Bursting Out
Jethro Tull · 1978
93 min · 18 tracks · electronic music
A vibrant tapestry of folk-infused rock and progressive textures, showcasing Jethro Tull's eclectic musical prowess.
Top tracks — play these first
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No Lullaby Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Skating Away on the Thin Ice of the New Day — This track exemplifies Tull's knack for combining poetic lyrics with intricate instrumentation, capturing a sense of introspection amidst a lively performance.
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Too Old to Rock ’n’ Roll; Too Young to Die! — A poignant exploration of aging and identity in rock music, this song resonates deeply within the context of Jethro Tull's own journey as artists navigating fame.
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Aqualung — As one of their most recognized tracks, this performance showcases the band’s signature blend of hard rock and lyrical storytelling, leaving an indelible mark on fans.
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Cross‐Eyed Mary — This track features compelling narrative elements paired with energetic instrumentation, making it a highlight that demonstrates Tull's unique approach to storytelling through music.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album captures Jethro Tull's live energy with strong compositions and skilled performances, though it lacks tight cohesion.
What we noticed
- Several tracks include medleys that transition seamlessly between songs, creating a continuous flow rather than distinct separations.
- The flute is prominently featured throughout, often taking lead melodies and engaging in call-and-response with the guitar and other instruments.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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5/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- dynamic journey with peaks
- intricate flute melodies throughout
- for reflective afternoons
- engaging live performance feel
Maybe skip if you
- prefer straightforward, quick listens
- seek instant gratification tracks
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Fan Favorite — Captures live energy and includes beloved tracks, appealing to dedicated fans.
- Themes
- aging rockers· live concert energy
- Career context
- Released in 1978, Bursting Out captures Jethro Tull at a transitional moment, following their commercial peak with Aqualung and Thick as a Brick. This live album highlights the band’s dynamic energy during a period of extensive touring, reflecting both their established hits and newer material. It serves as a testament to their ability to blend intricate arrangements with spirited performances.
- Stylistic neighbors
- King Crimson· Yes· Genesis
Tracklist
Disc 1
- 1 No Lullaby Start here 5:35
- 2 Sweet Dream 4:52
- 3 Skating Away on the Thin Ice of the New Day 5:03
- 4 Jack in the Green 3:37
- 5 One Brown Mouse 4:08
- 6 A New Day Yesterday 3:08
- 7 Flute Solo Improvisation / God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen / Bourée 5:42
- 8 Songs From the Wood 2:32
- 9 Thick as a Brick 12:32
Disc 2
- 1 Hunting Girl 6:01
- 2 Too Old to Rock ’n’ Roll; Too Young to Die! 4:19
- 3 Conundrum 6:55
- 4 Minstrel in the Gallery 5:47
- 5 Cross‐Eyed Mary 3:39
- 6 Quatrain 1:50
- 7 Aqualung 8:35
- 8 Locomotive Breath 5:32
- 9 The Dambusters March / Medley 3:27
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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