In a recent interview, Steve Hackett, the former guitarist of Genesis, delved into his remarkable journey in the world of music. He discussed his renowned “Genesis Revisited” series, his unending passion for pushing musical boundaries, and the timeless appeal of his work. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the insightful conversation, providing a glimpse into Hackett’s musical evolution.
Genesis Revisited: A Timeless Adventure
Steve Hackett embarked on a memorable journey with his “Genesis Revisited” series. It all began in 1996 with “Genesis Revisited” and continued with “Genesis Revisited 2” in 2012. Since then, he has released six albums and DVDs, each dedicated to revisiting Genesis classics, treating fans to reimagined treasures and unforgettable live performances.
The Resurgence of Vintage Music
An intriguing observation made by Hackett is the resurgence of vintage music among younger generations. He noted that today’s youth harbor a deep fondness for the classics, with bands like early Genesis and Steely Dan taking center stage. Their attraction to music that exudes authenticity and imperfection stands as a form of musical rebellion in the digital age.
Cherishing the Imperfections
Hackett’s view on the creative process is a refreshing departure from the pursuit of perfection. He reminisced about the good old days when making records was akin to a party, filled with fun and a lack of obsession with precision and quantization, reminiscent of the “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” era.
Early Genesis: A Genre-Defying Blend
We delved into the unique character of early Genesis music, a fusion of classical, rock, and quintessential Englishness. Hackett described the band’s sound as “church music meets syncopation,” creating an atmosphere that defied conventional rock norms.
Influences and Formative Years
Hackett revealed the musical influences that shaped his journey, from the unique guitar sound of Janis Joplin to Brian Jones’s fearless experimentation with a range of instruments. Classical music also played a pivotal role in his musical development.
The Guitar and Its Bendable Notes
Steve underscored the guitar’s distinctive ability to bend notes, making it an instrument like no other. His early musical foray involved playing the harmonica, an experience that significantly influenced his musical perspective.
“Horizons”: The Birth of Solo Guitar
Steve highlighted “Horizons,” an iconic guitar piece from the album “Foxtrot.” Hackett revealed that this was his first-ever solo guitar recording, inspired by classical music and shaped by a connection to classical compositions.
A Musical Journey Across Eras
Steve Hackett’s solo albums from the late ’70s and early ’80s came under the spotlight. These albums manage to capture the essence of their time while remaining timeless—a rare feat in a decade often criticized for its sound.
Selecting Songs for Live Performances
When choosing songs for live shows, Hackett balances fan preferences, personal favorites, and the tracks that he believes will translate well to a live setting. He aims to create a well-rounded concert experience that includes classics and new material.
Future Endeavors: Celebrating “The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway”
While performing “The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway” in its entirety may not be on the agenda, Hackett acknowledged the album’s upcoming anniversary. This milestone provides an opportunity to incorporate select tracks into his live performances. Additionally, he hinted at a new studio album, emphasizing the importance of continuing to create new music while paying homage to classics.
