- Genuine UK Release with Original Custom Inner Sleeve and White and Blue Record Label
“Storm Watch” is the twelfth studio album by the rock group Jethro Tull. It is considered the last in the trilogy of folk-rock albums by Jethro Tull (although folk music influenced virtually every Tull album). This web page has photos of album covers, inner sleeves, record labels together with production details, musicians and track-listing.
In the bleak winter of 1979, as the world braced itself for a new decade and the bitter winds of change howled outside, Jethro Tull unleashed "Storm Watch" upon the unsuspecting masses. A far cry from the pastoral whimsy of their earlier works, this album was a sonic tempest, a raw and visceral outpouring of folk-rock fury that captured the zeitgeist of an era on the brink of upheaval.
Emerging from the hallowed halls of Maison Rouge Studio in Fulham, London, "Storm Watch" bore the hallmarks of a band at a crossroads. Bassist John Glascock was battling health issues that would tragically lead to his passing, and the band was facing a shifting musical landscape. Ian Anderson, the enigmatic frontman and flautist extraordinaire, had always been the driving force behind Tull, but here his vision seemed sharper, more focused, as if honed by the harsh realities of a world in turmoil and personal loss.
Gone were the playful jigs and rustic revelry of yore, replaced by a brooding intensity that mirrored the socio-political climate of the late 70s. The album's opening track, "North Sea Oil," set the tone with its ominous lyrics and driving rhythm, a stark commentary on the environmental and economic consequences of unchecked industrial expansion, a theme that resonated deeply with the growing environmental concerns of the time.
Throughout *Storm Watch,* Anderson and his cohorts – guitarist Martin Barre, keyboardist John Evan, and drummer Barriemore Barlow – explored a rich tapestry of musical textures. From the haunting strains of "Orion," a fan favorite often cited for its poignant flute melody, to the anthemic fervor of "Flying Dutchman," the album showcased a band unafraid to experiment, to push the boundaries of their folk-rock roots, incorporating elements of hard rock and progressive influences. Yet, beneath the surface experimentation, there was a palpable sense of unease, a feeling that something was amiss. The album's lyrics grappled with themes of isolation, disillusionment, and the fragility of human existence, reflecting the personal struggles faced by the band and the broader anxieties of the era. "Dark Ages" lamented the loss of innocence and the creeping cynicism of a generation scarred by war and social unrest, while "Dun Ringill" evoked a sense of longing for a simpler time, a return to nature's embrace.
Produced by Anderson himself, "Storm Watch" was a testament to his unwavering artistic vision. His meticulous attention to detail, coupled with the band's exceptional musicianship, resulted in an album that was both sonically ambitious and emotionally resonant. The swirling keyboards, the soaring flute solos, the thunderous percussion – all coalesced into a powerful sonic maelstrom that swept the listener away on a tide of raw emotion.
Upon its release, "Storm Watch" received mixed reviews from critics, some hailing it as a bold new direction for the band, others lamenting the absence of their trademark whimsy. However, in the years since, the album has garnered a cult following, with many recognizing its prescience and its unflinching portrayal of a world on the precipice. The album cover, featuring a lone lighthouse braving a stormy sea, has become an iconic image associated with the band.
In the grand tapestry of Jethro Tull's illustrious career, "Storm Watch" stands as a unique and often overlooked gem. It is an album that defies easy categorization, a testament to a band unafraid to challenge themselves and their audience. It is a storm of sound and fury, a whirlwind of folk-rock majesty that continues to resonate with listeners today, reminding us of a time of change, challenge, and the enduring power of music to capture the human spirit.
Album Description & Collectors information:
This is the twelfth studio album by the rock group Jethro Tull. It is considered the last in the trilogy of folk-rock albums by Jethro Tull (although folk music influenced virtually every Tull album). |
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Music Genre: Folk Rock / Prog Rock |
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Album Production Information: The album: "JETHRO TULL – Storm Watch" was produced by: Anderson and Robin Black This album was recorded at: Maison Rouge, Fulham. Album cover : David Jackson |
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Record Label & Catalognr: CHRYSALIS CDL 1238 |
Album Packaging: This album "JETHRO TULL – Storm Watch" includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by and artwork. |
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Media Format: 12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram |
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Year & Country: 1979 UK |
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: JETHRO TULL – Storm Watch |
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Complete Track-listing of the album "JETHRO TULL – Storm Watch" |
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The detailed tracklist of this record "JETHRO TULL – Storm Watch" is:
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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 )
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.
"A" 12" Vinyl LP
"Aqualung" is often considered a concept album, exploring themes of religion, society, and the human condition. Its central character, the disheveled Aqualung, became a recurring figure in popular culture. However, Ian Anderson, the band's frontman, has often disputed the concept album
- Aqualung UK 1st Issue ( 1971 England ) - Aqualung (1971 UK England) - Aqualung (1973, France ) - Aqualung (Chrysalis Records, Germany) - Aqualung (1971, Germany) - Aqualung (1981, Italy)
"Benefit" saw Jethro Tull further embracing the progressive rock movement. Complex song structures, unconventional time signatures, and the integration of classical influences became more pronounced than ever before. Tracks like "To Cry You a Song" and "Son" showcased the band's increasing ambition
- Benefit UK (1970, England) - Benefit ( Green Chrysalis, Germany ) - Benefit (Pink Island, Germany)
Jethro Tull's 1982 album "Broadsword and the Beast" arrived at a pivotal time in the band's history. The German and Netherlands vinyl releases showcase the album's unique blend of folk-rock traditions and the burgeoning electronic sounds of the era.
- Broadsword And The Beast (1982, Germany & Netherlands) - Broadsword and the Beast (1982, Germany) -The Broadsword and the Beast (1982, Holland)
The album opens with the hard-driving "Steel Monkey," which features a memorable riff by Ian Anderson on flute and guitar. This track sets the tone for the rest of the album, which features a number of hard-rocking tracks that showcase the band's new sound.
Crest Of A Knave 12" Vinyl LP
In the realm of progressive rock, where musical landscapes shift and evolve, Jethro Tull's "Heavy Horses" stands as a testament to the band's restless spirit and unwavering commitment to pushing boundaries. Jethro Tull, led by the enigmatic Ian Anderson, defied the prevailing trends and crafted a work
Heavy Horses 12" Vinyl LP
Released in 1978, "Bursting Out Live" captures the raw and electrifying essence of Jethro Tull's live performances, showcasing their remarkable musicianship and Ian Anderson's distinctive vocals. The album was an invitation for listeners to experience the energy, excitement, and virtuosity that characterized the band
- Live Bursting Out (1978, Germany) - Live Bursting Out (1978, USA )
In the heart of the early 70s, amidst the swirling chaos of prog rock's experimental explosion, Jethro Tull, those flute-wielding, folk-infused, musical madmen, unleashed a vinyl behemoth upon the world: "Living in the Past." This wasn't just an album; it was a sprawling sonic landscape
- Living in the Past (Island Records) - Living in the Past (Chrysalis Records)
In the heart of the mid-70s, amidst the swirling chaos of glam rock's glitter and prog's pompous indulgence, Jethro Tull, the enigmatic musical minstrels led by the enigmatic Ian Anderson, unleashed "Minstrel in the Gallery." A bold leap from their folk-infused origins, this album stands as a testament
Minstrel in the Gallery 12" Vinyl LP
The Jethro Tull "Passion Play" is a 12" LP vinyl album that was released in 1973. It is a studio album by British progressive rock band Jethro Tull, and it was produced by Ian Anderson, the band's lead vocalist, flautist, and guitarist. The album's concept revolves around the story of a man's journey through life
Passion Play 12" Vinyl LP
In the heart of 1978, as punk rock's snarling rebellion echoed through the streets, Jethro Tull, those flute-wielding prog rock stalwarts, were holed up in Maison Rouge Studios in Fulham, London. They were crafting an album that would challenge their own musical boundaries while still delivering that signature
Rock Island 12" Vinyl LP
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".
Songs From the Wood 12" Vinyl LP
Released in 1969 amidst a vibrant rock scene, Jethro Tull's "Stand Up" marked a bold departure from their blues-infused debut. This 12" vinyl LP, with its iconic pop-up gatefold cover, became a symbol of the band's musical exploration and their frontman Ian Anderson's burgeoning songwriting prowess.
- Stand Up Pop-Up (1969, England) - Stand Up (Europe) -Stand Up Pop-Up (1969, Germany) - Stand Up (1969, UK)
Jethro Tull's 1979 release, "Stormwatch", stands as a powerful and poignant entry within the legendary band's progressive rock legacy. The album marked the end of an era, being the final installment in their trilogy of folk-influenced albums that began with "Songs from the Wood" (1977)
- StormWatch (1979, Germany) - Storm Watch (1979, Netherlands) - Storm Watch (1979, UK)
In the world of rock and roll, there are albums that simply exist, and then there are albums that EXPLODE onto the scene, leaving a crater of artistic innovation in their wake. Jethro Tull's "Thick as a Brick," released in 1972, is a prime example of the latter. This wasn't just a record;
- Thick as Brick Fold Out Newspaper (1972, France) - Thick as Brick (Newspaper, Germany) - Thick as a Brick (Germany)
In the heady days of 1972, when prog-rock was king and concept albums were the crown jewels, Jethro Tull unleashed a musical behemoth upon the world: "Thick as a Brick." This wasn't just an album; it was a sprawling, multi-layered symphony disguised as a newspaper.
hick as a Brick Part I & II 7" Vinyl Single
The album's title, "This Was", was a nod to the band's past, a recognition of their blues roots. But it was also a wink to the future, a hint of the musical metamorphosis that was already underway. The album's cover art, a sepia-toned portrait of the band, captured this duality perfectly.
- This Was (1968, UK ) - This Was (1968, Germany)
Released in 1976, Jethro Tull's "Too Old To Rock 'n' Roll: Too Young to Die" marked a turning point for the British progressive rock band. Fronted by the iconic Ian Anderson, the album explored themes of aging rock stardom through a fictional character named Ray Lomas.
- Too Old Too Rock 'n' Roll (Green Record Label) - Too Old Too Rock 'n' Roll (White & Blue Record Label ))
Amidst the synthesizer-drenched landscape of 1984, Jethro Tull, the ever-evolving progressive folk-rock behemoth, dropped an oddity on us: "Under Wraps". This wasn't your granny's Tull, all flutes and frolicking about pastoral fields.
Under Wraps 12" Vinyl LP
In the heart of 1974, while the world was still reeling from the aftershocks of the Vietnam War and the Watergate scandal, Jethro Tull unleashed "War Child", an album that was as much a battle cry for the human spirit as it was a musical exploration.
War Child 12" Vinyl LP