Well, Joe, as a Genesis fan, I do rate it very highly. It`s in my top 5 of Genesis albums ,but not my No.1 choice. I reserve that for the Lamb, which I have written about in the albums thread. .
It is definitely one of Genesis` more progressive efforts. What is very appealing to me is that the talents of Steve hackett are brought up more to the forefront on this work. he was more involved in the writing process then he was with the the other albums.
And his playing is just immacualte. The Firthof Fifth solo is one of his crowning achievments.
Peter Gabriel`s lyrics are always top shelf, very witty and quite literary. Genesis is the master of storybook songs such as the first half of the Cinema Show, Dancing with the Moonlit Knight, and I know fans have problems with this track, but the Battle of Epping Forest.
All members were phenomenal on this album, but special kudos have to go to Tony Banks as well, whose keyboard work is always tasteful and restrained.
And your other question; Is it the quintessential progressive rock album of that period? I would have to say 'No' from my end.
I would go with Yes`s Close to the Edge. The form and shape of that album is perferction personified. The title track is easily one of the great mammoth epics. Perhaps I am partial to the track, 'And You and I, which after 38 years is stll jaw- dropping and a stunning track. The production is immaculate. Yes could never match that studio pefection when they peformed that said track.
Siberian Khatru flows along nicely, although they would perfect this one live.
