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THE REVIEW
Well, a full review doesn't seem appropriate...some considerations, yes.
Benefit and the Jethro Tull...
Who were Jethro Tull to me in the early '90s? Aqualung and Thick as a Brick, certainly! À Ministrel in the Gallery, indeed!
The Too Old to Rock sticker on the battered Fiat 500 of a friend's dad...oh yes, Ian Anderson inviting us to hold on...
Then one evening I tune into the American armed forces radio stationed in the Northeast and there is (live and in Italy!!!) an extensive interview with the Scotsman.
Our Ian is in great form and, between a bow and a mock, is celebrating the 25th anniversary of the release of Benefit.
The album is played in its entirety, and each song is delightfully commented on by the Bard, who revels in it like a pig in mud.
Naturally, the next day I rush out to buy the CD...
Now, if we could step out of the comfort zone that tells us Aqualung is the Masterpiece and that Benefit is just a good Jethro Tull album...
...I'd be inclined to say the opposite...Certain interludes in Aqualung could have the feel of acoustic filler...My God is a drag come on...
In Benefit, Anderson seems less self-referential and more focused on crafting complete tracks.
Sometimes I wonder if our judgment is overly influenced by what we've read or by the "guided" reviews of certain home-grown critics.
The Scaruffi who demolishes the Beatles doesn't let me sleep at night...what if he's right?!?!?
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Summary by Bot
The review fondly revisits Jethro Tull's 1970 album Benefit. While Aqualung is often regarded as their masterpiece, the reviewer argues Benefit is a more cohesive and focused work. Ian Anderson's engaging interview celebrating the album's anniversary inspired a deeper appreciation. The review also highlights how preconceived critical opinions might overshadow the album's true value.Tracklist Lyrics Videos
Jethro Tull
Jethro Tull are an English rock band formed in 1967 and long led by Ian Anderson. They are known for blending progressive and folk rock around Anderson's prominent flute and for landmark early-1970s albums such as Aqualung and Thick as a Brick.84 Reviews
Other reviews
By the green manalishi
"Benefit was the continuation of Stand Up: it contained heavy rock riffs along with a few more acoustic and delicate episodes."
"Ian Anderson is one of the greatest lyricists in rock history."
By Battlegods
Benefit is considered by many as a transitional album of the band or as the predecessor of the grand masterpiece Aqualung.
With 'To Cry You A Song,' great hard rock riffs and solos evoke influences from Led Zeppelin and Gentle Giant.
