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Aqualung

by Jethro Tull

Released: March 19, 1971

Progressive rock, folk rock, hard rock

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Why This Album Matters

This album matters because its strongest editorial story is: Breakthrough.

The Album

"Aqualung" is the fourth studio album by British rock band Jethro Tull, released in 1971. The album's themes explore religion, society, and the human condition, with its lyrics often tackling subjects like faith, hypocrisy, and existentialism. Musically, "Aqualung" features a blend of folk, blues, and hard rock elements, characterized by Ian Anderson's distinctive flute playing and unique vocal style.

Stories and details

Interesting Facts

The album is known for its dynamic compositions…

The album is known for its dynamic compositions, intricate arrangements, and virtuosic instrumental performances, showcasing the band's versatility and musical craftsmanship.

The album's title track, "Aqualung," remains one of…

The album's title track, "Aqualung," remains one of Jethro Tull's most iconic songs, with its haunting melody, evocative lyrics, and memorable guitar riff.

Other standout tracks include "Cross-Eyed Mary," "Locomotive Breath,"…

Other standout tracks include "Cross-Eyed Mary," "Locomotive Breath," and "My God," each contributing to the album's overall thematic depth and musical richness.

Watch and listen

Explore the Album

Jethro Tull - Aqualung

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Then

Reception

Upon its release, "Aqualung" received widespread critical acclaim and commercial success, reaching the top ten on both the UK and US album charts.

Now

Legacy

It is widely regarded as one of the band's seminal works and a classic of progressive rock. It has since become a cornerstone of Jethro Tull's discography and a landmark album in the history of progressive rock, influencing generations of musicians and earning a place in the pantheon of classic rock albums.

Full background

The Complete Album Story

"Aqualung" is the fourth studio album by British rock band Jethro Tull, released in 1971. It is widely regarded as one of the band's seminal works and a classic of progressive rock. The album's themes explore religion, society, and the human condition, with its lyrics often tackling subjects like faith, hypocrisy, and existentialism.

Musically, "Aqualung" features a blend of folk, blues, and hard rock elements, characterized by Ian Anderson's distinctive flute playing and unique vocal style. The album is known for its dynamic compositions, intricate arrangements, and virtuosic instrumental performances, showcasing the band's versatility and musical craftsmanship.

The album's title track, "Aqualung," remains one of Jethro Tull's most iconic songs, with its haunting melody, evocative lyrics, and memorable guitar riff. Other standout tracks include "Cross-Eyed Mary," "Locomotive Breath," and "My God," each contributing to the album's overall thematic depth and musical richness.

Upon its release, "Aqualung" received widespread critical acclaim and commercial success, reaching the top ten on both the UK and US album charts. It has since become a cornerstone of Jethro Tull's discography and a landmark album in the history of progressive rock, influencing generations of musicians and earning a place in the pantheon of classic rock albums.