Product guide

War Child 40th Anniversary Theatre Edition, 4-Disc Set

War Child is a four-disc 40th Anniversary Theatre Edition of Jethro Tull’s 1974 studio album, presented in a hardcover book. It combines remixes, original mixes, bonus tracks, orchestral material and archival footage, making it a substantial edition for listeners interested in both the album and its production history.

At a glance

Steven Wilson remixes of the original album in 5.1 surround and stereo, alongside flat transfers of the original LP mix and the original quadrophonic mix.
Includes bonus tracks, including three described as previously unreleased, plus 10 orchestral pieces written for the proposed film soundtrack.
DVD material includes promo footage and footage from a January 1974 photo session and press conference.
Hardcover presentation includes an 80-page book with an album-history article, film-script synopsis, track annotations by Ian Anderson and photographs.

Price

$35.59Save 29%

Reference price: ~~$49.98~~

Price checked: Nov 12, 2026

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Pros and cons

Pros

Brings multiple mixes and formats together, including surround, stereo and quadrophonic audio.
The described extras extend beyond the album with orchestral material, archival footage and an illustrated book.
The two-CD and two-DVD configuration provides audio and video content in one edition.

Cons

The set’s range of mixes and archival extras may be unnecessary for listeners who only want the standard album.

Technical specifications

11 specifications

Identity
Brand / manufacturer	Rhino/Parlophone
Item model number	0825646216277
Original release year	2014
Language	English
Number of discs	4

Format and contents described
Disc configuration	two CDs + two DVDs
Remixed audio	5.1 surround and stereo
Original LP mix transfer	96/24
Original quadrophonic mix	4.0
Book length	80-page book

Dimensions and installation
Dimensions listed	7.6 x 5.59 x 1.14 inches; 15.1 ounces

What to know before buying

This edition includes a new Steven Wilson remix as well as original mix transfers. Customer feedback is mixed on the remastering, so listeners who prefer a particular mix should check which version they intend to play.

Who is it for?

A good fit for

Jethro Tull listeners seeking multiple versions of War Child and related archival material.
Collectors who value a hardcover music book with historical notes and photographs.
Buyers with a playback setup suited to the listed 5.1 surround or 4.0 quadrophonic mixes.

Less suited to

Listeners who only want a basic album edition without extensive extras.
Buyers who need confirmation that their equipment supports the listed surround or quadrophonic formats.

Customer reviews on Amazon

4.7 / 5 · 809 ratings

5 stars80%80%
4 stars15%15%
3 stars4%4%
2 stars1%1%
1 star0%0%

Customer feedback is broadly favorable toward the music, sound, orchestration and 5.1 mixes, and some listeners appreciate the expanded track selection. Reactions to the remastering are mixed, including dislike of the new remix. For buyers drawn to this edition’s multiple mixes and bonus material, that difference matters: the listing describes original mix transfers as well as Steven Wilson’s remixes, so the set offers alternatives rather than only the new version.

Positive themes

Customer feedback praises the music, sound quality, orchestration and 5.1 mixes.
The expanded track selection and unreleased orchestral material receive positive mentions.

Mixed feedback

Feedback on the remastering is mixed, with some listeners liking it and others disliking the new remix.

Frequently asked questions

What is included in the War Child Theatre Edition?

The listing describes two CDs and two DVDs with the album, bonus material, multiple mixes, orchestral pieces and archival footage. It also describes a hardcover book with 80 pages of notes and photographs.

Does this edition include the original mix?

The listing says it includes flat transfers of the original LP mix at 96/24 and the original quadrophonic mix in 4.0, alongside Steven Wilson remixes in stereo and 5.1 surround.

Is this the standard War Child album release?

No. It is described as an expanded 40th Anniversary Theatre Edition, with two CDs, two DVDs and a hardcover book.

What should I know about the remix?

Customer feedback praises the sound and surround mixes but is mixed on the remastering, with some listeners disliking the new remix. The package also lists original mix transfers.