A Trick of Memory
The Autobiography of Jethro Tull's Guitarist
Format:Hardback
Publisher:McNidder & Grace
Publishing:6th Nov '25
£25.00
This title is due to be published on 6th November, and will be despatched as soon as possible.
To be published November 2025 to coincide with his UK and US tour.
Author interviews and press campaign as well as bookshop tour and book signings.
Martin started his music journey playing the flute and saxophone before he switched to the guitar. He spent his early career performing in different bands, which helped him refine his skills and create his own distinctive style. A major turning point came in 1968 when Barre joined Jethro Tull, launching an illustrious career. His iconic riff in 'Aqualung' is widely recognized as one of the best guitar riffs in rock history and was also voted as one of the top rock guitar solos of all time by Guitar Player magazine readers.
He was a key member of Jethro Tull from their second album in 1969 until their last in 2014. His guitar work defined much of the band's sound, contributing to their success and enduring popularity. Martin played on all of Jethro Tull's studio albums from their 1969 album Stand Up to their 2003 album The Jethro Tull Christmas Album.
Beyond his time with Jethro Tull, Martin Barre has pursued a successful solo career, releasing albums that showcase his versatility across rock, blues, and acoustic music genres.
Martin Barre's contributions to music have been recognised with numerous accolades, including a Grammy Award for Best Hard Rock/Metal Performance in 1989. His innovative guitar playing has inspired countless musicians across various genres, cementing his influence in the music industry. This is his story.
‘Jethro Tull have meant such a lot to me over the years, and I grew up loving all their stuff. It goes right back to my school days when Stand Up and Benefit had just come out – a friend of mine had them. I heard a couple of tracks, borrowed the albums and that was it! Then Aqualung, Thick as a Brick and A Passion Play came out, which were really amazing, and I was truly hooked! There have been so many fantastic albums over the years, and they’ve always sounded so original to me, like they built their own world. I felt Martin Barre’s guitar style was a big part of that sound. His solo on ‘Sweet Dream’ is a great example. Jethro Tull massively influenced me and what Maiden have been doing over the years. I always loved Martin Barre’s playing and I’m pretty sure he was also a massive influence on Dave Murray’s playing, too.’ Steve Harris, Iron Maiden
‘The story of Martin Barre’s musical journey, from his early days in Birmingham to achieving global success with Jethro Tull and as a solo artist, is one we have long anticipated.’ Pat Kent, The Jethro Tull Group fan Page Creator
‘Martin Barre is a great guitarist and a thoroughly nice chap. I’m sure his book will be of interest for everyone to read.’ Steve Hackett, Genesis
- Winner of Grammy Award 1989
ISBN: 9780857162953
Dimensions: unknown
Weight: unknown
220 pages