Do you like Phil Collins? 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. It was too artsy, too intellectual. It was on Duke where Phil Collins’ presence became more apparent. I think “Invisible Touch” is 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 and sheer songwriting, this album hits a new peak of professionalism. Take the lyrics to “Land of Confusion.” In this song, Phil Collins addresses the problem 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 efforts seem 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 that Phil Collins works better within the confines of the group than as a solo artist - and I stress the word artist. “Sussudio,” a great, great song, a personal favorite.
It’s hard to choose a favorite among so many great tracks, but “The Greatest Love of All” is one of the best, most powerful songs ever written about self-preservation, dignity. Its universal message crosses all boundaries and instills one with the hope that it’s not too late to better ourselves. Since, Elizabeth, it’s impossible in this world we live in to empathize with others, we can always empathize with ourselves. It’s an important message, crucial really. And it’s beautifully stated on the album
[quote=“Flano”]Do you like Phil Collins? 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. It was too artsy, too intellectual. It was on Duke where Phil Collins’ presence became more apparent. I think “Invisible Touch” is 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 and sheer songwriting, this album hits a new peak of professionalism. Take the lyrics to “Land of Confusion.” In this song, Phil Collins addresses the problem 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 efforts seem 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 that Phil Collins works better within the confines of the group than as a solo artist - and I stress the word artist. “Sussudio,” a great, great song, a personal favorite.[/QUOTE]
Lot of big words there Flano, shouldn’t you credit the writer?
