There aren’t that many albums throughout the history of rock music that reach iconic status, but this album, Aqualung, which was Tull’s fourth release from ’71, is definitely in that category. This album is 50 years old this year, and this is the Steven Wilson remix from 2011. I actually played the original mix before putting this on, just to get the feel of the new one to hear the differences. This version is a lot brighter, and you can hear instruments more clearly as have been brought into the centre of the stereo spectrum.
This is the band’s best selling album and the one everyone associates the band with more than any other. It’s a concept album with the central theme of the distinction between religion and god. Heavy stuff aye? You wouldn’t think so listening to the music as it’s a very uplifting album. From the opening lines “Sitting on a park bench eying little girls with bad intent”, to the rocking awesomeness of Locomotive Breath, and all points in between, this is a Prog masterpiece. The band are at the height of their powers, and Anderson’s ability to weave tales with that distinctive voice and mad flute playing, is a pure joy.
I never tire of listening to this record as the mix of Prog, folk and rock hits the spot every time. Locomotives Breath is still one of my favourite tunes some 50 years later – I guess a good tune will always be a good tune. Crooks Eyed Mary is another favourite, and for an album this old it sounds, its surprisingly fresh. It’s another in the category of every home should have one.
10/10 from The Grooveman.
