MINSTREL IN THE GALLERY

"Minstrel in the Gallery" is another one of the classic Jethro Tull albums that will divide reviewers as it is quite a bombastic little treasure, and not everyone is into Anderson's egotistic flights into fantasy. It is one of the first albums I heard from Tull and always enchanted me with it's humour and unique presence. On the title track there are inspirational guitars by the great Martin Barre.

"Cold Wind to Valhalla" brings the flute into play but this instrument is surprisingly left off most of the other tracks although it is Anderson's signature instrument. The bassline is wonderful on this too by Jeffrey Hammond-Hammond.

"Black Satin Dancer" is piano driven, with an excellent lead guitar solo. The flute makes another appearance and there is a full blown orchestra to enjoy.

"Requiem" is a trademark acoustic arrangement, Anderson loved to put at least one acoustic treasure on an album. Anderson's vocals are gentle and it is a peaceful atmosphere generated here.

"One White Duck/0^10 = Nothing At All" is a real curio that merges from light release prog to tense rock with soaring guitars.

"Baker St. Muse" is the epic of the album beginning with an 'outtake' and then Anderson launches into it headlong as the orchestra draws out a sweet melody. Barre once again has a chance to shine on guitar and he is given full reign as he literally explodes with an unrelenting force.

The bonus tracks are as good as bonus tracks can be, pleasant to hear but forgettable.

Thus an excellent album draws to a conclusion and it is definitely one of Tull's best though not to the standard of TAAB, Benefit or Aqualung. 4 shining stars.