BENEFIT

One of Jethro Tull's most underrated albums,not least by the band themselves. I think it is a remarkable achievement, with fine musicianship by all of the group. Ian 's flute playing is to a very high standard, & Martin Barre's raunchy guitar work quite brilliant.More varied than Stand Up, and with hints of what was to come with Aqualung, Benefit just shines with superb songs. In particular, To Cry You a Song, A Time for Everything &, the cream of the crop, Nothing To Say; one of those songs that send shivers through you with its fine melody & vocal from Ian. The addition of Jon Evan 'guesting' on keyboards also gives the album greater depth. The acoustic final track, sometimes overlooked, is a great end to the proceedings. Indeed Sossity,Your're a Woman, is I believe one of Martin Barre's favourite songs. I love seeing the band live but I always think it is a pity that they rarely play anything from this album. I'm sure many fans would appreciate updated versions of some of these tracks.I'd like to give this 5 stars but I know that this rating should be used sparingly.I have rated it 4 stars,but it merits 4 3/4 stars, as it deserves to be up there with Aqualung,JT's most famous work.