INVISIBLE TOUCH

I think the main reason because so many people hate this album is because it was the definitive leap towards the more conventional style they seemed to be searching for since Steve Hackett left. That is, this record contains in a more clear and obvious way many elements and structures you could find in any synth-pop album of this time (which for my taste is not something so terrible). However, this record appears as a more consistent and solid effort considering the severe mistakes found in its two predecessors.

Although we still find songs that appear to be fairly unnecesary in a Genesis record (the title track, for example, which could have been perfect for a Phil Collins solo effort, though, or "Anything she does" or "Into Deep", which are the typically unsustancial ballads), the majority of songs present here appear to be pretty interesting and reasonably good.

"Land of Confusion" is a Genesis classic, which some catchy rhytms and melodies but not falling into something ridiculous like "No reply at all" or "Illegal Allien". It is not exactly a progressive song but it is worthy of being remembered. "Throwing it all away" is the other ballad present on the album. Although, again, it relies on the typical structures of a pop ballad, it is relaxing and good.

But the best this album has to offer are the remaining three songs. "Tonight, tonight, tonight" is a reminder of the fact that Tony Banks is no amateur, having some of the most interesting instrumental passages present on the album. It is an atmospheric and enchanting song. "The Brazilian" is an instrumental ending theme, remembering us of classic instrumental offers by Genesis (remember "Los Endos" or "In that quiet Earth"?) although full of 80s mood. And finally, the best track for me, although again many people underrate it, is "Domino". You have to admit that is it was a somewhat brave move to provide such a long and commited piece is a record of this kind. I admit that it is not the best epic or long song, considering that we are still talking of the band which composed songs like "Supper's ready" or "One for the vine", but it is still a strong song by own merits.

So, after two irregular albums Genesis released something more commercial but still more consistent, being considered by some the best Banks/Rutherford/Collins record, and the worst by others. I don't say one thing or the other but for me it was a certain improvement.