Hymn 43 by Jethro Tull

Jethro Tull’s Aqualung was widely considered one of the first concept albums—a thematic set of songs that looked at society’s lower rungs on the first side, and at organized religion on the second.

The first side, of course, produced the famous title track, inspired by the homeless who lived near leader Ian Anderson’s London neighborhood. On the second side, Anderson came out against organized religion and in favor of a personal relationship with God.

The snarling, satirical “Hymn 43” comes from that side and featured much mad guitar riffage from Martin Barre, with just a little taste of Anderson’s trademark flute at the end.

Slightly miffed after many critics called Aqualung a concept album, Ian Anderson decided he’d write something really conceptual. Thus Tull’s next album, Thick As a Brick, consisted of one song for 43 minutes.

It’s only a three-minute song, but there are enough change-ups here to keep you busy. The bass player has almost no HOPOs, so make sure your strumming muscles are in shape.

The drummer has to work hardest on either side of the guitar solo: the patterns there involve a lot of tom hits, snare rolls and crashes.

The guitar part has some quick HOPOs during the solos that can challenge your streak.

Since it’s a Tull song, singers may want to practice dancing on one leg while twirling a flute-like object.

Jethro Tull played their 40th anniversary tour in the summer of 2008.

"Hymn 43" as performed by Jethro Tull courtesy of EMI Film & TV Music
Written by Ian Anderson published by Chrysalis Music (ASCAP)