Martin Barre, lead guitarist of the British rock band Jethro Tull, kicked off his new tour, “A Brief History of Tull,” on June 7 at The Kent Stage.

He was joined by Dan Crisp on vocals and guitar, Alan Thomson on bass and Darby Todd on percussion and drums. Barre’s tour will take him across the United States as he plays through Jethro Tull’s long and legendary history.

Barre has been the lead guitarist for Jethro Tull for 43 years. On his website for his band, Martin Barre Band, it says, “Martin’s guitar playing has earned him a high level of respect and recognition; he was voted 25th best solo ever in the USA and 20th best solo ever in the UK for his playing on ‘Aqualung’. His playing on the album ‘Crest of a Knave’ earned him a Grammy award in 1989.” Barre has also worked with several other legendary artists such as Phil Collins and Paul McCartney.

“A Brief History of Tull” is a collection of songs from the band’s long history put to showcase the “classics” and “give the Tull fans and a broader audience the chance to hear tracks not performed for many years.”

A longtime fan, Chris, who wished to only be referred to by first name only, spoke on what he thought of the show and why he thought it was great Barre continued to showcase Jethro Tull’s music on tour.

“The show’s great,” he said. “I appreciate the fact he brings [Jethro Tull’s] history to people but in a new light. He was an integral part of Jethro Tull and he’s playing the music in a vibrant style. He’s still a master at what he’s doing, so it’s not as if he’s doing a copycat tribute show. It’s just a really good way to introduce the music of Jethro Tull to new audiences.”

Barre’s touring band not only brings Jethro Tull to new and old fans but also brings people to Kent’s famous Kent Stage. Peter Chetigny, a volunteer at the Kent Stage, spoke on how important it was to host events and legends like Barre in local venues like The Kent Stage.

“Live music is the best,” Chetigny said. “It’s better than anything. More people need to support it.”

Martin Barre’s “A Brief History of Tull” tours the United States currently through early November 2023. Starting mid-November, Barre will be in the Aqualung 50th Anniversary Tour with Clive Bunker.

Lex Ogilvie is a reporter. Contact her at [email protected].