Abacab

"Originally released in 1981, 'Abacab' was the third Genesis album to feature the group as a trio - comprised of Phil Collins, Tony Banks, and Mike Rutherford.

The title track, which opens this sprightly CD, is a truly classic single and points very clearly to the direction that Genesis would follow in years to come. However, the lads had not entirely lost their art-rock roots, as more experimental cuts like "Keep it Dark", "Dodo / Lurker", and "Who Dunnit" substantiate quite adequately.

Looking back though, it is certainly clear that 'Abacab' was a transitional album where Genesis incorporated different musical styles, and reinvented themselves once again. They were becoming a more refined, radio-friendly (e.g "No Reply at All" & "Man on the Corner") version of their former selves - a process they'd been hinting at ever since guitarist Steve Hackett had left their ranks.

It may not be regarded as Genesis' greatest work, but 'Abacab' is definitely recommended listening. It's where the form of what were to become the group's most commercially successful releases ('Genesis', 'Invisible Touch', and 'We Can't Dance'), first started taking shape."
-MARTY (13/04/2007)