Genesis Revisited IIby Steve Hackett

Steve Hackett, former guitarist of Genesis during their key 'progressive rock' era, left the band to pursue a solo career, occasionally teaming up with like-minded artists for a project here and there, and the odd supergroup (see GTR, Squackett). His solo work was generally well-received by a particular audience, but that audience was generally substantially smaller than it was with Genesis. And like any member of such a successful group will find, even his own audience clamored for a return to his origins. In the mid-90's, he gave in and gave us the first "Genesis Revisited". The album was generally well-received, but contained some 'interesting' artistic choices (the monster voice that opened "Fountain of Salmacis" comes to mind) and certain deviations from the source material that showed he had not completely embraced his past.

By 2012, enough time had passed, both since the first album and since the original material, that he decided to try it again. This time, it is clear that he has indeed completely come to terms with his role in one of the most successful Prog Rock bands in history. He recorded enough material for a double album, and this time it holds very true to the source material. Close your eyes, and you could very well be listening to an old Genesis album (albeit with a different vocalist, and much better sound recording quality).

The album can be roughly broken up into two parts. The first disc covers his time when Peter Gabriel led the band, the second disc, with the exception of "The Return of the Giant Hogweed", covers their later work, plus three of his own tracks, including "Shadow of the Heirophany", which he co-wrote with Genesis guitarist Mike Rutherford. For new fans, the opening track is a bit of an odd choice. It is the excellent "Chamber of 32 Doors" from "The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway", the Genesis opus that brought the Gabriel era to an end. The music is excellent, but the story of the song picks up in the middle of the tale told by the album. Most of those listening to the album in the first place are likely doing so because they are already fans, so this will be no problem; newer fans will just be pleased to hear such amazing music. Three songs in, he takes on the biggest challenge, the 25-minute, 7-part epic "Supper's Ready", considered one of the greatest art-rock songs of all time, and he nails it. The musicianship on the album overall is flawless, the cast of guest musicians he brings in are masters of their craft, and well-versed on the source material.

There are no flaws to be found here; judgment will ultimately be made on the listener's opinion of the tracklist. Perhaps the solo tracks are the weakest here, but only because they are going up against such classic tracks. This album has been lovingly crafted by a man who has embraced and become a fan of his past, and his effort will make you feel the same way.