This album "A" is the 13th studio album by Jethro Tull. It was released on 29 August 1980 in the U.K. and 1 September of the same year in the United States. The album was recorded in the summer of 1980 using Maison Rouge Mobile and Maison Rouge Studios in Fulham, London. Eddie Jobson guested on the album, playing keyboards and electric violin.
In 1980, Jethro Tull, one of progressive rock's most iconic bands, released their 13th studio album, titled simply "A". This album marked a radical departure in their sound, incorporating heavy use of synthesizers and electronic elements. The move proved highly controversial, alienating a portion of their fanbase accustomed to the band's signature blend of folk, blues, and hard rock.
Historical Context
The release of "A" coincided with a seismic shift in the music scene. The punk and new wave movements were challenging the dominance of established rock acts. Jethro Tull, under the visionary leadership of frontman Ian Anderson, sought to adapt and remain relevant in this changing landscape. The choice to experiment with electronic music was a conscious attempt to embrace a more modern sound and potentially attract a new audience.
Musical Exploration
"A" represents a fascinating sonic journey. Songs like "Crossfire" and "Fylingdale Flyer" showcase angular synthesizer lines, driving rhythms, and a pronounced electronic sheen. The band retained elements of their progressive roots, as evidenced by the complex arrangements and time signature changes. Even with the electronic influences, Ian Anderson's distinctive flute playing remains a prominent feature on several tracks.
Controversy and Legacy
While a bold artistic move, the electronic direction of "A" polarized listeners. Die-hard fans found the album jarring and too far removed from Jethro Tull's established sound. Critics were similarly divided, some praising the band's willingness to evolve, others dismissing the album as a failed experiment. Despite the controversy, "A" served as a prelude to the broader acceptance of synth-driven sounds in the rock landscape during the 1980s.
Behind the Scenes
In a move that further alienated some traditionalists, founding member Martin Barre, the band's longtime guitarist, was unavailable for the creation of "A". Instead, the album featured contributions from keyboardist and violinist Eddie Jobson (formerly of Roxy Music and Frank Zappa's band). The engineering and production work by Robin Black also shaped the album's sonic direction.
Ian Anderson: The Driving Force
Ian Anderson, as always, remained the driving creative force behind Jethro Tull. The decision to push boundaries on "A" was characteristic of his restless artistic spirit and a determination to avoid complacency. While this era of the band may not be their most universally loved, it reflects Anderson's steadfast refusal to rest on past laurels.
Music Genre: British Prog Rock |
Album Production Information: The album: "JETHRO TULL - A" was produced by: Ian Anderson and Robin Black Robin Black (Producer, Sound Engineer) active since the mid-1970s as sound engineer and producer for British music bands. He has worked on early albums for the British bands : "Blodwyn Pig" "Black Sabbath" and "Jethro Tull" . Sound/Recording Engineer(s): Robin Black, Leigh Mantie This album was recorded at: Maison Rouge Studios, London and at HOME with The Maison Rouge Mobile |
Record Label & Catalog-nr: CHRYSALIS 202 838 |
Media Format: 12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone RecordTotal Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram |
Year & Country: 1980 Germany |
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: JETHRO TULL - A |
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Complete Track-listing of the album "JETHRO TULL - A" |
The detailed tracklist of this record "JETHRO TULL - A" is:
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Description
Note: The photos on this page are taken from albums in my personal collection. 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 ).
Description
"A" Record Label Details: White to Blue Colour CHRYSALIS 202 838
The release of "A" coincided with a seismic shift in the music scene. The punk and new wave movements were challenging the dominance of established rock acts. Jethro Tull, under the visionary leadership of frontman Ian Anderson, sought to adapt and remain relevant in this changing landscape.
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