Post by bambooflute on Mar 28, 2017 3:29:34 GMT
Look what the birthday stork has delivered! A shiny new Ian Anderson album. Well, technically new, even though it's a reworking of old material. What seems like a gimmicky concept on the surface has turned out to be an exciting little album with some exhilarating moments. There are a few clunky bits, as well, but overall this is quite good.
Since The Year One it has been my opinion that, of all the elements that constitute Tull music, the "rock" aspect feels the most out-of-place. The incongruity makes this album seem like a natural progression. Thus it is deeply ironic that the first track is the weakest. The classic "Living in the Past" just doesn't work as the strings attempt to emulate the famous rhythms of the piece. Thankfully, things improve dramatically with "Reasons for Waiting/Sossity." The already gorgeous melodies are achingly beautiful as performed by the strings and Ian Anderson's flute. But then he starts to sing...
For years I have defended IA's flagging vocals because his instrumental prowess has been superb compensation, Here I wish he dropped the vocals and left this as a completely instrumental album. The singing sounds more tired and threadbare than ever before, and actually detracts from the music. Thankfully, the vocals are limited to only a few tracks, but they really do spoil the flow. IA should stick to his strengths as the flute playing throughout is quite beautiful.
Surprisingly, two tracks feature the string quartet sans Anderson. A medley of "Songs From the Wood/Heavy Horses" and "Velvet Green." These highlight the timeless quality and versatility of the original music. My favorite track, however, is "Farm on the Freeway." It just drips with atmosphere and the flute is a killer.
So, yeah...a lovely experiment that illuminates some classic tunes in a different way. The vocals cost it a star, though.
**** out of five.
Regards,
David
Since The Year One it has been my opinion that, of all the elements that constitute Tull music, the "rock" aspect feels the most out-of-place. The incongruity makes this album seem like a natural progression. Thus it is deeply ironic that the first track is the weakest. The classic "Living in the Past" just doesn't work as the strings attempt to emulate the famous rhythms of the piece. Thankfully, things improve dramatically with "Reasons for Waiting/Sossity." The already gorgeous melodies are achingly beautiful as performed by the strings and Ian Anderson's flute. But then he starts to sing...
For years I have defended IA's flagging vocals because his instrumental prowess has been superb compensation, Here I wish he dropped the vocals and left this as a completely instrumental album. The singing sounds more tired and threadbare than ever before, and actually detracts from the music. Thankfully, the vocals are limited to only a few tracks, but they really do spoil the flow. IA should stick to his strengths as the flute playing throughout is quite beautiful.
Surprisingly, two tracks feature the string quartet sans Anderson. A medley of "Songs From the Wood/Heavy Horses" and "Velvet Green." These highlight the timeless quality and versatility of the original music. My favorite track, however, is "Farm on the Freeway." It just drips with atmosphere and the flute is a killer.
So, yeah...a lovely experiment that illuminates some classic tunes in a different way. The vocals cost it a star, though.
**** out of five.
Regards,
David