TOO OLD TO ROCK 'N' ROLL: TOO YOUNG TO DIE!

Being the last of the shaky trio of albums in the middle of the '70s (War Child, Minstrel In The Gallery and this one), this is a release that leaves a lot to be desired. As I yet have to find a truly bad Jethro Tull album, this is the closest I've come so far. 'Identity crisis' could be an apt title for it. Perhaps not for the band, but at least for Ian Anderson. The general feeling you get from listening to it is lack of focus, songs that lacks ideas and just pure dullness.

One of the main reasons for me loving Tull is a defining tension and a touch of jester-like madness that seems to unite all the different periods and incantations of the band. None of that is present here. Just something tired and watered-down, uninspired and bland.

The arrangements are mostly acoustic, with a lot of orchestral touches that unfortunately don't add much. Musically, Too Old is mostly a blues/rock (and hints of the folk very present in the past and future of the band's work) album without energy, and one without surprises. Standard structures and mid-tempo ad nauseam. A mostly contemplative Ian taking care of the vocals, a mostly quietly noodling Martin Barre. It doesn't sound like much of a treat, right? And no, it isn't.

But somehow they get away with it, as nothing is offensive or appalling. Perhaps the safe ground Too Old To Rock 'n' Roll: Too Young Too Die! offered was a key in gathering the energy and inspiration necessary for the next bunch of masterly albums in the vast discography. The melodies are all very nice, sometimes catchy, and I often have this album playing in the background while busy with something else. The additions of orchestra, piano and a surprisingly understated flute is just what you need to be stimulated and relaxed enough to get through those everyday routines.

Another transitional album from the boys. Unfortunately this is the lesser of the lesser. 2 stars.

//LinusW