ENGLISH ELECTRIC (PART ONE)

As a lover of (nearly) all eras of Genesis, I have been a huge fan of Big Big Train ever since David Longdon joined the band in 2009. When The underfall Yard was released late that same year, I listened to it countless times. When hearing of the pending release of English Electric Part One, I was concerned it would not live up to my expectations. I've rarely been happier to have been wrong.

Not really a weak track on the entire album, but I'll highlight what I consider to be the peak moments:

'The First Rebreather' obviously recalls classic Genesis, both late-Gabriel era and perhaps even the Wind & Wuthering era as well to a degree. As with each song on the album, there is a real story to tell which is painted beautifully by the lyrics. An excellent opening track.

Upon first listen, "Uncle Jack" is a bit of an oddball as it surprises the listener with a more folk-based approach. This is soon dispelled as the listener is enveloped by images of the English countryside and the chordal approach couldn't be more appropriate to set this mood. The ending chorus section is tremendously uplifting.

"Judas Unrepentant" - still to my ears the most powerful song on the album, the driving shuffle of the beat, the perfect organ accompaniment and lyrics that simply pull you into the tale. Yet again the band proves their uncanny ability to compose choruses that linger in your mind for days.

The remaining tracks are no less deserving of commentary, however others have expounded on those far better than I can already. Absolutely brilliant album and, in my opinion, a must-own.