Genesis Album: “Duke [Remaster]”

Description :

Genesis: Phil Collins (vocals, drums, programming); Mike Rutherford (guitar, bass, background vocals); Tony Banks (12-string guitar, keyboards, background vocals). Recorded at Polar Studios, Sweden. Digitally remastered by Nick Davis, Geoff Callingham & Chris Blair. This is a hybrid Super Audio CD playable on both regular and Super Audio CD players. Genesis: Phil Collins (vocals, drums); Mike Rutherford (guitar, bass guitar); Tony Banks (keyboards). Genesis still have a credibility problem which at present just trails the present standing of ex-drummer/vocalist Philip Collins. Duke was the record that shed their 'heavy prog' image and found them beginning to loosen up. Collins had grown in confidence following Peter Gabriel's departure and the band immediately became much tighter musically. In addition to the hit singles "Duchess," the buoyant "Turn It On Again" and realism of a situation in "Misunderstanding," there is the painful honesty of "Please Don't Ask." There have been many bigger Genesis albums, but none have anywhere near as much heart.

Genesis' 1980 masterpiece 'Duke' is one of the last of their progressive years. I don't know if you would consider 'Abacab' rock or pop, that's up to you. But Duke is just incredible.

This features the classic lineup of Mike Rutherford on bass and guitars, Phil Collins on drums, percussion and lead vocals, and the legendary Tony Banks on keyboards.

Side A

-Behind The Lines. Awesome. A masterpiece. Phil's roaring vocals on this one are amazing. Definitely one of the highlights on here.

-Duchess. The first Genesis song to feature a computerized drum, which the group would use a lot throughout the 1980s. Tony's piano at the beginning is very relaxing, and Phil's vocals are very mellow and calm.

-Guide Vocal. The lyrics to this song are actually featured on 'Duke's Travels.' Phil's vocals again are nice and mellow, and he is backed by some comforting piano by Tony.

-Man Of Our Times. This a heavier side of Genesis. Phil's vocals are extremely strong, and his drumming is just as good. I like Mike's guitar a lot on this one and his bass is excellent as well. Tony plays some mighty fine keyboards on this one.

-Misunderstanding. I still hear this on classic rock stations all the time. This definitely recieved commercial success throughout most of the 1980s. A great song. A highlight for sure.

-Heathaze. The most underratted song on the record by a long shot. Most Genesis fans probably don't know this song, which is a shame. It's a great song, with more mellow vocals from Phil. Superb. Another highlight.

Side B

-Turn It On Again. One of Genesis' best known songs. I can almost guarantee you you've heard this song SOMEWHERE. GMC Trucks actually have used this song in their commercials. Yet another highlight.

-Alone Tonight. 'There's nothing here I can understand.' Or so Phil says on this short classic. It's very underrated, similar to 'Heathaze.' If you haven't heard it, give it a listen. A great song.

-Cul-De-Sac. Tony plays some of his finest keyboards on this song. Phil sings very quietly for the first minute or so, but it later becomes a musical forcefield. A highlight.

-Please Don't Ask. Another great song for Tony on the keys. Probably my all-time favorite breakup song. Phil's voice is quiet, but oh so very powerful. Mike plays some nice bass guitar here as well.

-Duke's Travels. Finally, here it is. The REAL HIGHLIGHT. This is simply a jam session. But it's awesome! The lyrics from 'Guide Vocal' are repeated, but Phil sounds better here.

-Duke's End. The other appropriate title is 'Behind The Lines Reprise.' Still great.

If you don't already own it, than buy it. You won't be disappointed.