VOYAGE OF THE ACOLYTE

Ah, the missing Genesis album (or so people think). Even though only one member of the band composed this, (though Rutherford and Collins played on it) it still has a strong Genesis feel. Yet there are a lot of sounds on here that Genesis never really touched; maybe this is why a lot of Steve's material was left behind. Instrumentally the album is incredibly balanced, considering Steve's main instrument is the guitar. There's tons of synth, Mellotron, flute, and even oboe. What I like specifically about this album is Hackett's ability to mix upbeat, riff oriented music with the slower, more celestial passages, often in the same song.

The album opens with 'Ace Of Wands.' (10/10) The song is super upbeat and some great melodies, but what really gets me are the harmonies between the guitar/synth/bass.

'Hands of The Priestess' (9/10) is an absolutely beautiful song with flute and Mellotron, I just wish it was developed more instead of being repeated throughout its duration (though the second part changes it up which is nice).

'A Tower Struck Down' (9/10) is another upbeat riff based song with great synth work and a fantastic rhythm section in Collins and Rutherford.

'Hermit' (7/10) is decent, but I feel as though the vocals kind of hold it back a little (sorry Steve!). The second half of the song is just a beautiful mix of acoustic guitar and oboe.

'Star of Sirius' (10/10) is probably my favorite song on the album. It's extremely atmospheric, but also goes though a few upbeat sections. Phil's vocals are a nice addition as well.

'The Lovers' is just a short acoustic piece that segues into the 'The Shadow Of Hierophant' (9/10) This song does a lot with not much. The opening few minutes alternates between acoustic guitar/flute/ vocals and Mellotron/drums. A short guitar interlude leads to a section I relate to 'Starless' from King Crimson based on its amazing buildup.

Overall, this album has all the ingredients I appreciate in Genesis, and then some. The extra instruments, specifically the oboe, are nice additions. As much as I wanted to see Hackett more involved in the writing with Genesis, I think Voyage of the Acolyte more than makes up for it.

9/10