CATFISH RISING

The 90's beckoned and Jethro Tull responded in a slightly more positive fashion with Catfish Rising. In many respects, this, Rock Island and Crest were three albums that can't helped be lumped together and branded mediocre. Of the three CR is definitely the strongest so an optimistic moment for Tull enthusiasts. There is more energy and verve here than it's predecessors, maybe because the boys were trying harder, or simply that they were enjoying themselves again. I enjoy the opener " This is not Love" which incidentally was the single. Budapest part 2 aka " White Innocence" is another Dire Straits influenced affair but more pleasing on the ear. It must be complete coincidence that a musician of Barre's stature sounds so similar to Knopfler or just the era. We will never know. Anyhow more constructive crtiticism here and a good album at best.