WIND & WUTHERING

The last, true. progressive output from Genesis, in my opinion. Here, Banks, Collins, Hackett, and Rutherford are at their most impressive, proving that they did not need Gabriel in order to make great music. Sadly, this was Steve's last album with Genesis and I associate that fact everytime I listen to this album, which makes it more appealing to me. It's as if Steve and the rest are saying on a final note, "This is us. This is what we do." And they did not disappoint on "Wind and Wuthering", a somber, melancholic, yet beautiful album. Definitely a must-have for Genesis fans.

1. "Eleventh Earl of Mar" - A powerful tune with "arena-rock" tendencies, especially with the "Daddy, you got to go!" lyric. Collins' singing was not suited at the time with this kind of a song but overall, quite a good one. 8.5/10

2. "One for the Vine" - Easily one of my favorites from "W&W". Very climactic song, entertaining from beginning to end. One of Genesis' finer works. 9.5/10

3. "Your Own Special Way" - Here, we could see the "pop" Genesis starting to emerge. Nevertheless, I find it a very good romantic song. I'm sure my girlfriend will agree as well. 8.5/10

4. "Wot Gorilla?" - A nice, jazzy tune from the chaps. Not one of my favorites on this album but it is delightful at times when I am in the mood. 7.5/10

5. "All in a Mouse's Night" - This song always reminds me of Tom and Jerry, as I'm sure others get reminded of that as well. A very good song, with an exceptional ending. Tony's keyboard work really stands out and makes me shiver (in a good way). 8.5/10

6. "Blood on the Rooftops" - This is the masterpiece of the album. Amazing guitar work from Hackett. Very smooth and calm throughout. Exceptional song. 10/10

7. "Unquiet Slumbers for the Sleepers..." - Beautiful instrumental before heading into another one. Banks' keyboard dominates here, adding an eerie atmosphere that is sure to give you goosebumps. 8/10

8. "...In That Quiet Earth" - One of Genesis' best instrumentals. Fierce guitar, drums, keyboard, bass, everything! Great tune, and one of the stronger songs from the album. 8.5/10

9. "Afterglow" - We reach the last song, one that is not fairly popular with a significant percentage of the prog community, so it seems. I find the song quite enjoyable, giving the album a memorable ending. 8.5/10

77.5/9 = 86.11% = 4 stars for this final, progressive effort from one of the best.