Jethro Tull's Aqualung (Chrysalis CHR 1044 / CHR 1044), their fourth studio album, released March 19, 1971 (UK) / April 1971 (US). It's one of their most iconic and enduring records—a concept album (loosely) exploring themes of religion, society, hypocrisy, and alienation, with Ian Anderson's flute-driven hard rock/prog-folk style at its peak. The title track and "Locomotive Breath" became radio staples, while the whole album is a cornerstone of early '70s British rock.Key

Front Cover: Famous painting by Burton Silverman of a disheveled, bearded tramp (the "Aqualung" character) clutching his coat, set against a gritty urban backdrop with graffiti/posters ("Spend Christmas Sking with Mixed Parties," "Remote South," etc.). The title "Jethro Tull Aqualung" in gothic-style lettering. shows classic vintage wear: ring wear, edge scuffs, corner dings, and surface scratches on the matte finish, but the artwork remains striking and evocative.

Back Cover: Dark green/black background with a painted scene of Aqualung and his dog in a snowy/urban setting. Full credits: Produced by Ian Anderson and Terry Ellis for Chrysalis Records Limited, London. A "Chrysalis Production." Musician credits (Ian Anderson: vocals, flute, acoustic guitar; Martin Barre: electric guitar; John Evan: piano, organ; Jeffrey Hammond-Hammond: bass; Clive Bunker: drums/percussion; plus orchestra arranged by David Palmer). Lyrics excerpts from tracks like "Aqualung," "Cross-Eyed Mary," "Cheap Day Return," "Mother Goose," "Wond'ring Aloud," "Up to Me."

Gatefold Inner Spread: Full-color illustrations by Burton Silverman depicting scenes from the album's narrative—tramps, beggars, religious figures, urban decay, and the band in a church-like setting. Lyrics printed in ornate, medieval-style font on white panels. The artwork is atmospheric and slightly psychedelic—perfectly matching the album's tone.

Vinyl & Label: Black vinyl with the blue-gradient Chrysalis label (fading from dark to light blue with butterfly logo). Side 1 label shows:Catalog: CHR 1044

Tracks: Aqualung (6:31), Cross-Eyed Mary (4:06), Cheap Day Return (1:21), Mother Goose (3:51), Wond'ring Aloud (1:53), Up to Me (3:14)

Produced by Ian Anderson and Terry Ellis for Chrysalis Records Limited, London

A Chrysalis Production

ASCAP credits (Anderson compositions)

This is a 1971 original US pressing on Chrysalis (distributed by Warner Bros./Atlantic in some runs; blue label common for early US copies).

Tracklist (Standard)Side A:Aqualung

Cross-Eyed Mary

Cheap Day Return

Mother Goose

Wond'ring Aloud

Up to Me

Side B:My God

Hymn 43

Slipstream

Locomotive Breath

Wind-Up

Standouts: "Aqualung" (the riff and flute), "Locomotive Breath" (that driving acoustic guitar and harmonica), "My God" (prog complexity), "Hymn 43" (rock energy).