Jethro Tull have revealed details of the band’s 50th anniversary tour which is scheduled to kick off next year. The band, led by sole constant member Ian Anderson, played their first show at the legendary Marquee Club in London on February 2, 1968, and released their debut album, This Was, later that year.

Ian Anderson, famed for dancing on one leg whilst playing the flute, said: “I am not usually a birthday or anniversary kind of guy but, just for once, I won't be a party-pooper either!

“I treasure the memories of the earlier years of Jethro Tull repertoire, associated as it is with the adventures of visiting so many countries for the first time to connect with new fans around the world.

“And this is a celebration of all the 33 band members who graced our ranks – musicians who brought their talents, skills and styles to bear on the performances live and in the studio.

“Join me and the current band for a nostalgic evening of varied music, representative of my ever-changing songwriting as our careers progressed through the years.”

In addition to Anderson, Jethro Tull’s current line-up features bassist David Goodier, keyboardist John O’ Hara, guitarist Florian Opahle, drummer Scott Hammond. “Surprise virtual guests” have been promised.

Jethro Tull play:

APRIL 2018

03 – Manchester, O2 Apollo
05 – Newcastle, City Hall
06 – Edinburgh, Usher Hall
07 – Liverpool, Auditorium
09 – Bristol, Colston Hall
10 – Birmingham, Symphony Hall
11 – Cambridge, Corn Exchange
17 – London, Royal Albert Hall