Genesis: The Gabriel Years

Origins of the Band

Genesis was formed in 1967 at Charterhouse School in England through a collaboration between Peter Gabriel, Tony Banks, Mike Rutherford, Anthony Phillips, and Chris Stewart. Inspired by classical and contemporary influences, the members built their sound on sophisticated melodies and bold arrangements. Their debut album, From Genesis to Revelation (1969), showcased an embryonic sound but laid the groundwork for their musical evolution.

Band Members

The classic lineup during the Gabriel era included:

• Peter Gabriel: Lead vocalist and flutist, known for his narrative lyrics and theatrical flair.
• Tony Banks: Virtuoso keyboardist, a cornerstone of Genesis's sound with his piano and synthesizers.
• Mike Rutherford: Bassist and 12-string guitarist, providing rhythmic and harmonic depth.
• Steve Hackett: Guitarist from 1971, renowned for his expressive solos and innovative techniques.
• Phil Collins: Drummer and secondary vocalist, whose rhythmic mastery and vocal harmonies enriched the compositions.

Albums

Genesis produced several landmark albums during this period:

• Nursery Cryme (1971): Introducing Steve Hackett and Phil Collins, featuring masterpieces like The Musical Box.
• Foxtrot (1972): Including the epic Supper’s Ready, a 23-minute piece.
• Selling England by the Pound (1973): Regarded as a pinnacle of progressive rock, with tracks like Dancing with the Moonlit Knight and Firth of Fifth and The Cinema Show.
• The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway (1974): A bold double concept album telling the surreal story of Rael, a young Puerto Rican in New York.

These albums reflect the band's constant evolution, blending instrumental complexity with thematic exploration.

Performances

Genesis during the Gabriel era was also a remarkable live band. Gabriel mesmerized audiences with elaborate costumes (like the flower or Rael), makeup, and enigmatic stories introducing each song. The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway tour pushed the boundaries of live performance with synchronized visual projections—though technical issues often caused desynchronization, leading to frustrations. These performances, merging music and theatricality, made Genesis a unique presence in the 1970s rock landscape.

The End

The Gabriel era ended in 1975 after The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway tour. Gabriel's departure marked the close of a mythical chapter for Genesis but paved the way for a new phase, with Phil Collins as lead vocalist. Despite this transition, the Gabriel years remain a defining moment in the history of progressive rock.

Further Information

• Wikipedia
• All Music
• Louder - Genesis’ 10 best songs with Peter Gabriel