GoLocal Interviews Ian Anderson - Jethro Tull Founder Coming to PPAC Next Week
Tuesday, October 21, 2014
Another in a line of epic rock shows comes to PPAC next Wednesday when Ian Anderson, founder of Jethro Tull, brings his band to town. It promises to be evening of “Progressive Rock” classics, starring the artist who boldly brought the flute to the forefront of a rock band.
GoLocal Interview
GoLocalProv spoke to Anderson last week from his estate in Wiltshire, England, where he owns several salmon farms. A successful musician and businessman, he’s clearly still touch with his roots as a rock and roller.
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLASTThe 67 year old rocker plays over 100 shows a year. Unlike the title of the Tull hit "Living in the Past," Anderson explains "I am not one for nostalgia or reminiscences and prefer to live in the present and the future...Our style of music is, I hope, a little bit timeless and not rooted in a particular music fashion."
Anderson appreciates his fans, noting “the loyalty of our fans keeps us in work and pocket money…loyal and committed fans ensure that the work of bands like Zeppelin, The Grateful Dead, Hendrix and the Stones won’t fade away. Tull is just a lesser version of those rock giants whose music will go on to define the form in the history books of the future.”
In many ways, Tull’s music is far more adventurous than the above named, and with over 60 million albums sold worldwide, they’ve carved out a solid niche in rock and roll history. Their "Prog Rock" sound highlights textured acoustic mandolins, flutes and whistle playing. Anderson's music exerts a strong influence over modern artists like Mumford and Sons and other acoustic based bands. And their position behind those pop icons allowed them the space to truly focus on the art of making great music.
Homo Erraticus
Anderson’s latest album Homo Erraticus, was released in April. It’s gotten solid reviews, and features the classic Progressive Rock sound that Tull made famous, with Anderson’s flute front and center.
The album further advances the story of Gerald Bostock, a character introduced on the classic 1972 album, Thick as a Brick. It’s actually the third release on the subject, following 2012’s TAAB 2: Whatever Happened to Gerald Bostock.
The Bostock persona is not autobiographical, nor is it based on the life of a real person, as Anderson made clear in our chat. “It’s a nom-de-plome, an alter ego… I create characters, like Quentin Tarrentino does in his movies.”
In fact, Anderson expressed disdain for artists who “sing about themselves all the time.” He’s a storyteller, remarking “my characters express thoughts far from my own.”
On Tour
Next Wednesday will not be the first time Anderson has been to Providence. In fact, he has a key to the city, offered by a “colorful Mayor some years ago.” Tull has played Rhode Island several times going back to 1969 when the band appeared at the Newport Jazz Festival.
Anderson is a hands-on manager noting “I just planned the band’s South American tour, did it all online.” Although getting through security and customs has become a challenge in recent years, “touring is actually easier, more organized and less stressful.”
Anderson also wants fans to know that the current show is a multimedia spectacular, with video and other theatrical elements. And the Scotish born taskmaster expects the audience to be prompt. “The show starts at 7:30 … and if you’re late, you’ll be stepping on toes.”
Be prepared for a 2+ hour set, with selections from Homo Erraticus followed by a set of Tull classics. Expect a great night!
Ian Anderson performs at the Providence Performing Arts Center on Wednesday October 29th. Tickets are available here starting at $37.00.
Ken Abrams reviews Roots, Rock and Blues for GoLocalProv. E-Mail him here.
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