"This Was" was the beginning for Jethro Tull. I think most fans of
the group today don't realize that they were heavily influenced by
the blues on their first outing. There was Ian Anderson's unique vocal
style and flute playing to suggest a slight progressive mindset within
the framework in their sound at the time, but it's primarily the blues
that reigned supreme. The group changed suddenly after this release
as the departure of lead guitarist Mick Abrahams required the group
to look for a replacement. That change would be enormous in the development
of the Jethro Tull sound.
'My Sunday Feeling' leads off the set with the familiar Tull musings.
On instrumentals such as 'Serenade To A Cuckoo' and 'Dharma For One'
the group showed how adept they were by incorporating jazz and blues
into their sound. Anderson's flute gave them a uniqueness that nobody
else in rock music could claim. The classic blues tune 'Cat's Squirrel'
is a fine rocker, once again showing the many colors of the group's
makeup. Instrumentals were to become much more complex in later years
(Listen to 'Thick As A Brick').
This may seem like a dated back catalog album offering, although in
actuality it is a priceless gift of historical importance to the group,
and an exemplary listening experience for all of those whom appreciate
Jethro Tull and have an interest in understanding how the group was
born and why they developed into one the most successful rock groups
of all time. The bonus tracks are always a delight, the sound is superb,
and Ian Anderson's wistful and wry commentary in the liner notes is
a joy. Let it be noted that his guidance in the remastering process
was key in making this entire project a success. And to think that
this is only the beginning, we all have a lot to be excited about
and a lot to look forward to in the near future with these fine remastered
versions of their catalog.
1. My Sunday Feeling
2. Some Day The Sun Won't Shine For You
3. Beggar's Farm
4. Move On Alone
5. Serenade To A Cuckoo
6. Dharma For One
7. It's Breaking Me Up
8. Cat's Squirrel
9. A Song For Jeffrey
10. Round
Bonus Tracks:
11. One For John Gee
12. Love Story
13. Christmas Song
