THICK AS A BRICK

SUPERB!!! This is the ULTIMATE Jethro Tull album, and not just because it's an ambitious one-song prog epic. It's because 'Thick As A Brick' has the flow of a masterfully-written short song; it's because every member's performance is remarkable; it's because the sounds are gorgeous, especially John Evan's rich array of keyboard sounds; and probably the most important element: Ian Anderson's melodies are among the best he would ever write: emotionally-stirring, super-memorable, addictive, an absolute pleasure to behold.

Performed with total conviction, the rhythms and changes are all top-notch and the band's amazing chemistry is obvious. It doesn't hurt, of course, that Anderson is at his most inspired, vocally, reeling off his best-ever chunk of prose like the master he is. Every time I think I have the storyline figured out, I doubt myself on the next listen...but no matter: as an assembly of words and verses, they read well on paper and sound even more convincing coming out of Anderson's mouth. Feel free to pile on even more superlatives and praise. It deserves it. 'Thick As A Brick' is one of very few albums that I've listened to over and over in the same sitting. It's fresh and new every time. An absolute perfect prog classic.