LIVE - BURSTING OUT

Live albums, for me, must contain more than just going through the motions and playing it like the album. I happy to report that, for the most part, they fiddle with things here and there. First off, Ian Anderson is everything a front man must have, intelligence and charisma, and he has both in spades! His humor at times is pitch black and bawdy, his explaining of songs exemplory, but it's the music that counts, right? Well, don't worry me buckos there is plenty here and its up front and powerful. Every song is played with gusto and professionalism. I especially like Barlow's drumming on "Hunting Girl" and "Locomotive Breath", almost prog-metalish. "No Lullaby" and "Sweet Dream" are fantastic as is the 12 minute version of "Thick as a Brick". Ian's voice holds up very well throughout, yet my only gripe or two is that its not a full concert and I wish there was more material from the "HEAVY HORSES" album which this tour was supporting! Its a minor gripe, but suffice it to say, the album is a fantastic time capsule of the band at their peak. Ian's voice is still in fine shape and the 70's version of Tull will only be around for a short year or two. Its a MUST have for Tull fans and a great purchase for newbies. 4.5 stars!