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In the transformative landscape of rock music in 1978, Genesis underwent a pivotal moment that would redefine their musical trajectory. The departure of guitarist Steve Hackett left the band as a trio - Phil Collins, Tony Banks, and Mike Rutherford - setting the stage for their groundbreaking album ”…And Then There Were Three…”
The Birth of a Transitional Masterpiece
Released on 31 March 1978, the album marked a significant turning point for Genesis. The title itself was a clever reference to the children's rhyme "Ten Little Indians", symbolizing the band's reduced lineup. Steve Hackett's exit prompted a musical reinvention that would ultimately reshape the band's sound and future.
Musical Evolution and Composition
The album represented a fascinating blend of progressive rock roots and more accessible pop sensibilities. Key characteristics included:
- Songwriting distribution: Banks and Rutherford remained the primary composers
- Phil Collins's expanding role: Increasing contributions to songwriting and vocals
- Diverse musical landscape: Tracks ranging from complex arrangements to more radio-friendly compositions
Notable Tracks and Their Significance
Several tracks stood out in the album's narrative:
- "Follow You Follow Me": Became their first significant hit single in the United States
- "Scenes from a Night's Dream": The first Genesis song with lyrics entirely written by Phil Collins
- "Burning Rope": A track showcasing the band's continued progressive rock sensibilities
Commercial and Critical Reception
"...And Then There Were Three..." achieved remarkable commercial success:
- Reached No. 3 on the UK Albums Chart
- Peaked at No. 14 on the US Billboard 200
- Certified Platinum by RIAA in 1988 for selling one million copies in the US
The Artistic Vision Behind the Album
The album's iconic cover, designed by Hipgnosis, was a visual metaphor for the band's transition. Storm Thorgerson, the renowned designer, described the cover as a time-lapse narrative featuring a car, a torch, and a man with a cigarette - symbolizing the band's journey and transformation.
Critical Perspectives
Critics had mixed reactions. Charley Walters from Circus praised the album's "magical, mystical sound", while Michael Bloom from Crawdaddy offered a more critical perspective, noting some musical limitations.
Touring and Promotion
Genesis embarked on an extensive tour between March and December 1978, which included:
- Nearly 100 shows across Europe, the US, and Japan
- Debut of Daryl Stuermer as their touring guitarist
- A significant UK show at Knebworth Park on 24 June
🎸 Note: The tour, known as the "Mirrors tour", featured large mirrors over the stage to reflect lights and lasers, marking a visually innovative period for the band.
"...And Then There Were Three..." represents a crucial chapter in Genesis's musical journey - a moment of transformation, adaptation, and artistic resilience. It showcased the band's ability to evolve, setting the stage for their future success and Phil Collins's eventual emergence as a global pop icon.
Why did Steve Hackett leave Genesis?
+Hackett wished to pursue a solo career and felt uncomfortable with musical compromises in Genesis. He had enjoyed producing his first solo album and believed the band had accomplished what they set out to do.
How did the band’s sound change with this album?
+The album marked a transition from complex progressive rock to more accessible pop-rock, with shorter song structures and increased commercial appeal.
What was the most successful song from the album?
+“Follow You Follow Me” became their highest-charting single at the time, reaching No. 7 in the UK and No. 23 in the US.
