On July 25, 1969 "Jethro Tull" released their second album "Stand Up".
This album emerged during a pivotal moment for the band, as their original guitarist Mick Abrahams left due to creative differences with frontman Ian Anderson. While their 1968 debut album, "This Was", was rooted in blues rock, Anderson sought to blend folk, jazz, and classical influences into their sound. The album still shows a great blues influence, as in the first track "A New Day Yesterday", but it masterfully balances other genres, resonating with fans and reaching No. 1 on the UK album charts.
"Jethro Tull's" origins trace back to the early 1960s in Blackpool, England, where several future members were part of "John Evan Band". By 1967, Ian Anderson and bassist Glenn Cornick moved to London and teamed up with Abrahams and drummer Clive Bunker. Naming themselves after an 18th-century agriculturist, "Jethro Tull" quickly made their mark in the London club scene. Anderson, initially a guitarist, adopted the flute as his main instrument, feeling he couldn’t compete with the likes of Eric Clapton. The use of the flute expanded in this album as of the range of musical instruments Ian Anderson played, like the Hammond organ, mandolin, balalaika and more.
After Abrahams' departure, the band briefly recruited Tony Iommi, who later returned to his group "Earth" (soon to be renamed "Black Sabbath"). Martin Barre was eventually chosen as the new guitarist, solidifying the lineup for decades. Prior to recording "Stand Up", the band released the single "Living in the Past," which became one of their most iconic songs and marked Barre’s first recording with "Jethro Tull".
Although it is not a concept album, the lyrics refer to Anderson's "shaky" relationship with his parents, especially in the song "Back to the Family" and "To a Thousand Mothers" and a mixture of biographical anecdotes or experiences from his personal life. The difficult life before the band's success was described in the song "We Were Meant To Know" - in memory of the difficult life that Anderson and bassist Glen Cornick had at the head of the group. This poem also describes financial and physical difficulties they experienced and to some extent related to their relationship with the family.
The album opens with a bluesy, riff-heavy track that sets a robust tone - "A New Day Yesterday". Barre’s guitar work is prominent with a stereo-shifting guitar effect, giving the song a raw edge, while Anderson's gritty vocals and dynamic flute playing add a unique layer.
The second track "Jeffrey Goes to Leicester Square" veers into folk territory with its acoustic arrangement where Anderson played on a balalaika and sing whimsical lyrics. The softer sound contrasts nicely with the album’s heavier moments, showcasing the band’s versatility. The track includes guitar and bass riffs with an asymmetrical structure. This song was a tribute to Anderson's friend Jeffrey Hammond, who was also referenced on "This Was" and would later join "Jethro Tull" as bassist in 1970
After that comes the standout track, "Bourée". A jazz-infused reworking of a piece by Johann Sebastian Bach. Anderson’s flute takes center stage, delivering intricate, lively melodies over a walking bass line. This track is a perfect example of the band’s ability to blend classical influences with contemporary rock.
Ending the first side of the vinyl is "Back to the Family", featuring dynamic tempo changes and introspective lyrics, this song alternates between mellow verses and more intense, rock-driven choruses. Barre’s guitar, Glenn Cornick bass and Anderson’s flute interplay beautifully throughout, until the Climax in the end with the guitar-flute solo.
The second side start with "Look Into the Sun" A more reflective and melodic piece that highlights Anderson’s ability to craft emotive, lyrical ballads. The acoustic guitar and gentle flute create a soothing, almost pastoral atmosphere. Anderson played the bass on this song as bassist Glenn Cornick was not present at the session.
The next track "Nothing Is Easy" is energetic and assertive. This track showcases the band’s rock credentials that will develop in the near future in albums like Aqualung. It's a jazz-rock song with drums and electric guitar that contrasts with the acoustic material on the album, driven by a powerful rhythm section and punctuated by Anderson’s vigorous flute solos and emphatic vocals.
In "Fat Man" the band use exotic instrumentation like the mandolin, this track has an Eastern-influenced sound. The playful lyrics and distinctive arrangement make it one of the more memorable songs on the album. Anderson wrote the song as a reference to guitarist Mick Abrahams, however, he said that the song was not intended to insult.
One of the best tracks on the album is "We Used to Know". The chord progression in this song was picked up by the "Eagles" for their song "Hotel California". This track features one of the album’s most compelling guitar solos that will also remind you of the Eagles’ "Hotel California" ones. The song’s contemplative lyrics and steady build create a poignant atmosphere.
The track "Reasons for Waiting" is a beautiful, acoustic-based song, that highlights Anderson’s vocal and flute skills with influences from Roy Harper. The addition of strings enriches the arrangement, giving it a lush, orchestral feel.
The album ends up with "For a Thousand Mothers" .A high-energy number with a complex arrangement, featuring dynamic shifts and compelling instrumental interplay. It ends the album on a powerful note, emphasizing the band’s musical prowess and creativity.
"Stand Up" is a unique and groundbreaking album in "Jethro Tull’s" discography, showcasing their transition from blues rock to a more eclectic sound. With the addition of Martin Barre and the incorporation of diverse musical influences combining progressive rock with a variety of styles, "Jethro Tull" paved its way to future successes. The album was chosen number 513 in the list of the 1000 greatest albums of all time compiled by Colin Larkin in the third edition (2000). It influenced many notable musicians, including Eddie Vedder, Tom Hamilton, Joe Bonamassa, and Joe Satriani. Ian Anderson himself regards it as his favorite "Jethro Tull" album, highlighting its importance as a collection of original music. Following the album's release, the band continued to build momentum with successful singles like "Sweet Dream" and "Witches Promise," entering the 1970s with great momentum.
For Listening: Spotify, Apple Music
Comments