On this day August 29 1980, A by Jethro Tull was released in the United Kingdom. Originally intended as a solo project by Ian Anderson, the album was eventually released under the band’s name and marked a shift in sound toward synthesizers and a more modern progressive rock style.
This thirteenth studio album featured tracks like Crossfire, Working John Working Joe, and Fylingdale Flyer. The music incorporated electronic elements and a more streamlined production approach, setting it apart from the folk influenced records the band had released throughout the 1970s.
A also introduced a new lineup with Dave Pegg on bass and Eddie Jobson handling keyboards and electric violin, giving the album a colder and more technical sound. While the change surprised some longtime fans, the record received praise for its musicianship and Anderson’s willingness to evolve creatively.
80s insight: A marked a clear departure from Jethro Tull’s earlier sound and showed how even veteran rock bands were adapting to the rapidly changing landscape of early 80s music.
This thirteenth studio album featured tracks like Crossfire, Working John Working Joe, and Fylingdale Flyer. The music incorporated electronic elements and a more streamlined production approach, setting it apart from the folk influenced records the band had released throughout the 1970s.
A also introduced a new lineup with Dave Pegg on bass and Eddie Jobson handling keyboards and electric violin, giving the album a colder and more technical sound. While the change surprised some longtime fans, the record received praise for its musicianship and Anderson’s willingness to evolve creatively.
80s insight: A marked a clear departure from Jethro Tull’s earlier sound and showed how even veteran rock bands were adapting to the rapidly changing landscape of early 80s music.
