FROM GENESIS TO REVELATION

From Genesis To Revelation is a very sweet sounding debut record from a band that would go on and define what Symphonic Prog was all about. The album is acoustically based, mainly 12 string guitars and Piano, with a subtle rhythm section. Peter Gabriel's vocals are clear and perfect, maybe a tad innocent, but still demonstrates a singer with a fine set of vocal chords. The lyrics are generally fantasy oriented, with well crafted choruses and memorable melodies. The songs are all short, they flow into one another, giving the record a continuum which tends to hook the listener onto what they were doing (not that it was the first, or last album to do so, but it is an early example). Arthur Greenslade's orchestral arrangements are integral to most compositions, they are somewhat 'cheezy', but in all fairness, I couldn't imagine what the songs would sound like without them. Occasionally, sound effects have been employed to enhance certain songs, and Banks uses an organ on what I think is the best track, 'The Serpent'. Hints of things to come on that one. It does sound dated by today's standards, but maintains a certain 'magic', making it more than just a completists acquisition. 3.5 stars.