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Presents a Fall Spectacular at the Mayo Center in New Jersey! A SoundPress.net Feature Article by Rich and Laura Lynch Ian Anderson is a singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist and is best known as the leader of the British rock band Jethro Tull and for being the man who brought the flute into mainstream rock and roll. The wind instrument is very much a part of the band's signature sound.
 Rock giant Ian Anderson thrilled the crowd at the Mayo Center for the Performing Arts in Morristown, NJ. Anderson is a charismatic frontman recognized for his colorful characters and costumes and his ability to play the flute standing on one leg. Anderson and his band [David Goodier (Jethro Tull bassist), Scott Hammond (from Bristol, UK - drummer), German rock and flamenco guitarist Florian Opahle, and Classical musician John O'Hara (who also plays keyboards and accordion with Jethro Tull)] are touring in the fall of 2010. A stop at the Mayo Center for the Performing Arts in Morristown, New Jersey on October 21, 2010 - was a well attended event that was packed with Tull aficionados. The audience at the theater was appreciative and attentive throughout Ian's two hour plus show. The stage was a basic set up with the use of lights to add atmosphere. Armed with a guitar - Anderson opened strong with "Life's A Long Song" - before the band blended into the mix and Ian switched to the familiar flute. "Thank you very much... you're looking terrible," jested Anderson as he introduced the band and moved into the second song of the night. "Up To Me" from the Aqualung album featured feisty yet forceful instrumentation. "Nursie" was written back in 1971 and Ian explained that the song was inspired by Ian's dad's battle with death and his caretaker at the time. Anderson countered the serious moment with some comical comments before performing the poignant song that showcased potent leads from guitarist Opahle. Anderson explained that "In The Grip of Stronger Stuff" was written for a former bass player with a drinking problem. The tune captured the ups and downs of the bad habit mixing whimsical and weightier musical styles. "Set-Aside" was a pointed piece about the policy of not growing food followed by "Hare In The Wine Cup" that featured moments of fast flight from Ian's flute. "Wondering Again" was a caustic yet catchy commentary about climate change. Florian took over next to showcase his own instrumental that was vibrant and varied. Returning to 1973, Anderson read and sang a amusing story about a rabbit that loses its spectacles. This children's story in song featured other animals trying to figure out how to help the hare locate his eyeglasses. Turning to a more serious mode, the band performed preludes by Bach and put their own unique spin on the classics. The intricate interpretations were enhanced with violin and short solos from band members, thus closing the first set on an impressive note. The second set rocked and started with an expansive version of "Thick As A Brick". The track had familiar elements but also explored additional textures and tones. The crowd responded with a long standing ovation with Ian commenting "it was fucking brilliant, wasn't it?" (and it was). Anderson was animated in his movements and music and he made sure to include his signature stance into the show. Playing a new song that did not have an official title the band jammed on a piece that had components of prog and allowed each person to solo. Ian encouraged others to shine, especially his guitar player Opahle and keyboardist O'Hara who was also apt on the accordion. The set closer - "Aqualung" was a mix of familiar moments and meandering into dark and daring places. Again more opportunities for sizzling solos from Anderson and the band were observed. The encore - "Locomotive Breath" was a bombardment of the expected and experimental. Ian is still naughty and nimble adding an abundance of nuances to his music. Ian Anderson is a seasoned player who can still put on a spectacular show! Related Links: For more information on IAN ANDERSON and the other organizations mentioned please visit the following links -- j-tull.com | MayoArts.org (Originally Published on October 26, 2010) |
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