Genesis

Abacab

One of a kind

Review Score:

(10/10)
Let me start off by saying that I had very low expectations for this album. Having heard the songs 'Abacab' and 'No Reply At All' (not that they aren't good songs), I thought that this was a pure pop album, and what I wanted was a sequel to Duke. But after giving the CD a listen, I realized that this is the most unique Genesis album I've ever heard - they never sounded quite the same, either before or after. But while it's quite different from their earlier music, it's also very good. It's my personal favorite of the three-man version of Genesis. Now, the songs:

'Abacab' - Starts the CD off with a bang, and is one of their finest 'pop' songs. I love that opening guitar riff.

'No Reply at All' - Another good tune, though it seems like a grim precursor of what Phil's solo career would become. One of their more accessible songs.

'Me and Sarah Jane' - Simply one of their best songs ever. While it starts off softly, it quickly gathers speed and the bizarre lyrics will catch your interest if you pay attention to them. Tony's keyboard-playing in this song is one of the high points of the CD.

'Keep it Dark' - Another rocker, with a good beat and driving guitars. I still can't figure out why it wasn't a single in the U.S.

'Dodo/Lurker' - This one gives 'Me and Sarah Jane' a run for its money in terms of strangeness. It has a darker, harder edge than usual and the music is really different. I've yet to hear another song that sounds quite like it. Definitely a throwback to their prog roots, and one of the strongest tracks here.

'Who Dunnit?' - Hmm... Not much I can really say about this one, other than the fact that it shouldn't be taken seriously. I don't find it dreadful, as some others do, but it's probably the weakest track on the CD.

'Man on the Corner' - This song has never done much for me. It's not bad, but I find it somewhat boring. You can certainly tell this was a Phil Collins song, especially because of the socially conscious lyrics.

'Like It or Not' - Mike Rutherford's contribution is a good one. It sounds reminescent of something off of Duke. I've seen others complain that it's boring, but really there's nothing wrong with it. It's much more interesting than 'MotC'.

'Another Record' - Ah, what a cool song. It starts off rather mellow, but once Phil's high-hat comes in it really takes off. Tony's piano, coupled with Phil's great drumming really make this song a fun listen. Those drums are just so cool!

Even though there are two songs on the CD I'm not crazy about, I still felt compelled to give it a 5 star rating. Mainly, it's because the good material on here is really good. Also because it's got a very distinct sound and style, one that never appeared on any other album.

So, despite its shortcomings, it remains my personal favorite album by the three-man-era Genesis. If the song 'Abacab' doesn't scare you away, then you should be in for a very enjoyable listen.

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