WAR CHILD

War Child is a highly underrated album by many fellow proggers. I think the main problem here is that the band had put a bunch of songs together for a soundtrack and the music wasn't as progressive as Thick As A Brick or Passion Play.

For those who thought this was a weak album, you should really listen again and more closely. I think there are a lot of nicely crafted and accessible gems like the title track and "Ladies", which has some soothing flute, acoustic guitar, bells and hand claps. "Skating Away On The Thin Ice Of A New Day" is true classic sing-along Jethro Tull and wonderful stuff that just can't be missed. (That one was actually cut in 1972, as was Bungle In The Jungle). "The Third Hoorah" is another top, underlooked track. You might also notice the saxophone playing by Ian Anderson where he provides some nice solos and fillings. It's all very refreshing and something reasonably new to JT's music. There are lot's of rockier moments too. The usual flute work is here as well with some great accordian work.

Despite the main theme, War Child is actually a lovely feel good album. It took me a while to appreciate it as much as I do now but the time and patience was worth it. I've heard that the bonus tracks are very good. I haven't heard those yet because I'm an old dinosaur with an old copy of the album. It's very enjoyable and recommended to all. 4 solid stars.