The 70's was the time of the "Bee Gee" phenomenon..."Saturday Night Fever"...but rock n' roll was always a constant. Differing expressions and unique style's had catapulted rock n' roll original's into superstar's...offering new idol's for the suppressed rock n' roll following. You had "The Who", "Queen", "Bad Company", "Sweet" and "Jethro Tull"...all original and all talented. Jethro Tull's "Minstrel In The Gallery" brought the band's unequaled styling's into the forefront of arena rock...original, uncompromising and very heavy. Released in 1975, "Minstrel" is filled with exquisite, intricate compositions and a musical genius that surpasses any other band, of their time. Musicianship, substance and an emotional intensity..."Jethro Tull" entertains with expert precision.

In my opinion, this is the classic "Jethro Tull" line-up...consisting of "Ian Anderson-vocals, acoustic guitar and flute; Martin Barre-guitar; John Evans-piano, organ; Jeffrey Hammond-Hammond-bass, string bass; and Barriemore Barlow-drums and percussion. Orchestral arrangements by Dave Palmer. Violins: Leader-Patrick Halling. Additional violinist's are: Elizabeth Edwards; Rita Eddowes and Bridget Proctor." The accompanying cellist is "Katherine Tulborn." "Minstrel In The Gallery" is a "Tull" must have for all appreciative musical fanatic's. Mixing the genre's of ancient renaissance phrasing's and feel, combined with classical, blue's and rock n' roll, Jethro Tull were an ambiguous modern musical entity that were unique in style and emotional delivery.

Ian Anderson's madman stage antics, symphonic vocals and breath heavy flute playing, had personified him as "Jethro Tull", but in reality they were a band...something the rock n' roll press and fan's misinterpreted for years. Delicate guitar phrasing's and classical accompaniment's are provided by Anderson and his long time partner and collaborator, "Martin Barre". Barre delivers eloquent electric guitar playing that is intense, atmospheric and truly expressive in musical brilliance. The whole Tull experience, is the joining of the two. One of modern music's most impressive and underrated collaborative talent's ever joined together, to unfurl such an original and domineering genius that instills thought and emotion that can never be duplicated. All fine master's of their craft, the remaining line-up's performances are perfect and unblemished. Jeffrey Hammond-Hammond's bass playing is incredible and high powered virtuosity...Barriemore Barlow's full-tilt playing is solid, complicated and clever...one of the best drummer's in rock n' roll. John Evan's piano and organ work is moody and beautifully delivered. One of the greatest band's ever..."Jethro Tull".

"Minstrel In The Gallery" is one of my favorite "Tull" releases. To me it embodies their complete talents as individuals and a band. It is a progressive and analytical rock fused, classical enjoyment that can't be classified as one genre, but a compilation of many. That is "Tull's" essence...joining different style's of music, to produce a unique and vibrant sound that's all their own. This is an album that needs to be listened to...not played. Passionate, energetic epic like compositions, the arrangements and subtle nuance's need to be fully absorbed to appreciate them. This release is masterfully mixed and recorded...capturing all of "Tull's" versatile talent's.

I enjoy every song on this release, but my top favorite's are "Minstrel In The Gallery", "Cold Wind To Valhalla", "One White Duck", "Black Satin Dancer" and the epic "Baker St. Muse". Each song is performed with momentous passion and sensitivity, that they touch the heart and soul in profound proportions. They are layered with many moods and feelings. They are solemn, fiery, beautifully delicate and filled with melancholy. Thought provoking and soul stirring at best.

I highly recommend "Minstrel In The Gallery" for its diversity and for its high caliber performances, by one of the best bands in the world. "Jethro Tull's" original and stylized talents had placed them apart from any other band...a truly one of a kind musical experience. Pick it up...you won't be disappointed if you enjoy music that is well played and filled with profound depth and emotion.







Recommended: Yes