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STORMWATCHJethro TullProg Folk3.50 | 918 ratings |
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Warthur
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A step down from the preceding studio albums (Songs From the Wood and Heavy Horses), Stormwatch's recording sessions were set against the grim reality of John Glascock's ailing health. (Sadly, John died some months after the sessions were completed - though he does appear on three tracks, including album closer Elegy.)The souring of relations within the band as a consequence of the strain on all parties is well-documented - it would later lead to a significant realignment of personnel as Ian Anderson prepared to record "A" as a solo album - so the recordings capture a lineup on the verge of disintegration. Perhaps the music suffered a little as a consequence; certainly, I would not put this on the five star level of Songs From the Wood or the four-and-a-half star standard of Heavy Horses, since the album really lacks the standout songs which made both those albums such a delight. Still, it rewards a little patience. As well as Elegy, with a gorgeous guitar solo and a final farewell from John Glascock forming a mighty close to the album, there's also the classic Dark Ages, combining stormy discontent, some tasteful string backing, and modern production values to yield a Tull epic for the closing of the decade. It has taken me a while to come around on Stormwatch; I think perhaps it's badly served by being lumped in as part of a "folk rock trilogy" with Songs From the Wood and Heavy Horses. Approached on its own merits, it's got more going on than you might think at first.
Warthur |
4/5 |
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