WALK INTO LIGHT

Ian Anderson's first solo album has been slagged by many die-hard Tull fans who seem to think that a solo album should sound much like the band the musician sprung from. This album does not sound like Tull at all, true. Nor should it. Flute, acoustic guitar and folky songs about Jacks In The Green have been largely replaced by stark electronic instrumentation and songs about technology and the politics of the day. Scraggly Ian of old is replaced on the cover by shorn, business-suit wearing Ian.

The electronics definitely date the album, but for fans looking for something a little different from the usual Tull fare, this album can be a pretty enjoyable listen. Side two contains the real gems of the album, in the form of "Black And White Television", "Toad In The Hole", "Different Germany", and the best track of the album "Looking For Eden".

Overall, a moody, sometimes dark effort with strong melodies and excellent lyrics. A real 'rainy day' album in my book, and one that I've come back to often over the years. Walk Into Light is NOT to be ignored simply because it isn't Minstrel In The Gallery!