio album, released on October 14, 1974. The album marked a return to a more accessible rock format after the ambitious and concept-heavy releases of Thick as a Brick and A Passion Play. Written entirely by frontman Ian Anderson, War Child blends rock, folk, and orchestral elements, creating a distinctive and eclectic sound.

Continue reading “My Favorite Albums – War Child – Jethro Tull”

Song Meanings: Locomotive Breath

He sees his children jumping off, At the stations one by one

“Locomotive Breath” is a classic rock song by British progressive rock band Jethro Tull, released in 1971 as part of their album “Aqualung.” The song is notable for its distinctive flute riff played by the band’s frontman Ian Anderson, alongside powerful guitar work and driving rhythms. The lyrics of “Locomotive Breath” are often interpreted as a commentary on the frenetic pace of modern life and the struggle to keep up with it.

Continue reading “Song Meanings: Locomotive Breath”

Jethro Tull – Doyle’s Space: Music Hall of Fame

And the long grass blows in the evening cool
And August’s rare delight may be April’s fool
But think not of that, my love
I’m tight against the seam
And I’m growing up to meet you down on velvet green

Jethro Tull is a British rock band formed in Blackpool, England, in 1967. Initially playing blues rock and jazz fusion, the group’s bandleader, founder, primary composer, and only constant member is Ian Anderson, a multi-instrumentalist who mainly plays flute and acoustic guitar, and is also the lead vocalist.

Continue reading “Jethro Tull – Doyle’s Space: Music Hall of Fame”

My Favorite Albums – Thick as a Brick – Jethro Tull

Well! Make your will and testament. Won’t you join your local government.
We’ll have Superman for president let Robin save the day.

I first heard this album, which was also the first song I had ever heard by the band Jethro Tull, in the Milton High School library, Alpharetta, Georgia. Head Librarian, Myrl Hansard, asked student Steve Butler to pick out some albums, from a list she had, that other students would enjoy. This is how Thick As A Brick, the 43-minute single-song album, made its way to 1973 Alpharetta.

Continue reading “My Favorite Albums – Thick as a Brick – Jethro Tull”