ABACAB

"Abacab" truly marks the beginning of the "pop"-era Genesis, as it's generally referred to. There is a cerain punchiness here that sets this album apart from all of the Genesis albums that came before it, and it 'sets the stage', so to speak, for their next couple of albums that followed. I may be more a fan of the earlier work by this band but I still feel obliged to defend this record because contrary to what certain people will try to make you believe, this is not a 'sell-out' album of mediocre pop songs. There's a high level of musical intelligence and sophistication here and plenty of arresting moments. Tony Banks' solo composition "Me And Sarah Jane" is a definitive example of the compositional brilliance and it works its way through some nice moody sections. "Dodo" is another highlight which starts off with an exciting synth riff, followed by a minor-keyed section before eventually working its way back to the opening section in thrilling fashion. Indeed, there are some strongly pop-rock-flavored tracks, but they're great in their own right. Phil's haunting ballad "Man On the Corner" is among my favourites. The soulful, soaring ballad "Like It Or Not" is also good with Phil's wonderfully passionate vocals. "Keep It Dark" is just ultra-crafty, both musically and lyrically, with an intoxicating chorus. I also love the closer "Another Record". I was never too sure what to make of the notorious "Who Dunnit?" but overall, "Abacab" is an interesting listening experience from an astonishingly creative band. My rating: Three and a half stars.