Jethro Tull's third release was "Benefit." Indeed the third time is
the charm. Ian Anderson's vocals were getting stronger and more dominating
while his flute playing maintained its unfailing authority. Anderson
remarks in the liner notes that his writing was getting darker and
that he realized thirty two years later that he was being cynical
in reference to being on the road and away from home. His feelings
regarding the music industry were coming through as well.
'To Cry You A Song' was the strongest introduction to the fresh and
new formula that they would continue to follow and develop for the
rest of their long and fruitful careers. Although the group's love
of blues and jazz remained evident, they were leaning heavier towards
more rock and folk arrangements, which allowed them to reach a much
wider audience. 'Inside' was another song that was to rapidly become
a trademark of the Jethro Tull sound with Anderson's flute taking
a lead role and Martin Barre strumming a soft acoustic guitar in the
background, although Barre rarely remained in the background on any
song, he was now more comfortable in his new surroundings and showed
all of his colors on this album.. This new formula was to delight
listeners worldwide. The group's diversity pleased those that loved
to rock and the other segment of listeners that enjoyed the more folk,
classical, and ethnic sounds that they had offered on their previous
release "Stand Up." Ian Anderson was becoming the true court jester
onstage and the consummate leader. This was a position that was solidified
on this album and one that he would never relinquish.
The bonus tracks give an interesting glimpse into the future and a
peak into the upcoming golden age of Jethro Tull.
1. With You There To Help Me
2. Nothing To Say
3. Alive And Well And Living In
4. Son
5. For Michael Collins, Jeffrey And Me
6. To Cry You A Song
7. A Time For Everything?
8. Inside
9. Play In Time
10. Sossity; You're A Woman
Bonus Tracks:
11. Singing All Day
12. Witch's Promise
13. Just Trying To Be
14. Teacher (Original UK Mix)
