NURSERY CRYME

Although not a favorite Genesis album by any means I find it fortunate to have been my introduction to classic Genesis. The opening track "The Musical Box" was a life-changing experience when I discovered it in my mid 20's. It was the track that is very responsible for turning me away from classic rock and just about everything else I don't listen to anymore and searching for more experiences like I had with this one. It remains one of the most intriguing tracks I've ever heard in my entire life.

Acoustic/12 strings and a classical/folk sounding introduction. Flute solo and the voice of Peter Gabriel. Going into some awesome Iron Maiden-like electric guitar solos. Insane lyrics about the afterlife and being trapped in another world inside a music box. "The Musical Box" is a timeless gem. While the other tracks have plenty to offer the opening track is as good as it gets and an unforgettable memory never to be forgotten.

"Return of the Giant Hogweed" is a menacing track. The guitar driven intro mirrored by keyboards and intense drums and angry vocals. Starts out quite a bit metallic sounding. Next thing you know is the classically driven piano solos. Unconventional and original.

Some slower folk sounding songs dominate in between that are not too far different than the previous album Trespass. But the musicianship is far superior. Worth hearing but not anything memorable or groundbreaking. "Seven Stones" is perhaps the most compelling and most worth mentioning of those tracks.

"The Fountain of Salmacis" is a wonderfully crafted song. A Prog rockers dream in just about every way possible. It's biggest problem is sounds very dated. The guitar solo at the end really gives it some wind.

This is definitely the beginning of something great. While Genesis would become the cream of the crop of Progressive Rock bands this album is an impressive introduction. It would only get better. And what a great way to start especially with "The Musical Box" being the epic to start it all.