Living with the Past
This is a beautifully packaged and thoughtfully programmed compilation of recent live recordings of songs across the span of Jethro Tull's sizeable catalog. Their origins as a blues band with folk leanings made them a welcome alternative to the power trio back in the late '60s. That period is covered here on "Some Day the Sun Won't Shine for You," recorded by the original band when they reunited in 2002. Their commercial high-water mark wasAqualung, as brilliant and lasting a statement as any in classic rock. Here, in crystal-clear recordings of utterly respectful versions, the current lineup takes on "Locomotive Breath" and the title track. Elsewhere, Ian Anderson is joined by a string quartet for new takes on some early and obscure single sides. The band's penchant for long-form rock-operatic fare, which put them in a progressive cul-de-sac alongside Yes and Genesis, lost them critical support but not their legion of fans. The fans, who refer to them simply as "Tull," know that this band still has its chops. In particular, longstanding guitarist Martin Barre is among the most underrated of classic rock axmen, and this fine live album is as much his as it is Anderson's.--Rob Stewart