THE BROADSWORD AND THE BEAST

"The Broadsword And The Beast" is a special record for me because it is the first album by Jethro Tull that I have heard, many years ago. It is certainly an album of his time, characterized by an electronic sound dominated by the keyboards of Peter Vettese, and stylistically very different from other works of the band: indeed Ian Anderson has often changed the style of the band, sometimes to satisfy their own musical taste and other times based on the trends and fashions of the moment. The electronic turning point (which began with the previous album "A") is nothing more than yet another change in the style of a band in perpetual transformation.

There are great songs in this work, even if you do not reach the heights of quality of other masterpieces of the band. Beastie is a pleasant pop-rock of great impact, as well as the most delicate Pussy Willow. Clasp is a strange mixture of folk and electronics: the result could have been a disaster and instead, all in all, the song is strangely pleasant.

Fallen On Hard Times, Broadsword and Slow Marching Band are probably the most successful songs of the album, where it emerges the typical folk soul of Anderson. I really love the beautiful harmonies of Slow Marching Band, it's really a good song.

Flying Colours and Seal Driver are definitely a step lower, and in particular "Flying Colours", despite some beautiful harmonies, is full of excess of obvious self- indulgence. Watching Me Watching You is purely electronic, covered with a carpet of synthy sounds, and is not my taste. In my opinion the weakest song of the album.

Cheerio is the closer, a short but pleasant song.

It is difficult to recommend to anyone buying this album, as even the fans of Jethro Tull might not like. Anyway I do not mind because ultimately it is full of good songs and good ideas, and this in itself is an indisputable merit. Three solid stars for me.

Finally, look at the amazing cover! Another good reason to get this album. Cheerio!

Final rating: 6/10.

Best song: Slow Marching Band

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