UndefinedSolace wrote:
"I've been a big Genesis fan ever since the release of their 1980 album, Duke. Before that, I really didn't understand any of their work. Too artsy, too intellectual. It was on Duke where Phil Collins' presence became more apparent. I think Invisible Touch was the group's undisputed masterpiece. It's an epic meditation on intangibility. At the same time, it deepens and enriches the meaning of the preceding three albums. Listen to the brilliant ensemble playing of Banks, Collins and Rutherford. You can practically hear every nuance of every instrument. In terms of lyrical craftsmanship, the sheer songwriting, this album hits a new peak of professionalism. Take the lyrics to Land of Confusion. In this song, Phil Collins addresses the problems of abusive political authority. In Too Deep is the most moving pop song of the 1980s, about monogamy and commitment. The song is extremely uplifting. Their lyrics are as positive and affirmative as anything I've heard in rock. Phil Collins' solo career seems to be more commercial and therefore more satisfying, in a narrower way. Especially songs like In the Air Tonight and Against All Odds. But I also think Phil Collins works best within the confines of the group, than as a solo artist, and I stress the word artist. Sussudio, a great, great song, is a personal favorite."
Haha, great quote. One of my favorite books.
I've been getting into Italian prog recently too, and my current favorite finds are Le Orme and Locanda Delle Fate. LDF only put out one worthwhile album, 'Forse Le Lucciole non Si Amano Piu', but it is simply superb. As for Le Orme, Uomo Di Pezza is definitely necessary for a Italian prog collection.
Anyone into Canterbury at all? Caravan, Soft Machine, and Hatfield and the North are my current favs.
Another album I haven't seen mentioned yet which I find amazing is Harmonium's 'Si On Avait Besoin D'Une Cinquième Saison'. Harmonium was a French Canadian symphonic band, and this album is absolutely incredible if you're at all into folksy and whimsical symphonic prog.