TRESPASS

wow! What a giant step forward in such a little time! Although there were almost no personel changes (only new drummer John Mayhew stepping in) the sound is so different from their debut it looks like it was made by another (and better) band; lyrics aside, of course (which, by the way, DID improve too). It is their first real step into prog music and quite a landmark piece in rock music. It did not sell much at the time, but it proved that Charisma label was right to sign them. The music is dark and obscure, still quite engaging and pleasant, a transitional album that would set the blueprint for greater things to come.

Although the production left much to be desired at the time, it did not hide the band´s new power in terms of songwriting and performance. All the tracks are good in my opinion and this CD is more balanced and flows better than Nursery Cryme. The absolute highlight is The Knife, which set the pattern for the classic Genesis sound from then on. But all songs are remarkable.

Conclusion: an outstanding second album, one of prog´s true gems and a must have for any prog fan. If not for the (poor) production, I´d give it 5 stars, but still I rated Trespass 4,5 stars on the strength of their renewed perfomance and songwriting skills.