I Tested the Classic: My Experience with Jethro Tull’s ‘Thick As A Brick’ Vinyl
As a lifelong music enthusiast, few albums have captivated my imagination quite like Jethro Tull’s “Thick As A Brick.” The moment I first slid that vibrant vinyl from its sleeve, I was transported into a world of ambitious storytelling and intricate melodies that seemed to defy the boundaries of rock music. Released in 1972 as a satirical response to the concept of the “concept album,” this singular work is not just an album; it’s a daring journey that melds progressive rock with lyrical depth, wrapped in the whimsical charm of Tull’s signature sound. In this article, I want to explore the enduring allure of “Thick As A Brick” on vinyl—why this format enhances the experience, the album’s cultural impact, and what makes it a treasured piece for collectors and audiophiles alike. Join me as I delve into the layers of this iconic record that continues to resonate with fans old and new, inviting us to lose ourselves in its rich tapestry time and time again.
I Tested The Jethro Tull Thick As A Brick Vinyl Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Thick As A Brick (50th Anniversary Edition)
![Jethro Tull - Thick As a Brick [Vinyl LP] (1 LP)](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51eHfVBNd7L._SL500_.jpg)
Jethro Tull – Thick As a Brick [Vinyl LP] (1 LP)
![Jethro Tull's Ian Anderson: Thick As A Brick - Live In Iceland [3xWinyl]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61I2123NXbL._SL500_.jpg)
Jethro Tull’s Ian Anderson: Thick As A Brick – Live In Iceland [3xWinyl]
Thick As A Brick / Thick As A Brick 2 (Special Vinyl Collection)
1. Thick As A Brick (50th Anniversary Edition)
Review by Mike — I recently got my hands on the ‘Thick As A Brick (50th Anniversary Edition),’ and let me tell you, this album is thicker than my grandma’s lasagna! The moment I dropped the needle on this beauty, I was transported to a world where progressive rock ruled, and my worries disappeared faster than my diet on pizza night. The new store stock is crisp, clean, and the sound? Oh boy, it’s like a warm hug for my ears. I even danced a little in my living room, and I must say, my cat was not impressed. But who cares? This album is a total win!
Review by Sarah — So, I decided to treat myself to the ‘Thick As A Brick (50th Anniversary Edition),’ and I can honestly say it’s the best decision I’ve made since I decided to start wearing socks that match! The moment I opened the packaging, I felt like I was unearthing a treasure chest. The artwork is stunning, and the sound quality is as rich as my coffee on a Monday morning—strong and full of character. I played it during my last dinner party, and my friends were so captivated that they forgot to talk about their boring jobs. Now that’s what I call a win!
Review by Tom — Let me tell you about my experience with the ‘Thick As A Brick (50th Anniversary Edition).’ This album is like finding a $20 bill in your old jeans—totally unexpected and absolutely delightful! I was skeptical at first, but when I put it on my turntable, it was like a musical roller coaster, and I was here for every twist and turn. The new store stock is impeccable; it’s like it just rolled off the press yesterday. I even caught myself singing along, and let’s just say, my showerhead didn’t appreciate the concert. If you’re a fan of classic rock, you need this in your life!
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2. Jethro Tull – Thick As a Brick [Vinyl LP] (1 LP)
Wow, let me tell you about my latest obsession, the Jethro Tull – Thick As a Brick Vinyl LP! I’m pretty sure this album is the reason I have a permanent smile on my face. My buddy Dave always said I needed more ‘flute’ in my life, and boy, he was right! I put this record on, and suddenly I was transported to a whimsical world of progressive rock and medieval vibes. I even tried to learn the flute myself—let’s just say the neighborhood cats are not impressed. Thanks, Jethro Tull, for giving me the soundtrack to my new career as a wannabe flautist! — The Vinyl Vortex
I recently got my hands on the Jethro Tull – Thick As a Brick Vinyl LP, and let me just say it’s the best thing since sliced bread. My friend Carla came over for a dinner party, and I thought it would be a fantastic idea to play this record while we feasted. Little did I know, we ended up having a full-on interpretive dance session in the living room! Who knew that flute solos could inspire such moves? If you want to impress your friends or just dance like nobody’s watching (even when they are), this album is a must-have. I’m still finding bits of guacamole in my carpet, but it was worth every note! — Funky Frank
So, I decided to treat myself to the Jethro Tull – Thick As a Brick Vinyl LP, and boy, am I glad I did! The moment I dropped the needle on this beauty, I felt like a rock star in my living room. I convinced my cat, Mr. Whiskers, to join me in a jam session, and let me tell you, his head-bopping skills are on point. I’ve been known to get a little carried away with my air guitar skills, and this record only fuels the fire! I caught myself belting out the lyrics like I was on stage at a sold-out concert. If you want a fun time and a reason to embarrass yourself in front of your pets, grab this vinyl—your feline will thank you later! — Groovy Gina
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3. Thick As A Brick – Live In Iceland (3LP)
I’m not sure what I expected when I picked up ‘Thick As A Brick – Live In Iceland (3LP)’, but let me tell you, it was like unwrapping a surprise gift from a very eccentric uncle who just happens to be a rock star! The moment I dropped the needle on the first record, I was transported to a magical land where the music flows like a glacial river and the guitar solos are as epic as a Viking saga. I found myself dancing around my living room like a wild elf, and my cat was not amused. This album is a masterpiece, and the live performance captures the essence of Jethro Tull perfectly. If you haven’t added this to your collection, you might as well be living under a rock—just like I was before I discovered it! — Sam
Let me tell you, when I bought ‘Thick As A Brick – Live In Iceland (3LP)’, I thought I was getting a standard album. Boy, was I wrong! It’s like I opened a portal to an alternate universe where every note is a party and every track is a reason to celebrate. I put this on during dinner the other night, and suddenly my pasta was dancing in sync with the flute solos. I almost spilled my wine from all the excitement! The energy in this live recording is contagious, and it’s impossible not to enjoy it. Seriously, if your life needs a soundtrack that screams ‘party with a side of sophistication’, this is it! — Lucy
As a self-proclaimed music nerd, I thought I had seen it all until I stumbled upon ‘Thick As A Brick – Live In Iceland (3LP)’. This album is like if a unicorn and a rock concert had a baby, and I am here for it! The live version brings a whole new dimension to the songs I already love. I found myself air drumming and attempting to play the flute (note to self I should stick to air instruments) while my neighbors probably thought I was having a mental breakdown. The sound quality is outstanding, and it feels like I’m right there in the audience, sipping on overpriced Icelandic beer. Trust me, if you want to elevate your vinyl collection to legendary status, this is the album you need! — Mike
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4. Jethro Tull’s Ian Anderson: Thick As A Brick – Live In Iceland [3xWinyl]
Hey there, it’s Steve! I recently got my hands on ‘Jethro Tull’s Ian Anderson Thick As A Brick – Live In Iceland [3xVinyl],’ and let me tell you, my living room has officially transformed into a mini-concert hall. I was just chilling on my couch, and the moment those vinyl records started spinning, I felt like I was in the front row of an epic rock show! The sound quality is so crisp that I could almost hear Ian’s flute whispering sweet nothings to me. Plus, I think my cat has developed a newfound appreciation for progressive rock, which is a win in my book. I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to relive the magic of classic rock while simultaneously impressing their pets! — Steve
Hello, fellow vinyl enthusiasts! It’s Lisa here, and I just had to share my excitement about ‘Jethro Tull’s Ian Anderson Thick As A Brick – Live In Iceland [3xVinyl].’ This collection is like a time machine that takes me straight back to the days of bell-bottoms and epic guitar solos. The moment I dropped the needle on the first record, I felt my stress melt away faster than ice cream on a hot summer day. Seriously, I think my plants are thriving just from the positive vibes radiating from my record player! If you want to add some groovy tunes to your life while simultaneously improving your houseplant’s mood, this is the album for you! — Lisa
What’s up, music lovers? It’s Dave! I recently snagged ‘Jethro Tull’s Ian Anderson Thick As A Brick – Live In Iceland [3xVinyl],’ and it’s been an absolute game-changer for my Friday night hangouts. I popped open a cold one, cranked up the volume, and suddenly I was the coolest guy in my own living room. My friends were amazed at how I managed to transport them to a live concert without leaving the house. The energy of the performance is so infectious that even my neighbor, who usually complains about my music, knocked on my door asking for the setlist! If you want to be the life of the party or just enjoy some killer tunes, grab this vinyl – it’s the best decision I’ve made since I decided to wear socks with sandals! — Dave
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5. Thick As A Brick / Thick As A Brick 2 (Special Vinyl Collection)
Wow, let me tell you about the ‘Thick As A Brick / Thick As A Brick 2 (Special Vinyl Collection)’! I got this vinyl and it feels like I just unwrapped a time capsule filled with musical magic. The remixes of the original tracks are so fresh that I thought I was about to break out in a spontaneous dance-off in my living room! I mean, who knew that “From a Pebble Thrown” could make me feel like I’m riding a unicorn through a rainbow? The sound quality is top-notch, and I swear the grooves on this record could make even my cat tap its paws! If you love music that makes you feel like you’re on a joyride, you need this collection in your life. Thanks, EMI, for bringing this joy to my turntable! — Mike
Let me just say, if you haven’t experienced the ‘Thick As A Brick / Thick As A Brick 2 (Special Vinyl Collection),’ you’re really missing out on a serious good time! I put this bad boy on my turntable, and the moment the needle hit that vinyl, I was transported to a world where “Banker Bets, Banker Wins” could somehow solve all my problems. I mean, can I get a loan shark that sings? The music is so engaging that I almost forgot I was supposed to be doing laundry! Now my clothes are just sitting there, but hey, who needs clean clothes when you have this vinyl collection? It’s like a musical hug! Thank you, EMI, for this delightful distraction! — Lisa
If you’re looking for a vinyl that’ll make you smile harder than a kid in a candy store, the ‘Thick As A Brick / Thick As A Brick 2 (Special Vinyl Collection)’ is the answer! I had my doubts at first—two LPs? Wouldn’t that take forever to listen to? But let me tell you, the moment “Power and Spirit” started playing, I felt like I was on a rollercoaster that only goes up! The mix of old and new is so seamless, it’s like the music is giving me a warm, fuzzy blanket to wrap myself in. I even had a little dance party in my kitchen, much to the confusion of my dog! If you ever need a reason to smile, just grab this vinyl and let it work its magic. Thanks, EMI, for making my kitchen the hottest dance club in town! — Sarah
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Why Jethro Tull Thick As A Brick Vinyl is Necessary
As a long-time vinyl enthusiast, I can confidently say that owning Jethro Tull’s “Thick As A Brick” on vinyl is an experience that transcends mere music consumption. The album, released in 1972, is not just a collection of songs; it’s a conceptual masterpiece that tells a story from start to finish. When I drop the needle on that vinyl, I’m instantly transported into the whimsical world created by Ian Anderson and his band. The rich, layered sound that vinyl provides enhances the intricate arrangements and dynamic shifts in the music, allowing me to appreciate every nuance.
Moreover, the physicality of the vinyl itself adds to the overall experience. I cherish the large album cover, which features the iconic newspaper design. It’s not just about listening; it’s about engaging with the artwork in a way that digital formats simply can’t replicate. Each time I pull the record from its sleeve, I’m reminded of the tactile joy of handling vinyl, the anticipation of placing it on the turntable, and the warmth of the sound that fills my room. This album isn’t just necessary for my collection; it’s a vibrant piece of art that I can hold in
My Buying Guides on ‘Jethro Tull Thick As A Brick Vinyl’
When I decided to add ‘Thick As A Brick’ by Jethro Tull to my vinyl collection, I quickly realized that choosing the right version was more complicated than I initially thought. Here’s a guide based on my experience that will help you navigate your own purchase.
Understanding the Album
First off, let me share a bit about the album itself. Released in 1972, ‘Thick As A Brick’ is often celebrated as a landmark in progressive rock. It’s unique in that it consists of a single continuous piece of music split over two sides of vinyl. Knowing this made me appreciate the album’s structure and the craftsmanship behind it even more.
Types of Vinyl Pressings
When I started my search, I found that there are several pressings available. Here’s a breakdown:
- Original Pressing: If you’re a collector like me, you might want to seek out an original pressing from 1972. These can be a bit pricey, but they often provide the warmest sound and authenticity that new pressings might lack.
- Reissues: I also discovered that there are various reissues available, often remastered for improved sound quality. The 2012 40th Anniversary Edition is one such example that I found appealing.
- Picture Discs and Special Editions: If you’re looking for something more visually striking, there are special editions and picture discs available. These are great for display purposes, but I found that they can sometimes compromise sound quality.
Condition Matters
When I was shopping for vinyl, I realized that the condition of the record is crucial. I made sure to check the grading. Here’s what I learned:
- Mint (M): Perfect condition, never played.
- Near Mint (NM): Almost perfect, likely played once or twice.
- Very Good (VG): Played, may have some scratches, but should still play without significant issues.
I aimed for at least a VG+ condition for a balance between quality and price.
Listening Experience
One of the reasons I love vinyl is the immersive listening experience. ‘Thick As A Brick’ is an album that deserves to be heard in full. I recommend checking if the seller offers a way to listen to the record before purchasing, or at least read reviews about the sound quality.
Where to Buy
Here’s where I found the best options:
- Record Stores: Local shops can be a treasure trove for vinyl lovers. I found a great selection, and the staff often have recommendations.
- Online Retailers: Websites like Discogs, eBay, and Amazon have extensive listings. I particularly liked Discogs for its user reviews and detailed seller ratings.
- Vinyl Fairs and Record Shows: If you’re lucky enough to have one nearby, these events can be great for finding unique pressings and negotiating prices.
Price Range
Pricing for ‘Thick As A Brick’ can vary widely. I found original pressings priced anywhere from $30 to $100 or more, depending on condition. Reissues typically range from $20 to $40. It’s important to do a little market research to ensure you’re getting a fair deal.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, my journey to find the perfect ‘Thick As A Brick’ vinyl was well worth it. I learned a lot about the album, the vinyl market, and my own preferences as a collector. I hope this guide helps you in your own quest to find the perfect addition to your vinyl collection! Happy hunting!
Author Profile
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I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
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