"Songs from the Wood" is an album by Jethro Tull and is considered to be the first of a trio of folk rock albums (Songs from the Wood, Heavy Horses and Stormwatch) despite the fact that folk music elements are present in the work of Jethro Tull both before and after this trilogy.
Jethro Tull's "Songs from the Wood" is an iconic album that marked a significant shift in the band's musical direction. Released in 1976, it is often regarded as the first installment of a folk rock trilogy, which also includes "Heavy Horses" and "Stormwatch". Although Jethro Tull had incorporated folk elements into their music prior to this album and continued to do so afterward, "Songs from the Wood" stands out as a defining moment in their career.
The album was produced by Ian Anderson, the creative force behind Jethro Tull. Anderson's signature vocals, along with his skillful flute playing, acoustic guitar, mandolin, and cymbals, contribute to the unique sound of the record. The band's lineup for this album consisted of Barriemore Barlow on drums and percussion, Martin Barre on electric guitar and lute, John Evan on piano, organ, and synthesizers, John Glascock on bass guitar and vocals, and David Palmer on portative pipe organ and synthesizers.
"Songs from the Wood" was recorded at Morgan Studios and La Maison Rougge Mobile Studio. These studio choices allowed the band to capture the essence of their folk-inspired sound while maintaining a high-quality production value. The album's sound engineering and mixing effectively highlight the intricate instrumentation and the diverse range of influences that Jethro Tull incorporated into their music.
One of the notable aspects of "Songs from the Wood" is the blending of traditional folk melodies and rock elements. The album showcases Jethro Tull's ability to seamlessly merge different musical styles, creating a sound that is both familiar and innovative. The lyrics explore themes of nature, folklore, and the celebration of English heritage, painting a vivid picture of rural landscapes and mythological tales.
The title track, "Songs from the Wood", sets the tone for the entire album. It combines catchy melodies with intricate instrumental arrangements, featuring Anderson's flute and Barre's electrifying guitar work. The song encapsulates the essence of Jethro Tull's folk rock sound and establishes the album's overall atmosphere.
As a 12" LP vinyl album, "Songs from the Wood" offers a listening experience that is both nostalgic and immersive. The large format allows for detailed album artwork, which often features symbolic imagery related to the album's themes. Holding the vinyl record in your hands, carefully placing the needle on the spinning disc, and experiencing the warmth of the sound is an intimate and rewarding way to engage with the music.
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Music Genre: Folk Prog Rock |
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Album Production Information: The album: "JETHRO TULL - Songs From the Wood" was produced by: Ian AndersonThis album was recorded at: Morgan Studios and La Maison Rougge Mobile Studio |
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Record Label & Catalognr: Green coloured Chrysalis 6307 591 |
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Media Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone RecordTotal Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram |
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Year & Country: 1976 Made in Germany |
Band Members and Musicians on: JETHRO TULL - Songs From the Wood |
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Track Listing of: "JETHRO TULL - Songs From the Wood" |
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The Songs/tracks on "JETHRO TULL - Songs From the Wood" are
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Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone )
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Record Label Details: Green Colour with Orange Butterfly Logo CHRYSALIS 6307 591 , Made in Germany, GEMA
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