There is only one successful album whose iconic cover is adorned by a dirty old man and that is Jethro Tulls Aqualung (1971). In addition, you threaten to confuse this character with the hairy vagabond-looking singer and flutist Ian Anderson, the brains behind this British folk formation. There is a lot strange about this fourth album from the group that is still active in 2012. It was, according
… to many, not even their best album at the time, compared to its predecessors Benefit (1970) and Stand Up (1969). Aqualung opens strongly with the rocking title track in which the dirty ass of the cover is described: 'Sitting on a park bench, eyeing little girls with bad intent'. Strange lyrics full of biblical quotes continue on a collection of semi-acoustic folk rock and prog songs of varying quality. You only really rebound with the angular rock classic Locomotive Breath. Still, Aqualung, which, like that cover, exudes a dark Victorian atmosphere, is best heard as a whole album. This exemplary anniversary edition with an extra CD full of demo versions and different mixes, was remixed crystal clear by Steven Wilson. (MR)more
