SECONDS OUT

I am always content to sit back and listen to live Genesis but when it comes to their lineup of 1977, it is difficult to beat. Tony Banks shines on RMI electric piano, Hammond T. organ, APR Pro- Soloist, Mellotron 400, Epiphone, and 12 string guitar. This is a virtuoso performance from Banks with flawless organ phrases and huge soloing. Bill Bruford on percussion features on the classic Cinema Show. Phil Collins takes over on drums for the rest of the show and is terrific here on lead vocals before he turned to the syrupy ballads of the 80s. Steve Hackett is indispensable on lead guitars giving a powerhouse performance with some incredible breaks. Then there is the ever reliable Mike Rutherford who plays electric 12 string guitar, bass guitar, 8 string bass guitar, and bass pedals. Finally Chester Thompson helps out on percussion in places.

The album features some of the all time greatest Genesis treasures. Highlights include The Carpet Crawlers, Robbery, Assault & Battery, and the brilliant Firth Of Fifth clocking nine minutes. I Know What I Like is of course here as well as pieces from The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway. The Musical Box is limited to the 3 minute Closing Section but it is great to hear full versions of Cinema Show, and the massive finale of dance On A Volcano and Los Endos. I didn't mention that this album is essential also for featuring a full blown prog multi movement suite that is quintessential to the prog era; the astonishing Supper's Ready that journeys along for a full 24:32 running length.

This is the best early live album for Genesis proving that Collins can comfortably fit into the enormous shoes of Gabriel. He not only does this but also reinvents the classic Genesis tracks, providing a refreshing sound that carried the band along for decades to come.