LIVING IN THE PAST

6th Single!

This is Jethro Tull's sixth single in only 2 years, which is quite an accomplishment for a then- young band like Jethro Tull, especially with their musical styling of Prog Folk. Jethro Tull were pioneers in terms of composition, with writing a song in 5/4, and somehow managing to make it a hit single, reaching #11 in the U.S. Top 40. This song is such a classic, you can recognize it, or at least the fact that it's Jethro Tull, just by listening to the first acoustic guitar chords strummed by the fantastic singer, acoustic guitarist and flautist, Ian Anderson.

5/5, just for it's greatness and availability. This single was one that record collectors thought was a keeper and can be found all around the internet, and even certain vinyl stores, just by having a look in the right places. Oh right, and the song isn't too bad either, hehe.

Never reviewed a single, while apperently there is nothing to say (pun intended), it gives us a chance to talk about two tracks, and, more directly perhaps, about the band itself. So... lets do it.

First things first: Living in the Past.

- John Evans called this song when asked to remember Glenn Cornick sound in Jethro Tull. Although we do know that the 5/4 rythm was Anderson product, we have to bear in mind what this song could have been without a strong bass player behind it. Something quite similar to "Sangue Latino", one of the best tracks of one of my favourite bands, Secos & Molhados (check on youtube). This song is probably one that would more defined Jethro Tull if they played it live on, lets say it, Woodstock. Gladly, the single remain the single, and although its a fan favourite and seldom used to show Jethro Tull to friends (besides Aqualung), it remained a stand alone track. But the bass pattern, the flute solo and the lyrics are so remarcably that even standing alone, it stand up (pun intended).

Last but not least: Driving Song.

- Is Jethro Tull's Stand Up and repective singles the fathers of Grunge? Its something I started ask myself some time ago. Appearently Eddie Veder enjoy the album. Some songs, as "Driving Song" really is (and also 17 and Sweet Dream, especially), are dirty, raw, and with lyrics almost made as a cry of the youth. Again the strong bass pattern, but with Martin Barre guitar taking the lead and Anderson crooking behind a good structure.

Why five stars to a single? Well, they made this to sell, to make money. And STILL, probably establish themselves and their personas best as any album.

And PROBABLY invented grunge!? Dunno, man... this time, no pun was intended.