Ian Anderson’s ‘desperation’ drives creation of new Jethro Tull album
Ian Anderson, the lead vocalist, lyricist, and flautist of the rock band Jethro Tull, recently expressed a deep sense of urgency and determination to create new music as he approached his older years. This sentiment served as the driving force behind the band’s upcoming release of their latest album titled Curious Ruminant, set to debut on March 7.
In a pre-launch interview with the PA news agency, Anderson reflected on the spontaneous nature of the creative process, stating that inspiration for a new album often strikes unexpectedly when the timing feels just right. He described a dual motivation behind Curious Ruminant, attributing part of it to a sense of desperateness stemming from the realization that time is not infinite. This awareness fueled his desire to channel his inner creativity and share it with the world, transforming what he referred to as a desperate act into a rewarding and exhilarating experience.
Anderson delved into the evolution of the album, revealing that the lyrics for all nine tracks were penned within a brief span of a few weeks, allowing him to explore a more personal and introspective side through his music. The initial spark for the album came from a flute duet demo created back in 2007 with former bandmate Andrew Giddings, which resurfaced unexpectedly when Anderson’s son stumbled upon the forgotten files on an old computer. This rediscovery prompted Anderson to breathe new life into the track by adding lyrics and melodies, culminating in a revitalized creative endeavor.
Reflecting on the band’s origins in the 1960s, Anderson reminisced about the distinctiveness of Jethro Tull, particularly his unconventional choice to incorporate the flute in a rock and pop music landscape that rarely featured the instrument at the time. This uniqueness, combined with the band’s eclectic musical influences spanning folk, classical, blues, and jazz, set them apart as a quirky and innovative group that captivated audiences amidst a competitive music scene.
As the band gears up for the release of their latest album, Curious Ruminant, longtime fans and newcomers alike can look forward to a seamless blend of the band’s signature sound with fresh perspectives and introspective lyrics. With a lineup of talented musicians contributing to the album, including former keyboardist Giddings and drummer James Duncan alongside current band members David Goodier, John O’Hara, Scott Hammond, and guitarist Jack Clark, the album promises to deliver a compelling musical journey that encapsulates Jethro Tull’s enduring legacy in the music industry.