My understanding of Genesis’ place in rock history is a little fuzzy, but if classic rock radio is any indicator, Genesis mostly served as a breeding grounds for two of the most dynamic and exciting solo artists of the 80s. And given that this is the group’s eleventh full length (released after Phil Collins’ debut solo record at that), it tells very little about the ideas that either Collins or Peter Gabriel were wanting to explore that couldn’t do so within the confines of Genesis. And given that everything I’ve read on Wikipedia states that it showcased the band continuing toward radio-friendly rock, it tells even less about their prog rock tendencies.

But along with that, Abacab does find Genesis covering similar ground as other art rock bands moving into pop music at the same time (cough cough, The Police’s Ghost in the Machine, cough cough). There are synthpop textures, soaring vocal hooks, and poppy drums, all while retaining the asymmetrical patterns and complex bass lines they were known for. The songs are crisp and often show off masterful composition (No Reply at All, Sarah Jane, with its triumphant final section, Dodo/Lurker). It sounds dated at times, but in 1981, what forward thinking album didn’t?