Back catalogue: Rock (All)

Review: Genesis's And Then There Were Three is a pivotal album in the band's history, marking their transition to a trio following Steve Hackett's departure. Released in 1978, the album showcased a blend of progressive rock roots with shorter, more concise songs, reflecting a response to the changing music scene and indicating the future path on which the band would travel. Lead single 'Follow You Follow Me' became a chart-topping success, propelling the album to platinum status in the US and the LP's sound, despite being dominated by Tony Banks' keyboards and Mike Rutherford's guitar work, signalled a departure from their earlier style but retained the band's signature sound. Critics praised the album's strong, confident compositions, noting tracks like 'Ballad of Big' and 'Down and Out' and despite initial scepticism about their ability to continue as a trio, Genesis proved their resilience and their musical depth remains clear on this 2024 reissue.

Review: A 13-track selection from the Genesis headline set in front of 50,000 fans at Knebworth on June 24, 1978, closing a day's entertainment which also included Jefferson Starship, Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers and - somewhat inexplicably - eccentric US new wave mavericks Devo. This is the sound of the early Phil Collins-fronted era reaching its peak - they'd released the album And Then There Were Three earlier in the year, straddling the prog stylings that made them famous with more pop-slanted moments like 'Follow You Follow Me'. Collins proves himself capable of handling vocals on Gabriel-era classics like 'I Know What I Like' and 'The Fountain Of Salmacis', but mainly the tracklisting bears witness to the sound of a band ringing the changes and shooting into the stadium rock stratosphere as a result.

Review: This release saw Genesis balancing their progressive rock origins with a more radio-friendly sound when it hit in 1983, creating a seamless fusion of complexity and accessibility. Tracks such as 'Mama' - the first single that heralded the album's arrival - bring an eerie edge, with Phil Collins' emotive delivery matched by brooding synths and steady percussion. By contrast, 'That's All' offers a buoyant, piano-led melody that feels both light and intricate, showing the trio's knack for crafting memorable hooks without losing their musical depth. The instrumentation remains sharp and purposeful throughout, highlighting the group's ability to adapt their style while maintaining a sense of innovation.

Review: Turn It On Again: The Hits offers a concise collection of Genesis's chart-topping tracks, catering to fans who view the band primarily through their hit singles. While some lesser-known songs make the cut over notable tracks like 'Paperlate' or 'Man on the Corner,' the compilation delivers all the major hits, including 'Turn It On Again,' 'Invisible Touch' and 'Follow You, Follow Me.' Although the sequencing may seem odd at times, with Peter Gabriel's earlier work juxtaposed with Phil Collins-era hits, standout moments like the reworked 'The Carpet Crawlers 1999' showcase the album's value. While it may not sway die-hard fans, Turn It On Again satisfies those seeking a comprehensive overview of Genesis's mainstream successes.

Review: An extensive jaunt through the earliest years of prog giants Genesis, with tracks culled from their debut From Genesis to Revelation - the band reportedly having been advised by producer Jonathan King to imitate The Bee Gees - and their breakthrough album, Nursery Cryme, figuring among the extensive tracklisting. The period is much loved by hardcore prog fans, and Peter Gabriel's idiosyncratic vocals remain era-defining, a far cry from the slcik pop crew they eventually evolved into. 'The Musical Box', included here, did however remain in the band's live set for several decades after, proof of its enduring nature as well as the special part it plays in the heart of the Genesis massive.

Review: Turn It on Again: The Hits serves as a concise yet comprehensive overview of Genesis's illustrious career as hit-makers. While it may not include every fan favourite track from their extensive catalogue, it effectively captures the essence of the band's evolution from the Peter Gabriel era to their chart-topping success under Phil Collins's leadership. The compilation - being made available on vinyl for the first time - features all the major hits that have defined Genesis's legacy, from the anthemic 'Turn It on Again' to the infectious 'Invisible Touch' and soulful 'Follow You, Follow Me.' The album offers a satisfying journey through the band's musical journey. Standouts include the inclusion of classics like 'I Know What I Like (In Your Wardrobe)' and the reworked version of 'The Carpet Crawlers 1999,' showcasing the band's versatility and enduring appeal. Overall, Turn It on Again is a must-have for both casual listeners and die-hard fans alike, reaffirming Genesis's status as one of rock's most iconic acts.