STORMWATCH

This record was released in 1979, it was the end of the seventies and just around the corner were the eighties and a big musical change was about to happen.This wasn't just the end of a decade, for JETHRO TULL it would mean 3 members leaving the band and one passing away, all after the release of this record. So the title of this record seems quite appropriate doesn't it ?

Ian Anderson says "The songs were to be a mixture of moody and dark pieces reflecting the troubled state of the economy.The oil price escalation, energy crisis and other depressing world events influenced my writing and thinking". So this album is certainly darker and harder than the two previous releases, more guitar, more anger and frustration I would say.

The first three songs are good and quite enjoyable, but the next song "Dark Ages" is one of my favourites. Featuring a lot of time changes and jagged melodies, there are great drums and guitar throughout, and orchestral strings (here and throughout this record). Another favourite of mine is "Dun Ringill" as well as "Elegy" a beautiful restained instrumental featuring flute, guitar and strings.