I was (and am) not a massive Jethro Tull fan in that I was (and am) not all that familiar with their body of work, but being a child of classic rock radio in the '80s it was impossible to escape them. There was one record I was really gaga over, their 1978 live album Bursting Out. For all the times I spun that record, and it was countless, it never really compelled me to dig deeper or check them out further. Go figure.

Bursting Out was enough to get me to part with my $18.50 in 1989 dollars to see them live. I remember loving the show despite being unfamiliar with most of the music. I also recall it being a very long show, though it seems to have clocked in at around two hours (per the video below). My impression was also likely due to not knowing the music. 

I have had an excellent recording of this show for years but cannot say I have listened since I downloaded it. Coming across the video of the show, I am not at all surprised now that I enjoyed the concert. They were doing a lot of what I went for at the time: They were bombastic, excellent players, and Ian Anderson was a wooly madman - flute and all. They are far less comical than I expected, relative to their peers.  

Of the many mid-life crises I encounter, large and small, one of the most persistent surrounds the limited nature of time compared to the unlimited nature of music and books. The rabbit holes go ever deeper, the pile on the night stand grows ever higher and the clock ticks ever louder. While I am always on the hunt for the next artist, sound, or thing to learn about, it is fun to look back sometimes, to draw the line and connect the dots of who I am, where I came from, what I love, who I've loved, what I've explored and what the dead ends were. 

Jethro Tull are definitely a road not followed by me, and one I am likely to never really wander down. I have increasingly less time for white baby boomers playing loud guitars, no matter how good or well-recommended. I begrudge no one pursuing their art or calling for as long as it pleases them to but that pile needs chipping away at...so, with that, I wish you more treats than tricks and leave you to some Tull. 

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FAQs About This Article

wherein an AI reads the article and suggests a few questions that remain unanswered...

Q: What can you tell me about the old New Haven Coliseum?

A: The New Haven Coliseum was a significant venue for concerts and events in New Haven, Connecticut, before its demolition in 2007. Built in 1972, the Coliseum had a seating capacity of over 11,000 and hosted a wide range of performances, including concerts by some of the biggest names in music. The venue's distinctive concrete architecture and iconic design made it a recognizable landmark in the city.

The Coliseum faced criticism for its aging infrastructure and limited amenities compared to modern concert venues. Some attendees complained about obstructed views from certain seating areas or long lines for concessions and restrooms.

Despite its eventual closure and demolition, the Coliseum remains a nostalgic symbol for many who fondly remember the excitement of live music events in New Haven.

Q: How were Jethro Tull's 1989 shows reviewed at the time?

A: Jethro Tull's concerts in 1989 received mixed reviews from both fans and critics. While some praised the band's performance and stage presence, others expressed disappointment with various aspects of the shows.

Fan reviews often highlighted the energy and musicianship displayed by Jethro Tull during their performances. Many fans appreciated Ian Anderson's charismatic stage presence and his skillful flute playing, describing the concerts as memorable and engaging experiences. Additionally, some fans praised the band's setlist, particularly the inclusion of classic tracks from albums like "Aqualung" and "Thick as a Brick."

However, there were also criticisms from fans who felt that the concerts lacked excitement or failed to live up to their expectations. Some attendees expressed disappointment with the sound quality at certain venues, citing issues such as muddy mixes or poor acoustics. Others noted that the band's performance seemed lackluster or uninspired compared to previous tours.

In terms of critic reviews, opinions were similarly divided. While some critics lauded Jethro Tull for their musicianship and endurance as a live act, others offered more critical assessments of the concerts. Some critics felt that the band's stage show had become formulaic or predictable, with Ian Anderson's trademark antics and theatrics feeling rehearsed rather than spontaneous.

Additionally, there were criticisms of Jethro Tull's setlist choices, with some critics expressing disappointment that the band relied heavily on their classic hits rather than showcasing new material or experimenting with different arrangements. 

Q: If someone not familiar with Jethro Tull saw them in concert, what attributes of the band might win the person over?

A: If someone not familiar with Jethro Tull saw them in concert, several attributes of the band might win them over:

1. **Dynamic Stage Presence**: Jethro Tull, particularly frontman Ian Anderson, is known for their dynamic and engaging stage presence. Anderson's energetic performances, which often include theatrical elements like flute-playing while standing on one leg, can captivate audiences and leave a lasting impression.

2. **Musical Prowess**: Jethro Tull's band members are skilled musicians known for their proficiency with their respective instruments. The band's live performances showcase impressive musical talent, from intricate guitar solos to virtuosic flute playing, which can appeal to fans of diverse musical genres.

3. **Varied Repertoire**: While Jethro Tull is primarily associated with progressive rock, their music incorporates elements of folk, blues, and classical music, creating a diverse and eclectic repertoire. A concert-goer unfamiliar with Jethro Tull may be pleasantly surprised by the band's versatility and range of musical styles.

4. **Engaging Songwriting**: Jethro Tull's songs often feature thought-provoking lyrics and storytelling, covering a wide range of themes and topics. Even for those not familiar with the band's discography, the engaging and evocative nature of their songwriting can resonate on a personal level and leave a lasting impression.

5. **Energetic Performances**: Jethro Tull concerts are known for their high-energy performances and enthusiastic audience participation. The band's ability to energize and connect with the crowd can create a memorable concert experience, even for newcomers to their music.