Dusted Down: Genesis – Foxtrot

Supper’s nearly ready, all over again

Genesis – Foxtrot (Atlantic 75 Series)

Foxtrot by Genesis, originally released in September 1972, marked a pivotal moment for progressive rock, elevating the genre from niche appeal to broader recognition. By pushing their creative limits, the band crafted an album that remains influential and widely respected, with ‘Supper’s Ready’ becoming one of prog rock’s most celebrated epic suites.

When progressive rock faced criticism as overly indulgent, Foxtrot countered with a sound that was bold yet refined. The album bridged the whimsical charm of Genesis’ early work with intricate narratives and a newfound rock edge. This blend resonated deeply with fans seeking a richer, more expansive approach to rock music.

As the 1960s generation matured, the album’s eclectic, sometimes grandiose nature struck a chord, offering introspection and musical depth that stood in contrast to mainstream rock’s simplicity. Tracks like ‘Watcher of the Skies’ showcase Genesis’ ability to merge complex rhythms with striking melodies, while the sprawling ‘Supper’s Ready’ weaves an ambitious tale, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of progressive music.

This release also laid the groundwork for future albums, inspiring countless acts, from Queen – who simultaneously embraced and subverted notions of Englishness in a very similar fashion – to Iron Maiden and Kate Bush, and in latter years Radiohead, Black Country New Road and Black Midi, whose love of quirky time signatures lead also lead back directly to this period of experimentation.

Now available as a deluxe reissue on gatefold 180-gram audiophile vinyl and hybrid SACD, this edition invites both longtime admirers and new listeners to experience a defining moment in rock history with pristine sound quality. Foxtrot marked a turning point for the band, solidifying their place among progressive rock greats like Yes and King Crimson.

By this time, the lineup of Peter Gabriel, Tony Banks, Mike Rutherford, Steve Hackett and Phil Collins had gelled creatively, blending strong individual visions into a cohesive and dynamic sound. Written during the summer of 1972, the album emerged from jam sessions and live-tested material, reflecting a band willing to experiment while honing their identity.

Foxtrot was not only a creative leap forward but also a commercial breakthrough, becoming the band’s first album to chart in the UK, reaching No. 12. This success paved the way for Genesis to embark on their first US tour in December 1972, expanding their audience beyond their cult following. Genesis reached a new creative peak with Foxtrot, blending symphonic prog with moments of beauty, quirky humor and sharp social commentary. The album’s distinctiveness owes much to the individual contributions of each band member, whose synergy brought their unique vision to life.

Peter Gabriel’s dynamic vocals stand out, adapting effortlessly to the characters he portrays in the songs. His voice, with its raw soulfulness, lends a charismatic edge that’s unusual in progressive rock. Gabriel’s theatrical flair enhances the storytelling, making every lyric engaging and vivid. Steve Hackett’s guitar work is both inventive and emotive, often serving as a focal point for the band’s dramatic shifts in tone. His interplay with Tony Banks’ Mellotron—particularly on tracks like ‘Watcher of the Skies’—creates a lush, expansive soundscape.

Banks’ keyboard arrangements, intricate yet melodic, anchor the album’s symphonic elements. Phil Collins and Mike Rutherford contribute a rhythmic complexity that propels the music forward. Collins’ precise drumming, paired with Rutherford’s dynamic bass lines, forms a robust foundation that keeps even the most intricate sections cohesive. Together, Genesis crafted an album that not only defined their sound but also showcased their growing mastery as individual musicians and as a collective force.

‘Watcher of the Skies’ opens Foxtrot with a sense of grandeur and intrigue. Tony Banks’ Mellotron introduction is both majestic and otherworldly, setting a tone that shifts seamlessly between foreboding and awe. His use of “church” organ textures amplifies the song’s dramatic scope, immediately drawing the listener into its narrative.

Phil Collins and Mike Rutherford deliver a rhythm section that feels alive with purpose. Rutherford’s bass lays a commanding foundation, while Collins’ drumming adds intricate accents that enhance the song’s dynamic shifts. The odd-meter groove feels almost hypnotic, driving the track forward with mathematical precision. Steve Hackett’s guitar, weaving in and out with delicate yet assertive lines, brings light and shade to the arrangement.

Meanwhile, Peter Gabriel delivers a powerful vocal performance, channeling the despair and wonder of an alien observer witnessing humanity’s self-destruction. His ability to shift between roles and emotions within the song is captivating. Conceptually and musically, ‘Watcher of the Skies’ blends science fiction themes with complex, syncopated rhythms to create a track that’s equal parts cerebral and emotive. It remains a definitive piece of Genesis’ early catalog. ‘Time Table’ provides a serene contrast to the intensity of ‘Watcher of the Skies.’ Anchored by Tony Banks’ delicate piano, the song weaves a nostalgic reflection on the fleeting nature of honor and beauty. The poignant lyrics, infused with classic Genesis melancholy, lend an emotional depth that resonates long after the final note.

With its pastoral charm and graceful simplicity, it’s one of the band’s most touching compositions, a rare moment of quiet introspection in their early catalogue. In stark contrast, ‘Get ‘Em Out by Friday’ is an ambitious “mini-opera” that pushes Genesis’ storytelling and musical complexity to new heights. Spanning eight and a half minutes, the song blends biting social commentary with intricate arrangements. Peter Gabriel assumes multiple roles in narrating a dystopian tale of forced evictions and genetic control in a high-rise society.

The transitions between aggression, sorrow and dark humour show the band’s ability to craft compelling narratives through music. ‘Can-Utility and the Coastliners’ is a hidden gem in the Genesis catalog, a compact yet richly layered track that encapsulates their early brilliance. The classical guitar introduction sets a serene tone before Phil Collins’ forceful drumming and Tony Banks’ commanding bass pedals propel the song into dramatic territory. The lyrics, inspired by the legend of King Canute, explore themes of power, humility and human folly, all brought to life through Peter Gabriel’s evocative storytelling.

The band’s dynamic interplay shines here, seamlessly weaving melodic passages with intense crescendos. Steve Hackett’s ‘Horizons’ serves as a tranquil prelude to the grandeur of ‘Supper’s Ready’, showcasing his classical guitar virtuosity in just under two minutes. Its delicate melody and serene atmosphere offer a moment of introspection, beautifully bridging the transition from the earlier tracks into the album’s climactic centerpiece.

This brief interlude exemplifies Hackett’s ability to imbue simplicity with profound emotional depth. ‘Supper’s Ready’ is Genesis’ magnum opus, an awe-inspiring 23-minute suite that encapsulates the band’s storytelling and musical abilities. Divided into multiple distinct sections, the piece journeys through themes of love, apocalyptic visions and ultimate redemption. From its gentle, vocal-led beginning, Gabriel’s emotive performance draws listeners into a fantastical narrative inspired by biblical and personal allegories. Hackett’s soaring guitar, Banks’ majestic keyboards and leaving an indelible impact.

Together, ‘Horizons’ and ‘Supper’s Ready’ form a compelling juxtaposition of introspection and epic scale. While ‘Horizons’ whispers, ‘Supper’s Ready’ roars, embodying the full spectrum of Genesis’ creativity and earning its place as one of the greatest compositions in progressive rock history.

Foxtrot stands as a towering achievement in progressive rock with boundless creativity and artistic vision. Each track feels like a chapter in a grand narrative, blending the futuristic and the mythical with extraordinary finesse. The balance of eccentric experimentation and melodic beauty exemplifies the spirit of early 70s prog, far removed from the pomp of later decades.

The musicianship is impeccable: Peter Gabriel’s evocative vocals, Steve Hackett’s virtuosic guitar, Tony Banks’ atmospheric keyboards, Mike Rutherford’s solid basslines and Phil Collins’ dynamic drumming combine to create a masterpiece of layered complexity and emotional depth. Its artistry and ambition remain unmatched—a triumph of imagination that continues to inspire awe.

Tim Humphrey

Pre-order your vinyl copy of Foxtrot, part of the Atlantic 75 Series, by clicking here