How the Graham Bond Organization Sparked a Prog Revolution: Ian anderson’s Tribute
while Jethro Tull is often hailed as a pivotal force in the British progressive rock scene of the 1970s, Ian Anderson’s band consistently straddled the line between genres, drawing inspiration from folk and blues rock.
In 2021, Anderson shared a glimpse into his musical influences, highlighting a diverse array of albums that shaped his artistry. Among the eclectic mix, he mentioned the avant-garde sounds of Captain beefheart, alongside the iconic works of the Jimi Hendrix Experience and John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers With Eric Clapton.
However, one particular album stands out in his recollections. The Graham Bond Organization, a band infused with jazz and rhythm-and-blues elements, featured two future legends: bassist Jack Bruce and drummer Ginger Baker. Notably, guitarist John McLaughlin was also part of the lineup two years prior. Much like Mayall’s ensemble, the Graham Bond Organization served as a breeding ground for talent that would significantly influence the evolution of jazz-infused rock.
Anderson has credited their 1965 debut album, The Sound of ’65, as a catalyst for the progressive movement that would later encompass bands like yes, Pink Floyd, and Emerson, Lake & Palmer.
“This album was crucial for anyone in the U.K. exploring early jazz-rock concepts,” Anderson remarked. “with two members who would later form Cream and the innovative jazzman Bond, they delivered powerful interpretations of classic jazz, blues, and original compositions that inspired a wave of British bands in the late ’60s and early ’70s.”
In a conversation with Classic Rock, Anderson elaborated on the profound impact of Bond’s songwriting style on his own musical journey.
“Their unique blend of homegrown jazz and blues resonated deeply with me as a young musician,” he reflected. “At that time, I was just beginning to explore music. The dramatic and forceful use of the Hammond organ by Bond was notably striking.As many know, the core members of the Graham Bond Organization eventually formed Cream, pushing the boundaries even further.”
Furthermore, the band’s adventurous spirit, as they seamlessly transitioned between blues, jazz, and various other influences, opened Anderson’s eyes to new instrumental possibilities.
“The combination of saxophone and Hammond organ, along with bass and drums, really resonated with me,” Anderson shared. “It made me realize that this lineup could create something unique. It didn’t have to be strictly Black American music; elements from classical music could also be incorporated. In many ways, this was the inception of what we now recognize as classic rock.”
Eventually,Jethro Tull shifted from their blues-rock roots towards a more progressive sound,a transition that cost them guitarist Mick Abrahams.
Longtime Tull guitarist Martin Barre noted that Anderson took a notable risk by bringing him on board to replace Abrahams. however, Anderson understood the necessity of evolving the band’s style to achieve greater success.
“They took a considerable leap into the unknown by inviting me to join as a guitarist,” Barre recounted in an interview with Guitarist. “Tull started as a blues band, but Anderson was astute, looking ahead to where the music could go.”
Interestingly, Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath briefly auditioned for Jethro Tull and even performed with them on the Rolling Stones Rock and Roll Circus. Although he returned to sabbath shortly thereafter, he brought valuable insights that helped shape the band’s direction.
Inspired by the groundbreaking music of the Graham Bond Organization and equipped with a more versatile guitarist in Barre, Anderson and Jethro Tull transformed into a fully-fledged progressive rock band, leaving an indelible mark on the music landscape.
