DUKE (180g)

Limited 180gm vinyl LP pressing. Duke saw Genesis start somewhat unwillingly to shed their progressive rock mantle. Partly this was a response to the radically changing musical scene partly a result of Phil Collins s new-found influence within the band as a songwriter and partly it was a logical direction if they were to capitalize upon the success of Follow You Follow Me from 1978 s And Then There Were Three. Recorded at Abba s Polar Studios in Stockholm Duke showcased a more commercial sound brisker arrangements and more down-to-earth lyrics. Though Tony Banks was still responsible for the majority of the songwriting turning in the classic Duchess and Heathaze the album also contains Collins s first two solo compositions including Misunderstanding a template for the songs of his forthcoming solo career. In contrast to the relatively muddy-sounding And Then There Were Three Duke is clear and sharp with Collins s increasingly arena-friendly drum sound showcased in the mix.