THE BROADSWORD AND THE BEAST

It's not that bad, either, but considering that A was at least entertaining in the rhythm section and melodies, in here you're not going to find any complexity in tempo and meter, not even in melodies and harmonies (perhaps Cheerio). The darned drums are so programmed that I wonder if Ian just incorporated the drum machine instead of Gerry Conway, thus Gerry is just waiting for his paycheck; the whole thing is based on BD-snare- BD-BD-snare pattern (correct me if I confuse terms, I'm not exactly an expert in drumming). Where's the flute? was it being repaired?; only about 3 songs here have flute, yet not as much. "Watching Me, Watching You" it's perhaps the most entertaining song here (the "stares!!" chants are catchy, I reckon); but then again is an electronic-based song with cheesy production. "Beastie" is AOR at it's best, while "Flying Colours" starts all right, but progresses in the same way. "Pussy Willow" is beautiful, though, but the ending is in the same formula as the rest. "Broadsword" is catchy, and you could say it's an electroinc scottish ditty, but not really progressive at all. "Slow Marching Band" is the folkiest and most pastoral piece, but (but again!, too many "buts" in this review... or "Too Many Too" (I couldn't resist it!)) radio-friendly again, slow and monotonous, and while "And Further On" had an interesting bridge, in here there's no such thing. Probably the less uninteresting song of the whole is "Seal Driver", but just because it casts an amazing atmosphere, yet, musically, it's no wonder, even when there are some charming segments in it. The "Clasp" has some interesting rhythm and "Fallen On Hard Times" is known for it's vocal harmonies sang almost a capella.

2.5 stars rounded to 2. Do not start with this album... only if you're familiar with Jethro Tull's prime.

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