FOXTROT

Albums tagged masterpieces are usually done so in a subjective manner. Of course, it is impossible to critique an album wholly objectively: or, perhaps impossible to write a decent review by being entirely objective. But this subjective - personal, if you will, way of reviewing albums should not be discouraged at all. Part of a good album is its ability to bond something of a relationship with the listener, and linger within him or her. Genesis' Foxtrot, to me, is one of the most personal albums ever concocted, and when I hear its name mentioned, I can't help but feel some form of an owner's pride rise in me.

This gem, sitting comfortably between the first album to feature Collins and Hackett, where the new Genesis direction was found, and their dubbed masterpiece Selling England by the Pound, is a treasure that seems to be overlooked at times. Foxtrot is truly a magnificent piece of music, exploring many levels of intensity, but always epic, always gripping, always special.

The entire album is flooded with beauty: whether it's interesting/quirky/strange lyrics, or absolutely epic soundscapes. Musical perfection is impossible, yes, but the nearest an group had come can be seen on the track Supper's Ready. It flows seamlessly from many different segments. Indeed, many people argue that it is disjointed and jumps from part to part rigidly, but I find it all very coherent, and extremely related. It begins softly, with a naive love song, but then the love is lost when war comes. Insanity and madness ensue soon afterward, but after it is shaken, and the final battle is fought, we return to the beautiful love song for the final climax. All sections are musically complex, and Apocalypse contains some of the most exhilarating, and utterly gripping climaxes to be found in modern music.

Every song is very fascinating and compelling, and the overall intrigue of this album is undeniable. It jumps from soft, sweet parts, to complex, powerful segments. It's Genesis' best effort, methinks, and should be owned by every proghead. When Apocalypse comes, there's this unmatched sensation that accompanies it every time. It's so captivating, so epic. I've always said that Apocalypse in 9/8 to As Sure as Eggs is Eggs is, without a doubt, the best 9:13 you can spend on planet Earth.