(Credit: Raph_PH)
Like the cyclical nature of the “nature or nurture” debate, music is almost entirely inseparable from the culture in which it thrives. In addition to the organic side of such a conception, the reflection of time is also a sign of a great artist, and Genesis, with its rich tapestry of mythological and historical references, illustrates how deeply music can deal with and interpret the world around it.
The mark of a great band, aside from the obvious qualities of a great sound, is one that can strike a chord with the generation of that era with layers of forward-thinking innovation mixed with nostalgic tropes, the kind of accessible sensibility that catches on in the first place, while revealing a multitude of ideas and messages, when the curtain is drawn back.
In this sense, Genesis was one of the forerunners in adaptability. Their ability to grow and change with the evolving musical landscape has proven that innovation and reinvention are key to maintaining relevance and influence. Since their formation in 1969, they’ve been a cornerstone of the evolution of progressive rock, navigating various lineup changes and societal transformations with the grace and drive of a band that really, really wants it.
Even after various hiccups with the members going solo, Genesis has come together again and again with the sole goal of leading the charge, which is an incredible feat given the fickle nature of the business. however Invisible touch presented all the evidence necessary for a group whose work was far from finished, although they had come together to revisit a project that differed from their territories. The best part was that, just like their previous efforts, Invisible touch was entirely improvised, which added an organic quality to the whole listening experience.
‘Land of Confusion’ was one of the more ambitious tracks with an even more ambitious video. Lyrically, the song seemed politically charged; his powerful message focused on how the entire composition reflected the uncertainty and turmoil of the times. Genesis expressed concern about the state of the world and emphasized the need for cultural change, which was reinforced by a music video that spoofed various celebrities and public figures.
In the Genesis video, he depicts a chaotic world veiled in the physical discomfort of caricature-like dolls, sending a powerful message about the confusion in today’s society. At the time, he was considered innovative and controversial, mainly because he appeared so bold in his political criticism and was an important focal point in the wider sphere of entertainment and political commentary.
Genesis aren’t usually known for being so overtly political in their music, especially when looking at some of their bolder contemporaries, but ‘Land of Confusion’ showed their ability and willingness to pick up the baton when appropriate, while keeping certain quality. unpredictability among the general listener.
Its socially conscious performance also gave it a strangely timeless quality, such that you could almost imagine it being released in any era with the celebrities swapped out and still retaining its relevance. According to Tony Banks, the impact of this particular song makes it difficult for other Genesis products to match its energy. “The song is always very good, really,” he said Songfacts.
He continued: “The world still seems pretty bizarre. I could make a new version today. A video that was actually a really good video, we could do another one today with completely new people and it would be just as important.” In a stroke of genius, Genesis created a song for the ages, one that would uniquely exude the band’s identity while proving their ability to adapt and serve a tangible purpose.
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