Nothing Is Easy (Live 1970)

The Zoo Crew is spinning the electrifying "Nothing Is Easy (Live 1970)" by Jethro Tull, recorded at the iconic Isle of Wight Festival in 1970, where the band performed to a crowd of nearly 600,000 alongside legends like The Moody Blues and Jimi Hendrix. This live version, released in 2004 as part of the album Nothing Is Easy: Live at the Isle of Wight 1970, captures the raw energy of the band’s early progressive rock sound. One fascinating piece of trivia comes from Ian Anderson’s reflections in the 2005 DVD release, where he recounts the chaotic festival atmosphere, with fans crashing gates and tensions brewing between organizers and locals. Anderson’s commentary, interwoven with the live footage, paints a vivid picture of the hippie ideals and free-spirit vibe that defined the event, though some fans on Amazon reviews wished for less of his narration to let the music shine uninterrupted.

Another tidbit from fan discussions on Reddit highlights the standout performance of bassist Glenn Cornick, whose overdriven Thunderbird bass in “My God” (a teaser from the yet-to-be-released Aqualung) electrified the set. Fans on ProgArchives rave about the rhythm section’s intensity, noting how Cornick and drummer Clive Bunker drove the performance with “fuzz-heavy gusto.” The setlist, featuring tracks like “My Sunday Feeling” and “Bourée,” showcases Jethro Tull’s bluesy roots transitioning into their signature prog-folk style, a pivotal moment that hooked many Zoo Freaks who later discovered their seminal Aqualung album.

Jethro Tull’s origins trace back to Blackpool, England, in the mid-1960s, when Ian Anderson, a charismatic flautist and vocalist, began jamming with schoolmates. Initially called the Blades, the group played blues and jazz-inspired music, gigging around local clubs. By 1967, they adopted the name Jethro Tull, inspired by an 18th-century agriculturist, and relocated to London’s vibrant music scene. Their debut album, This Was (1968), leaned heavily on blues, but Anderson’s distinctive flute and theatrical stage presence set them apart. The 1969 release Stand Up marked a shift toward progressive rock, hitting No. 1 in the UK and earning them a cult following among Zoo Freaks for their eclectic sound and literary lyrics.

The band’s early years were marked by lineup changes, with Anderson and guitarist Martin Barre as constants. Their performance at the Isle of Wight, as captured in “Nothing Is Easy,” solidified their reputation as a formidable live act, leading to sold-out arena shows and a Carnegie Hall performance later that year. Jethro Tull’s ability to blend folk, rock, and classical elements made them a staple for DJs like the Zoo Crew, who love spinning their records for fans craving something beyond mainstream rock.

Stay connected with Jethro Tull through their official website, where you can find tour dates, discography, and news about their latest album, Curious Ruminant (2025). Follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and X for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Fans can dive deeper on TullFans.org, a dedicated fan site with forums and memorabilia, or join the Jethro Tull Fans Facebook Group to share stories and connect with fellow Zoo Freaks who live for the band’s timeless sound.