NURSERY CRYME

I have a hard time reviewing this album. On one hand, I see many Genesis fans attributing this album full points; it is indeed the first very influential Genesis album and the best one they did until they release the next one ;). However, to me, the album is still quite raw and the lads were younger and less experience than most other progressive rock band at the time (King Crimson, Yes, partly ELP) - I'm lacking the sophistication I found elsewhere in 1971. Also, at this point of time, I consider the band more interesting from the composition perspective and how they all blend they their instruments together rather than instruments virtuoso although I like Rutherford's bass and Hackett's guitar. That's not to say that Banks Hammond, piano and mellotron and Collins's drumming are forgettable - they are to be further improved.

"Musical box" - always considered this song overrated but I confess that hearing it live is different thanks to its dexterity and theatrical vocals. I for one prefer the following mellow, perhaps pastoral numbers that create a great atmosphere - be it "For absent friends" with Collins vocals, "Harlequin" or the symphonic "Seven stones". "Return of the Giant Hogweed" is very decent with elegant piano playing and typical Hackett guitar contribution. Another peak is the crescendo with Hammond chords and Collins tearing up the drums. Still, I consider the album's end to be the best number, this is a true progressive rock composition with such an atmospheric Mellotron, powerful vocals and rocking middle part. I'll give it 3.5 albums rounded down to 3 as I can't give the better Foxtrot less than 4.