Back in the late sixties, I fell in love with a little known group that later became a super group—none other than Jethro Tull. I first heard them in concert at Chicago’s Aragon Ballroom, an old dance hall that hosted some fantastic concerts. I was fascinated by the group’s leader, Ian Anderson. Dressed in knee-high leather boots, yellow breeches, and a plaid bathrobe cut to look like a tuxedo with tails, he pranced around the stage, playing a flute on one foot while his other leg waved in the air. I heard later that he’d started out as a guitarist, but when he heard Cream’s Eric Clapton, he decided he’d never reach that level and took up the flute. In spite of that, he’s an outstanding acoustic guitarist. He plays tiny guitar that has a rich sound for something so small. His style is reminiscent of medieval Celtic accompanied by his very unique voice. I’ve provided a sampling of his acoustic work and several numbers where he plays flute. His music is timeless and I still love it. Enjoy!
Life’s a long song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QE8YLPHZImw&feature=related
Wondering aloud: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HlE2DjOX2FE
Thick as a brick: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=toHlMD50eYY&feature=related
Skating away: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JDosgkws0-c&feature=related
Locomotive breath: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wsmj-k3nzOw&feature=related
Mother Goose: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PYiFxOriv9s
Bouree: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ibcYor-Zta0&feature=related
Aqualung: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jzsLeQO_WVM&feature=related
Hymn 43: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rK3YEkfMFJs&feature=related
Eurology: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HyaeOmYix7g&feature=related
Farm on the freeway: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Q4gBsomPB4&feature=related
New day yesterday: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P4nbFAg1FHk&feature=related
The English are know for beer and ale more than wine. But I’ve got a very nice Italian selection to pair with Ian. Palazzo Della Torre ($17.00) from Allegrini is 70% Corvina Veronese, 25% Rondinella and 5% Sangiovese. Lots of dark fruit and spice on the nose. It hits you mouth with vibrant dark fruits and layers of mocha, raisins, spice and a hint of smokiness. It’s an elegant polished wine with considerable complexity and a very long finish. Open a bottle and let Ina Anderson carry you back to the days of kings and knights. Enjoy!
Cheers!
1 comment:
Nice set, I've only seen them once in concert (around 1989) and it was an excellent performance. Ian Anderson is the consummate showman.
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