Aqualung

Yuck!

This album just hits right.

Aqualung Cross-Eyed Mary Wond'ring Aloud Hymn 43 Locomotive Breath

Sick flute

gay

One of the all time classic albums, ever! A mix of folk-rock, progressive rock, and hard-rock. I still listen to this album.

Rediscovered this album on vinyl last month and forgot how great it was. Really the only Jethro Tull album I like.

yet another album id like to give a 3.5 but here we are.

I do like a lil prog here and there, and Jethro tulll does not get their flowers 😔

The rock flute is kinda fun

I like the flute and lyrics, but most of this was forgettable. Points for flute!

Hard to separate my current understanding from my 12-year old wide-eyed wonderment. Just blew me away back then, leading to a lifetime appreciation of Jethro Tull. Now it seems a worthwhile exploration of its themes of alienation and loss and religiosity (among others) and a nice highlighting of musical adventurism. Hard rocky, proggy, folky, psychy. An all-time great.

The name always made me laugh - clever - but made me think they were heavier than they are. I chose not to listen to them - a few misconceptions but they’re definitely better than I realised.

Aqualung and Locomotive Breath are songs that I both know well and have never voluntarily chosen to listen to. The biggest take away for me while listening to this record yesterday was some sound life advice: ‘Be sure to leave your underpants with someone you can trust’

I owned this album on vinyl, and while I knew I'd be somewhat familiar with the material (not having listened to it in decades) I remembered way more than I expected, and at the same time, it was a revelatory listen. This is a brilliant record. The riffs never stop, the arrangements are superb, it's not pretentious, but it has a sense of being music for adults (for lack of a better descriptor), so in that sense, it takes itself seriously enough. The band is excellent, the songs are all fantastic, the lyrics interesting, and did I mention the riffs? The blend of acoustic and electric and the flutes... this is exactly the kind of album that belongs in this endeavor. Anderson and company were brimming with ideas, you can hear it in every song. Loved it. Great start to my day.

Huh. For some reason I avoided this album when I was young and listening to this kind of music. JT was unavoidable on classic rock radio, so I knew several of their songs and even had a greatest hits album, which I enjoyed a bit but never enough to pursue their albums. (Plus, I did take a chance on Thick as a Brick once and didn't care for it.) Now I'm sorry it took me so long to listen to this album, for this thing cooks. It's an epic concept album that avoids pretentiousness. (I think it's saved by its empathy for the losers of the world.) The songs are well-written, (this thing has guitar riffs for days), the lyrics are fantastic, the arrangements are thrilling, and the performances are top-notch. Plus, I found the sequencing perfect.

I haven't listened to Jethro Tull in years. I loved this. Locomotive Breath remains my favorite on the album. I listened to the special edition version on Spotify and there's a 13-minute interview with Ian Anderson that's really interesting so check it out.

Jethro Tull is one of those bands I've heard a lot about and recognize a few of their songs but never dug into much. I think I've missed out, this album was great, fresh, pretty unique even among prog of the era. I'll listen to more from them for sure

Prog rock from 70th. Not that bad

Quite enjoyable but went on a bit at times. I liked hearing him go mmmyeah! Whilst playing flute

Cant really say this is my thing, but its pretty solid

Solid album.

Progressive rock? With a flute? Unheard of! Thick as a Brick is where they really perfected things.

This album is way longer than I thought. Some hits, some dudes.

One of Jethro Tull's classics.

Catchy

Sea shanty typa dig

Actually not bad I just don't mix well with prog rock prolly cuz am not merican

Had heard of Jethro Tull but never listened to them. Sounded a bit more folksy than I was expecting. They really weren’t bad and I very much enjoyed the guitar on Cheap Day Return.

It was good !! 7/10.

Number of good tracks on this one, Locomotive Breath and Aqualung are classic rock staples and theres other good ones as well. Doesn’t really feel like prog rock to me.

A painfully O.K. prog album. There are some songs that stick out, but most don't do much for me. 2.5/5 -> 3/5.

Liked this more than I thought I would, especially given the super creepy album cover. Doesn't quite bubble up to 3 stars, but it's definitely a strong 2.

Metals best known flutist

Some cool riffs, but overall not really my style

Fantastic prog rock.

Tons of fun. Not totally familiar with Herbies library, so this was a mostly new adventure.

Good

Jethro Tull is good

Locomotive Breath is an all-time great song! Doing a lot of lifting here. This album was enjoyable but there certainly was a sameness to the tracks. Voice, instrument and melodies were repeated in a way that was never boring but very noticeable. Still, high quality album and easy to listen to.

Good concept album. Songs were enjoyable.

The beginning if the album was a little bit strange. The end was quite nice.

"My God" has the greatest flute solo of all time. Really enjoyed listening to this one. Anyone complaining about the flute is a bit of a wanker, probably.

I appreciate different artists and styles of music, I personally don’t enjoy this

Never really been a fan of Jethro Tull and this album didn’t change my mind.

Jethro Tull has a unique sound that may not be for everyone, with the flute, piano, and sometimes rough vocals, but I can get into it. When he's not growling, the singer has sort of a George Harrison sounding voice, or maybe it's a different guy singing, I don't know. The album seems to be telling a story about a creepy pervert named Aqualung? I didn't really follow it, but I liked enough of the tracks to give it a 4/5. Best tracks: Aqualung, Cross-Eyed Mary, Hymn 43, Wind-Up.

I genuinely don’t get the complaints about the flute. Maybe I’m just tired of generic rock albums from this challenge already but it’s an objectively interesting twist, even if it’s not to your taste. I personally thought it was done really well, and it’s definitely not classic rock and roll but they fit in way better than I would’ve expected. If anyone ever asked me if you could shred on a flute I’d point to the My God solo and say absolutely. I came into this one after having read the reviews not expecting much, and I ended up really liking it. I’ll admit some of the lyrics are a little over the top, but the singing itself is well done, and it’s just hard not to like every song in this album.

Hervorragend!

Who knew flutes and rock music work so well together. A lot of great tracks with interesting and unique musical choices. Some work, some don't, but the album as a whole works great. The vocalist has a lot of weird quirks while singing here that compliment the overall sound of the album to make it enjoyable. My favorites were Cross-Eyed Mary, My God, and Up To Me

I really like this one. Rock with flutes is neat. Favorite songs were Aqualung, My God, Locomotive Breath, and Hymn 43

I discovered this album a couple years ago and have been in love with it ever since. There's something so visceral about it. It feels like Led Zeppelin with more umph and some wind instruments. The guitar riffs are electric, the choruses are catchy, and the whole album has a consistent aesthetic. I love concept albums like this.

Ive tried a thousand times to get into Jethro Tull’s music and I just can’t take it seriously. I hear it amd instantly envision medieval drunks at a bar just getting drunk and fighting and Willow in a corner smoking weed while the how to train my dragon kid gets rosted by the dragon Rhaeal from Game of Thrones on the way to Morodor to meet the princess bride Highlight of album is the song My God and locomotive breath which are pretty rockish but not my type of music.

A classic. A great album. 3

First time listening to the actual album. Loved it

not bad

Liked songs: Cheap Day Return, Up to Me, Slipstream, Locomotive Breath

Epic record!

I have always wanted to like this album more. The musicality is good. But the entire album just feels too renaissance rock for me. It lacks the mastery of Led Zeppelin. It lacks the psychedelia of Doors. It lacks the straightforward drive of Black Sabbath and the sensibility of Sir Elton. Aqualung, in my opinion remains the only single off this album that makes it worth listening to. I haven’t listened to it in 10 years and I think I’m good for another decade.

I actually listened to this one on vinyl yesterday. What an underrated album and group?!? I really enjoyed this one. I didn't realize this was a concept album. "Cross-Eyed Mary" is a banger! And Aqualung is amazing with that killer riff. Even led me to listen to Jethro Tull for a couple of hours. Somehow they don't have the respect of their peers. Maybe it's because of the flute. Anyway, I'll be reaching for this one again.

Enjoyed this listen! Starts strong, then fades and the songs get similar. Definitely liked Disc 1 better. We listened on my b-day so there were a few (phone call) interruptions which may have enhanced the experience. In the shuffling madness this rates (3.3*s)

I haven't listened to Jethro Tull in a very long time and hearing them again made me realize how good they are. This album showcases all of their talents and is rock solid. They have such a unique thing going, I was impressed with how well this one held up. Even the songs in between the hits are good.

One instrument I would not think to put in a rock song is a flute but Anderson makes it work. Some major hits on here with some other decent ones. Tull gives a minstrelly song a solid rock and roll backbone by adding in heavy guitars and drums. What is an aqualung though?

Such a great album. Strong from start to finish. Some all-time hits sprinkled in but the deep cuts hold their own as well. I can see why this was a breakout hit for Jethro Tull and deserves to be their best selling album. While I'm sure I've heard it in the past I didn't realize how well this album holds up. Jethro Tull has to be one of the most unique acts. I've regularly praised them for Ian Anderson's flute but I'm starting to realize how talented they are across the board. They aren't just a gimmick as a rock band to feature a flute. I've always known their radio hits but I'm going to have to dive into their albums a bit more. 3.85 stars

Awesome

I like this band. This album is the best one by Jethro Tull. Every track is very good and several are masterpieces, like Aqualung, Mother Goose and Locomotive Breath . I am really happhy to listen it again! I did not listen Jethro for years! Thank you!

Great artist. Great album. One of the greatest flutists of all time. I’m in awe every time I listen to him play.

4.5

Smooth

Pretty good classic British rock. I like it but I don't think I would go out of my way to listen to it. If I had been born in that era I would probably be a fan.

multiple flute solos!

cool flute!! usually hate woodwind but this was nice

Fuck yeah, and they Jethro Tull isn't cool, Ha 🤘!

It's a concept album about a frog? Decent progressive rock that jams. And flute.

I love this album when I was 15. And those songs I loved so much back then are still great today. But the few songs in between are quite tedious. I'm giving this album 3 stars based on how much I enjoyed it at one point in my life. But if I was hearing it for the first time today, it might get 2 stars. The way this album sounds a lot like some music made in a shire with smurfs or Hobbits or the like; along with the repetitive themes that come up throughout the album (although the band says it's not a concept album?) just bore me somehow.

progr og

One of the best of all time

I really liked listening to this album.

Cool sound. I liked the rock music with flute and piano. I don't know if I'm totally on the same wavelength, but it was fun to listen to and I will probably listen again at some point

It was fine. Fun at times, and now I finally know what my step dad was talking about with Jethro Tull's flute when I was a flute player in high school.

Not really sure who this is for. Half the songs border on heavy metal, and half border on fairytale folk music. None of the harder songs have any consistent beat, and rely heavily on toms, which has always sounded bad.

I haven't listened to much rock lately and this folk/rock album was refreshing. The lyrics seemed complex and I didn't expect the flute to work so well.

bome nije jethro dull

Ok ok sam zato kaj prije mene poslusas ne znači da mi mozes krasti fore. >:( Super album dou

God I hate the flute

Ottimo album. Solido. Un classico. Non pensate a flauto sì flauto no, godetevi la musica e basta.

Classic

Fifty years later, this is still great Rock & Roll. Powerful arrangements, Ian Anderson's distinctive voice, and...flutes? It all worked then, and it still works now. Probably one of the first albums I ever bought and it was nice to listen to the entire performance again.

Jethro Tull to me is one of those bands that took themselves too seriously, like they were doing some heroic work putting a homeless man on the cover of an album, exposing the dark side of humanity and religion. Songs like Aqualung, Cross-Eyed Mary and Locomotive Breath have all become staples of classic rock radio. Hearing them all together in the context of this album, they are decent, but the acoustic snoozers in between differ greatly from those rockers and really aren’t very good or they’re songs too stuck in their convictions to be any good (as on My God).

Who says rock can't be layered and multidimensional.

Yeesh. I can see why people either love or hate progressive rock. It's long and boring and over the top. To be honest, apart from the title song I had never in my life heard any other Jethro Tull work until I listened to this album, while high of course. The flute is distracting. Instead of summoning Hobbits I felt like I wanted to join the Nazgûl and burn the Shire to the ground. On the plus side, Jethro Tull walked ... so that Spinal Tap, especially "Stonehenge" could run.

Oh baby. The hour and five minutes during which I listened to this album were very memorable. My mom decided to drive so I was back seat enjoying the ride listening to this then my phone died and then I was like ok if I’m gonna sit up front to charge I’ll just drive then jethro tull cooked a bit too hard bc I was cruising at a hundo and then I saw a cop slowed down but not enough and got pulled over for speeding and my license expired so I just have a printed piece of paper for the extension and also since the car is a brand new used car they hadn’t mailed all the paperwork yet so didn’t have registration for the officer🤪. I ugly cried to the officer and we had to call my dad for proof of purchase and he is furious w me and Darlington car is in jeopardy and now for the rest of my life I have to drive like an ancient old lady with a massive fucking barbed stick up her ass so I don’t go broke from paying my insurance and everyone will hate me for driving so pathetical and lawful. #makingcruisecontrolmybitch Anways ab the album I actually really liked it and it’s so snazzy and quirky 9/10

Pretty good background music for gaming with RJ! 7.5/10

7/10 - Pretty enjoyable all the way through. Wind up was my favorite song but most of the songs were quite nice to listen to.

enjoyable album. Respect the flute

The songs were fine and I really liked the flute, but I guess I’m not a huge fan of prog rock. I think the songs just get kinda boring after a while 6/10

Masterpiece

Some fun spots

I vacillated between absolutely loving this and finding it unbearably cheesy.

songs can be pretty long, but the buildups and payoffs are worth it. some of the instrumental sections were a little too long but overall worth a listen

I'm sure this album has a great following but to me it kinda sounded loud and annoying

Killer folky prog? Sign me up. I honestly haven't listened to them as much as I should cus they're very much in my wheelhouse. This album is just ripper after ripper.

Never really listened to a ton of jethro Tull but it’s really not too bad. I mean they would probably have been an all time classic rock band if they didn’t have the flute and just had a stronger guitar presence but maybe that’s why people like jethro. It clearly makes unique and original. Luckily they also make the flute as enjoyable as possible which is tough. This was a pretty good album with some songs worth revisiting. 6.6/10

The title track and Locomotive Breath are absolute bangers. Hymn 43 is an underrated gem. But there's too much that sounds like minstrel wandering through the forest that Monty Python spoofed in Holy Grail. Decent but could have been great.

Looking through these comments and reviews about people complaining about flute being in rock and roll is absolutely hilarious: "would be a 4/5 but because of a flute... It get 1/5" Its really a shame how the presence of a flute can drastically change one's opinion on an album or song. If it was some amateur flutist, I'd understand it swaying ones review but when the flute is played this well, how can you not see the sheer talent. I chalk that up to just being closed minded. I dislike a lot of punk rock music because the majority of punk music is played poorly and sung horribly. Even if it's its aesthetic, it is still not pleasing. And I'd change my argument if the music was played by real musicians. Anyways, AQUALUNG! A great record. One of the first records I purchased on vinyl. My least favorite song is the opener and title track. It's good.... But the rest of the album is far superior in my opinion. The iconic riff in Aqualung is what people mostly remember and that's about it. Unless you're a huge Jethro Tully fan. I remember enjoying this record a lot more than I did recently. But it is still a great record. The ideas that are presented in this record are inspirational and great. The flute solos are killer! There are some jazzy parts with the drumming and the guitar riffs are punchy. I don't really care for the vocals.. They're my least favorite. Great listen.

I like it and I dig the flute

Twang.

Decent. The title track and Locomotive Breath are flautist epic-sauce (as (the) kids (used to) say (10 or 20 years ago)), but nothing else really stood out to me.

Surprisingly the first time I’ve heard this (aside from the title track), and my gut reaction is perfectly passable prog rock. Didn’t dig it as much as Yes. Nothing wrong with it, but nothing that spurs me to explore further.

I recently have a new setup for my record player and have really been enjoying listening to records and how good they sound. Since then, this is the first album to come up that I’ve had on vinyl, it being one of my father’s old records that doesn’t get any play from me. So, I threw it on the record player. And I was a little disappointed.

4.0 - I struggled a little with this because clearly there’s masterful musicianship, especially the flute interludes (e.g., at the beginning of “Cross-Eyed Mary”). Sometimes the mix on these songs sounds a little strange — live and slapdash, particularly on “My God.” And while there are more than a few memorable riffs (e.g., the main theme on “Aqualung”) there aren’t any true ear worms on here. It’s also got some typical prog-rock mysticism served in a Golden Corral buffet of genres. So, while I do like this record, my opinion at the moment remains mixed.

Its ok.

Un poco rollo.

Un poco rollo.

meh

This album gives me a rock renaissance fair, pretentious Spinal Tap Stonehenge vibe. The flute thing works for me. My enjoyment level runs between a 1.5 and a 3.5 depending on the song. I also got the feeling that this one might grow on me if I cared enough to give it more listens. Given that I'll round up the mathematical average of 2.5 to a 3.

I liked this album overall. It has a great sound and I enjoy rock flute - I know many don’t share that opinion. This album really epitomizes progressive rock. It’s a 5 for me. Favorite songs: Aqualung, My God, Locomotive Breath

This album is a little confusing. I see the hard rock elements but that damn flute throws me off every song. A lot of the songs seem to have Christian undertones but I gotta say that Hymn 43 is a banger.

I usually do thick as a brick when I'm going to do a jethroat toll listen. This was a nice change of pace

Iconic

Have heard of these guys but never any of their music. This album is great vibes, 4* Highlights: cheap day return

Classic rock album starting with rock opera Aqualung… and containing good melodies and riffs throughout. Enjoyed up to Me, locomotive breath and Wind Up….

This album is a must have in every collection. What's not to love about it?

I love this album, flutes and all.

It was forgettable but I didn't hate it. The perfect 3.

Aqualung Aqualung • ...wtf. Is this about a perverted homeless with pneumonia? Bit of whiplash from this one. Bass really moves though. Cross-Eyed Mary • Cool bass and flute to open. Don't hear that often. Reference to Aqualung means this'll be a concept album? What's the story? Cheap Day Return • Nice acoustic guitar. Not much to say. Mother Goose • Lyrics have to just be nonsense? Feel like this is yet another group I would like more without vocals. Why is singing considered so essential? Wond'ring Aloud • Just sorta fine. Strings are good. Up to Me • This one kinda rips. Percussion lays it down and the flute's melody is entrancing. My God • Who is this for? Just sorta goofy. Corny sort of "epic". That rambles for 7+ minutes. Flute and chants at 3:30 go harder than Ron Burgundy though. Hymn 43 • Starting to get bored. Starting to just blur together. Slipstream • Really appreciate the strings! Eerie ending is neat too. Refreshing. Locomotive Breath • Pulsing bass is sweet. Woulda been a great track to have the vocalist shut up for. Flute brings me back though and puts the track at a highlight. Wind-Up • 2:10 guitar is the only thing I like on this one. Lick Your Fingers Clean • Microcosm for the album: Nice instrumentation and grating vocals. Jethro Tull is Jack Black lyricism & vocals absent charm and humor. Audible respite is given through flares of Ron Burgundy's flute chops. Unfortunately, solid instrumentals are back seat to grating vocals of indiscernable and nonsensical lyrics. This dichotomy was jarring. The music presented in this album became one dimensional and bland rather quickly. Strong 2 to weak 3.

Didn’t like this

09/10/2023 - 18/03/2024

Classic

naja, das ist mir einfach zu experimentell .. und alt (70er!!)

Hatte eigentlich Jethro Tull nicht gut in Erinnerung. Aber die packende Eröffnung des Albums liess hoffen. Und hat sich erfüllt, gefällt mir heute.

Hadn't heard much Jethro Tull beyond this title track before this. It certainly slaps, as does Hymn 43 and Locomotive Breath, and I could listen to the intro on Up to Me on loop for hours. Enjoyable all the way through, including all the flute.

I've never listened to this album before except for the title song. There were some cool moments, I liked a lot of the psych folk interludes. It didn't grab me today but I may revisit with headphones sometime.

Concept album or no, this LP clearly has a message about the difference between personal faith and "religiousness." It can come across as somewhat pretentious, but if you take it as gospel, you're missing the point. Besides all that, the instrumentation of this incarnation of Jethro Tull, as well as some brilliant mixing, make for a gorgeous listen. It's perhaps not an "anytime" album, but it is certainly one I will return to and reflect on semi-frequently in the future. PS - After listening again to some of the LP, the gorgeous arrangements - how delicate things are, and the cleverness of some of the lyric - all has worked to convince me to move this to a 4.5/5, which I will graciously round up. A stunning project.

I grew up listening to Aqualung, Cross-eyed Mary, and Locomotive Breath on the radio. When I was in high school, I finally listened to the entire album — my dad's vinyl record of it. I still remember the guitar and drum entrance on "My God". I was hooked. Just a fantastically fun album from start to finish. Rock, prog, blues, folk. It's got it all. I spent years listening to Jethro Tull's discography after that, but nothing really matches Aqualung.

Hmmm. I thought maybe I wouldn't dislike this bc I've been surprising myself with how into weird flute prog I can get, but this album didn't do anything for me. That bent of British traditional music with the harpsichords just isn't my thing.

Bonus star (up from zero) because I got to make my gf experience this for the first time. This is legitimately one of my least favorite albums (and bands) ever recorded

It was better than I was expecting! I really liked their use of the flute, especially in “My God.”

with the way people talk about this band, i was expecting like, fedora-steampunk-nerd cringe. takes-the-renaissance-fair-too-seriously cringe. it's literally just more 70s rock, with pangs of "oh! that's a sample i recognize" it's fine. 3.5

The second star is for not being as bad as I was afraid it would be, but overall I still disliked it.

I don't remember listening to much Jethro Tull before, rather unusually as I know my Dad had at least this album in among his Pink Floyd, Led Zep, and others. I enjoyed this a lot more than I thought I would. It's not my favourite type of music, but it is definitely better than I expected. Clearly the product of some rather heavy narcotics, but I suppose that's the signature sound of the seventies. Pleasant, tuneful, melodic guitar riffs over folky drums and other instruments as well as folky vocals. Very enjoyable, and a pleasant surprise.

Comenzamos el martes con uno de mis discos de juventud. Lo escuché incontables veces y en todas me voló la cabeza. Disco sólido, conceptual. Extraño, también, al ser una banda en la que la flauta traversa tiene un rol principal. Mi favorito de Jethro Tull y uno de mis más queridos álbumes de mis 20s y del rock progresivo en general...es que un disco que empieza con un tema como Aqualung no puede ser malo.

Why do people have such an issue with the flute?? This was a complete surprise of an album to me. I was vibing to every song and was impressed with the lyrics and his voice.

Much more versatile than other 70s rock bands.

Not the worst rock flute

LOVE that flute, Ian Anderson’s voice sometimes reminds me of Bowie, and if you told me “My God” was in Jesus Christ Superstar I’d believe you. Super cool listening to the interview at the end and his love for cozy studio spaces and how he doesn’t like to play simple songs. If we could do partial stars I’d rate it a 3.8, I’m a harsh critic.

If somebody asked me 30 years ago do I have I say anything nice about Jethro Tull, a snarky look of disdain probably would have ensued. I had no patience for fusions of math rock, jazz flute and/or elven gamboling. Fast-forward however through years of exposure to traditional folk, multicultural genres & a steep decline in the quality of pop music, & this comes as a breath of fresh air. Really enjoyed (most of) it.

I was really into this one. Definitely varies in theming and how hard they lean into prog rock or folk, but it flowed really well for me. Love that flute.

Experimentelles Album: Vielseitig und Kleinteilig. Lokomotive Breath: nimm noch einen Zug - lehne Dich zurück - genieße die (Laser)Show.

First traaaaack banger. Keep giving me those sweet sweet flute solos JT.

I've heard these drums as samples.

Creative program/classic rock album with unique instrumentation. Sounds a lot like King Crimson

I was unexpectedly pleased listening to this album. Still a little weird, but I still enjoyed it, even with the addition of the flute. Early 70s prog-rock for the win, I guess? However, I don't see this album ever crossing my path ever again.

OK rock album, but I don't understand why it's so highly regarded by some.

Solid album throughout. Some of the flute solos dragged on a bit long, mind.

Love that the special edition album comes with an interview with Ian Anderson being like “this is not my best work.”

Definitely a solid album but just lacks a little bit more energy for me

Seems a little dated by now. Aqualung is a total classic though, but over time maybe it feels a little plodding. I had to struggle to make it through the album. It gets an extra star just because it is a classic of an era.

Jethro Dull

Esperaba más, linda la flautita con el rock, si alquien lee esto me asesina :)

Love this album. Such a great period sound. Saw them live during their 50th anniversary show. What a letdown. Ian's voice was shot. Ill stick to the albums. Thanks.

A few all time rock classics and an opening riff for the ages. Deep dive into a long two disc set. Really enjoyed some of the stuff I never heard before. It was just too long.

Ganz klar fünf Sterne

Uninteressanter Folk Rock.

Summary: I think I would've rather done something else with my hour. It's not bad, but its certainly not great. Samey samey. Yep, that's a flute. This is the 5th time you've showed us this song. Aqualung: 6/10. Uh, yeah I mean its a rock song. Switch ups are neat, and the guitar riff is catchy. Heard it before, but sitting down and listening to its kinda lackluster. Cross‐Eyed Mary: 3/10. Boring as all hell. Might get played in the background of a bar if lucky. Cheap Day Return: 6/10. Hard to make me hate a song so short. Simple, straight forward sound. Mother Goose: 5/10. I... I really don't know if I do or don't like this. I wasn't expecting to be thrown in a dnd starting tavern in this album. If this was like best hits of john the bard, I might be grooving. Just a total tonal shift. Wond'Ring Aloud: 5.5/10. Cute song. Not adventurous, but doesn't need to be I suppose. Up to Me: 4/10. This flute is fucking crazy. Feel like I'm in a jungle level in a old tomb raider game. I don't dislike it, but it verges on feeling out of place. Just zoning out for most of these tracks. Feels like they don't go anywhere. My God: 4/10. Either I'm not in the mood to listen to an album right now, or this is just not vibing with me. We are getting WAY to personal with this flute. Hymn 43: -/10. Oh man. First one I've skimmed through. This is having the "Every song sounds the same" problem now. I'm bored. Bored of this sound. Slipstream: 2. Okay.... and...? We did one of these earlier and it was better. Locomotive Breath: 3.5/10. Take the flute out and maybe replace it with some more prominent bass. Bass is the saving grace for me (love my bass.) Wind Up: 4/10. little more interesting than the rest. Not by much mind you, but it has its own personality.

Early 70's rock. Undistinguishable from other artist's of the time. Not really for me.

Could listen to this on repeat(and have) for hours on end. Delicate acoustic coupled with with heavy brashness. Evocative lyrics and composition. Top of their game here.

A lot more depth and interest in this album than I was expecting. I only knew Aqualung going into it. While I enjoyed it, it started to feel a little similar by the end. Overall, good classic rock knocking at the prog door.

Meh, I didn't really listen to the whole thing. Hommie has some good flute skills for sure, no doubt about that. It's cool to hear someone jam out on the flute like he does. It was alright. Nothin I would put on of my own will again. The first track is the only one I can remember hearing before. I know some people really like him. It def has that 70 rock sound to it though so there's that..3 stars.

what the fuck is this shit we start a song about some disgusting hobo-wannabe-child predator, followed by a song about a school girl who may be into that hobo?.. how do you propose the idea and the lyrics to the rest of the band and everybody says "yah good idea man"?? ah man followed by a throw-away song and then immidiately more schoolgirls... overall, whack, musically might have been a 2/5 NNN

One of my favorites

I've never been a massive fan of Jethro Tull, but this is one of their albums that I like quite a bit. I think I prefer Thick as a Brick, but this isn't bad at all and has Aqualung, which is a definite favourite of mine. I don't hate the flute, but some of Ian Anderson's vocals don't sit well with me. I think it's the way he elongates words at the end of each line that can be grating here and there? So four stars seems fair.

Not my cup of tea. Had heard aqualung before but nothing else. Too pros rock for my tastes

Flöjten är sjukt bra. Väldigt underhållande.

It was fine

Jethro Tull is one of those bands that was always on in my house growing up. It is genuinely good music and evokes a lot of emtions...but some of the lyrics are suspect.

I loved this one. The whole album flows freely and is all consistent with the concept. Just a few callouts: I love Aqualung-epic journey. And if there is something that puts the icing on top of an epic journey that is a strong long intro. The contrast and progression of Locomotive breath more than holds up after 5 decades. Lastly, On “Hymn 43”, that gritty isolated riff coupled with those clean keys is just sick. Strong 4 on the heavier side.

Every time I think not Jethro Tull again I enjoy listening to them. A very unique album.

Fun. Jaunty. Always a fan of some extra flute.

Fantastic!

Each songs are perfect!

Outstanding! Fantastic complete listen all the way through!!!

Incredible prog rock with plenty of acoustic guitar, strings, and even some flutes. Peak Ren Fair-core. The title track is an all-time classic, the rest of the album is just a bonus to get to hear the band flex their chops. Definite Classic. Will revisit.

Got that Jesus Christ Superstar vibe going on. Which ain’t a bad thing. The lyrics are weak but the arrangements are interesting. It meanders. It isn’t for me but I can recognise why people like it.

Aqualung was released when Jethro Tull was at its best. I don't think there's a weak moment on the album. Ian Anderson's lyrics, tunes, flute playing, and singing are superb. Martine Barre's guitar work is also terrific. The story of Aqualung holds up nicely, 50 years after it's initial release.

Definitely a favorite from this artist!

Interesante progrock. Si no se enojan, me atrevo a decir que incluso escucho un poco de Opeth en algunas canciones

Solid. Not a 5, but its a good album. Cross eyed mary is great, and Ian can really play the flute

Close to 4 stars but not quite there... 72/100

Strong, influencial.

Felt like a Zepplin album with flutes on top, so pretty cool. Veered off at the end but really good overall

Nada que añadir

Make since they toured with Led Zeppelin, they have a similar sound. Over all a fun albulm to listen too; I am a sucker for ballads. I will likely listen again. 4/5

Another decently enjoyable album

Sounds really modern. Quite interesting, but not my cup of tea.

not for me but decent intrumentals

Sounds pre-metal with flute. I couldn't get into it, but did find it *interesting*.

THIS is my kind of music!! Tull is one of my favorite bands and this is one of the (many) great albums. There is not a bad song on this and most are absolutely amazing. NOTHING bad to say about this album; great music, great lyrics, great performances, amazing musicianship.

Great album. Good memories of listening to it in my first headphones in the early 70’s.

meh

Jethro Tull should have veered away from the tracks that were closer to pure folk rock. The album started out amazingly with the first two songs, but completely lost me during the stretch from Mother Goose until Up to Me. Those songs, while they still carry elements of the Jethro Tull sound which kick them up a notch in terms of quality, could be given to any other subpar folk rock band from the '60s. Thankfully the band regained their senses and went back to the heavier stuff, or at least songs that effectively meshed together the harder rock sound with softer elements with the flute and its friends. It created a really unique, timeless sound. Standout tracks are Aqualung (which is maybe one of my favorite songs ever), Cross-Eyed Mary, Hymn 43, Locomotive Breath, and Wind-up.

A classic, loved it!

Fine

Jethro Tull combined an unusual collection of stylistic elements: classic rock guitar, some folk-like ballads, obscure to inscrutable lyrics, and more frequent use of a flute than almost any band in modern popular music. This unique mixture made for a remarkably successful band, and Aqualung was their most commercially successful album. The title track is a great example of Jethro Tull's style, complete with dramatic transitions and religious overtones throughout the lyrics. The album contain other similarly intense songs, including "My God" and "Locomotive Breath." Several critics believed that Aqualung was a concept album discussing the relationship between God and religion. The band did not intend it as such - this is just the work that was typical for Jethro Tull.

Mythical prog rock characterized by fantasy lyrics, acoustics, and woodwinds. Songs are spacious and folk-like yet feature some killer hard guitar riffs. This guy can pull off the most badass flute solos in history. I like the mix of songs, with some more eclectic, some wild and hard, and some soft and minimalist. Some are long and epic, while others serve as sweet interludes. 3 of the 11 tracks are less than 2 minutes. It's a huge contrast to Thick as a Brick which is one gigantic song divided into segments. This makes this record more accessible and easily digestible, serving as a good starting point in his discography, especially with the hits. It's also beautifully produced, with everyone crisp and clear, especially Anderson's vocals who you could always understand. Strong starting and closing tracks. Good distribution of tracks in the order. There are a few weak tracks, and it blends in a bit. I also don't like how some songs end. "Wond'ring Around" is a beautiful track but it ends awkwardly. "Wind-Up" is another example which awkwardly closes the record with a sharp transition to the (mediocre) bonus track "Lick Your Fingers Clean". Otherwise, it's an insanely strong and easy-to-listen-to prog album at the height of their career. Favorites: Aqualung, Wond'ring Around, My God, Locomotive Breath

Progressive rock band Lots of different instrumentals Storytelling lyrics Flute Dislike the vocals mostly favorites: Locomotive breath, Cross-eyed mary

This album took me back to my childhood. My brother used to play this album. I enjoyed the musical arrangement more than the singing. I loved it, if only for the nostalgia.

Not for me

Loved the instrumental. Everything else felt like I wasn't "getting" it.

Ich weiß nicht - für mich klingt das wie eine Schülerband, wo man den besten Kumpel, der Querflöte spielt, halt auch mitmachen lässt... Krass, dass die so lange so erfolgreich sind!

Some ups, many downs.

To quote a two star reviewer on this site, "Sounds like a fairytale theater run by deadheads." Except to me, that sounds incredible. Also, I feel like King Gizz must be real into this record. All these reviewers need to get their heads out of their asses - flute playing in rock-n-roll music is cool as hell.

I can see some modern influence from this. Tenacious D definitely has some vocal similarities to this.

Great classic rock story-telling album

This album was a favorite of mine in my early teens. I haven't listened to Aqualung in a very, very long time and as much as I liked it I doubt I will listen again.

Classic

4-

this is an album i have known my own life, through my dad. this album hit my dad really hard in his life and has been a constant favorite in his life. so i have learned to love this album through him, and i still do to this day. for me, i just really love the sound of this album. it sounds so great. very soft, yet aggressive at times, with a touch of sinister at times. the bass playing is unreal, as is a lot of the musicianship. another biased review, but yeah, i love this album a lot.

In my late teens, I had a friend who was really into Jethro Tull. So much so, that his Myspace profile name was "Thick as a Brick" (I just pulled up Thick as a Brick to listen to it, and holy shit, part 1 is over 22 minutes long, and part 2 is almost as long. Holy Tubular Bells, I think I'll pass). Heading into this album, the only song that I was familiar with was the title track, but I'm very familiar with the fact that Jethro Tull is known for being the 'flute rock' band. This album wasn't really my speed at all. The usage of the flute really feels like a gimmick, as it really doesn't add a whole lot to the music, and none of the songs are any better for its usage. The title track is fine, but it wears out its welcome about halfway through. I'm guessing the lyrics on the side 1 songs are about a peeping Tom watching a young girl, which is also not my cup of tea, so this album never really stood much of a chance with me. I liked the side 2 songs a little bit more, but that's not saying much. "Hymn 43" was my favorite track on the album, and it really highlights the few things that I liked on this album: some good piano riffs, and some bluesy guitar riffs. Lyrically, I liked the side 2 songs better as well, but again, that's not really saying a whole lot. I really didn't care much for this album, and it's definitely not something that I'd ever revisit.

I liked a couple songs, but for the most part, I did not enjoy this album.

How have I not heard this music??? It's amazing! 5/5

me re gustó lo que me sorprendió mucho🫡 9/10

Klassiker

uninspiring

started strong, got weaker

I enjoyed instrumental intros. Not a fan of the vocals

I have images in my mind of an English pixie prancing around with a flute. Somehow simultaneously iconic, unique, and boring.

Forgot how good this album was, brings me back to high school when I listen to lots of 60-70s rock

One of my favorites! Especially Locomotive Breath, Hymn 43, Mother Goose, My God, and Cross-Eyed Mary. Love the blend of folk and prog!

"This is the greatest album in the history of music" - Ron Burgundy. While I don't quite agree with Mr. Burgundy's sentiments, this entry is a lot more that a rock band with a flute. Super progressive and the guitar and bass players really stood out to me. 4.0

Flute-led folk rock wasn't originally on my radar, but now it certainly is.

An album I’m very familiar with, but it’s been a while since I’ve listened to it in its entirety. I’m yet again blown away by the craftsmanship demonstrated by this collection of songs. All the musicians are skilled on their instruments, but Ian Anderson’s song writing truly stands out. There’s an interesting variety of song constructions, including some rather complex arrangements, and the lyrics are thought provoking, ranging from character studies of pathetic individuals to scathing commentary on institutionalized religion. An added benefit is that Anderson can actually sing. This is an album I could listen to again and again.

a classic with some dust on it

Classic

despite being over the top, it is good throughout.

Gef greyinu 2.5. Frekar mikið prump.

Ekki skemmtilegt finnst mér. Minnir á rokksöngleikjatónlist. 2,5/5

TIL I really, really don’t like Jethro Tull

This album makes me feel like I'm digging for gold in the Middle Earth with a bunch of dwarves. Absolutely fantastic. Loved the flute by the way.

helt avg gammelmannsrock

10

I like the different instruments used and unique feeling of each song. Easy to listen to and find yourself bouncing to the beat.

I had listened to Aqualung (song) countless time, but never listened the whole album. Discovered new favourites: my God and Locomotive Breath

really enjoyed it. i liked the acoustic songs the most. great story telling, reminded me of david bowie and frank zappa. 7/10

Lots of religious overtones on this classic rock album

Pretty good

still good

Classic Rock. 5/5

The rockin flute and some iconic rock classics earn it a 5.

Absolutely loved it - you can hear the impact it’s had on loads of modern prog artists like Steve Wilson Music for hobbits by hobbits

Not bad and I like the flutes, but it was hard to get into this. Just isn't for me.

I love it

Muy bueno

Pretty good tho the dude seems pretty creepy

I don’t know why I don’t like this more, but it just washed over me a bit. I put it on and never felt the urge to turn it off, but nothing raised my interest enough to check the title of the song currently playing. It was a big pile of ‘meh’ with extra flute… which gets it an extra star

Aqualung Hey Aqualung! I’m not much familiar with prog rock, not because I don’t like but because I never know where to start. I think I quite like it, which is probably a consequence of approaching 50. Anyhow, I really liked this. The first 2 songs are great, particular Aqualung. Liked Mother Goose a lot too. I wasn’t sure what to expect but I liked the folky/pastoral elements, as well as the heavier riffing. I can see why stuff like this gets parodied, but I kind of think that makes it more enjoyable. I’m not sure where to rate it. Tempted to give it 4 as I really enjoyed it. But I think I need to give it a few more listens, it’s quite dense and will probably be a real grower. I’ll give it 3 for now and revise when we look back and change all our reviews in a year ⭐️⭐️⭐️

it was decent, consistently good

A masterpiece of an album if you are into this kind of music. This album has been a presence in my life since its creation back in 1970. Having grown up hearing these songs first coming from my brother’s stereo, progressive FM radio and eventually my own stereo, I “get” this music. British folk-influenced songs, flutes, esoteric lyrics, hard chugging guitars and distinctive vocals all come together somehow and it works. However, if art/prog rock is not your thing or if you did not grow up when this kind of music was popular, then I can see why some low-rated reviews and head scratching exists. That said, I love it!

Another classic!

Classic Album forever

Ihan menevä, hyvä skitta 3,5/5 Ei kummosempi 3.5/5

Love it

All hail the flute. Locomotive Breath added to library.

Much better than I was expecting! Everything in between "Aqualung" and "Locomotive Breath" sounded like it was coming from Fairport Convention.

I listened with both headphones at work! I dig this. It’s very up my alley, not sure why I never tried to listen to the album before. No bad songs. When did stereo become a thing? Immediately listened again once it was done. I like the almost medieval folk sound. “Aqualung” (song) has a real “What’s New Pussycat” feeling in the middle/end there. “Hmm, Aqualung is a lot longer than I thought…”

Absolutely love this album. Very creative instrumentation, and really well composed songs. Favorite track: Aqualung

Cool as always, but lacking a little bit of action for me in the middle.

Het begin vind ik maar een 2/5 waard. Maar de tweede helft vind ik wat gedurfder.

overall, Aqualung’s rich musical textures, thought-provoking lyrics, and masterful performances continue to inspire and resonate with people, now including me, and i’ll be giving this album a 7.5/10. full review on ig @musicwithnessa

really nice mellow rock sound feels kinda like a mix of 70s metal and psychedelic rock, guitar and drums at some parts feels black sabbath-ish some bits felt a little out of place, flute stuff mostly, nice variety between songs though really love a few tracks, stuff like wind up and hymn 43 are really great but it feels a little bit inconsistent in quality

Classic rock with a piccolo I guess?

Aqualung - Great track. Feels like a journey from start to finish. Really great guitar intermissions in between parts. Cross-Eyed Mary - The flute was really offputting to me at first but I actually don't mind it. The flute and guitar and piano passing the melodies between them at the very end is a cool touch. I didn't like the weird tappy percussion during the verses but overall a good song. Cheap Day Return - Short and pretty acoustic song. No complaints. Mother Goose - Not sure how I feel about the flute on this song. Gives off medieval bard music feelings lol. The electric guitars that come in for the first time at the 2:30 mark pull it together a bit more for me. I don't hate it but it's not as good as the previous songs. Wond'ring Aloud - Another shorter and pretty acoustic song with some piano and strings along with the guitar. I actually love this one a lot, it's very peaceful. Up to Me - Man I really don't feel like the flute adds anything to this at all. It just adds another layer that doesn't really need to be there. Makes the song sound kinda mushy. I think it would be much better without it. Other than that I think the song is nice. The bassline that comes in around 2:10 hits perfectly. My God - It's fine. I think it handles the flute better than some of the other earlier songs but I still don't really like it and it for sure outstays its welcome here. Doesn't keep my attention nearly as well as some of the earlier "journey" songs on the album, namely Aqualung. Hymn 43 - A much more "typical" song and I definitely do like it a lot more. It's catchy and sounds great. It's also short enough that I'd listen to it on its own, unlike Aqualung which is great but too intense to listen to casually for me. Slipstream - Yet another short acoustic song. I really like these, they're a breath of fresh air in between the heavier and longer ones. This one is very beautiful. Locomotive Breath - I like this one in the same way I like Hymn 43. The two guitars panned to different ears of my headphones was strange at first but I actually quite like it. It has a unique sound to it. This is the only one besides Cross-Eyed Mary where the flute part actually fits in so far. Wind-Up - This song is fantastic. Might actually be my favorite on the album. The second half of this record hits so much harder than the first. Lick Your Fingers Clean - Not a bad closer by any means. Again, the flute sounds gimmicky to me but it sounds much better than most of the other songs on the record so I don't mind. Overall this is an album where the high points make up for the low points. Some of the flutier songs like Up to Me are genuinely hard to listen to but songs like Aqualung, Hymn 43, and Wind-Up are all great. I'm going to go with 3/5. Would've been a lot better without the flute lol.

wond'ring aloud is good, nice guitar, 70s folk sound hymn 43 and locomotive breath are the songs I like best as examples of prog rock on album

the interview bit is a weird thing to do

Only thing holding it back was the lack of flute

Top album

If someone asked me what do wizards listen to at parties I'd show them this. O'Aqualung! Great concept album but maybe a little too repetitive in parts.

Classic tull

Jethro Tull is great

Lots of jazz flute. Fun album that didn’t really land for me

My mom had this record and would play it when I was a kid. There’s a bit of nostalgia with this one for me. It’s alright! It’s like pop prog almost.

Never really gave Jethro a good listen before. Surprised at how good it was. 3 1/2 stars.

Not bad, would listen again.

everyone knows the song from the first 6 notes. Lyrics are creepy AF but aside from that, solid album.

So close but not my jam

1970s blues inspired rock, I think bands like Jethro Tull, Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath, ect really inspired the hard rock/heavy metal wave that followed. This album stands out from the “Masters Of Reality” & “Led Zeppelin II” because of the flute work by the vocalist Ian Anderson.

Nogle sange giver lidt Robin Hood stemning, især Mother Goose, tror det fløjten. Der er en der er meget fan af fløjten. 5,8/10

Me voló la cabeza y fue parte de mi introducción al rock progresivo. Sobre todo con thick as a brick; pero este album tb es hermoso y fácil de escuchar una y otra vez

Classic album. Love how it starts, what a riff

I did listen to this album for years, and I love some of the songs, others are too much .. I played some of them, Locomotive Breath , and wondering aloud ... 4 stars

Day 12 Really good album. Idk what you guys are on about, there’s nothing particularly bad about this album at all! I liked all the songs on it.

Plinky plonky folky flutey rocky rock. Very enjoyable

Nr. 105/1001 Aqualung 4/5 (3x) Cross-Eyed Mary 4/5 (2x) Cheap Day Return 4/5 Mother Goose 4/5 (2x) Wond'ring Aloud 4/5 Up to Me 4/5 (2x) My God 4/5 (3x) Hymn 43 4/5 (2x) Slipstream 4/5 Locomotive Breath 4/5 (2x) Wind-Up 4/5 (3x) Average: 4,0 Just consitently good songs.

Listened thru a few times, enjoyed it - the flute is an unusual tool, but the grooves on some of these tracks are undeniable. Not sure I'll drop into rotation, but interesting stuff

Not really my cup of tea, but I can tell it’s technically impressive. The mix of jazz and rock is uncomfortable though.

May need to give this another listen. I honestly can’t say I hated this. It does feel like a bunch of theatre kids made a rock band replete with jazz flute. I can see why some would absolutely loathe this. To be honest I should love this but was only slightly amused by it. It’s possible it’ll grow on me over time. 3/5

Not a huge fan TBH. Not my vibe, it's a little too middle finger to the world.

Not really my thing, but parts of it were okay. 2.5 stars.

I'm drawn to this, but I don't know why. Why do I like this? I'm perplexed. 3 stars for now.

Favorites: All of them Classic Album. Ian Anderson brings flute into progressive rock.

Thought I would love this because of the song Aqualung, but the album as a hole is nothing particularly special and I won't be returning to it.