ALBANY–Ian Anderson’s Jethro Tull – The Seven Decades Tour was a mesmerizing and nostalgic journey through the annals of progressive rock, proving that great music knows no bounds of time.
As I walked into the Palace Theatre in Albany for the SOLD OUT show, I couldn’t help but notice the sea of attendees, predominantly male and over 60, many of them sporting the iconic ponytail. It was a demographic that had aged alongside the music; a testament to the enduring power of Anderson’s artistry.
One unique aspect of the evening was the announcement that the show would be cellphone and camera-free. This bold decision, aimed at reducing distractions for both performers and fans, intrigued me. I expected to see a few defiant blue digital glows throughout the crowd, but to my surprise, the audience wholeheartedly embraced the concept. The only distraction was a stray balloon that an audience member set free at the beginning of the show, but after three songs, another fan carefully stored it under their seat until intermission. It was a refreshing sight in today’s world of smartphone addiction.
(Note: The photos you see published with this piece were taken by the author during the encore, which is the one portion of the show where photography was permitted.)
At the age of 76, my main concern was whether Ian Anderson could still deliver the magic that defined our mutual younger years. However, as soon as he took the stage, any doubts were dispelled. While the high notes might not soar as they did 50 years ago, Anderson’s vocal range and stage presence remained impressive. His energy was infectious, and at times, he resembled the mythical Kokopelli, with a leg up, flute in hand.
The Jethro Tull – The Seven Decades Tour was a tribute to Anderson and Tull’s exceptional career spanning over seven decades, and it featured a talented ensemble of musicians who added depth to the performance. The setlist was a journey through Jethro Tull’s iconic discography, from “Nothing Is Easy” to the timeless “Aqualung.” The addition of classical covers like Faure’s “Pavane in F-Sharp Minor” and Bach’s “Bourree in E Minor” showcased Anderson’s versatility and classical influences.
Today, bandleader Anderson is the only original member of Jethro Tull who’s left, but this is not necessarily a bad thing: The flute virtuoso was joined by longtime bassist David Goodier, veteran pianist/organist John O’Hara, and new(er) additions drummer Scott Hammond and guitarist/mandolin player, Joe Parrish-James.
The visuals accompanying the music were a highlight, with a dazzling light show and immersive graphics that added a contemporary touch to the classic tracks. It was a visual feast for fans, old and new, and complemented the music brilliantly.
In an era where music rapidly evolves, Ian Anderson stands as a beacon of artistic integrity and innovation. His Jethro Tull – The Seven Decades Tour is a must-see for any music lover, offering a glimpse into the indomitable spirit of a rock legend. Despite the passage of time, Anderson’s performance was nothing short of extraordinary, leaving the audience with a renewed appreciation for the magic of progressive rock.
Anderson’s ability to transcend generations and continue to sell-out shows after seven decades is a testament to the timelessness of his music. As a fan who has followed his journey since the late 1960s, I can confidently say that Ian Anderson’s Jethro Tull – The Seven Decades Tour was a musical experience that will forever hold a special place in my heart.
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Ian Anderson’s Jethro Tull – The Seven Decades @ The Palace Theatre, Albany, NY – 11/4/23 (Photos by Stephanie J. Bartik)
