Unwrapping the Jethro Tull Christmas Album Deluxe Box Set
With the festive season upon us, it’s the perfect time to revisit a gem from Jethro Tull’s catalog: the Jethro Tull Christmas Album, now reimagined as the stunning Fresh Snow at Christmas deluxe box set. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to this release, there’s a lot to uncover in this beautifully crafted collection.
What’s Inside the Box Set?
Four CDs:
The original 2003 mix of The Jethro Tull Christmas Album.
A brand-new 2024 remix by Bruce Soord.
Christmas at St Bride’s (2008), remixed by Bruce Soord.
Ian Anderson Band Live at St Bride’s (2006).
One Blu-ray Disc:
HD 5.1 and Dolby Atmos mixes of the original album.
High-resolution stereo and bonus material from the live concerts.
Deluxe Packaging:
A beautifully illustrated booklet with lyrics, essays, and rare photos.
Additionally, there’s a double vinyl edition featuring the 2024 remix of the original album.
The Festive Highlights
Live at St Bride’s (2006 & 2008)
The two live concerts are the standout feature of this set.
2008 Concert: This recording, featuring a choir, captures the essence of Christmas with tracks like God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen and Oh Come All Ye Faithful. The atmosphere is magical, making it perfect for the holiday season.
2006 Concert: This performance feels timeless, with arrangements of classics like Aqualung, Living in the Past, and Christmas Song. The addition of violin adds an emotional depth, creating an experience that transcends the festive theme and can be enjoyed year-round.
The new Dolby Atmos and 5.1 surround mixes are transformative. Listening feels like you’re sitting in the middle of the band, surrounded by their rich instrumentation. It brings a whole new dimension to the original album and live recordings, especially for those with surround sound systems.
Vinyl Release
This is the first time the album has been available in this format. The 2024 remix sounds crisp and fresh, adding another reason to add this to your collection.
This is a must-have for Jethro Tull fans and anyone looking to add a bit of seasonal magic to their music collection. Whether it’s the warm glow of the vinyl edition or the immersive surround sound of the Blu-ray, Fresh Snow at Christmas is a gift that keeps giving. Can you spot Ian on the cover?
Phil Aston |Now Spinning Magazine