Jethro Tull: Live At Montreux 2003

As the lights dimmed and a sense of anticipation filled the air at the renowned Montreux Festival, the anticipation was palpable for the arrival of one of the most iconic and influential British rock bands of all time, Jethro Tull. With a career spanning an impressive four decades, this legendary act was set to take the stage by storm, with their inimitable lead vocalist and one-legged flute virtuoso, Ian Anderson, at the helm. As the band made their highly-anticipated debut at the festival in the sweltering summer of 2003, it was clear that this was going to be an unforgettable performance. With a setlist that effortlessly traversed their vast discography, Jethro Tull's concert at Montreux was nothing short of a triumph. The evening began with a semi-acoustic first half that showcased the band's ability to seamlessly blend the gentle with the grand. With a stripped-down arrangement that allowed each musician to shine, the setlist was a masterclass in cohesion, with every song flowing effortlessly into the next. The first half of the concert was filled with some of Jethro Tull's most beloved classic tracks, including "My God" – a haunting and atmospheric composition that features Ian Anderson's poetic lyrics and soaring vocals. As the band delved into their vast repertoire, their timeless classic, "Locomotive Breath," was met with rapturous applause from the devoted crowd. As the evening progressed, it was evident that Ian Anderson's one-legged flute playing had lost none of its signature charm and authority, as he commanded attention with each melodic phrase. His signature voice, known for its distinctive soaring highs and earthy lows, effortlessly danced across the musical spectrum, weaving together an enchanting sonic tapestry that captivated the audience. With his inimitable stage presence and irrepressible energy, Ian Anderson was the unmistakable focal point of the evening, leading his fellow musicians, Martin Barre on guitar, Doane Perry on drums, Andrew Giddings on bass, and Jonathan Noyce on bass, in a joyous celebration of their music. The first half of the concert concluded with a rousing performance of "Aqualung," a fan favorite that had become synonymous with Jethro Tull's groundbreaking 1971 album of the same name. As the band launched into this epic track, with its intricate instrumental arrangements and poetic lyrics, the audience was left in awe of the band's ability to reimagine their timeless classics for a new generation. As the evening progressed into its electric second half, the setlist took a bold turn towards the band's more recent work, highlighting their innovative and adventurous approach to songwriting. Classics such as "Dot Com" – a poignant meditation on technology-induced alienation – and "Budapest," with its haunting Eastern European influences, showcased the band's unwavering commitment to their artistic vision. The concert reached its climax with a stunning rendition of "Aqualung's" companion piece, "Locomotive Breath (Instrumental)" – an instrumental tour-de-force that pushed the musicians to new heights of virtuosity. With each musician playing at their absolute peak, the band tore through this epic composition, unleashing a maelstrom of energy and creativity that left the crowd breathless and elated. As the concert drew to a close, Jethro Tull's performance at the Montreux Festival in 2003 will be remembered as a testament to their enduring legacy. With their timeless music and unforgettable stage show, they reminded the audience why they remain one of the most beloved and respected rock bands in the world. This concert, expertly captured on DVD, is a must-see for fans of Jethro Tull and anyone who has ever been captivated by the band's distinctive sound and mesmerizing live performances.