Great Compilation
James T. Leyden | San Jose, CA United States | 06/20/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is a great compilation. Excellent for the person who does not know exactly what Tull is all about. As far as tracks go, this release is identical to the import "Through The Years", the tracks are just in a diffrent order. Just remember to get whichever one is cheapest!"
Best compilation of Jethro Tull material so far
David J. Koukol | Merrick, NY United States | 05/17/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"There are numerous "best of Jethro Tull" albums on the market, and too many of them feature virtually the same songs that have been endlessly played on the radio for the last thirty years. Jethro Tull are a group that are so much more multi-faceted and unique than many of those "hits" would suggest. Kudos then, to those who assembled this collection, which delves deeper into Tull's enormous catalogue of compositions and comes up with a greater, more accurate perspective of the band's history. Tull's Celtic period is given a nod with the inclusion of "Acres Wild," while 1987's Grammy-winning "Crest of a Knave" album is represented by "Budapest," a ten-minute epic filled with Martin Barre's lilting guitars, soaring flute from Tull's main man Ian Anderson, and wonderful violin from guest Ric Sanders (of Fairport Convention). There are one or two of the better "hits" on display, as well: witness "Living in the Past" and the live version of "Locomotive Breath." The most recent track to be found here is 1995's "Rare And Precious Chain," which blends Eastern influences with Ian Anderson's unique song-writing style. Tull are a rare and precious group, and this album is an excellent sampler for the newcomer who wants to hear more than just the obvious commercial material."