The Buddah Group

Readings from the book of Genesis

England is beginning to broadcast messages about Genesis. And from the time of the early Betles to the recent emergence of America, these messages are taken seriously by those in the know.

A couple of sample readings:

Melody Maker: "Genesis are going to cause outrage and chaos in the coming year. Already they are breaking through with a blend of showmanship and original music. At recent concerts, their flute balancing leader Peter Gabriel has wrought ovations with his sensational drum juggling act and comic monologues."

Sounds: "Peter Gabriel has an incredible double personality; off stage he is shy and timid, but as soon as he steps up he becomes the focal point of a very visual act, with Mick Jagger/Roger Chapman gesticulations."

Melody Maker: "Most striking ... is the amazing prowess of Phil Collins. As drummer he is incredible. I heard Baker and Phil is better, much better ... Peter Gabriel has the best voice I have heard for some time, clear, melodic and controlled."

A review of their most recent album 'Nursery Cryme' goes: " ... In parts it reaches as close to perfection as I've never heard. The mixture of soft and heavy is so natural as to make you wonder if this wasn't the way all music should sound ... no one should be without a copy."

In the beginning, they were a group of 4 songwriters who got together in the blooming year of 1966. The magical mystery tour of fame and fortune, however, passed them by, and they entered a phase of exploration and uncertainty. A long sojourn in a cottage in the countryside helped them to regroup their creative energies. It was there that the compelling, fresh style of narrative songwriting of rich instrumental accompaniment began to form. Three of the original songwriters are still with the group. The on-stage charismatic lead singer Peter Gabriel, the organist Tony Banks, and bass guitarist, Michael Rutherford. To this nucleus has been added the "legendary" drummer, and ex-Flaming Youth, Peter Collins [sic], and Steve Hackett on lead guitar.

A group whose considerable talents left them a bit sprawling, Genesis had the good fortune to attract the attention of the head of Charisma Records, Tony Stratton-Smith. Smith put them together with a "benevolent and indulgent" producer, John Anthony, and paid a considerable tab for studio time at the Trident Studios in London. This was a wise and necessary investment. The results are 'Nursery Cryme', as well as a very tight, beautifully rehearsed sound that has dazzled the ears of their swelling ranks of English fans.

If anything, the years of isolation have turned out to be in their favor. They have freshness and originality that steers them clear of the glut of imitative groups that are all clamoring for a slice of the same market.

"Their music is full of imagination, variety and fascination," says Sounds, adding " ... At the famous Mothers Club they are regarded as the best small band to have appeared there."

Typed up by Thomas Holter, from a copy of another article in the archives of Jeff Kaa.