|
Hurrah! At last, the entire War
Child project is united on this CD. To call this a reissue
is a bit of a misnomer. This is the album first intended by
the band, but could never be released because of "the restrictions
of vinyl." ***
Yes, this CD still features Ian's
saxophone attempts. While he certainly sounds better as a
flutist, his sax is listenable. ***
And yes, this CD includes Tull's
biggest commercial hit "Bungle In The Jungle." Tull never
craved such AM appeal, but welcomed the infusion of funds
from selling thousands of 7"-45 rpm records. ***
"Skating Away On The Ice Of The
New Day" has become a standard at practically every Tull show.
Maybe it's the obligatory pause before the word "tense" that
gets me, but I still love this song that essentially retells
the story of Jesus Christ in typical unorthodox, Tull fashion.
***
If you like Tull at its most progressive
and yet tightest performance level, this album delivers. Now,
with the reunited songs and orchestral pieces put back together
with the original album, "War Child" not only feels more complete,
but more "realized." ***
The bonus tracks are gems unto themselves.
These tracks "fill-in the blanks" to this humourous antidote
to Tull's intense and psychedelically macabre "Passion Play."
***
Fans of Brian May's guitar in Queen
who thought that May was an innovator of his peculiar guitar
sound will hear Martin Barre employ that sound briefly on
the track "Queen And Country." Is this Barre's cute nod of
approval to his fellow countryman? Possible and likely. ***
I am not a "Tull-can-do-no-wrong"
reviewer. For example, War Child shines as a strong effort
and a polished piece of production compared to the dismal
"Too Old to Rock 'n' Roll." Lesser accolades can be given
to "Stormwatch" for its lack of human warmth. ***
But with its humourous lyrics, David
Palmer's rich orchestrations and Martin Barre's licks, "War
Child" can cut the chill on any wintry night. ***
Special kudos should be given to
Ian Anderson for his efforts in releasing this series of CD's
for re-examination and re-interpretation by thinking fans.
Ian's liner notes are revelatory and welcome. ***
Once again, chaps...For Queen and
Country: Hurrah! ***
Grade: A
|
