Jethro Tull-Living In The Past (1972)

"Living in the Past", Jethro Tull's fifth album, is a semi-compilation featuring a wealth of previously unreleased tracks not included on any prior album. Some of these songs were originally released as B-sides on singles, while others were left off their official albums. It was released in 1972 as a double LP. This double album contains a number of tracks previously unknown to many fans of the time, spanning the period between 1968 and 1971. Consequently, for most, it was perceived as a new official album rather than a typical compilation. Because it contains works from different periods, it is extremely interesting to observe the band's evolution from their blues and folk beginnings to the hard rock and progressive sounds they incorporated during those early years of their career. Folk, blues, and jazz influences are present in tracks like "Song for Jeffrey", "Love Story", "Bourée", "Driving Song", and "Witch's Promise", while the more experimental side can be found in "Sweet Dream", "Singing All Day", "Life Is a Long Song", "Dr. Bogenbroom", and the progressive "Living in the Past." "Living in the Past" has rightfully become an essential album in Jethro Tull's discography and probably one of their best works, despite being labeled a compilation.