Search - Jethro Tull :: Nightcap Unreleased 1973-1991

Something for Tull fans of all stripes to appreciate

Moldyoldie | Motown, USA | 11/17/2003

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Instead of comparing the so-called "Chateau d'Isaster" suite on Disc #1 of Nightcap with A Passion Play, let's just say that the former has plenty of what Jethro Tull fans yearn for: loud and spirited playing, interesting musical progressions, inane yet strangely expressive and descriptive lyrics, fine acoustic playing, and vocals that leap and soar. Does it work? Yes, as a curiosity of what it might have become; no, as a coherent musical whole. Much of it simply lasts longer than it has to, but much of it is still a treat in its own right. I can see why it was abandoned as a commercial project; it was heading in no particular direction and even its creators couldn't figure it out! I know I was certainly confused by it all. For fans only.



Disc #2 presents many fine unreleased tracks, again displaying the qualities fans have come to appreciate. Some of these tunes are obviously latter-day recordings as they display Ian Anderson's graveling and narrowing voice, but many are from the early-mid '70s when said voice was in full flower. The disc is chock full and can be summed up by saying that it would be much easier to list the lesser tracks than the better. I believe all fans will love it! Even the uninitiated might find something here to savor.



I would suggest to all, fans included, to find a used copy of this 2-CD set as the full retail price is a bit rich, despite the richness of the content."

A Must Have For Tull Fans!

Graboidz | Westminster, Maryland | 07/28/2004

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Tull's 2-disk set 'NightCap' is an excellent find for any Jethro Tull fan. It's like coming away with two new albums for the price of one! Disk one, is the 'Chateau D'Isaster Tapes', which if you were lucky enough to get the 20 Year Box Set you already own. This is the album that should have come out when Tull released 'Passion Play'. And you will hear many elements of 'Passion Play' throughout 'Chateau'. 'Sealion 2' and the opening instrumentals are personal faves from this disk. They have a 'Warchild' or 'Minstrel In the Gallery' feel, as does 'Critque Oblique'. 'Solitaire' even pops up here. If you like 70's Tull and you didn't know about these songs, then this is a must have. Definately a 3 star disk.

The second disk is the reason to buy this set though. No matter what era of Tull you are a fan of, you will find at least 1 to 2 songs represented on this disk. It's an eclectic mix of left overs from Tull recording sessions through the years. But these aren't just shoddy demo's or filler songs that Tull pulled together for a quick release. Most of these songs are as good, if not better than the songs which were finally selected for the albums. It's kind of cool, as a Tull fan, to hear familiar guitar chords, or flute lines, from Tull albums worked in a new way on some of the songs. Ian Anderson and company really shine on the acoustic songs featured on this disk. 'Quartet' is a neat little instrumental that could have been inserted into most of the 70's Tull releases. 'Truck Stop Runner' sounds like one of Tull's 80's synth tunes, stripped down to basics, and adds a bit of Country music flair to create a unique Tull song. 'Paradise Steakhouse' is an older song, but seems like it would have fit right in on 'Catfish Rising' or 'Rock Island', while 'Rosa On the Factory Floor' has a 'Crest of a Knave' feel.

'Nightcap' is a nice snapshot of Tull's musical journey through the past 3 decades, and worthy of adding to your Tull collection."

Just about the band

ReginaldJames | Auckland, New Zealand | 12/05/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I probably have been listening to Jethro Tull for over 25 years now. I was a professor in India and I am teaching in a private college now in Auckland, New Zealand. My dream come true experience was when they played in Madras, India and I was one among their 1000s of fans in India.It's amazing how they manage to do what they do! I wonder whether its Ian's genius in brewing such complicated but fantastic tunes, flute/vocals or Martin's acoustic and electric guitars or Barrie Barlow's drumming or Jeffery Hamond's bass that makes JT (Jethro Tull)so unique. It also facinates me how they manage so many live concerts in many parts of the world. It's pure dedication and professionalism guys. Its not easy. I have been listening to other rock bands like Led Zep, Deep Purple, Pink Floyd, Uriah Heep etc ..but they are no comparison to the Jethro Tull's genius.I have to go now more laterCheers
Dr. James"