Generally considered the pinnacle of the band's recorded output, front-man Ian Anderson's songwriting was quickly evolving from British folk-blues roots and helping define prog-rock. While definitely pushing the envelope for the era in taking on the subjects of God and organized religion, it was guitarist Martin Barre who was establishing equal ground with Anderson's flute as an instrumental voice of the band. Joining Tull after Toni Iommi (Black Sabbath) who himself had replaced original guitarist Mick Abrahams (Blodwyn Pig, Mick Abrahams Band) departed after only a few days, both Barre's opening riffs and lead breaks became indelibly imprinted to generations of classic rock.
Songs such as "My God", "Hymn 43", "Locomotive Breath", "Cross-Eyed Mary", "Wind Up" and of course the title track "Aqualung" became FM radio staples and are in-demand concert favorites to this day.
The 2011 Steven Wilson Remix:
Steven Wilson is musician and producer and is well known as the founder, lead guitarist, singer and songwriter of the progressive rock band Porcupine Tree. Wilson is involved in an ongoing project remixing the back catalogue of King Crimson into MLP (Meridian Lossless Packaging) 5.1 and new stereo mixes. He is also remixing the back catalogue of Jethro Tull, including this one Aqualung, in 2011.
Heavyweight vinyl produced by Parlophone Records in 2023.
TRACKLISTING:
1. Aqualung
2. Cross Eyed Mary
3. Cheap Day Return
4. Mother Goose
5. Wond'ring Aloud
6. Up To Me
7. My God
8. Hymn
9. Slipstream
10. Locomotive Breath
11. Wind Up