Jethro Tull - Aqualung (180g Vinyl LP)

Jethro Tull – Aqualung (180g Vinyl LP) is one of the defining albums of British progressive rock. Originally released in 1971, Aqualung is the fourth studio album from Jethro Tull, blending hard rock, English folk, blues and intricate progressive arrangements. Featuring the classic tracks Aqualung, Cross-Eyed Mary, My God and Locomotive Breath, it remains an essential recording for fans of adventurous, guitar-driven rock.

Led by vocalist, flautist and songwriter Ian Anderson, Jethro Tull developed one of the most distinctive sounds of the early 1970s. Anderson's expressive vocals and unconventional flute playing combine with Martin Barre's powerful electric guitar, John Evan's keyboards, Jeffrey Hammond-Hammond's bass and Clive Bunker's drums to create music that moves effortlessly between delicate acoustic passages and explosive hard rock.

Aqualung explores themes of poverty, social exclusion, organised religion and personal belief. Although frequently described as a concept album, Anderson has resisted that classification. Nevertheless, its recurring lyrical themes and carefully structured arrangements give the record a remarkable sense of unity.

The album opens with its unforgettable title track, Aqualung. Beginning with one of the most recognisable guitar riffs in classic rock, the song introduces a troubled character living on the margins of society. Its dramatic changes in tempo, acoustic interludes and powerful electric guitar passages demonstrate the band's extraordinary musical range.

Cross-Eyed Mary continues the album's exploration of social inequality, combining driving rhythms, flute melodies and heavy guitar work. Cheap Day Return offers a brief, intimate acoustic reflection inspired by Anderson's visit to his ill father, providing a striking contrast to the heavier opening tracks.

Mother Goose introduces whimsical imagery and English folk influences, while Wond'ring Aloud is a beautifully restrained acoustic ballad exploring love and everyday life. Up to Me closes the first side with a lively combination of acoustic guitar, flute and rhythmic rock instrumentation.

Side B opens with My God, an ambitious composition examining the relationship between personal faith and organised religion. Moving from quiet acoustic passages into dramatic electric arrangements and an extended flute performance, it showcases Jethro Tull's ability to combine complex musical ideas with memorable songwriting.

Hymn 43 follows with a powerful blues-rock groove and sharp lyrical commentary, while Slipstream provides another brief acoustic interlude before one of the band's most celebrated recordings.

Locomotive Breath begins with John Evan's atmospheric piano introduction before building into a relentless, riff-driven performance. Its driving rhythm, memorable guitar work and explosive flute solo have made it a staple of classic rock radio and Jethro Tull's live performances.

The album concludes with Wind-Up, a thoughtful and musically expansive song reflecting on religious education, personal conviction and independence of thought. Its combination of introspective passages and powerful rock arrangements provides a fitting conclusion to this influential album.

Produced by Ian Anderson and Terry Ellis, Aqualung became Jethro Tull's commercial breakthrough and helped establish the band as a major force in progressive rock. Its distinctive blend of acoustic and electric instrumentation, intelligent songwriting and musical experimentation continues to influence generations of rock musicians.

This 180g heavyweight vinyl LP edition features the acclaimed 2011 stereo remix by Steven Wilson, released on vinyl in 2015. Wilson's remix brings renewed clarity and separation to the original recordings while preserving the atmosphere, dynamics and character of the 1971 album.

Pressed on 180g black vinyl, the record is housed in a reproduction of the original gatefold sleeve, featuring the iconic artwork by Burton Silverman. A substantial 24-page LP-sized booklet includes lyrics, photographs and informative notes, making this a beautifully presented edition of a progressive rock classic.

For collectors and music lovers alike, Aqualung is an essential addition to any classic rock or progressive rock vinyl collection.

Supplied brand new and sealed.

Available from Heathen Records, your independent Australian online record store specialising in new and collectible vinyl.

Details

• Artist: Jethro Tull
• Album: Aqualung
• Format: Vinyl LP
• Edition: 2015 Reissue – Steven Wilson Stereo Remix
• Vinyl Colour: Black
• Vinyl Weight: 180g Heavyweight
• Original Album Release: 1971
• Vinyl Reissue: 2015
• Genre: Progressive Rock / Classic Rock / Folk Rock / Hard Rock
• Record Label: Chrysalis Records / Parlophone
• Catalogue Number: AQUA 1 / 2564614660
• Barcode: 0825646146604
• Original Producers: Ian Anderson and Terry Ellis
• Stereo Remix: Steven Wilson (2011)
• Packaging: Gatefold Sleeve
• Inclusions: 24-Page LP-Sized Booklet with Lyrics, Photographs and Notes
• Tracks: 11
• Condition: Brand New and Sealed

Tracklist

Side A – Aqualung

• A1 Aqualung
• A2 Cross-Eyed Mary
• A3 Cheap Day Return
• A4 Mother Goose
• A5 Wond'ring Aloud
• A6 Up to Me

Side B – My God

• B1 My God
• B2 Hymn 43
• B3 Slipstream
• B4 Locomotive Breath
• B5 Wind-Up