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Q magazine
October 1992
Jethro Tull
A Little Light Music
Chrysalis CHR 1554
After the ultra-slick arrangements of recent years, this live acoustic album is almost self-consciously rough and ready. 'Acoustic' here includes a substantial dollop of electric guitar and at times too much reverberation, particularly on Ian Anderson's voice.
Despite a rousing 'John Barleycorn', then, this is scarcely Jethro Tull down the folk club. Indeed, while the performances of old favourites are often excellent, there is a surprising lack of spontaneity, which sits uncomfortably with the intimate atmosphere generated by the enthusiastic audiences.
After a time, the listener at home will probably be less appreciative than the studio audience of Anderson's occasional chat, but there is plenty here to compensate: not least a sensitive performance of 'One White Duck' and some exhilarating instrumental work.
ROBERT RENTON