New releases last two weeks: Progressive Rock

Review: Originally released in 1990 and celebrating its 35th anniversary this year, Frizzle Fry was the debut full-length from avantgarde funk metal absurdist trio Primus. Known to normies as the band who penned and performed the South Park theme song, those more in the know should be aware of the bold staying power and creative fearlessness this album exuded, whilst signifying that the heavier realms of alternative rock and metal didn't need to be all leather clad angst. Arriving at a similar time to the self-titled debut from Mr. Bungle, the early 90s began with earnest outsider attempts to push the envelope before grunge would come along and be completely devoured by the mainstream machine. Funded with money from the sales of their initial 1989 live album Suck On This, by the time of recording, original guitarist Todd Huth had departed the group, being replaced by mainstay Larry LaLonde playing many parts written by his predecessor. Boasting the band's breakout single, minor radio hit and longtime fan favourite 'John The Fisherman', this reissue duplicates the 2002 remaster and includes the addition of their double whammy cover of The Residents' 'Hello Skinny/Constantinople'.

Review: Back in 2008, Jethro Tull performed a now legendary set at the Basel Festival in Switzerland. Their "powerful and passionate" performance - as the accompanying press release puts it - was previously available on DVD, but this double-CD marks the first time the soundtrack has been made available as an audio release. It naturally stands up to scrutiny, with the effervescent Ian Anderson (switching as ever between vocals and flute) leading the way on a memorable trawl through their epic back catalogue and its notable blends of folk, progressive rock, jazz, hard rock and neo-classical movements. Expect to hear fine versions of 'Aqualung', 'Living In The Past', 'A New Day Yesterday', 'Locomotive Breath' and much more besides.