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Post by Misteman 4 on Apr 24, 2014 17:41:40 GMT -5
okay...as I always do, whether its appreciated by anyone or not (including myself)...I will offer my humble opinion of the new album. It is a concept album for sure as was TAAB2, this one being not quite as much so. One thing that has always made me admire Anderson's recent songwriting is his message. For some time he seems to write what he wants with no regard for its success commercially. He knows us die hard fans will support his work, attend his live shows regardless of who accompanies him. The new album I like, but I sense even more of a story behind the music that is darker...melancholy stuff for sure. Much of the last 2 albums are story lines of which most would rather not hear about as it's rather depressing. Of course I on the other hand love it, hey that's what wellbutrin is for...right? Certainly as always since 1974 I will continue to look forward to Mr. Anderson's music and songwriting. Many music artists over the years have fallen off my radar, but never Tull or IA. Don't expect that will happen...
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Post by Deleted on Apr 24, 2014 20:34:26 GMT -5
Some of my thoughts after many listens. First, I think this is an excellent record. A nice surprise from an artist that I had given up on a long time ago. Is HE the best Tull album since Broadsword? No, probably not. Not because it is not good, but because there has been a lot of other good Tull records during that time. Is HE a masterpiece? Again, no. But, I am quick to add that I am not sure what a "masterpiece" means for a rock album. A perfect record? My favorite Tull period is TAAB through Stormwatch. These are some of my all time favorite albums, but I would be hard-pressed to say any of these is a masterpiece. I hate playing the "best since..." game, but right now I would say it is the best Tull since RtB. Definitely better than the Christmas Album. Probably better than Dot Com. Dot Com has some decent songs, but overall it is a bit plodding. Probably better than Catfish. Catfish has not aged very well for me. I find comparing HE to other solo albums to be more difficult. It is definitely better than Rupi's Dance, but I do like SLOB. Time will tell, however, whether I play HE or SLOB more often. I have a few specific criticisms: - My biggest is that I wish there was more acoustic guitar in some of the arrangements, like in "Doggerland".
- I think some of the shorter songs could have been a bit longer. Tull is no stranger to shorter songs. A lot of the songs during the 70's were under 4 minutes. But, some here are a little too short. I like "Turnpike Inn" a lot, but it feels like it ends too abruptly after the instrumental break.
- I wish there was one more epic track with an extended instrumental section.
- I like "Browning of the Green", but would have liked a more rocking instrumental break with guitar solo than the reprise of the "Doggerland" theme.
Craigz, Do you have the deluxe edition and heard the demo versions? Basically, Ian with just an acoustic guitar. No. All I have now is the digital download. I have a good audio system, but it is standard stereo and not surround sound. So, not need for the 5.1 DVD. I am interested in hearing the demos at some point. Also, I will get a copy of the standard CD release soon. Probably, this summer when the Passion Play set comes out.
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Post by Dan on Apr 24, 2014 23:33:23 GMT -5
Craigz, Do you have the deluxe edition and heard the demo versions? Basically, Ian with just an acoustic guitar.[/quote] Do you like them ? [/quote] I give Ian credit for putting these stripped down versions out there and even think the vocals would be stronger if he didn't have to try to sing quieter to not disturb the other guests. It's interesting to hear the songs in their embryonic stages and what they eventually turned out to sound like after the bands input. I also like that the initial offerings don't include any of the annoying features that make me have to piss and moan about. Dan
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Post by TM on Apr 25, 2014 0:19:09 GMT -5
I'd love to know how these demos compare to how Ian and Tull worked in the past. The demos I've heard confirm little or no deviation from Ian's original ideas.
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Post by Dan on Apr 25, 2014 0:37:57 GMT -5
I'd love to know how these demos compare to how Ian and Tull worked in the past. The demos I've heard confirm little or no deviation from Ian's original ideas. I would like to know who gets to add their input first. Florian? The acoustic guitar basics sound similar and it's interesting to hear how the final product turned out. Do you remember the demos posted at @ J-Tull.com for DotCom? Dan
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Post by Biggles on Apr 25, 2014 20:55:15 GMT -5
I like the opening of PFA. I think it adds the perfect atmosphere for the song and I really like Ian's singing during those 40 + seconds as well. Had to get that off my chest after the continued whine about it. There I feel better now Not a continuing whine just a difference of opinion. Just can't take all the 'masterpiece' talk from devotees who would pay to hear the genius of I.A. blowing his nose into a tissue or rinsing and spitting out his mouthwash. Now , I feel better. Dan P.S. I had to go back and listen to the first 40 seconds I deleted and wonder if it even constitutes singing. I agree, just like genius.. 'masterpiece' gets thrown around a lot. I prefer "nice effort", that translates to 'damn good'. This "effort" should play much better in a live setting. Ian, do not prove me wrong.
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Post by TM on Apr 28, 2014 14:41:54 GMT -5
When I hear Tull music now it's sounds better than ever, and I don't think it's any coincidence.
Quick synopsis:
Doggerland - a typically styled Tull opener, except the vocals are very weak sounding.
Heavy Metals - Nice track
Enter the Uninvited - Initially my favorite track, but now find I'm finding the intro and outro annoying.
Puer Ferox Adventus - Great song but someone thought they were making a movie and added lightening sound affects, why?
Meliora Sequamur - Forgive me for not listening to this song.
The Turnpike Inn - I find no redeeming value in this one either. The instrumental is pretty good but it's not worth the wait. The Engineer - I like this track, but the intro has grown annoying. I like John's piano in this track and much of the squeezy thing is okay, but it's superfluously used and that's not a good thing. The Pax Britannica - This song ought to be disliked simply because it's the obvious rip-off of past Tull, but I actually like it - except of course for the intro which sounds very similar to The Engineer and ETU.
Tripudium Ad Bellum - This has grown on me. At first I heard two ideas that simply repeatedly itself. It doesn't really go anywhere, but it is well played and a good listen.
After These Wars - This one is tough. It's a great song except for the chorus. The songs builds momentum and then the chorus let's you down. Makes me wonder what a younger IA might have done with this one.
New Blood, Old Veins - Love the LITP like feel. Hate the bridge with Ryan. Oh well, can't have it all.
In for a Pound - A shortened version of Heavy Metals without the triangle.
The Browning of the Green - I like Florian's guitar on this track, but the vocals sound like the Turnpike Inn, and the canned sardine line is not for me. I'll stick with catfish or salmon thank you.
Per Errationes Ad Astra - This makes it 3 as in the number of times Ian speaks on his solo records.
Cold Dead Reckoning - I like Ian's vocals on this one, even if I do find the music to be a bit "much". Sounds a bit like the Trans-Siberian Orchestra and then ends with a "bang" followed by a little light music.
This album has it's moments, including questionable ones. John O'Hara and David Goodier sound good. Florian sounds good but he's seems to have been given the MB treatment and thrown to the back of the mix. Scott's kit sounds too dry or something - they're a bit lifeless sounding. And being a graduate of the Barriemore Barlow school of music sometimes I question Scott. The quick fill in The Engineer is the perfect example. And lastly Ryan, I wouldn't have used Ryan's vocals in the manner they were used on this record. I thought he sounded great on that one track on TAAB2. His vocals work better on lighter more delicate pieces. Perhaps a song like After These Wars might have worked well?
Well there you go. My .02 on Homo. I'd rate this album as a "C". I would not call this Desert Island Disc worthy.
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Post by TM on Apr 28, 2014 15:00:47 GMT -5
A good friend of mine who happens to be a big Tull fans suggested that as Tull fans we basically force ourselves to like Ian's music, as we listen to it over and over until we actually start to like it, or, it just doesn't sound that bad.
So here's a test. I'm sure you all know the very famous Aqualung? Let's see how many listens it takes to like this crap.
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Post by Deleted on Apr 28, 2014 16:57:02 GMT -5
A good friend of mine who happens to be a big Tull fans suggested that as Tull fans we basically force ourselves to like Ian's music, as we listen to it over and over until we actually start to like it, or, it just doesn't sound that bad. So here's a test. I'm sure you all know the very famous Aqualung? Let's see how many listens it takes to like this crap. Umm, no.
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Post by Deleted on Apr 28, 2014 16:59:10 GMT -5
When I hear Tull music now it's sounds better than ever, and I don't think it's any coincidence. Quick synopsis: Doggerland - a typically styled Tull opener, except the vocals are very weak sounding. Heavy Metals - Nice track Enter the Uninvited - Initially my favorite track, but now find I'm finding the intro and outro annoying. Puer Ferox Adventus - Great song but someone thought they were making a movie and added lightening sound affects, why? Meliora Sequamur - Forgive me for not listening to this song. The Turnpike Inn - I find no redeeming value in this one either. The instrumental is pretty good but it's not worth the wait. The Engineer - I like this track, but the intro has grown annoying. I like John's piano in this track and much of the squeezy thing is okay, but it's superfluously used and that's not a good thing. The Pax Britannica - This song ought to be disliked simply because it's the obvious rip-off of past Tull, but I actually like it - except of course for the intro which sounds very similar to The Engineer and ETU. Tripudium Ad Bellum - This has grown on me. At first I heard two ideas that simply repeatedly itself. It doesn't really go anywhere, but it is well played and a good listen. After These Wars - This one is tough. It's a great song except for the chorus. The songs builds momentum and then the chorus let's you down. Makes me wonder what a younger IA might have done with this one. New Blood, Old Veins - Love the LITP like feel. Hate the bridge with Ryan. Oh well, can't have it all. In for a Pound - A shortened version of Heavy Metals without the triangle. The Browning of the Green - I like Florian's guitar on this track, but the vocals sound like the Turnpike Inn, and the canned sardine line is not for me. I'll stick with catfish or salmon thank you. Per Errationes Ad Astra - This makes it 3 as in the number of times Ian speaks on his solo records. Cold Dead Reckoning - I like Ian's vocals on this one, even if I do find the music to be a bit "much". Sounds a bit like the Trans-Siberian Orchestra and then ends with a "bang" followed by a little light music. This album has it's moments, including questionable ones. John O'Hara and David Goodier sound good. Florian sounds good but he's seems to have been given the MB treatment and thrown to the back of the mix. Scott's kit sounds too dry or something - they're a bit lifeless sounding. And being a graduate of the Barriemore Barlow school of music sometimes I question Scott. The quick fill in The Engineer is the perfect example. And lastly Ryan, I wouldn't have used Ryan's vocals in the manner they were used on this record. I thought he sounded great on that one track on TAAB2. His vocals work better on lighter more delicate pieces. Perhaps a song like After These Wars might have worked well? Well there you go. My .02 on Homo. I'd rate this album as a "C". I would not call this Desert Island Disc worthy. So....the best Tull record since the "Christmas Album"? Guess I put it a lot higher.
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Post by housebrick on Apr 28, 2014 17:19:40 GMT -5
When I hear Tull music now it's sounds better than ever, and I don't think it's any coincidence. Quick synopsis: Doggerland - a typically styled Tull opener, except the vocals are very weak sounding. Heavy Metals - Nice track Enter the Uninvited - Initially my favorite track, but now find I'm finding the intro and outro annoying. Puer Ferox Adventus - Great song but someone thought they were making a movie and added lightening sound affects, why? Meliora Sequamur - Forgive me for not listening to this song. The Turnpike Inn - I find no redeeming value in this one either. The instrumental is pretty good but it's not worth the wait. The Engineer - I like this track, but the intro has grown annoying. I like John's piano in this track and much of the squeezy thing is okay, but it's superfluously used and that's not a good thing. The Pax Britannica - This song ought to be disliked simply because it's the obvious rip-off of past Tull, but I actually like it - except of course for the intro which sounds very similar to The Engineer and ETU. Tripudium Ad Bellum - This has grown on me. At first I heard two ideas that simply repeatedly itself. It doesn't really go anywhere, but it is well played and a good listen. After These Wars - This one is tough. It's a great song except for the chorus. The songs builds momentum and then the chorus let's you down. Makes me wonder what a younger IA might have done with this one. New Blood, Old Veins - Love the LITP like feel. Hate the bridge with Ryan. Oh well, can't have it all. In for a Pound - A shortened version of Heavy Metals without the triangle. The Browning of the Green - I like Florian's guitar on this track, but the vocals sound like the Turnpike Inn, and the canned sardine line is not for me. I'll stick with catfish or salmon thank you. Per Errationes Ad Astra - This makes it 3 as in the number of times Ian speaks on his solo records. Cold Dead Reckoning - I like Ian's vocals on this one, even if I do find the music to be a bit "much". Sounds a bit like the Trans-Siberian Orchestra and then ends with a "bang" followed by a little light music. This album has it's moments, including questionable ones. John O'Hara and David Goodier sound good. Florian sounds good but he's seems to have been given the MB treatment and thrown to the back of the mix. Scott's kit sounds too dry or something - they're a bit lifeless sounding. And being a graduate of the Barriemore Barlow school of music sometimes I question Scott. The quick fill in The Engineer is the perfect example. And lastly Ryan, I wouldn't have used Ryan's vocals in the manner they were used on this record. I thought he sounded great on that one track on TAAB2. His vocals work better on lighter more delicate pieces. Perhaps a song like After These Wars might have worked well? Well there you go. My .02 on Homo. I'd rate this album as a "C". I would not call this Desert Island Disc worthy. I think youve summed it up pretty fair to be honest You know i think Rupis Dance is a better album altogether than this HE I didnt think much of TAAB2 but its better than this effort. At least previuosly IA made the distinction between IA solo and JT,plus the songs were more origonal and better to my ears on RD. Why does Flo have to 'clone ' Martins playing,tone and feel ,its quite funny the extent of it on HE I would have more respect if he gave it his 'own ' guitar voice. Yes Ryan can sing but hes not a JT vocalist in the slightest Early IA was never a great singer but his voice had 'Character' Ryan is an actor end of ,again this irritates me big style,its like X factor stuff. The guy in Martins band is a far more natural singer/band member ,again im really warming to Dan
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Tullabye
Ethnic Piano Accordian-ist
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Post by Tullabye on Apr 28, 2014 18:25:31 GMT -5
When I hear Tull music now it's sounds better than ever, and I don't think it's any coincidence. Quick synopsis: Doggerland - a typically styled Tull opener, except the vocals are very weak sounding. Heavy Metals - Nice track Enter the Uninvited - Initially my favorite track, but now find I'm finding the intro and outro annoying. Puer Ferox Adventus - Great song but someone thought they were making a movie and added lightening sound affects, why? Meliora Sequamur - Forgive me for not listening to this song. The Turnpike Inn - I find no redeeming value in this one either. The instrumental is pretty good but it's not worth the wait. The Engineer - I like this track, but the intro has grown annoying. I like John's piano in this track and much of the squeezy thing is okay, but it's superfluously used and that's not a good thing. The Pax Britannica - This song ought to be disliked simply because it's the obvious rip-off of past Tull, but I actually like it - except of course for the intro which sounds very similar to The Engineer and ETU. Tripudium Ad Bellum - This has grown on me. At first I heard two ideas that simply repeatedly itself. It doesn't really go anywhere, but it is well played and a good listen. After These Wars - This one is tough. It's a great song except for the chorus. The songs builds momentum and then the chorus let's you down. Makes me wonder what a younger IA might have done with this one. New Blood, Old Veins - Love the LITP like feel. Hate the bridge with Ryan. Oh well, can't have it all. In for a Pound - A shortened version of Heavy Metals without the triangle. The Browning of the Green - I like Florian's guitar on this track, but the vocals sound like the Turnpike Inn, and the canned sardine line is not for me. I'll stick with catfish or salmon thank you. Per Errationes Ad Astra - This makes it 3 as in the number of times Ian speaks on his solo records. Cold Dead Reckoning - I like Ian's vocals on this one, even if I do find the music to be a bit "much". Sounds a bit like the Trans-Siberian Orchestra and then ends with a "bang" followed by a little light music. This album has it's moments, including questionable ones. John O'Hara and David Goodier sound good. Florian sounds good but he's seems to have been given the MB treatment and thrown to the back of the mix. Scott's kit sounds too dry or something - they're a bit lifeless sounding. And being a graduate of the Barriemore Barlow school of music sometimes I question Scott. The quick fill in The Engineer is the perfect example. And lastly Ryan, I wouldn't have used Ryan's vocals in the manner they were used on this record. I thought he sounded great on that one track on TAAB2. His vocals work better on lighter more delicate pieces. Perhaps a song like After These Wars might have worked well? Well there you go. My .02 on Homo. I'd rate this album as a "C". I would not call this Desert Island Disc worthy. I think youve summed it up pretty fair to be honest You know i think Rupis Dance is a better album altogether than this HE I didnt think much of TAAB2 but its better than this effort. At least previuosly IA made the distinction between IA solo and JT,plus the songs were more origonal and better to my ears on RD. Why does Flo have to 'clone ' Martins playing,tone and feel ,its quite funny the extent of it on HE I would have more respect if he gave it his 'own ' guitar voice. Yes Ryan can sing but hes not a JT vocalist in the slightest Early IA was never a great singer but his voice had 'Character' Ryan is an actor end of ,again this irritates me big style,its like X factor stuff. The guy in Martins band is a far more natural singer/band member ,again im really warming to Dan I like the feel of Doggerland but have never liked Ian's later year vocals when pitched in a high tone. When he brings it down I enjoy his vocals much more and there are both on this song. Good opener...really like the middle bit with Florian and John. Heavy Metals is nice but again the pitch is too high and when singing he coincides each syllable with each note which I do not care for. But has a great holiday feel and gets better as the song goes on. I like Enter the Uninvited a lot but could do without the crash at the end. Like the rap style lyrics and especially the singing before and after. PFA is great. I like the lightning effects and I think it creates the desired mood and atmosphere and works quite nicely. The sound is very different and pace slow but who else can create something so different and yet so appealing. Like all of the songs on this album, it just gets better and better with each listen. I think MS is just okay and the vocals again are diminished with each every syllable being sung exactly with each note and could do without the chuch like music...unless of course we are talking My God. Turnpike Inn is a solid rocker. Reminiscent of later Tull. The Engineer is really a damn good song thru and thru. The middle instrumental portion is a bit weak but the rest is killer. Pax Brittanica is also a very good song that sort of reminds me of the pace of "Old School Song", but all in all it's nicely done. TAB has some brilliant moments and is yet another great instrumentull added to the Tull/IA repertoire. After These Wars is growing on me. I didn't like it at first but now is getting better with each listen. New Blood is another great song. Love the jazzy feel and the bridge works just fine for me. Really like In for a Pound. Better than Heavy Metals. Browning of the Green is good save the chorus which is sung to frequently. As TM said, very good guitar work on this one. Cold Dead Reckoning is the best song on the album in my opinion. Really IA/Tull at it's best and should immediately make the playlist for all future concerts...including the fabulous outro. All in all a very strong effort that easily surpasses Rupi and TAAB 2. No contest for me. I love the quirkiness, sound and feel of this album. It is getting rave reviews everywhere and I can pretty much understand it. There just aren't many, if any, songwriters that have the imagination and lyrical abilities to produce this type of album. The fact that Ian can do it so quickly really astonishes me leaving hope for more than a couple to follow.
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Post by TM on Apr 28, 2014 19:39:23 GMT -5
A good friend of mine who happens to be a big Tull fans suggested that as Tull fans we basically force ourselves to like Ian's music, as we listen to it over and over until we actually start to like it, or, it just doesn't sound that bad. So here's a test. I'm sure you all know the very famous Aqualung? Let's see how many listens it takes to like this crap. Umm, no. lol It is nasty stuff isn't it.
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Post by TM on Apr 28, 2014 20:14:21 GMT -5
When I hear Tull music now it's sounds better than ever, and I don't think it's any coincidence. Quick synopsis: Doggerland - a typically styled Tull opener, except the vocals are very weak sounding. Heavy Metals - Nice track Enter the Uninvited - Initially my favorite track, but now find I'm finding the intro and outro annoying. Puer Ferox Adventus - Great song but someone thought they were making a movie and added lightening sound affects, why? Meliora Sequamur - Forgive me for not listening to this song. The Turnpike Inn - I find no redeeming value in this one either. The instrumental is pretty good but it's not worth the wait. The Engineer - I like this track, but the intro has grown annoying. I like John's piano in this track and much of the squeezy thing is okay, but it's superfluously used and that's not a good thing. The Pax Britannica - This song ought to be disliked simply because it's the obvious rip-off of past Tull, but I actually like it - except of course for the intro which sounds very similar to The Engineer and ETU. Tripudium Ad Bellum - This has grown on me. At first I heard two ideas that simply repeatedly itself. It doesn't really go anywhere, but it is well played and a good listen. After These Wars - This one is tough. It's a great song except for the chorus. The songs builds momentum and then the chorus let's you down. Makes me wonder what a younger IA might have done with this one. New Blood, Old Veins - Love the LITP like feel. Hate the bridge with Ryan. Oh well, can't have it all. In for a Pound - A shortened version of Heavy Metals without the triangle. The Browning of the Green - I like Florian's guitar on this track, but the vocals sound like the Turnpike Inn, and the canned sardine line is not for me. I'll stick with catfish or salmon thank you. Per Errationes Ad Astra - This makes it 3 as in the number of times Ian speaks on his solo records. Cold Dead Reckoning - I like Ian's vocals on this one, even if I do find the music to be a bit "much". Sounds a bit like the Trans-Siberian Orchestra and then ends with a "bang" followed by a little light music. This album has it's moments, including questionable ones. John O'Hara and David Goodier sound good. Florian sounds good but he's seems to have been given the MB treatment and thrown to the back of the mix. Scott's kit sounds too dry or something - they're a bit lifeless sounding. And being a graduate of the Barriemore Barlow school of music sometimes I question Scott. The quick fill in The Engineer is the perfect example. And lastly Ryan, I wouldn't have used Ryan's vocals in the manner they were used on this record. I thought he sounded great on that one track on TAAB2. His vocals work better on lighter more delicate pieces. Perhaps a song like After These Wars might have worked well? Well there you go. My .02 on Homo. I'd rate this album as a "C". I would not call this Desert Island Disc worthy. So....the best Tull record since the "Christmas Album"? Guess I put it a lot higher. The only songs I like on the Christmas Album is Birthday Card at Christmas and Martin's song. The rest of it I could do without as I found some of the remakes horrible in terms of the vocals and Andy's synth patches. I never listen to that album and that includes during the holiday. I'd be interested to see how well this album ages with you. I was very happy with TAAB2 for a about a month but then realized I was skipping songs and then ultimately found myself no longer playing it. And it turned out I wasn't alone as many people later admitted to doing the same thing. I don't consider Ian's solo work to be Tull. Jethro Tull were a rock band, and Martin and Doane delivered that element to the band. I don't consider this album rock & roll at all. Perhaps it's "rock & roll for old people," as friend of mine called it. Let me ask you, do you really feel you're hearing Jethro Tull when listening to Ryan sing? I can only imagine what past members think when they hear that.
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Post by TM on Apr 28, 2014 20:29:52 GMT -5
When I hear Tull music now it's sounds better than ever, and I don't think it's any coincidence. Quick synopsis: Doggerland - a typically styled Tull opener, except the vocals are very weak sounding. Heavy Metals - Nice track Enter the Uninvited - Initially my favorite track, but now find I'm finding the intro and outro annoying. Puer Ferox Adventus - Great song but someone thought they were making a movie and added lightening sound affects, why? Meliora Sequamur - Forgive me for not listening to this song. The Turnpike Inn - I find no redeeming value in this one either. The instrumental is pretty good but it's not worth the wait. The Engineer - I like this track, but the intro has grown annoying. I like John's piano in this track and much of the squeezy thing is okay, but it's superfluously used and that's not a good thing. The Pax Britannica - This song ought to be disliked simply because it's the obvious rip-off of past Tull, but I actually like it - except of course for the intro which sounds very similar to The Engineer and ETU. Tripudium Ad Bellum - This has grown on me. At first I heard two ideas that simply repeatedly itself. It doesn't really go anywhere, but it is well played and a good listen. After These Wars - This one is tough. It's a great song except for the chorus. The songs builds momentum and then the chorus let's you down. Makes me wonder what a younger IA might have done with this one. New Blood, Old Veins - Love the LITP like feel. Hate the bridge with Ryan. Oh well, can't have it all. In for a Pound - A shortened version of Heavy Metals without the triangle. The Browning of the Green - I like Florian's guitar on this track, but the vocals sound like the Turnpike Inn, and the canned sardine line is not for me. I'll stick with catfish or salmon thank you. Per Errationes Ad Astra - This makes it 3 as in the number of times Ian speaks on his solo records. Cold Dead Reckoning - I like Ian's vocals on this one, even if I do find the music to be a bit "much". Sounds a bit like the Trans-Siberian Orchestra and then ends with a "bang" followed by a little light music. This album has it's moments, including questionable ones. John O'Hara and David Goodier sound good. Florian sounds good but he's seems to have been given the MB treatment and thrown to the back of the mix. Scott's kit sounds too dry or something - they're a bit lifeless sounding. And being a graduate of the Barriemore Barlow school of music sometimes I question Scott. The quick fill in The Engineer is the perfect example. And lastly Ryan, I wouldn't have used Ryan's vocals in the manner they were used on this record. I thought he sounded great on that one track on TAAB2. His vocals work better on lighter more delicate pieces. Perhaps a song like After These Wars might have worked well? Well there you go. My .02 on Homo. I'd rate this album as a "C". I would not call this Desert Island Disc worthy. I think youve summed it up pretty fair to be honest You know i think Rupis Dance is a better album altogether than this HE I didnt think much of TAAB2 but its better than this effort. At least previuosly IA made the distinction between IA solo and JT,plus the songs were more origonal and better to my ears on RD. Why does Flo have to 'clone ' Martins playing,tone and feel ,its quite funny the extent of it on HE I would have more respect if he gave it his 'own ' guitar voice. Yes Ryan can sing but hes not a JT vocalist in the slightest Early IA was never a great singer but his voice had 'Character' Ryan is an actor end of ,again this irritates me big style,its like X factor stuff. The guy in Martins band is a far more natural singer/band member ,again im really warming to Dan Rupi's Dance is more along the lines of what we expected from a IA solo album but I it was the solo effort where he utilized more of a band approach. Stylistically I prefer the music of RD to this album, but I like the lyrics on this one better. I've always figured Florian sounds like Martin simply because of Ian's influence. But I don't have a problem with his playing as some others do although I describe him as having a more generic sound. Martin's has a more expressive sound which is what I love. I agree with your comments on Ryan as well. He is more of an actor than a singer and I did have some trouble with that when I saw him in concert at first. I've warmed quite a bit to Dan Crisp as well, where at first I had trouble listening to him cover Ian. But you're right, he's good singer and it is really enjoyable to here someone with strong pipes singing Tull music.
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Post by TM on Apr 28, 2014 20:34:21 GMT -5
I think youve summed it up pretty fair to be honest You know i think Rupis Dance is a better album altogether than this HE I didnt think much of TAAB2 but its better than this effort. At least previuosly IA made the distinction between IA solo and JT,plus the songs were more origonal and better to my ears on RD. Why does Flo have to 'clone ' Martins playing,tone and feel ,its quite funny the extent of it on HE I would have more respect if he gave it his 'own ' guitar voice. Yes Ryan can sing but hes not a JT vocalist in the slightest Early IA was never a great singer but his voice had 'Character' Ryan is an actor end of ,again this irritates me big style,its like X factor stuff. The guy in Martins band is a far more natural singer/band member ,again im really warming to Dan I like the feel of Doggerland but have never liked Ian's later year vocals when pitched in a high tone. When he brings it down I enjoy his vocals much more and there are both on this song. Good opener...really like the middle bit with Florian and John. Heavy Metals is nice but again the pitch is too high and when singing he coincides each syllable with each note which I do not care for. But has a great holiday feel and gets better as the song goes on. I like Enter the Uninvited a lot but could do without the crash at the end. Like the rap style lyrics and especially the singing before and after. PFA is great. I like the lightning effects and I think it creates the desired mood and atmosphere and works quite nicely. The sound is very different and pace slow but who else can create something so different and yet so appealing. Like all of the songs on this album, it just gets better and better with each listen. I think MS is just okay and the vocals again are diminished with each every syllable being sung exactly with each note and could do without the chuch like music...unless of course we are talking My God. Turnpike Inn is a solid rocker. Reminiscent of later Tull. The Engineer is really a damn good song thru and thru. The middle instrumental portion is a bit weak but the rest is killer. Pax Brittanica is also a very good song that sort of reminds me of the pace of "Old School Song", but all in all it's nicely done. TAB has some brilliant moments and is yet another great instrumentull added to the Tull/IA repertoire. After These Wars is growing on me. I didn't like it at first but now is getting better with each listen. New Blood is another great song. Love the jazzy feel and the bridge works just fine for me. Really like In for a Pound. Better than Heavy Metals. Browning of the Green is good save the chorus which is sung to frequently. As TM said, very good guitar work on this one. Cold Dead Reckoning is the best song on the album in my opinion. Really IA/Tull at it's best and should immediately make the playlist for all future concerts...including the fabulous outro. All in all a very strong effort that easily surpasses Rupi and TAAB 2. No contest for me. I love the quirkiness, sound and feel of this album. It is getting rave reviews everywhere and I can pretty much understand it. There just aren't many, if any, songwriters that have the imagination and lyrical abilities to produce this type of album. The fact that Ian can do it so quickly really astonishes me leaving hope for more than a couple to follow. Nice review Tom. No doubt the songwriting (lyrics) are the highlight for me on this effort.
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Post by Morthoron on Apr 28, 2014 21:48:12 GMT -5
lol It is nasty stuff isn't it. Sounds like Coldplay having anal sex with Radiohead.
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Post by TM on Apr 28, 2014 21:57:21 GMT -5
lol It is nasty stuff isn't it. Sounds like Coldplay having anal sex with Radiohead. Not that there's anything wrong with that. lol
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Post by Mix on Apr 29, 2014 6:29:07 GMT -5
When I hear Tull music now it's sounds better than ever, and I don't think it's any coincidence. Quick synopsis: Doggerland - a typically styled Tull opener, except the vocals are very weak sounding. Heavy Metals - Nice track Enter the Uninvited - Initially my favorite track, but now find I'm finding the intro and outro annoying. Puer Ferox Adventus - Great song but someone thought they were making a movie and added lightening sound affects, why? Meliora Sequamur - Forgive me for not listening to this song. The Turnpike Inn - I find no redeeming value in this one either. The instrumental is pretty good but it's not worth the wait. The Engineer - I like this track, but the intro has grown annoying. I like John's piano in this track and much of the squeezy thing is okay, but it's superfluously used and that's not a good thing. The Pax Britannica - This song ought to be disliked simply because it's the obvious rip-off of past Tull, but I actually like it - except of course for the intro which sounds very similar to The Engineer and ETU. Tripudium Ad Bellum - This has grown on me. At first I heard two ideas that simply repeatedly itself. It doesn't really go anywhere, but it is well played and a good listen. After These Wars - This one is tough. It's a great song except for the chorus. The songs builds momentum and then the chorus let's you down. Makes me wonder what a younger IA might have done with this one. New Blood, Old Veins - Love the LITP like feel. Hate the bridge with Ryan. Oh well, can't have it all. In for a Pound - A shortened version of Heavy Metals without the triangle. The Browning of the Green - I like Florian's guitar on this track, but the vocals sound like the Turnpike Inn, and the canned sardine line is not for me. I'll stick with catfish or salmon thank you. Per Errationes Ad Astra - This makes it 3 as in the number of times Ian speaks on his solo records. Cold Dead Reckoning - I like Ian's vocals on this one, even if I do find the music to be a bit "much". Sounds a bit like the Trans-Siberian Orchestra and then ends with a "bang" followed by a little light music. This album has it's moments, including questionable ones. John O'Hara and David Goodier sound good. Florian sounds good but he's seems to have been given the MB treatment and thrown to the back of the mix. Scott's kit sounds too dry or something - they're a bit lifeless sounding. And being a graduate of the Barriemore Barlow school of music sometimes I question Scott. The quick fill in The Engineer is the perfect example. And lastly Ryan, I wouldn't have used Ryan's vocals in the manner they were used on this record. I thought he sounded great on that one track on TAAB2. His vocals work better on lighter more delicate pieces. Perhaps a song like After These Wars might have worked well? Well there you go. My .02 on Homo. I'd rate this album as a "C". I would not call this Desert Island Disc worthy. TM, its fascinating how much different Tull fans differ in their views. Personally I'm struggling with a lot of the criticism, seems there is plenty of the old magic in this release. A 'C' is a pretty harsh score. I'd be giving it a B+ I think. Also don't understand people moaning about the production in other forums and how the band lack energy. WTF. For years we moaned about band members emailing their parts into Ian, now we have band that records the same way as all the classic Tull albums and still people moan. It sounds modern to me, I like the mix and production. Way better than TaabII.
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Post by Deleted on Apr 29, 2014 9:35:38 GMT -5
TM, its fascinating how much different Tull fans differ in their views. Personally I'm struggling with a lot of the criticism, seems there is plenty of the old magic in this release. A 'C' is a pretty harsh score. I'd be giving it a B+ I think. Also don't understand people moaning about the production in other forums and how the band lack energy. WTF. For years we moaned about band members emailing their parts into Ian, now we have band to records the same way as all the classic Tull albums and still people moan. It sounds modern to me, I like the mix and production. Way better than TaabII. What he said. I agree entirely. It has been a long, long time since I have felt this energized about being a Tull fan. Roots to Branches. That's 20 years.
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Post by TM on Apr 29, 2014 11:02:42 GMT -5
When I hear Tull music now it's sounds better than ever, and I don't think it's any coincidence. Quick synopsis: Doggerland - a typically styled Tull opener, except the vocals are very weak sounding. Heavy Metals - Nice track Enter the Uninvited - Initially my favorite track, but now find I'm finding the intro and outro annoying. Puer Ferox Adventus - Great song but someone thought they were making a movie and added lightening sound affects, why? Meliora Sequamur - Forgive me for not listening to this song. The Turnpike Inn - I find no redeeming value in this one either. The instrumental is pretty good but it's not worth the wait. The Engineer - I like this track, but the intro has grown annoying. I like John's piano in this track and much of the squeezy thing is okay, but it's superfluously used and that's not a good thing. The Pax Britannica - This song ought to be disliked simply because it's the obvious rip-off of past Tull, but I actually like it - except of course for the intro which sounds very similar to The Engineer and ETU. Tripudium Ad Bellum - This has grown on me. At first I heard two ideas that simply repeatedly itself. It doesn't really go anywhere, but it is well played and a good listen. After These Wars - This one is tough. It's a great song except for the chorus. The songs builds momentum and then the chorus let's you down. Makes me wonder what a younger IA might have done with this one. New Blood, Old Veins - Love the LITP like feel. Hate the bridge with Ryan. Oh well, can't have it all. In for a Pound - A shortened version of Heavy Metals without the triangle. The Browning of the Green - I like Florian's guitar on this track, but the vocals sound like the Turnpike Inn, and the canned sardine line is not for me. I'll stick with catfish or salmon thank you. Per Errationes Ad Astra - This makes it 3 as in the number of times Ian speaks on his solo records. Cold Dead Reckoning - I like Ian's vocals on this one, even if I do find the music to be a bit "much". Sounds a bit like the Trans-Siberian Orchestra and then ends with a "bang" followed by a little light music. This album has it's moments, including questionable ones. John O'Hara and David Goodier sound good. Florian sounds good but he's seems to have been given the MB treatment and thrown to the back of the mix. Scott's kit sounds too dry or something - they're a bit lifeless sounding. And being a graduate of the Barriemore Barlow school of music sometimes I question Scott. The quick fill in The Engineer is the perfect example. And lastly Ryan, I wouldn't have used Ryan's vocals in the manner they were used on this record. I thought he sounded great on that one track on TAAB2. His vocals work better on lighter more delicate pieces. Perhaps a song like After These Wars might have worked well? Well there you go. My .02 on Homo. I'd rate this album as a "C". I would not call this Desert Island Disc worthy. TM, its fascinating how much different Tull fans differ in their views. Personally I'm struggling with a lot of the criticism, seems there is plenty of the old magic in this release. A 'C' is a pretty harsh score. I'd be giving it a B+ I think. Also don't understand people moaning about the production in other forums and how the band lack energy. WTF. For years we moaned about band members emailing their parts into Ian, now we have band to records the same way as all the classic Tull albums and still people moan. It sounds modern to me, I like the mix and production. Way better than TaabII. Maybe I'm being too harsh I don't know, but if rating my favorite Tull albums like Benefit and Aqualung an 'A', and albums like Warchild and Heavy Horses as 'B's', I really don't see a 'C' as being an insult in anyway. Lyrically it's very interesting as well as educational - and that's something I've always appreciated about Ian's lyrics that had become lost in recent albums. But it's clear that Ian's interest in family 'management' as well as his ongoing concern for the preservation of the earth's resources have been melded here with ideas taken from his son-in-law's hit TV show. As for the mix, I think Ian's flute is a bit too high and I find Florian to be too low. I guess it's just personal preference. John and David sound good, on piano and base but the accordion is too high for my taste and Scott's drum's sound dry. Ian mentioned in AND I believe that Doane's drums were very difficult to record. While I don't doubt that, I enjoy the sound of Doane's kit much more than Scott's. I actually may prefer Scott's sound on TAAB2 over this album. But you're right, we all moaned about wanting Jethro Tull to "become a band once again" and record some new music. Unfortunately, that's not what Ian had in mind, and this is the next best thing. Believe me, I really wish I enjoyed it more.
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Post by Mix on Apr 29, 2014 12:42:37 GMT -5
Interesting you mention Scott because I was thinking I really liked the drum sound. I saw Scott with Tull in 2011 and was impressed but disappointed with the drums on TAABII. I really like his playing on HE. I'll be honest, I was never a fan of Doane's playing, though he's a lovely guy. Scott seems more musical to me, Doane more Power Rock. Noubt wrong with both styles but I think Scott has much more in common with Barry than Doane.
I got the remix version of Benefit same time as HE. I never had a good recording of Benefit. The pre Aqualung Tull always seemed a bit rough round the edges in terms of Ian's compositions and the bands performances. Aqualung was really the arrival of the Tull sound. So because of that and the poor quality, I hadn't listened to Benefit as much as I had wanted. So the remix certainly is wonderful and solves the sound issues. Really great job from SW again. But I still find myself skipping over quite a few tracks. Benefit would get a C from me.
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Post by TM on Apr 29, 2014 17:09:10 GMT -5
Interesting you mention Scott because I was thinking I really liked the drum sound. I saw Scott with Tull in 2011 and was impressed but disappointed with the drums on TAABII. I really like his playing on HE. I'll be honest, I was never a fan of Doane's playing, though he's a lovely guy. Scott seems more musical to me, Doane more Power Rock. Noubt wrong with both styles but I think Scott has much more in common with Barry than Doane. I got the remix version of Benefit same time as HE. I never had a good recording of Benefit. The pre Aqualung Tull always seemed a bit rough round the edges in terms of Ian's compositions and the bands performances. Aqualung was really the arrival of the Tull sound. So because of that and the poor quality, I hadn't listened to Benefit as much as I had wanted. So the remix certainly is wonderful and solves the sound issues. Really great job from SW again. But I still find myself skipping over quite a few tracks. Benefit would get a C from me. I wasn't a fan of Doane's work on Dot Com but I have to say that when I saw Tull do Aqualung Live at XM studios Doane's drumming was pretty amazing. I'm talking thunderous during Aqualung and Locomotive Breath. They had Doane set up in a drum-cave, away from all the other guys so he would sound as loud, but it really made little difference in the power he displayed. Next time you listen to Aqualung live you can actually hear Doane and the band are off after coming off a rest as Doane could not see Ian's signal from inside the drum-cave.
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Post by LJG on Apr 29, 2014 18:11:24 GMT -5
It is amazing where people's tastes lie... I'm with TM in ranking Benefit as one of Tull's very best.
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Post by Morthoron on Apr 29, 2014 21:02:42 GMT -5
It is amazing where people's tastes lie... I'm with TM in ranking Benefit as one of Tull's very best. Not a Benefit fan, really. I think that Stand Up was more the precursor to Aqualung and TAAB in regards to great Tull albums. Benefit seems unfinished to me, with some repetition of compositional themes, particularly on side one.
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