Genesis Archive, Vol. 1: 1967-1975
The Who needed two rock operas to reach their apex, but Genesis climaxed first time out withThe Lamb Lies Down on Broadway. On the live version which takes up half of this four-CD box, the Peter Gabriel-fronted incarnation goes out with a bang, dressing up its art rock in black leather and brass knuckles. Disc 3's live renditions of "Supper's Ready" and "Dancing with the Moonlit Knight" are nearly as powerful, while Disc 4's demos from the embryonic late-'60s lineup offer a pleasing glimpse into the group's folk and psychedelic roots. Expansive yet muscular, this compelling set shows Gabriel and company paving the way for a generation of pop explorers right up through Radiohead. All nostalgia should sound this vital.--Billy Grenier