Jethro Tull's Ian Anderson - Thick as a Brick Live In Iceland

Jethro Tull's Ian Anderson - Thick as a Brick Live In Iceland is a treasure for rock enthusiasts and music aficionados. This unique musical narrative, filmed during a live concert in Reykjavik, Iceland in 2014, offers a scintillating blend of folk rock and progressive rock, celebrating the prodigious talent of Jethro Tull’s frontman, Ian Anderson.

The genesis of this performance goes back nearly forty years to the release of Jethro Tull's fifth studio album, "Thick as a Brick," in 1972. This album took admirers of Jethro Tull on a progressive rock odyssey like no other. Not only was it notable for its innovative sound but also because it was created as one continuous piece of music, spread across both sides of the vinyl record, rather than being divided into individual tracks. The album's concept followed a fictional character, Gerald Bostock and his contemplations on life and its diverse stages.

Fast forward to 2014, and the album's lead vocalist, flautist, and frontman, Ian Anderson, pays a nostalgic tribute to this influential body of work with a breathtaking performance at Harpa Concert Hall in Reykjavik. Ian Anderson classics, such as "Thick as a Brick," are superbly intertwined with new lyrical and musical dimensions, including the sequel, “Thick as a Brick 2” offering an evolution of the Gerald Bostock character.

What stands out in this live performance is not only Ian Anderson's piercing vocal and his mesmerizing flute work but also the thematic progression. The film takes you on a journey that leads from the emblematic pastoral narratives of the '70s to the more modernistic soundscapes. The ensemble of backing musicians enhances the performances with a dynamic presence and robust interpretations of the original and newer material.

The film also includes renditions of never-before-seen compositions. Anderson ties it all together with immersive storytelling and quintessential rock numbers, creating a transcendent atmospheric ensemble that only a music maestro like him can accomplish. Ian Anderson’s dynamic personality is genuinely captivating and compels an emotional reaction with every note played and every lyric sung.

The entire performance is designed to echo the themes of the original album, to portray the character’s evolution, and to entertain the audience with masterful music and well-narrated stories. The stage's visage, the audience's energy, the lighting's theatrics, and the superb camerawork all contribute to an otherworldly viewing experience.

Bringing a showpiece to life like, "Thick as a Brick" in a live orchestration requires meticulous planning, precise timing, and plenty of talent, all of which are evident in this concert film. The performances are not just faithful to the essence of the original album but also refuse to confine themselves within the bindings of its original scope.

Every song in Ian's majestic setlist is delivered with a finesse which can only herald from a deep understanding of the music and an unquenchable passion for performance. Unfolding amidst the northern landscape of Iceland, the spectacle carries a sense of mystical charm, punctuated by beneath-the-skin lyrics and the resonant echoes of the keys, chords, and drums.

Overall, Jethro Tull's Ian Anderson - Thick as a Brick Live In Iceland is an immersive and fantastical concert film that stands as a testament not just to its celebrated frontman but also to the enduring appeal of tailored rock music. The visuals offer both a terrific show of soaring talent paired with quality production values and a comprehensive story that engages the audience in a vibrant, energetic, and altogether remarkable stage show.

Whether you are a die-hard Jethro Tull fan, a proponent of progressive rock, or simply a lover of imaginative and compelling music, this film promises to be a magnificent addition to your collection. It beautifully captures the spirit of Ian Anderson and his influential musical legacy while providing an unforgettable experience of one of the greatest rock concerts in Iceland's history. This film is an undoubted must-watch, celebrating the timeless appeal of one of the genre's most iconic albums and the visionary musician behind it. The show pulsates with vibrant, sensual energy that captures the essence of live music at its very best - raw, authentic, and utterly captivating.