Aqualung by Jethro Tull
Aqualung is the fourth studio album by the rock band Jethro Tull. Released in 1971, Aqualung, despite the band's disapproval, is regarded as a concept album featuring a central theme of "the distinction between religion and God". The album's "dour musings on faith and religion" have marked it as "one of the most cerebral albums ever to reach millions of rock listeners". Aqualung's success marked a turning point in the band's career, with them going on to become a major radio and touring act. Recorded in Island Records' studio in London, it was their first album with John Evan as a full-time member, their first with new bassist Jeffrey Hammond and last album featuring Clive Bunker on drums. The album is something of a departure from the band's previous works, featuring more acoustic material than previous releases; and-inspired by photographs of homeless people on the Thames Embankment taken by singer Ian Anderson's wife Jennie-contains a number of recurring themes, addressing religion along with Anderson's own personal experiences. Aqualung has sold over 7 million units worldwide according to Anderson, and is thus Jethro Tull's best selling album. The album was generally well-received critically, and has been included on several music magazine "best of" lists. The album spawned one single, "Hymn 43", and has been cited as an inspiration by bands such as Iron Maiden.
Whilst Jethro Tull’s 1971 album is peppered with acoustic turns—bowing to jazz-folk heroes like Roy Harper—it’s the sweltering power chords and frontman Ian Anderson’s tough vocals that make it a rock ’n’ roll Goliath. The chugging “Locomotive Breath” and the dirty thump of “Hymn 43” provide metallic KOs, and the rifftastic title tune is a full-on mini-rock opera with gentle breakdowns and tempo shifts. Central themes challenge organised religions, yet there’s a Dickensian quality to many of the lyrics, especially on the grimy “Cross-Eyed Mary”, which details London street urchins.
