MINSTREL IN THE GALLERY

Jethro Tull's 1975 album, "Minstrel In The Gallery", is one of the most progressive records of the group, along with "Thick As A Brick" and "A Passion Play". Ian's voice is perfect as always, creating a medieval atmosphere. His flute is a little less used here and, instead, we have very good passages of acoustic guitar. The orchestral arrangements are present on most part of the album and I love that! The keyboards are more on the background, but Barlow's drums and Martin's overpower guitar are on the scene here! They give us excellent instrumental jams, more noticed on the title-track, "Black Satin Dancer" and the best song, the marvelous suite "Baker St. Muse". With this album, Barlow proves that he is one of the most technical drummers of the 70's. This record is, too, the last with bassist Jeffrey Hammond-Hammond, whom goes out to be a painter. Well, overall this is one of the best albums of the year, and "Baker St. Muse" is the winner for best song. A deserved 5 star.